Maroantsetra town is the vital center of the Antongil Bay. The easiest way to reach Maroantsetra is by plane. During the dry season, boats can sail along the coast from Tamatave. You can also travel by road, but the route is not always passable, and trips can become long due to the numerous rivers across which you must ferry.

Maroantsetra is the departure point for most excursions in Masoala. It is a quiet and calm town where the economic life is dominated by the production and sale of vanilla and cloves.

A ride by canoe is possible in the estuary of the Antainambalana River to the east of town. You can also take a trip to the beach to the west of town, where local people go to enjoy their Sunday afternoons.

The town is sleepy but not small. A bicycle makes the perfect vehicle for running errands, exploring the town, or reaching the beach from which you can see Nosy Mangabe. On weekdays you can find fishermen on the beach selling fish or preparing their catch for the marketplace at town center.