Madagascar, commonly known as the “Eighth Continent,” is a breathtaking island located in the Indian Ocean. With its unique flora and fauna, impressive landscapes, and diverse cultural heritage, Madagascar is indeed a traveler’s paradise. Among the many cities of Madagascar, Antananarivo stands out as the cultural, political, and economic center of the country. It is a city full of contrasts, with modern and ancient buildings coexisting side by side. Here’s an itinerary for a 5-night, 6-day trip to explore the beautiful city of Antananarivo.Day 1:On the first day, you will arrive in Antananarivo and be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax for the evening. If you arrive in the daytime, you could explore the city’s popular attractions such as the Rova of Antananarivo, the Queen’s Palace, and the Andafiavaratra Palace. You could also walk around the popular street markets like Analakely or Tsaralalana to get a feel of the local culture and sample the local street food.Day 2:On the second day, visit the Ambohimanga Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 21 km North of the city. This former royal complex served as the capital of the Kingdom of Madagascar and is a testament to the rich history of the region. You can explore the palace, tombs, and temple while learning about the fascinating stories behind them.
In the afternoon, visit the Lemurs Park, located 22 km west of Antananarivo. With 12 species of lemurs, the park is the perfect place to see these unique primates up close. The park also features several other endemic animal species, making it an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography.Day 3:On the third day, drive 118 km east of Antananarivo to reach Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. The park is filled with lush green forests, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Start your visit with a tour of the Vakona Private Reserve, where you can walk amidst free-ranging lemurs and other endemic species.In the afternoon, visit the Analamazaotra Reserve, which contains the largest and most accessible groups of Indri lemurs. You will also have the opportunity to see other species like the eastern woolly lemur, bamboo lemur, and the red-bellied lemur.Day 4:On the fourth day, head back to Antananarivo in the morning and visit the Mahamasina Stadium, where you can watch a live football match if you’re a sports enthusiast. In the afternoon, visit the Madagascar Exotic, a botanical garden located 6 km from the city center. The garden features a wide variety of plants native to Madagascar, as well as a zoological park containing lemurs, birds, and other animals.
Day 5:On the fifth day, visit the nearby town of Antsirabe, located 169 km to the south of Antananarivo. This town is known for its mineral springs, colorful rickshaws, and beautiful colonial architecture. Visit the Vohidava craft shop to purchase souvenirs like handcrafted wooden spoons, scarves, and Malagasy embroidery. Try some local beer or take a dip in the thermal bath to soothe your muscles.Day 6:On the final day, take a morning stroll around Antananarivo city to discover its hidden gems, including the Anosy Lake, the Place de l’Indépendance, and the Tsimbazaza Zoo. Before your flight home, stop by a local restaurant to try some Malagasy cuisine like Romazava (beef stew), Ravitoto (pork and cassava leaves), or Lasary Voatabia (tomato and onion salad).In conclusion, a trip to Antananarivo offers a diverse range of experiences encompassing culture, history, wildlife, and adventure. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or foodie, this itinerary has something for everyone. Book your tickets, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to the heartland of Madagascar.
see all posts!