Weekend in the Highlands: Discovering Antananarivo
Royal Palaces, Markets & Madagascar's Vibrant Capital
Trip Overview
This two-day itinerary immerses you in Madagascar's captivating capital, perched high in the central highlands. Explore the historic upper town where the Queen's Palace overlooks the sprawling city, wander through the bustling chaos of Analakely Market, and discover Madagascar's unique biodiversity at Lemurs'Park. Experience the blend of Malagasy and French colonial heritage through stunning architecture, vibrant street life, and local cuisine. The pace is moderate, allowing time to absorb the city's energy while covering its essential highlights. From sacred sites and art galleries to natural parks within easy reach, this weekend captures Antananarivo's contrasts—ancient traditions meeting modern African city life, all set against a backdrop of terraced rice paddies and red-earth hills.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Royal Heritage & Urban Discovery
Where to Stay Tonight
Isoraka or Antaninarenina (Upper Town) (Mid-range guesthouse or boutique hotel)
These central neighborhoods offer safe, atmospheric bases with easy access to major sites, restaurants, and stunning city views
Lemurs, Art & Local Flavors
Where to Stay Tonight
Same as Day 1 or near airport if departing early (Same accommodation or airport hotel)
Maintain your base for continuity, or shift to airport proximity for morning departures
Practical Information
Getting Around
Antananarivo's hilly terrain and chaotic traffic make walking challenging. Hire trusted taxi drivers through your accommodation—negotiate daily rates ($25-40) or per-trip fares ($3-8). Apps like Taxi-Be exist but aren't widely reliable. Avoid public buses (taxi-be) unless with a local guide due to pickpocketing risks. For Lemurs'Park, arrange private transport or join a tour. Most attractions are within 30 minutes' drive from the center, though traffic can be heavy during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM).
Book Ahead
Book accommodation 1-2 weeks ahead, especially during peak season (July-September). Lemurs'Park doesn't require advance booking but confirm transport the day before. Queen's Palace is walk-in but consider pre-arranging a guide through your hotel.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and hills, light layers (highland temperatures range 10-25°C), sun protection, rain jacket (even in dry season), daypack, hand sanitizer, insect repellent, camera, and cash in Ariary (ATMs available but carry small bills)
Total Budget
$125-185 for 2 days (excluding international flights and accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in guesthouses in Antaninarenina ($15-25/night), eat at local hotelys (small eateries) serving rice and laoka for $2-4, use shared taxis between sites, skip guided tours in favor of self-exploration, and purchase snacks at Analakely Market. Focus on free or low-cost attractions like the Cathedral and market wandering. Total budget can drop to $40-50 daily.
Luxury Upgrade
Book a premium hotel in Isoraka with city views ($120-200/night), hire a private driver-guide for both days ($80-100 daily), dine at Antananarivo's finest French restaurants, arrange a private after-hours tour of Queen's Palace, add a helicopter tour over the highlands, and shop for high-end Malagasy art and gemstones at exclusive galleries. Include spa treatments and wine tastings.
Family-Friendly
Lemurs'Park is perfect for children—lemurs are engaging and educational. Stay in family-friendly guesthouses with gardens, reduce walking with more frequent taxi use, visit Tsarasaotra Park for easy birdwatching, and explore Analakely Market briefly during less crowded morning hours. Replace evening activities with early dinners at casual restaurants. Add interactive experiences like vanilla or chocolate workshops if available through your accommodation.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Antananarivo