Antananarivo Things to Do

2 more images

Visit the zoo in Tana area as you see there most of fauna and flora species that are in Madagascar. Beside the usual suspects (lemurs incl. makis, indri..), you'll find aqauatic birds building their nests in the park, snakes, giant turtles. Also, about architecture in Madagascar, flora history, endemic plants... This could be my chance to see a peacock in RL.

Especially useful if you don't intend to go outside Tana and see nature reserves.

Another kind of zoo in this Tsimbazaza corner: National Assembly. Just another kind of zoo.. rather a lions' den, anyway... *LOL*
It's a joke in Tana that I report here... I would check whether it is possible to visit it as well ... But, is it important??

In the zoo you see the different areas of Madagaskar in a nutshell: desert and rainforest. Some parts of the Zoo are like an Open Air Museum with old houses and the different kinds of tombs, they have in Madagaskar.

The Zoo not only shows the animals, but also the flowers and trees of Madagaskar, which in its combination is fascinating.

As I only had one week in Madagaskar the visit of the zoo was essential for me. Otherwise I would not have got an impression of the diverse wildlife and the wonderfull plants of the country.

4 more images

This is a smaller, more compact, market than the main Analakely ‘Pavilions’. I highly recommend this market. It can be slightly claustrophobic when you first enter, but it’s a bit more of a traditional market. The small winding pathways between market stalls throw up surprises at very corner. There are a few souvenir items, but mostly clothes, some fresh fruit, definitely cheap clothes, electronics and pirate CD’s & DVD’s. The sellers are relaxed by ‘Tana’ standards and will even talk to you without hassle. It’s just across the street from the right side of the train station. Be careful walking along the sidewalk (pavement) as it is narrow and drivers do not always slow down.

4 more images

Known for their ‘Pavilions’’, this sprawling area sells it all. Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, flowers, crafts, stationery, handbags, clothes, electrical goods, furniture, household goods, pirate DVD’s, souvenirs, books and some stuff that’s just plain rubbish. This is a fascinating way to see the local way of life in ‘Tana’. You do get the freelance street sellers that will sometimes follow you for a while, but it a good overall experience. In the fringes of the area you will even find people selling cookies (biscuits) out of their cars (4th photo). If you need to telephone anyone they have mobile call centres or will sell you air time for the local mobile phone provider. If you don’t see what you want, just ask. I found many of the established sellers more than happy to direct you onwards. Prices range between very negotiable to slightly
negotiable. Some electrical goods sellers will not budge on printed prices. Ask anyway. You never know.

Please watch your valuables as there are pickpockets. There is a Police Station in the market (last photo)

4 more images

This small lake is the beautiful heart of Antananarivo. From the main hotel and shopping areas it over and down the hill. The emerald green waters are surrounded by purple blooming Jacaranda trees and create an absolute oasis of peace. The best month to see the blooms are October. Thankfully the many aggressive street sellers do not regularly inhabit the area. In the middle of the waters is an island with the Monument aux Morts (Monument to the Dead). This large white Angel is dedicated to French soldiers lost in World War I. To the left of the lake (as you look at the memorial) is a fantastic flower market every day. You will also find some local stalls offering different products and services – a real slice of local life.

WARNING: This is a quiet and secluded place that should be avoided at night.

3 more images

Unfortunately for me, the Rova was closed for renovations when I visited, so I can only speak to the outside facade being pretty. It is known as one of the best tourist attractions in Tana, so likely its pretty good. The Rova area, is beautiful. Being high above the city, the view is spectacular, especially looking over the stadium and lake. I would have to say that the other attractions at the top of the hill leave a lot to be desired, if you have been in Europe or elsewhere. The Prime Ministers Palace, just down the hill from the Rova is a dilapidated home, which should put you in one of two camps: 1) It sucks, so we should pass it by or 2) Its run down and my entrance fees help to restore its grandeur.

Up for you to decide.

If you are fortunate enough to have a guide or driver to take you round the city, it is fascinating to look out of the window and watch the world go buy. It is really busy every where you look, and you will never fail to spot something interesting. The buildings are incredibly diverse and the array of things for sale in the road side shops and stalls on the outskirts of the town is very interesting.

There is a bustling market very close to the Ave De L'Independance. It sells everyday items, almost everything you might want (except for duck tape!) as well as some tourist type souveniers. You will feel safer walking around this area if you don't take much with you. I just had a small camera in my pocket, and a minimal amount of money. The stall holders are friendly and very few are pushy in their selling techniques.