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| Antananarivo Travel Guide for backpackers |
Like many other Asian and African capitals it is crowded, polluted and noisy, but it does have spectacular parts worth exploring. The district known as Analakely is packed with street markets, swarms of off-white umbrellas, perched on old tyre rims, protecting the vendors from the sun.
On the north eastern side of the town is where you will find the stonemasons, embroiderers, carpenters and professional craftspeople.
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 DAILY BUDGET in ANTANANARIVO - Apart from your fare to get there, Antananarivo is probably as cheap as it gets when it comes to travel. For a really good time including decent bed, bath and room, nightlife and good food and also being prepared to bargain, you are looking at US$43. |
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Haute-Ville (Upper Town) - In this area is where you will find the main post office, several banks, restaurants and nightclubs. The winding cobblestone streets and staircases create a medieval impression. Follow the road uphill, past churches and other former royal buildings to the ruins of the Rova, the former Queen’s palace, which was burned to the ground in 1995.
Parc Botanique ET Zoologique de Tsimbazaza - This is a must whilst visiting to see the various species of lemurs, both caged and uncaged, rare species of egrets, herons, crocodiles and tortoises. On the grounds of the zoo, is Museum Malgache displaying excellent natural and cultural exhibits.
Soarano Market - next to the train station is well worth a visit. Check out the section dedicated to medicinal plants, beautiful flowers, handicrafts, pieces of wooden sculpture and semi-precious stones.
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Roadside stalls - Avenue de l’Independence. Fresh seafood and meat, together with excellent fresh vegetables and tropical fruit can be purchased from here, but watch the hygiene standards before you buy.
La Brasserie – Hotel de France. As the prices are so reasonable, try out this really classy restaurant and spoil yourself on their delicious seafood and fish dishes, rounded off with fruit tart.
Hotel Colbert – 29 Rue Printsy Ratsimamanga. The menu consists of shrimp spring rolls, mango salad and variations of goose, including foie gras. Very French and reasonably priced.
Tatao Restaurant - A must-eat dish is the Tatao itself which is the Seven Royal Dishes, unique in Madagascar. Try also the local peanut caramel cake, nice and smooth...
Rhum arrangé - This is a must-try beverage : rums that have essentially been infused with local fruits or spices... or both. Fruits, vanilla, or cinnamonmaturation--no less than 6 months, some for several years.
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Espace Dera – Route d’Ankatso. A nightclub, which is not crowded with prostitutes, where you can be heard above the music, with a laidback and relaxing atmosphere.
Le Glacier Analakely – Radama Hotel, La Boussole. This is loud, brash, noisy and fun but watch your pockets. Pickpockets are everywhere.
Namaza House – La Haute. If rock and blues is your thing, this is the club where you will find both. It is usually packed to capacity.
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