Route nationale 6 (Madagascar)

Route nationale 6 (RN 6) is a primary highway in Madagascar. It connects Antsiranana (Diego Suarez) in the north to Ambondromamy, where it intersects with Route nationale 4 (RN 4) heading towards Antananarivo, the capital city. The RN 6 is a crucial transport artery for northern Madagascar, though it is notoriously difficult to traverse, particularly during the rainy season.

The road is largely unpaved north of Ambilobe, and conditions can vary greatly. Sections are often heavily rutted, muddy, and prone to flooding, making travel slow and requiring four-wheel-drive vehicles. The distance between Antsiranana and Ambondromamy is significant, and the journey can take several days depending on the weather and road conditions.

Despite its challenging nature, the RN 6 is vital for the transportation of goods, people, and resources between northern and central Madagascar. It supports local economies by connecting agricultural areas to markets and facilitating tourism to attractions such as Montagne d'Ambre National Park and Ankarana National Park.

Improvements to the RN 6 have been a recurring topic of discussion and planning within the Malagasy government and international development organizations, but progress has been slow. Upgrading the road would significantly benefit the northern regions by improving accessibility, reducing travel times, and fostering economic growth.