When to Visit Antananarivo
Year-round climate guide & best times to travel
Best Time to Visit by Travel Style
Beach & Relaxation
April to October during the dry season offers the most sunshine and minimal rainfall for coastal excursions from the capital.
Cultural Exploration
May to September provides ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures, low rainfall, and clear skies perfect for exploring the city's markets, palaces, and cultural sites.
Adventure & Hiking
April to October offers the best hiking conditions with dry trails, clear mountain views, and comfortable daytime temperatures ranging from 68-78°F.
Budget Travel
January to March during the wet season offers lower accommodation rates and fewer crowds, though expect afternoon rain showers and higher humidity.
Month-by-Month Climate Guide
January
Peak wet season with warm temperatures and heavy rainfall. Expect frequent afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity, but mornings are often clear and pleasant. The landscape is lush and green during this time.
February
Continuation of the wet season with warm, humid conditions and regular rainfall. While rain is common, it typically falls in short, intense bursts rather than all-day downpours. The city's jacaranda trees are often in bloom.
March
Late wet season with decreasing rainfall but still warm temperatures. This transitional month offers a good balance of green landscapes from recent rains with increasingly clear skies. Humidity begins to drop slightly.
April
Beginning of the dry season with pleasant temperatures and significantly reduced rainfall. This marks the start of the ideal travel period with comfortable weather and clearer skies becoming more frequent.
May
Excellent dry season weather with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. Clear, sunny days are common, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing throughout the capital and surrounding highlands.
June
Peak dry season with cool, pleasant temperatures and virtually no rainfall. Clear skies dominate, though mornings and evenings can be quite cool. This is considered one of the best months to visit.
July
Coolest month of the year with crisp, dry conditions and minimal rainfall. While days are pleasant, nights can be quite chilly, so warm clothing is essential. Crystal clear skies offer excellent visibility for photography.
August
Continued cool, dry weather with minimal rainfall and comfortable daytime temperatures. Nights remain chilly, but the consistent sunshine and clear skies make this an excellent month for exploring the city and nearby attractions.
September
Late dry season with warming temperatures and still minimal rainfall. The weather begins to transition toward the warmer months while maintaining the clear, dry conditions that make this period ideal for travel.
October
End of the dry season with warmer temperatures and slightly increasing rainfall. Still excellent weather for most activities, with the landscape beginning to show signs of the approaching wet season. Clear skies remain common.
November
Transition into the wet season with warming temperatures and increasing rainfall. While rain becomes more frequent, it's often in the form of afternoon showers, leaving mornings clear for activities. Humidity begins to rise.
December
Early wet season with warm temperatures and significant rainfall. Expect regular afternoon thunderstorms and increased humidity, but the rains bring vibrant green landscapes and fewer crowds. Mornings are often pleasant and clear.