Ivato
,Ivato is a suburb of the capital city of Antananarivo in Madagascar. It is known for being home to the Ivato International Airport, the main gateway for travelers coming to the country. The area surrounding Ivato is characterized by lush green landscapes and rolling hills, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.
Ivato also serves as a hub for various transportation services, connecting travelers to different parts of the island.
- "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): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Explore Ivato
morning
:Start your day with a visit to the picturesque local markets, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Savor a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
afternoon
:Take a short trip to the Lemurs' Park, where you can observe these unique creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery.
evening
:Head back to Ivato for an evening stroll through the town. Dine at a local restaurant, trying out Madagascar's delicious cuisine.
Nature's Retreat
morning
:Wake up early and venture to the surrounding hills for a scenic hike. The fresh air and stunning views will rejuvenate you for the day ahead.
afternoon
:After your hike, have a leisurely lunch at a hillside café with panoramic views. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
evening
:As the sun sets, take in the beautiful colors painting the sky. Return to Ivato for a cozy dinner at a local eatery.
Highlights
Good
- Rich biodiversity and unique wildlife, including lemurs and endemic plants.
- Stunning landscapes, including the nearby Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.
- Cultural experiences with local Malagasy traditions and cuisine.
- Emerging tourism opportunities leading to economic growth.
- Generally affordable living costs and prices for goods and services.
Bad
- Limited infrastructure and public services, affecting travel and daily life.
- Potential issues with safety and security in certain areas.
- Variable access to healthcare and education resources.
- Environmental challenges, including deforestation and climate change impact.
- Economic instability and reliance on agriculture, which can be affected by weather.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking in Ivato Forest
Explore the beautiful Ivato Forest and enjoy a hiking adventure while admiring the natural scenery and wildlife.
Visiting the Village of Ivato
Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the village of Ivato and experiencing the traditional way of life in Madagascar.
Bird Watching at Lake Masay
Discover the diverse bird species at Lake Masay and engage in a bird watching activity amidst the picturesque surroundings.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Ivato with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Mont Kogohinina
Offers panoramic views of Ivato and surrounding areas, making it a great spot for photos
Ivato Lake
Scenic lake with opportunities for beautiful photos of the water and surrounding landscape
Ambohimanga
Historical site with stunning views of the countryside, ideal for capturing the beauty of the region
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Romazava
A traditional Malagasy meat stew made with various greens, zebu meat, and other ingredients, providing a unique blend of flavors. Best enjoyed at local Malagasy restaurants like La Varangue in Ivato.
Must-Try!
Ravitoto
A dish made from mashed cassava leaves, usually cooked with pork and served with rice. Look for this flavorful dish at local eateries such as Chez Aina in Ivato.
Mofo Akondro
Sweet banana fritters that are a popular Malagasy snack or dessert. They can be found in local markets or from street food vendors in Ivato.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ivato better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Analakely Market
A bustling market in the heart of Antananarivo, just a short distance from Ivato, offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and local street food. Don't miss the opportunity to savor samosas, brochettes, and other Malagasy street food delights.
Ivato Market
The local market in Ivato is a great place to sample authentic Malagasy street food like mofo gasy (Malagasy-style pancakes) and various grilled meats and seafood.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greeting customs
In Ivato, Madagascar, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is customary to use a more formal greeting with elders and people in positions of authority.
Respect for elders
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ivato. It is important to show deference and listen attentively when elders are speaking.
Conservative dress
In Ivato, it is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting rural areas or participating in traditional ceremonies. Revealing clothing may be considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ivato with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice in Ivato, Madagascar. It is not expected, but it is appreciated if you receive exceptional service.
Payment
In Ivato, Madagascar, cash is the primary form of payment for most transactions. Credit cards may be accepted at some hotels and larger establishments, but it's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ivato.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April - October
Dry season; best time for wildlife viewing, trekking, and beach activities
November - March
Wet season; lush landscapes, newborn wildlife, and great for bird watching
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
A rich biodiversity hotspot located about 140 km east of Ivato, featuring lush rainforests, waterfalls, and numerous hiking trails.
Ambohimanga
An ancient royal hill located approximately 25 km from Ivato, known for its historical significance and scenic hiking paths.
Tsaranoro Valley
Situated about 200 km south of Ivato, this valley offers stunning landscapes and various hiking routes suitable for different skill levels.
Ankaratra Mountains
Just a couple of hours from Ivato, these mountains provide challenging hikes with panoramic views and a unique alpine environment.
Ialatsara Trail
A hiking route located near Antananarivo, ideal for a day hike with picturesque views and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ivato through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Ivato by plane.
Ivato International Airport (TNR)
The main international airport serving Antananarivo, Madagascar.
Roland Garros Airport (RUN)
Located in Saint-Denis, Réunion, it serves as a major international airport in the Indian Ocean region.
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (SSR)
Situated in Mauritius, this airport is a key hub for flights between Africa and Asia.
Antsiranana - Fascene Airport (DIE)
An international airport in the northern part of Madagascar, also known as Fascene Airport.
Ambatoboeny Airport (AMP)
Small international airport located in a northwest region of Madagascar, serving limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Merina
The Merina people are the largest ethnic group in Madagascar, predominantly residing in the highlands, including areas around Ivato.
Betsimisaraka
The Betsimisaraka are the second-largest ethnic group in Madagascar, known for their coastal presence and making up a significant part of the population in the eastern regions.
Bara
The Bara are primarily found in the south and are known for their cattle herding practices and distinctive cultural heritage.
Tsimihety
The Tsimihety people are located in the northern part of Madagascar and are recognized for their agricultural lifestyle and unique dialect.
Sakalava
The Sakalava are primarily located in the western regions of Madagascar and have a strong culture related to maritime activities.
Antandroy
The Antandroy are found in the southern part of Madagascar and are known for their semi-nomadic lifestyle and unique customs.
Others
Various smaller ethnic groups and immigrants contribute to the demographic diversity in Ivato and surrounding regions.
The Soul of Ivato
Discover the essence of Ivato through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football
Football is the most popular sport in Ivato, Madagascar, with various local teams and a passionate fan base.
Basketball
Basketball has a growing following in Ivato, with many schools and community clubs promoting the sport.
Athletics
Athletics is promoted through local events and competitions, encouraging youth participation in running and field events.
Rugby
Rugby is played in some communities, with clubs forming and participating in local tournaments.
Volleyball
Volleyball is popular among schools and community groups, often played on local courts.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While Malagasy cuisine traditionally includes a lot of meat, many restaurants in Ivato offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often featuring fresh local produce, rice, and flavorful spices. La Varangue and Vanilla Café are known for their accommodating options.
Gluten-Free Choices
Due to the reliance on rice as a staple, gluten-free options are fairly prevalent in Ivato. Dishes like romazava and grilled seafood are typically safe choices, and Chez Aina is among the places that can cater to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ivato with these cultural adventures.
