Exploring Bazar Be in Toamasina, Madagascar: A Must-Visit Market Adventure
Toamasina, the lively and major port city of Madagascar, is home to the market, Bazary Be, (which means the Big Market in Malagasy). It is arguably the largest and most famous market in Madagascar. It prides itself on offering a variety of products and services. Whether you are a tourist or a local resident, Bazar Be is the place to experience the rich culture and diverse products of Madagascar. It represents the very soul and spirit of the Malagasy experience.
A Hub of Activity and Culture
Bazar Be isn’t just a market—it’s a place for social gatherings. It is where locals and visitors alike come to shop, chat, and experience the unique atmosphere of the Malagasy way of life. This market is a feast for all the senses, from light electronics equipment to radios blaring local music and colourful displays of fruits and spices. Every corner of the market offers something unique, making it an essential stop for anyone looking to dive into Malagasy culture.
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| Stall of Malagasy Arts and Crafts at the Bazar Be Toamasina |
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| Colourful Malagascary Arts and Craft |
Historical Roots of Bazar Be
The Bazar Be of Toamasina was built in the early 1900s during the French colonialization of Madagascar. The market has played a crucial role in the city’s economic growth and development. Over the years, it has adapted to Madagascar’s changing political and economic landscapes, becoming a symbol of the city’s hope, resilience, and history.
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| Stall of Malagasy Clothes, Bazar Be, Toamasina, Madagascar |
Sensory Overload: Sights and Smells of the Market
Walking through Bazar Be is like stepping into a sensory wonderland. I was overwhelmed by a kaleidoscope of colours, as I entered the vibrant market. It is a maze of narrow alleys packed with stalls selling everything from handmade clothes to fresh produce. The air is filled with the aroma of exotic fruits, herbs, and freshly cooked Malagasy dishes. Most of the day, you can hear the chattering and discussions of people in the market.
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| Stall of T-Shirts with local Themes and Dresses, Toamasina, Madagascar |
Handwoven baskets in rich tones and geometric patterns caught my eye. Their intricate designs relate stories of generations-old craftsmanship. Racks of clothing burst into life, with all colours mingling in a tapestry of local textiles.
This sensory explosion is more than just a visit to the market. It is a living canvas, each meticulously arranged to contribute to a unique palette of masterpieces of local culture and creativity.
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| Stall of Men’s Clothing, Bazar Be, Toamasina, Madagascar |
The Spice Aisle: A Fragrant Journey
One of Bazar Be, and one of my favourites, is the spice section. You will find a wide variety of Madagascar’s famous spices, like cloves, vanilla, and cinnamon. When I visit Toamasina, I buy my share of spices like muscat, cloves, turmeric, cinnamon, and others to cook food and prepare my favourite spice teas. Especially for visitors, these spices not only add flavour to food but also make for great souvenirs. The spice aisle is a fragrant journey that’s not to be missed.
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| Spices, Bazar Be, Toamasina, Madagascar |
During my visits to the market, I also buy essential oils. Madagascar is a world leader in essential oils, and most of the oils are destined for exportation. In Bazar Be, you will not find essential oils intended or packed for export, and the prices are much lower than in other shops. My favourites are yland ylang, cinnamon, eucalyptus, clove, geranium, and the local ravinstara.
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| Clothing Stall, Bazar-Be, Toamasina, Madagascar |
Handicrafts and Souvenirs
Bazar Be’s arts and crafts section is a traditional Malagasy handiwork treasure trove. A visit to Bazar Be is incomplete without a visit to the handicrafts and souvenir sections. From hand-carved wooden figurines to woven baskets, the craftsmanship here is impressive. Spend some time chatting with the artisans—they’re always eager to share the stories behind their creations.
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| Precious and Semi Precious Stones, Bazar Be, Toamasina |
Semi-precious stones glitter excitingly from the displays, their facets reflecting the sunlight in mesmerising flashes of ruby, amethyst, and topaz.
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| View of Bazar-Be, Toamasina |
I have bought many Malagasy woven baskets for shopping and to offer to friends, especially overseas friends, as gifts. They are beautifully made and known across the Indian Ocean. On my last work visit to Toamasina, I bought a Malagasy hat I wore during an official programme.
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| Fruit Stall, Bazar-Be, Toamasina |
Fruits and Produce: A Tropical Paradise
Madagascar has abundant fruits all year round. It is known for its fresh and unique fruits, and Bazar Be is the perfect place to explore them. My best time of the year is during the season when the market overflows with juicy “mangoes” and “litchis” from October to December. Litshis is a local favourite that is also a major export to Europe. Don’t miss the chance to sample these tropical delights; you will enjoy them.
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| Food Stalls at Bazar Be, Toamasina, Madagascar |
Local Delicacies: A Culinary Adventure
Bazar Be is also a Malagasy food lover’s paradise. For an authentic taste of Madagascar, you can try local dishes like “sambos” (samoosas) and “masikita” (grilled meat skewers). However, most visitors will find it difficult to stomach these foods if they are not used to them. Also, look out for the famous Chinese soup of Tamatave; it is a must-taste dish, whether in Bazar Be or other Malagasy restaurants. The rice dish with dried meat, ‘vary sosoa’, is also a breakfast delicacy for the Malagasy.
Tips for Visiting Bazar Be a Pleasant Experience
Here are a few suggested tips for visiting Bazar Be and making the most of your visit. Ensure that you go to Bazar Be early in the morning. You’ll find produce is freshest, and avoid the busy crowds. Remember to bring cash, as many, if not all, vendors don’t accept cards. Don’t forget to bring a reusable shopping bag or buy one of the artisanal baskets or bags from the artisans. I have purchased several of these to use or give as gifts to my friends.
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| A General Store at the Bazar Be, Toamasina |
In Conclusion, Basary Be is a Cultural Immersion in Toamasina
Beyond a shopping experience, a visit to Bazar Be is an immersion in the vibrant culture and way of life of the people of Toamasina. From the colourful stalls to the friendly vendors, every aspect of this market reflects the very soul and spirit of the Malagasy people. If you are a visitor to Toamasina, Bazar Be is a must-visit destination offering a genuine taste of Malagasy life.
L J Padayachy 
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