An estimated 80,000 people live on the periphery of Masoala National Park. The towns of Antalaha and Maroantsetra each contain 15,000 to 20,000 inhabitants. These towns are known as significant zones of export of vanilla and timber.

Betsimisaraka, literally “the many inseparable,” is the dominant ethnic group of the area. People of the Maroantsetra area call themselves “Antimaroa.” The Betsimisaraka share many traditional customs and habits. The people are known for their demonstrations of solidarity in moments of joy or misfortune. For example, in the case of the death of a community member, it is considered to be a moral obligation to assist the mourning family.