City guide
Antananarivo: Capital on Madagascar’s Central Plateau
Antananarivo, or Tana, occupies rolling hills and valleys on Madagascar’s central plateau, distinct from the island’s coastal resorts. The city’s historic hilltop core includes the Upper Town with its royal past, accessed via Ivato International Airport.
Fast facts
- Country
- Madagascar
- Region
- Analamanga
- Elevation
- Approx. 1,280 m
- Population
- Approx. 1.4 million (2023)
- Known for
- Rova Palace, Tsimbazaza Zoo, artisanal markets, Malagasy cuisine
Antananarivo is Madagascar’s largest city and administrative hub, located inland on a series of terraced hills rather than flat coastal land.
The city center centers on the Upper Town, once home to the royal palace, with commercial neighborhoods below. Its setting on steep slopes shapes daily life and movement. Visitors should note that January through March is the rainy season, with drier months preferred for touring.
The Ariary (MGA) is the local currency, and the city functions as the primary transport gateway to Madagascar via Ivato International Airport.
Upper Town’s Royal Roots
Visit the historic hilltop core known as Haute-Ville, where the old royal city and palace remain central to Antananarivo’s identity.
Ivato International Airport
Most travelers arrive through Ivato Airport, the main gateway connecting Madagascar’s capital to the world.
Drier Months for Touring
Plan visits outside January to March, the wetter season, to avoid heavy rains and better navigate the city’s steep, terraced landscape.
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