The capital city of Madagascar is home to 4 million people and sits 1,280 meters above sea level in the center of the island. The city is home to 21 diplomatic missions, several national and local sports teams (including the national rugby team – the Makis), and people from all 18 Malagasy ethnic groups. Major historic landmarks include the Andafiavaratra Palace, the tomb of Rainiharo, Lake Anosy, four 19th century martyr churches, and the Museum of Art and Archaeology. The city is also home to a thriving arts scene with Malagasy music played in venues across the city. Antananarivo has established sister city agreements with Montreal (Canada), Suzhou (China), Vorkuta (Russia), and Yerevan (Armenia).
Antananarivo has a temperate climate, despite being situated in the Tropics, due to its high elevation of 1,300 to 1,400 meters (4,265 to 4,593 ft) above sea level. Antananarivo receives practically all of its average annual 1,400 mm (55.1 in) rainfall between November and April. The dry season between May and October is pleasant and sunny, although somewhat chilly, especially during the nights, and in the mornings and evenings. Although frosts are rare in Antananarivo, they are common at higher elevations.
There are public and private hospitals in Antananarivo that handle routine operations. Complex surgery requires evacuation to Mauritius, South Africa, or La Reunion; delegates will be encouraged to ensure they have adequate travel health insurance to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. Visitors to Madagascar should drink only boiled or bottled water.
Travelling in groups is recommended in Antananarivo though it is generally safe to walk in many parts of the city during the day.
Antananarivo is one of the cheapest capital cities in the world.
Antananarivo offers many interesting sites that are a short drive from the city centre:
Located 140 km north-west of Antananarivo. Three lemur species, Microcebus rufus, Avahi laniger, and Eulemur fulvus as well as rare birds are found in the reserve include the Madagascar harrier and Madagascan ibis. The frog Anodonthyla vallani likely occurs only within the reserve.
Located 25 km from the Capital, this is home to over 12 genera and 100 species of orchids.
This tiny New Protected Area (33 hectares) contains a strip of native forest growing near the headwaters of a highland stream. Water-loving Pandanus trees demarcate the stream bed and provide fruits for several lemur species. A Souimanga Sunbird (Nectarinia souimanga) can be seen flitting from tree to tree.
This rainforest is located about 110 km east from Antananarivo. It serves as a home of the most famous lemur in Madagascar, the Indri. In addition, various plants and animals are found in this park.
This private park is a Ramsar site located in the urban area of Antananarivo. It serves as a home of 14 threatened waterbird species and subspecies that are endemic to Madagascar such as Ardeola idea, Meller's duck Anas melleri and the vulnerable Madagascar little Grebe are also present on this site.
The Queen's Palace of the Kingdom of Imerina, 17th and 18th century. Offers good panoramic views of the city, as it is on the highest point in the hills.
The “Musée d’art et d’archéologie” of Isoraka provides an overview of Madagascar's history, its people and its traditions, since the 1st century to present.
Below are some practical links to help you on your visit to Antananarivo.
