Handy Tips For Exploring Antananarivo
Start at the Rova of Antananarivo
Visit the iconic Rova, or Queen’s Palace, a historic site offering insights into Madagascar’s royal past and spectacular city views.
Explore Analakely Market
Dive into the city’s largest market, filled with colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to crafts. Practice your bargaining skills!
Visit Andafiavaratra Palace
Discover more of Tana’s history by touring Andafiavaratra Palace, once the residence of Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony.
Take a Walk Around Lake Anosy
This heart-shaped lake is a peaceful spot in the city and a great place for a scenic stroll or photography.
Try Local Dishes at a Hotely
Experience authentic Malagasy cuisine at a hotely (local eatery), sampling dishes like romazava (beef stew) and ravitoto (pork with cassava leaves).
Wander the Streets of Haute-Ville
Explore Haute-Ville, Tana’s old quarter, known for its colonial architecture, winding alleys, and quaint houses.
Visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Garden
Home to several native lemur species and a lush botanical garden, this zoo is a family-friendly spot to experience Madagascar’s unique wildlife.
Browse Handicrafts at the Digue Market
For souvenirs, head to the Digue Market, where you’ll find handmade jewelry, woven baskets, wooden carvings, and more.
Take a City Walking Tour
Join a guided walking tour to discover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Antananarivo’s history and culture.
Explore Is’Art Galerie
This contemporary art gallery features works by local artists and hosts regular events, showcasing Madagascar’s thriving art scene.
Learn About Madagascar’s Ethnic Groups at the Museum of Ethnology and Paleontology
Gain insights into the country’s diverse ethnic groups, history, and unique fauna through this well-curated museum.
See the Prime Minister’s Rainilaiarivony Tomb
Visit the resting place of one of Madagascar’s most influential historical figures at the Rova complex.
Taste Malagasy Street Food
Don’t miss trying local street food like koba (rice cake with peanuts), mofo gasy (sweet rice cakes), and sambos (similar to samosas).
Visit the Sacred Hill of Ambohimanga
This UNESCO World Heritage site, just outside Tana, is a significant spiritual and historical place for the Malagasy people.
Take a Day Trip to Lemur’s Park
Located about 22 km outside the city, Lemur’s Park offers a chance to see several species of lemurs in a natural setting.
Climb to Faravohitra Church
Perched on one of the city’s highest points, this beautiful church provides panoramic views of Antananarivo’s sprawling hills and neighborhoods.
Enjoy a Malagasy Spa Experience
Relax after a day of exploring with a traditional Malagasy massage, using local essential oils and techniques.
Try Rum Arrangé
Sample this infused local rum with a variety of flavors like vanilla, ginger, and exotic fruits – a unique Malagasy specialty.
Visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
This neo-Gothic structure is one of the city’s most striking churches and a testament to Tana’s colonial history.
Explore the Royal Hill of Antsahadinta
Another one of the sacred hills, Antsahadinta offers stunning views, ancient tombs, and an opportunity to connect with Madagascar’s rich royal heritage.
A Day in Antananarivo: Exploring Madagascar’s Vibrant Capital
Antananarivo, Madagascar’s bustling capital, offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and local charm. Here’s how to spend a day discovering the highlights of “Tana,” as locals affectionately call it.
Morning: Dive into History and Local Life
Start at the Rova of Antananarivo
Begin your day with a visit to the Rova, the Queen’s Palace, which sits atop the city’s highest hill. This royal complex holds deep historical significance as it was once the residence of Madagascar’s monarchy. From here, you’ll also enjoy sweeping views of the city below.
Explore the Andafiavaratra Palace
Just down the hill, head to Andafiavaratra Palace, once the residence of Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony. Now a museum, it houses artifacts salvaged from the Queen’s Palace fire and offers insights into the country’s rich political history.
Stroll Through Analakely Market
Dive into Tana’s bustling atmosphere with a walk through Analakely Market. This sprawling marketplace is filled with stalls selling everything from fresh produce and spices to handicrafts and clothing. Be sure to try a local snack and maybe pick up a unique souvenir.
Midday: Embrace Culture and Cuisine
Lunch at a Hotely
For an authentic Malagasy meal, find a local hotely (a small, family-run eatery) and try dishes like romazava (beef and greens stew) or ravitoto (pork cooked with cassava leaves). These flavors offer a true taste of Madagascar.
Visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Garden
After lunch, head to Tsimbazaza Zoo to see some of Madagascar’s unique wildlife up close, including a variety of lemurs. The botanical garden also showcases the country’s remarkable plant species, such as baobabs and rare orchids.
Afternoon: Discover Art and Heritage
Tour Is’Art Galerie
Is’Art Galerie is the city’s main hub for contemporary Malagasy art. Spend some time viewing innovative works by local artists, and, if you’re lucky, catch a live performance or art event.
Walk Around Haute-Ville
Explore the old town, known as Haute-Ville, where you’ll find winding streets lined with French colonial architecture and quaint houses. This area has a unique charm with its terracotta roofs and scenic views. Make sure to stop at a café for a quick coffee break and enjoy the city’s vibe.
Visit the Sacred Hill of Ambohimanga
If time allows, take a short drive to the Sacred Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient royal site is one of the most significant spiritual and cultural locations in Madagascar, offering a window into the traditions of the Merina Kingdom.
Evening: Relax and Reflect
Enjoy Dinner with a View
Return to the city and choose one of Tana’s rooftop restaurants for dinner. Savor Malagasy dishes while taking in a panoramic view of the cityscape, beautifully illuminated at night.
Sample a Glass of Rum Arrangé
End your day by trying some local rum arrangé, a popular Malagasy rum infused with flavors like vanilla, ginger, or tropical fruits. It’s the perfect way to wind down and toast your exploration of Tana.
A day in Antananarivo is a journey through Madagascar’s history, culture, and daily life, filled with memorable sights, sounds, and flavors. This fascinating city invites you to experience the Malagasy spirit firsthand.
