Maroantsetra, formerly known as Louisbourg, is a market town and port located on the east coast of Madagascar. It sits at the northern end of the Bay of Antongil and serves as the capital of Ambatosoa, which is the country's newest administrative region. As of 2018, the city had a population of approximately 42,529 people.
The town holds historical significance in the unification of the Betsimisaraka tribe by Ratsimilaho. During the 18th century, Maroantsetra was involved in recurrent attacks against the Comoros islands and various east African countries, actions potentially motivated by the demand for commodities under European imperialism. Additionally, the area saw significant activity during the 1680s when Anglo-American pirates visited Madagascar for provisions, and it was a site of frequent warfare between populations on Nosy Boraha and Antongil Bay.