Things To Do
in Ivato
Ivato sits about 15 km north of Antananarivo, at coordinates -20.6167, 47.2, and is anchored by Ivato International Airport. It functions as a gateway for international travelers and as a quiet residential area with hillside views. The area blends busy transit hubs, markets, and small eateries with the slower pace of rural life just beyond the airport corridors.
Within a short drive you can reach the historic royal city of Ambohimanga or the vibrant capital center.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ivato International Airport and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture as you make your way to your accommodation. Take some time to rest and acclimate while enjoying a local breakfast. Explore nearby markets to get a taste of Malagasy snacks and crafts.
Visit the Rova of Antananarivo, a historic royal palace that offers stunning views of the city. Discover the intricate architecture and learn about the history of Madagascar. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes like Zebu steak before continuing your exploration.
Dine in a cozy restaurant that features local ingredients and culinary traditions. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, soaking in the evening ambiance of the city. Capture the stunning sunset over the hills of Antananarivo before settling in for the night.
After breakfast, visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Garden to see native wildlife, including lemurs and birds. Stroll through the lush gardens and learn about Madagascar's diverse flora. Engage with the friendly staff to understand conservation efforts in the region.
Head to the Analakely Market to experience the local flavors and crafts of Madagascar. Shop for unique souvenirs and try out street food like koba or mofo gasy. The vibrant atmosphere and energetic vendors will provide a true taste of daily life in Antananarivo.
Enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional Malagasy music and dance in a local venue. Savor a dinner made with locally sourced ingredients, experiencing flavors unique to the region. As the night deepens, mingle with locals and other travelers, building memories to last a lifetime.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥙Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $0.5-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Madagascar’s capital and diverse experiences
- Good access to transport through Ivato Airport
- Limited nightlife in Ivato itself
- Some areas with uneven road conditions outside the capital
- "Salama" - Hello
- "Manao ahoana" - How are you?
- "Misaotra" - Thank you
- "Azafady" - Please / Excuse me
- "Veloma" - Goodbye
- "Manahoana, azafady" - Good morning, please
Places to Visit in Ivato
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic heart-shaped lake framed by jacaranda trees and the city's skyline.
Bustling square with colorful market stalls and old colonial architecture illuminated after dark.
Historic royal palace complex with panoramic city views and terraced gardens.
UNESCO World Heritage site offering ancient royal hill fortifications and sweeping vistas.
Historic train station area with architectural details and daily life scenes.
Food in Ivato
Ivato Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting beef stew with greens, typically served with rice.
Must-Try!
Pork simmered with crushed cassava leaves, usually served with rice.
Chicken cooked with coconut milk and local spices.
Rice served with sautéed greens and vegetables.
A sweet dessert made from banana, peanuts, and rice flour, wrapped in banana leaves.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic city market offering fresh produce, spices, and street bites.
Weekend market with grills, fruit stalls, and snacks to sample.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin with a friendly Malagasy or French greeting; handshake is common.
Modest, neat attire, especially when visiting religious sites or markets.
Ask for permission before photographing people, particularly elders.
Safety
Tipping in Ivato
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips (5–10%) are appreciated in restaurants and for guides; round up taxi fares.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Mar: Warm and humid with afternoon showers; carry water and a light rain layer.
Apr–Jun: Transitional with cooler mornings; pleasant for walking and sightseeing.
Jun–Aug: Cool to mild days, cooler nights; layer clothing recommended.
Sep–Oct: Dry and sunny on most days, ideal for outdoor activities.
Ivato at Night
Hiking in Ivato
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush rainforest trails near the capital offering varied wildlife viewing.
Longer forest walks through scenic hills and foggy valleys.
Airports
How to reach Ivato by plane.
Main international gateway to Madagascar, located about 15 km north of Antananarivo; taxis, shuttles, and buses connect to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest ethnic group in the highland region with a strong presence in Antananarivo and Ivato.
Includes coastal and rural populations present in markets and along transport corridors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport among locals; casual games and organized leagues are common.
Played in schools and community centers; urban courts are common in Antananarivo.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ivato.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Malagasy dishes rely on rice and beans; ask for laoka without meat and request vegetable versions.