Things To Do
in Antananarivo
Antananarivo, often called Tananarive, sits on a series of ridges in Madagascar's central highlands and is the country's political and cultural heart. The city blends grand palaces, bustling markets, and nineteenth‑century architecture with lively street life and modern cafés. Vistas from the hills offer dramatic views over red-tiled roofs, churches, and the boulevards along Analakely.
Visit with curiosity for a warm, occasionally chaotic, yet utterly distinctive Malagasy urban experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Rova of Antananarivo, a royal palace perched on a hill that offers stunning views of the city. After exploring the palace grounds, wander through the narrow streets of the surrounding historic area, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Don't forget to visit the nearby Andafiavaratra Palace, which houses a museum showcasing the history of Madagascar's royal family.
For lunch, enjoy traditional Malagasy cuisine at a local eatery, sampling dishes such as romazava or ravitoto. Post-lunch, head to the Analakely Market to immerse yourself in the local culture, where you can find everything from spices to handmade crafts. Engage with local vendors and maybe even pick up some unique souvenirs to take home.
As the sun sets, stroll through the vibrant streets of Isoraka, where the atmosphere comes alive with street performers and food stalls. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner, savoring local delicacies while soaking in the lively ambiance. Conclude your evening by enjoying a drink at a rooftop bar, offering panoramic views of the city lights.
Embark on a short drive to Lemurs' Park, a sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of Madagascar’s most famous residents. Spend the morning walking through the park's lush trails while observing various species of lemurs in their natural habitat. Make sure to take plenty of photos as these playful animals leap from tree to tree.
After touring the park, enjoy a picnic lunch under the shade of the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature. In the afternoon, visit the botanical garden section of the park, where you can learn about Madagascar's unique flora and the importance of biodiversity. Engage with guides who can share fascinating facts about the island's ecosystem.
Return to Antananarivo and relax at your accommodation before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in Malagasy seafood, where fresh catches are prepared with local spices. Spend your evening reflecting on the day's adventures while enjoying a tranquil atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Three-course dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within city center | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee or snack at a cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture
- Pleasant highland climate and scenery
- Warm, welcoming people and a lively market scene
- Roads can be congested and uneven in places
- Limited reliable public transport outside the city center
- Frequent power and water disruptions can occur in older areas
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Veloma" - Goodbye
- "Manaova fihaonana" - Nice to meet you
Places to Visit in Antananarivo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic hilltop palace ruins with panoramic city views and dramatic angles across the red-tiled roofs.
A heart-shaped lake framed by jacaranda trees; excellent at sunrise or sunset for reflections and silhouettes.
Vibrant street scenes, colorful stalls, and human-scale life that makes for dynamic street photography.
Historic hill with terraced paths and forested trails, offering both culture and natural scenery.
Green spaces and curated habitats; good for close-ups of flora and small wildlife in a city setting.
Food in Antananarivo
Antananarivo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crushed cassava leaves simmered with pork, typically served with rice.
Must-Try!
A beef or pork stew with greens and a delicate, peppery broth.
Rice with chopped greens and sometimes meat, a comforting classic.
Chicken in coconut milk with aromatic herbs.
Grilled or pan-seared zebu, often with a pepper sauce and rice.
Sweet or savory Malagasy pancakes, popular snack or breakfast.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling central market with fresh produce, street snacks, and small eateries—great for sampling local flavors.
Passport to quick bites like skewered meats, fried plantains, and simple stews; negotiate prices politely.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting with a handshake or nod, use polite phrases like 'Salama' (hello) and 'Misaotra' (thank you). Respect elders and greet people in the local language when possible.
Be aware of local taboos (fady) that vary by family and region; ask before photographing people, especially children, and dress modestly in religious or traditional settings.
Safety
Tipping in Antananarivo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. If service is not included, 5–10% is common at nicer restaurants; smaller cafés may not anticipate tips.
Cash (Malagasy Ariary) is widely used; some places accept USD or EUR. Cards are increasingly accepted at hotels and upscale restaurants. Mobile money (Mvola) is popular for small payments and transfers; ATMs are available in major districts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid conditions with heavy afternoon rain; potential cyclone activity from November to April. Pack rain gear, a light jacket for evenings, and waterproof footwear.
Cooler, dry days with comfortable temperatures; evenings can be chilly due to elevation. Ideal for walking and hiking; bring a light sweater.
Antananarivo at Night
Hiking in Antananarivo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO site with royal ruins and surrounding trails; easily accessible for a half-day hike from central Tana.
A longer day trip offering rainforest hikes and chances to see the Indri lemur and other wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Antananarivo by plane.
Main international gateway to Madagascar; typically a 15–30 minute drive to central Antananarivo depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group of the central highlands, including many residents of Antananarivo.
A sizable community from nearby highland areas who contribute to the city’s diversity.
A mix of regional communities and expatriates living in the capital.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal street games are common in parks and schools.
Widely played in schools and urban centers with local courts throughout the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antananarivo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries—ask for legumes, greens, and rice-based dishes; clarify no meat in stews and sauces; many places will tailor dishes if you request.