Madagascar Travel Guide

If you want a respite from the hassle and dazzle of urban hubbub, then Betania Beach serenely awaits you.  Located at the southern end of the peninsula, you’ll find your mind meld straightaway into the peace and quietude permeating its solitary scenery.  You can get there leisurely through a laidback day trip on a pirogue or dugout. The beaches are free for locals and tourists to explore.

Address: Betania

This is the oldest and most charming part of Antananarivo. The cobbled streets and spectacular panorama offer a nice stroll for tourists.

Address: Haute-Ville, Antananarivo

The monotony of the pastel skyline is interrupted by a striking cathedral. The Ambozontany Cathedral dates back to 1890 and can be visited free of charge.

Address: Haute-Ville, Antananarivo

Visiting specialty markets in Madagascar is one unique experience. Zoma is the largest weekly market in Fianar town. Beef sausages, hats, along with a variety of local products get displayed every Friday along Araben’ny Fahaleovantena, Nouvelle-Ville. You can shop for items to bring home from the markets of Antsirabe in the town center. There is an array of choices of handicrafts and gift items in the markets of Asabotsy and Petit Marche markets.

Address: Fianar Town and Antsirabe Town

Located at the Town Centre and southwest of the market stands the Musee Regional de l’Universite de Toliara.  The museum boasts of an egg from the pre-historic elephant bird Aepyornis, a gigantic ratite bird known only from remains found in Madagascar.  Another rarity among the exhibits is the bizarre ancient mask with authentic human teeth. Admission fee is USD1.

Address: Southwest of the market, Town Centre

Also known as the upside-down trees for their awesome peculiarity, the huge and lofty baobabs are among Madagascar’s major tourist attractions.  A copse of over a dozen such trees, some rising to a height of 98 feet, and are well over 800 years old, magnificently occupy the now famous Avenue of the Baobabs.  Its location is an hour away north of Morondova in Madagascar’s Menabe Region.  Stroll along the columns of trees with odd bottled appearance and experience a dreamy breather back-dropped by an enchanting sundown.

Address: Avenue of the Baobabs, West Coast

In Madagascar, a quick fix for a gurgling stomach can be found in a “hotely” where you can order a plateful of rice served with laoka, or local name for chicken or meat that goes with the rice. Served with homemade yogurt and you’re ready to go. Meals served that way will cost you less than USD2. But here’s a list of not-so-Spartan ways of finding meals in Madagascar.

Meals are fantastic and served quickly – mighty important for a hungry traveler. Foie Gras costs USD5 and Cote de Zebu USD7.

Address: Rue Andrianary Ratianarivo, Tsara Rue, Antananarivo

Enjoy breakfast or brunch at this French restaurant. This old train station with outdoor seats is reminiscent of old Europe. Price ranges from USD5 to USD15.

Address: Gare de Soarano, Antananarivo

Treat yourself to an outdoor setting of delightful European cuisines in the atrium cum garden adjoining La Ribaudiere.  Prices are relatively decent, ranging from USD8 to USD20 per person.

Address: 18 Rue Paul Dussac, Analakely Sud, Antananarivo

This diner will pleasantly surprise even cheapskates.  It costs just around USD5 to USD7 for a menu selection consisting of the main course, a drink, and dessert.  It boasts an ambience that is guaranteed to soothe you.

Address: 27 Rue Rahamefy | Haute-Ville, Antananarivo

L’Orion restaurant is an ideal place to indulge in your choice of Asian, Continental, Chinese, and French cuisines.  The homely atmosphere, the proximity of many hotels, stores and banks, and excellent cooking are plus-factors that endear most patrons to drop in on the place.  Price ranges from USD4 to USD20.

Address: Rainitovo (au bout de l’avenue des palmiers), Antshavola, Antananarivo

After an expedition to the Tsingy de Bemaraha or a dive to the barrier reefs, a spongy bed would be quite a dream. Find that suitable hotel to continue the dreamy breather before you embark on another adventure or before you take the flight home.

Find that cozy bed at La Residence with its friendly staff, a quiet pool and a large garden. It is a suitable and affordable base for your Madagascar adventure. Room rate per night starts at USD33.

Address: Ankerana, Antananarivo

This modern hotel is centrally situated near supermarkets and shops, and the ATM. Amenities to make your stay comfortable include a pool and a restaurant. Room rate per night starts at USD124.

Address: Tana Water Front, Ambodivona, Antananarivo

This hotel comes very highly recommended for those traveling for business or leisure. The rooms are very comfortably set. Wi-Fi is fast and free. Food served in the restaurant is second to none in the region, great customer service, and there is a garden terrace where you can luxuriate while taking in the view. Unbeatable price, too, starting at USD30.

Address: 18 Rue Paul Dussac, Antananarivo

Enjoy an overlooking view from this hilltop hotel located near the Queen’s Palace. Every room has a huge comfortable bed and a refrigerator. Some rooms share a patio with another room. Customer care is unparalleled with thoughtful extras, such as early breakfast for those with early flights to catch and insect repellants provided and supplied regularly. Room rate starts at USD125.

Address: Lot VW 115 Ambohimitsimbina, Antananarivo

This is one place you’d never tire returning to. The best restaurants are close by. Well-appointed rooms come complete with stocked-minibar and luxurious baths with a bathtub. Amenities include a gym, tennis court, high-end shops, a pool, and laundry service. The whole facility is tastefully decorated. Room rate starts at USD187.

Address: Rue Pierre Stibbe Anosy, Antananarivo

Madagascar is a dreamy destination that comes quite inexpensive compared to other adventurers’ jungle. This wonderful part of the world has facilities provided in the key city and in camping sites. There are things you need to learn, though, before taking that flight and be informed of several taboos observed from region to region. The taboos, called fady, can sometimes sound funny, but it is always safe to show respect to local beliefs and prohibitions. Fady or not, they make Madagascar one of a kind. If you are a nature buff or an adventure lover, see how Madagascar can be so stunning and fun!