Things To Do
in Antanananivo
Antananarivo, commonly called Tana, is Madagascar's bustling inland capital perched in the central highlands. The city blends colonial architecture with lively markets, hillside cafés, and a dramatic skyline of red-tiled roofs. Markets like Analakely and the historic Haute-Ville reveal a vibrant mix of crafts, spices, and street food.
Winding streets, steep stairs, and a warm Malagasy welcome define a visit here.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and transfer to your hotel in the heart of Antananarivo. Settle in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast, sampling traditional Malagasy dishes. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the local atmosphere before embarking on your adventure.
Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Analakely, visiting the bustling local markets where you can find handicrafts and fresh produce. Engage with friendly locals and immerse yourself in the colorful culture that defines the heart of Madagascar. Stop for lunch at a local eatery to savor the unique flavors of Malagasy cuisine.
As night falls, enjoy a dinner at a rooftop restaurant with an incredible view of the city. Sample a variety of local dishes while soaking in the lively ambiance. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to witness the city lights and wonderful night-time vibe of Antananarivo.
Visit the Rova of Antananarivo, the historic queen's palace that offers stunning views of the city. Explore its rich history and learn about the Merina Kingdom as you walk through the ruins and gardens. Capture the essence of this important site with photos and reflections.
Head to the nearby Andafiavaratra Palace, which serves as a museum showcasing artifacts from Madagascar's royal past. Participate in a guided tour that provides deeper context and stories about the island's royal families. After your visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café while discussing your findings.
Dine at a local restaurant renowned for its traditional Malagasy cuisine, including zebu steak and seafood dishes. Experience live music that showcases the talents of local musicians, bringing the cultural vibe of Madagascar to life. Wind down your evening with a walk through the beautifully lit streets of Tana.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport ride | $0.20-0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (1 night) | $25-60 |
| 🎟️Movie or museum ticket | $3-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural scene and history
- Delicious and affordable street food
- Gateway to national parks and lemurs
- Compact center easy to explore on foot
- Heavy traffic and hilly terrain
- Inconsistent infrastructure and power outages at times
- Variable road conditions outside the city
- Some areas require caution after dark
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Manao ahoana?" - How are you?
- "Veloma" - Goodbye
- "Inona ny vidin’ity?" - What is the price of this?
Places to Visit in Antanananivo
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic royal palace complex offering panoramic views over the red-tiled city and terraced streets.
A scenic oval lake with palm-lined promenades and iconic brass-and-marble government architecture.
Narrow, winding lanes that reveal colorful façades, stairways, and daily life.
Bustling avenue with dramatic lighting as vendors pack up and locals stroll.
A hilltop spot offering sweeping views of the valley and city skyline.
Food in Antanananivo
Antanananivo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy beef stew with greens and a flavorful broth.
Must-Try!
Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork, often served with rice.
Rice cooked with greens or meat, a staple on most tables.
Chicken simmered in coconut milk with aromatics.
Sweet rice-flour pancakes enjoyed as breakfast or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can sample fresh produce, spices, and affordable street snacks.
Lively craft and produce market with stalls for textiles, carvings, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm, soft-spoken greeting is appreciated; use Malagasy phrases when possible and address elders with respect.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites; avoid public display of sensitive local matters.
Modest dress in crowded areas; shoulders and knees covered in religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Antanananivo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for waitstaff (about 5-10%), taxi drivers, and guides; round up the bill where appropriate.
Cash (Malagasy Ariary) is widely used; some restaurants accept cards; ATMs are common in central areas; carry small notes for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Wet season with heavy afternoon showers, high humidity, and occasional cyclone threats; pack a rain jacket and adjust plans for rain breaks.
Dry season with cooler, pleasant days and cooler nights; layers are helpful, evenings can be chilly.
Antanananivo at Night
Hiking in Antanananivo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
UNESCO-listed hilltop palace with nature trails and panoramic views, a short day trip from Tana.
Rainforest reserve with well-marked trails, lemurs, and abundant wildlife about 140-160 km east; best done with a guide.
Airports
How to reach Antanananivo by plane.
Main international gateway to Madagascar, about 16-20 km north of Antananarivo; taxis and ride-sharing options available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Historically dominant ethnic group in the highlands, shaping culture and politics; urban professionals and students form a large part of the city’s population.
Migrants and traders from coastal areas and other regions contribute to a diverse urban community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and informal games are common in parks and schoolyards.
Growing popularity, with courts and local teams in urban neighborhoods.
Some clubs and school competitions; a smaller but devoted following.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antanananivo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetable dishes exist; request without meat or fish sauce; opt for rice with legumes and greens; communicate dietary needs in Malagasy if possible.