Hotels in Antananarivo

Antananarivo: Madagascar's Highland Capital at 1,276 Metres

Antananarivo — known locally as Tana — sits on a ridge in Madagascar's central highlands, roughly 1,276 metres above sea level. Founded in the early 17th century by King Andrianjaka of the Merina kingdom, the city grew outward from the Rova of Antananarivo, a royal palace complex perched on the highest point of Analamanga hill. That hilltop citadel, damaged by fire in 1995 and partially restored, still defines the city's silhouette. The surrounding slopes hold a dense network of terraced streets, market squares, and colonial-era French architecture dating from the late 19th century.

Where to Stay in Tana

Most hotels concentrate in Isoraka, Tsimbazaza, and the central Analakely district, where the covered Zoma market once drew tens of thousands of traders on Fridays. The Haute-Ville (upper town) offers guesthouses within walking distance of the Rova and the Queen's Palace. Business travellers arriving at Ivato International Airport — 15 km north of the city centre — typically stay in the Ivandry suburb to avoid the slow uphill traffic.

Practical Tips

• Climate: The rainy season runs November to April; pack waterproofs for afternoon downpours.
• Currency: The Malagasy ariary (MGA); ATMs are concentrated in Analakely and Isoraka.
• Getting around: Taxi-be minibuses cover most districts; private taxis are metered in the city centre.
• Altitude: Temperatures rarely exceed 25 °C year-round due to elevation.