Flights to Antananarivo

From the airport

Most visitors arrange a hotel or tour transfer in advance, as traffic into the city is often slow. Some hotels near Ivato suit late arrivals and early domestic flights. In the centre, taxis are the simplest way to get around, and fares should be agreed before you set off. Locals usually call the city Tana.

The royal hill and Upper Town

The Rova, the former palace of the Merina kings and queens, sits on the city's highest ridge, and the main palace has been restored after a fire in 1995. Below it, the Haute-Ville has cobbled lanes, churches and colonial buildings with views over the rice fields. Andafiavaratra Palace, once home to a prime minister, holds a museum of royal objects.

Markets, lake and food

Analakely, the market district in the lower town, fills its streets and stairways with stalls selling fruit, clothes and household goods. Lake Anosy, ringed by jacaranda trees that flower in October and November, has a war memorial on its island. The Digue craft market sells raffia, wood carvings and embroidery. Malagasy food centres on rice, with dishes such as romazava, a beef and greens broth, and zebu skewers from street grills. Bakeries and cafés reflect the long French influence.

Day trips and timing

The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO site about 20 km north, was a sacred seat of the Merina kings. Lemurs' Park, around 22 km west, lets you see several lemur species in a botanic setting. At around 1,280 m, Tana is cool in the dry months of May to September and warmer and wetter from December to March. Many visitors spend a night here before driving east to Andasibe or flying on to the coast. Pickpocketing happens in busy areas, so keep valuables out of sight, and avoid walking alone after dark.

Starting a Madagascar tour in Tana? Call 020 7871 4545 and we'll arrange your flights.