Jardin Tropical

Diego Suarez (Antsiranana)


Set in a cyclone-ravaged Creole house in the French residential quarter, the Jardin Tropical provides a welcome, leafy green space in the centre of town. Three areas of garden – primary forest, rock and full sun – showcase different types of planting. Animals include crocodiles in the river at the bottom of the hill, porcupines and chameleons and lots of birds. Eco-projects are offered for local children. Concerts arranged in collaboration with Alliance Française are held on a stage in the garden.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Diego Suarez (Antsiranana) attractions

1. Cathédrale Saint Matthieu

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Diego Suarez's Roman Catholic cathedral was built in 1909 to replace the previous wooden church destroyed by the terrible cyclone of 1894. The bell tower…

2. Maison Cassam Chenaï

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In 1898 the Cassam Chenaï family of Gujerat arrived in Diego Suarez. Mamodaly opened his ever popular shop 10 years later. Members of the family are still…

3. Tribunal

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A fine example of colonial architecture, the Tribunal is an imposing building that still operates as the courthouse. It was built in 1907.

4. La Résidence

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The former Governer's residence, now administrative offices, was first built in 1897. Overlooking the sea, it was often battered by cyclones and parts…

5. Hôtel des Mines

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6. Japanese Monument

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'Here died two brave Japanese sailors on 3 June 1942' reads the inscription on the memorial erected by the Japanese Embassy 30 years later. The sailors,…

7. Lighthouse

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The lighthouse at the end of Rue Richelieu guards the bay of Diego Suarez.

8. Tsena

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