This old port of 320,000 sits on one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Unless you're traveling by yacht, the city is best reached by air. (The road to Antsiranana is open only July-October.
) Once there, you can make excursions to Ankarana Reserve, about 45 mi/70 km away, to see sacred caves, subterranean rivers and
tsingy formations (limestone karst pinnacles). A permit is needed to enter the reserve—it can be arranged upon arrival. (If you want to fly to the reserve, you'll need to make arrangements with Madagascar Airtours in advance.) One night in the city itself is usually adequate, but add three more days if you're visiting the reserve.
470 mi/755 km northeast of Antananarivo.