Things To Do
in Ankily
Ankily is a small rural commune in Madagascar where rolling hills, rice paddies, and palm-fringed fields define the landscape. Life here centers on farming, local markets, and warm, welcoming communities that preserve traditional Malagasy customs. The surrounding scenery offers quiet charm away from more tourist-heavy destinations, with chances to observe village rituals and daily rhythms up close.
A visit to Ankily invites exploration, patient interactions with locals, and a window into rural Madagascar's enduring beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and begin your journey in the vibrant capital city of Antananarivo. After checking into your hotel, take some time to freshen up and enjoy breakfast featuring local Malagasy specialties. A brief orientation walk around the neighborhood will help you acclimatize and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Explore the historic sites of Antananarivo, including the Rova of Antananarivo and the colorful local markets. Engage with local artisans and vendors as you wander through Analakely Market, picking up unique souvenirs. Take a moment to savor a traditional Malagasy lunch at a quaint local eatery.
Return to your hotel to relax before heading out to experience the nightlife of Antananarivo. Dine at a restaurant known for its fusion of Malagasy and French cuisine, enjoying dishes crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along Avenue de l'Indépendance, soaking in the atmosphere of the city's vibrant evening scene.
Set out early from Antananarivo to Andasibe, a journey that takes you through stunning landscapes marked by lush hills and verdant rice paddies. Stop for breakfast at a roadside café, sampling local treats while enjoying the scenic views. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge amid the tranquil sounds of nature.
Embark on a guided hike through Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, home to a rich diversity of wildlife including the famous Indri lemurs. Your guide will share insights about the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this lush rainforest environment. Afterward, enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by the captivating sights and sounds of the forest.
After a day of exploration, return to your lodge to relax and refresh. Dinner will feature delectable local dishes, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary delights. As night falls, enjoy a guided night walk to witness the park's fascinating nocturnal creatures, an unforgettable adventure under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $15-25 |
| ☕Local coffee | $0.50-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic cultural experiences
- Stunning rural landscapes
- Low cost and fewer crowds
- Warm, hospitable locals
- Limited infrastructure and services
- Remote travel times
- Language barrier in rural areas
- Limited healthcare options
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Eny" - Yes
- "Tsia" - No
- "Aiza ny trano fandraisam-bahiny?" - Where is the hotel?
- "Afaka manampy aho?" - Can you help me?
- "Miteny malagasy ve ianao?" - Do you speak Malagasy?
- "Tsara be" - Very good / great
Places to Visit in Ankily
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light over patchwork fields creates vibrant lines and color contrasts ideal for landscape photography.
Colorful stalls, bustling traders, and candid portraits provide lively street photography opportunities.
Rustic architecture and rural ambiance offer authentic, timeless images.
Sweeping views of green valleys and distant hills are perfect for wide-angle shots.
Silhouettes of canoes and the soft glow of sunset create tranquil compositions.
Food in Ankily
Ankily Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A warming beef and leafy greens stew, typically served with rice and shared at family meals.
Must-Try!
Pork simmered with crushed cassava leaves; earthy, rich, and deeply comforting when eaten with rice.
Rice cooked with chopped greens; a simple, versatile staple found in most Malagasy homes.
Chicken in coconut milk with spices; popular in inland and coastal communities.
A sweet cake made from corn flour and peanuts, commonly sold at markets as a snack or dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market offering fresh produce, spices, and prepared snacks; a great place to sample mofo gasy and grilled items.
Nearby stalls offer quick bites like fried plantains, roasted peanuts, and local fruits—perfect for a midday bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly greeting such as Salama or Manao ahoana. A warm smile goes a long way.
Dress modestly, especially in villages. Ask permission before photographing people and remove shoes when entering homes or sacred spaces.
Use the right hand for eating and giving with locals; avoid pointing with feet or showing soles.
Safety
Tipping in Ankily
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for guides, drivers, and hosts but are not compulsory. Consider 2000–5000 MGA per person per day for guides and small amounts for service staff in homes or accommodations.
Cash in Malagasy Ariary (MGA) is the standard. Some larger shops or tourist-oriented venues may accept USD, but cash is safest. Mobile money is increasingly common in towns, while credit cards are rarely accepted in Ankily.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Apr brings heavy rainfall and high humidity; landscapes are lush, but roads can be muddy and travel times longer. Be prepared for showers and plan indoor downtime during peak rain.
May–Oct is the dry season with cooler, comfortable days and cooler nights. Roads are typically better for travel; good season for hiking and outdoor photography.
Oct–Nov offers a mix of sun and occasional showers; fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures, but occasional rain can still occur.
Ankily at Night
Hiking in Ankily
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle looping trail on surrounding hills offering views of rice fields and palm groves.
A forest-edge route suitable for birdwatching and nature photography within a short drive from Ankily.
Airports
How to reach Ankily by plane.
Main international gateway to Madagascar; significant travel time to Ankily by road or air transfer via regional towns.
Regional east-coast gateway with connections to several towns; useful for longer itineraries in the region.
Service for the central-southern region; closer to inland routes and some rural areas.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Malagasy residents with local subgroups; Malagasy and French are common languages in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, widely played in schools and informal leagues.
A traditional rural sport involving bulls, often featured at local festivals and gatherings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ankily.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plant-based options are common: vary amin’anana (rice with greens), bean-based laoka, and vegetable stews. Request dishes without meat or fish and ask for added greens or legumes when ordering.