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Dzamandzar Rum Factory

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Dzamandzar Rum Factory on the island of Nosy Be is one of Madagascar's most historic industrial sites. Established in the 1920s, it was originally the centerpiece of a vast sugarcane plantation that dominated the island's economy for decades. Today, the facility is world-renowned for producing 'Dzama Rum,' widely regarded as one of the finest rums in the Indian Ocean region. The factory employs traditional distillation methods and benefits from the unique terroir of Nosy Be, where the proximity of ylang-ylang and vanilla plantations influences the soil and microclimate. The rum is aged in oak barrels, which imparts its distinctive complex aroma. Dzamandzar is not merely a production site but also a significant industrial heritage monument, documenting the transition from a colonial plantation economy to a modern spirits industry. The factory contributes substantially to Madagascar's export revenues and is a key feature of Nosy Be's tourism appeal. The Dzama brand has won numerous international awards for its exceptional quality and purity.

Location: Madagascar
Nearby: Hell-Ville (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	26	26	24	24	24	25	27	27	27
Rain mm	343	281	259	83	31	17	13	11	14	25	92	239

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Dzamandzar Rum Distillery is a historic distillery on the island of Nosy Be, famous for producing traditional rums from local sugar cane. It plays a key role in Madagascar's spirits industry and attracts tourists.

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Visiting

The distillery typically features guided tours where visitors can see the production process from fermentation to bottling. Tastings are often included in the tour, and a factory shop allows direct purchases.

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Where to view it

The distillery is set in a pretty location overlooking the sea and surrounding sugar cane fields. The nearby public beach features a nice view of the estate and the coastal stretch.

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Local products

Main products are traditional rum varieties such as white, aged, and spiced rum, all from locally grown sugar cane. At the factory shop, visitors can also purchase specialties like lime-flavored rum or rum liqueur.

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Active season

The distillery produces year-round, but the main activity occurs during the sugar cane harvest season from June to September. During this time, fresh cane is most abundant, and production is at its liveliest.

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Nearby

Combine a visit to the rum distillery with exploration of Nosy Be island, especially the beaches of Hell-Ville and Lemurs' Island. Boat trips to the surrounding small islands offer additional attractions.

Geography

Coordinates

-13.31670, 48.28330

Facts

The factory was established around 1920 during the French colonial era.
The brand name 'Dzama' is derived from the village name, Dzamandzar.
In the past, Nosy Be was almost entirely covered in sugarcane for the mill.
Dzama Rum is currently exported to over 15 countries worldwide.
The rum is often aged in barrels previously used for Scotch whisky.
Dzamandzar remains the oldest continuously operating distillery in Madagascar.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Marodoka Ghost Town2 km · NWExplore →

Nosy Be Fishery Plant4 km · SExplore →

Hell-Ville6 km · WExplore →

Lokobe Forest6 km · WExplore →

Nosy Be9 km · SExplore →

Nosy Komba Lemur Peninsula10 km · NWExplore →

Andilana12 km · SEExplore →

Ambatoloaka Lighthouse13 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Dzamandzar Rum Factory (1)

Ylangylang📍 landmark

This fragrant attraction near Dzamandzar showcases the cultivation and processing of ylang-ylang flowers, a vital ingredient in local perfume production.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Dzamandzar rum factory produce?

As the name suggests, it is specialized in the production of high-quality rum.

Where is the factory located?

It is located on the island of Nosy Be, a popular tourist destination.

Can the rum production be visited?

Sometimes tours are offered; best to ask local tour operators.

Why is the rum from Nosy Be known?

It is known for its unique aroma due to the local sugarcane quality.

What else does Nosy Be offer?

Gorgeous beaches, diving spots, and lush tropical nature.

Dzamandzar Rum Factory: where is it located?

Dzamandzar Rum Factory is located in Madagascar.

Dzamandzar Rum Factory: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Dzamandzar Rum Factory: why is it worth visiting?

The Dzamandzar Rum Factory on the island of Nosy Be is one of Madagascar's most historic industrial sites.

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