Things To Do
in Antananarivo
Antananarivo, the capital and largest city of Madagascar, is perched at the heart of the island atop the Analamanga hills, presenting a picturesque blend of rice paddies and historical architecture. Known for its vibrant markets, colonial buildings, and cultural diversity, it serves as the political, economic, and cultural hub of the nation.
The city is characterized by its mild climate, with a rich history reflected in landmarks such as the Rova, a royal palace complex offering insight into the nation's royal heritage and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Excuse me / Please
- "Inona ny vaovao?" - What's new?
- "Manahoana" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Rova of Antananarivo, a historic royal palace complex located on the highest hill in the city. Enjoy the breathtaking views and learn about the fascinating history of Madagascar's royalty.
After lunch, explore the bustling Analakely Market, where you can find local crafts and delicious street food. Engage with friendly locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
Conclude the day with dinner at a traditional Malagasy restaurant, savoring local dishes like zebu steak or ravitoto. Take a leisurely stroll through the city to appreciate the illuminated historic buildings.
Visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Garden to see native wildlife and unique plant species. It's a great way to understand Madagascar's biodiversity while enjoying a tranquil morning.
Head to the Museum of Art and Archaeology for an insight into the island's rich cultural heritage. The exhibits provide a deeper appreciation for Madagascar's diverse ethnic communities.
Dinner at a local eatery, known for its homemade dishes and warm ambiance. Spend your evening enjoying live music from local artists to fully immerse yourself in the culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with unique local traditions.
- Beautiful landscapes, including the nearby highlands and volcanic lakes.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many Western countries.
- Diverse wildlife and national parks, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
- Friendly and welcoming local population.
- Infrastructure challenges, including poor road conditions and unreliable public transport.
- Higher levels of poverty and economic disparity in certain areas.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities in rural regions.
- Political instability and occasional social unrest.
- Air pollution and environmental degradation in urban areas.
Best Activities in Antananarivo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Lemurs' Park to see a variety of lemur species in a natural habitat.
Embark on a hike to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ambohimanga to enjoy stunning views and learn about Madagascar's history.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic at Tsimbazaza Zoo and observe the diverse wildlife native to Madagascar.
Tours
Uncover the best of Antananarivo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Antananarivo
Visit one of these nice places.
The Queen's Palace offers panoramic views of Antananarivo and is a great location for photography.
Ambohimanga Hill provides stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes, perfect for capturing memorable photos.
The Analakely Market area offers unique views and photo opportunities of bustling street life and colorful market stalls.
Food in Antananarivo
Antananarivo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Malagasy meat and leafy greens stew, often made with beef, pork, or zebu, and flavored with local herbs and spices. It can be found at local eateries and traditional restaurants like La Varangue.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish made from mashed cassava leaves, often cooked with pork and served with rice. It's a staple of Malagasy cuisine and can be savored at street food stalls and family-run restaurants.
These delicious banana fritters are a popular snack or breakfast item, best enjoyed with a cup of Malagasy coffee. They can be found at local food markets and bakeries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Antananarivo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of fresh produce, local spices, and street food delights like samosas, brochettes, and freshly squeezed fruit juices.
Avenue de l'Indépendance comes alive in the evenings with street food vendors selling Malagasy specialties such as koba (a sweet treat made from rice, peanuts, and sugar) and sambos (fried dough filled with various savory fillings).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Antananarivo, it's important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. It shows respect and is a common cultural norm.
Respecting elders is highly valued in Malagasy culture. It's important to use formal language and show deference when interacting with older individuals.
Madagascar has several cultural taboos known as 'fady'. It's important to be aware of these taboos and avoid behaviors or actions that may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Antananarivo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Antananarivo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not widely practiced in Antananarivo, Madagascar. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a 5-10% tip may be appreciated if a service charge is not included.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Antananarivo. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand. It's also important to note that smaller shops and vendors may not accept credit cards, so having local currency is essential for everyday transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Antananarivo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool, dry weather with clear skies. Best time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Hot and humid weather with occasional rain. Lush green landscapes and good for birdwatching and photography.
Antananarivo at Night
Hiking in Antananarivo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 140 km east of Antananarivo, this national park is known for its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and several hiking trails, including paths leading to the famous Indri lemurs.
Situated approximately 30 km north of Antananarivo, this park offers a variety of hiking trails through montane forest with stunning views, waterfalls, and a chance to see unique wildlife.
About 70 km from Antananarivo, this protected area provides a range of hiking routes, showcasing beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity including endemic species.
Though slightly farther from Antananarivo, located in the Andringitra region, it features stunning hikes with breathtaking views and climbing opportunities for adventure seekers.
Part of the Andasibe region, this reserve is accessible from Antananarivo and is perfect for hikes into the habitat of the region’s unique flora and fauna, including the famous Indri lemur.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Antananarivo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Antananarivo by plane.
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Located in Saint-Denis, Réunion, approximately 800 km from Antananarivo, it serves as a significant international hub for the region.
Located in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo, approximately 1,300 km from Antananarivo, it connects several international flights.
An airport on the island of Nosy Be, Madagascar, which has international flights mainly to Comoros and Réunion.
Another significant airport in Réunion that connects several international destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Antananarivo, known for their historical significance and contributions to the culture and leadership of Madagascar.
The second largest ethnic group in Madagascar, often found in the eastern coastal regions but also present in the capital.
Traditionally pastoralists, this group is known for their cattle herding and is one of the prominent groups found in the country.
Originally from the western regions of Madagascar, they have migrated to the capital and contribute to its cultural diversity.
An ethnic group that primarily resides in the northern regions, they also represent a segment of Antananarivo's population.
This includes various smaller ethnicities and immigrant communities that have settled in Antananarivo, adding to its multicultural environment.
The Soul of Antananarivo
Discover the essence of Antananarivo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Antananarivo and throughout Madagascar, with a strong following and numerous local clubs and teams.
Basketball has a growing popularity in Antananarivo, particularly among the youth, with many schools and communities actively participating in the sport.
Rugby is also popular in Madagascar, with a significant following in Antananarivo and several teams competing at various levels.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and recreational areas, making it a favored sport among local communities.
Athletics, especially running and track events, is popular in Antananarivo, with various competitions organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antananarivo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat plays a prominent role in Malagasy cuisine, vegetarian and vegan visitors can find options such as lasary (a tangy salad made from diced tomatoes, green beans, and onions) and akoho sy voanio (a chicken and coconut stew) prepared in a meat-free version at accommodating eateries.
Rice is a dietary staple in Madagascar, and many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free. Additionally, international restaurants and cafes in Antananarivo often offer gluten-free alternatives to accommodate visitors with gluten sensitivities.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Antananarivo with these cultural adventures.
