Capital city in Analamanga, Madagascar
Antananarivo
Hilly, chaotic capital where most Madagascar trips start, with markets, French-era architecture and cheap food. Traffic, dust, night-time crime and political instability make it a base to pass through, not stay long.
At a glance
- Safety3/5Take real precautionsDetails
- Monthly budget$796–1,360Comfortable, one person · Ar3.5M–6MDetails
- Value for money49/100Better value than 48% of places we coverDetails
- Best time to goMay–OctWarmest: Nov, 25°CDetails
- Air quality32 µg/m³PM2.5 annual average (2020) · Very pollutedDetails
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledDrink bottled or filtered water; avoid ice outside good hotels and restaurants.Details
- LGBTQ+3/5Tolerant, but be discreetDetails
- Solo travel3/5English: rareDetails
- Doctor's visit$11–27Private clinic, without insuranceDetails
- Getting aroundYangoWalkable centerDetails
- Cash or cardMostly cashCash ariary is needed for most things; cards work at top hotels and some restaurants.Details
Where to stay in Antananarivo
Areas visitors base themselves in.
| Area | Good for |
|---|---|
| Isoraka–Antaninarenina | Central, hotels, restaurants; walkable and close to the old town |
| Ivandry–Ambatobe | Embassies, expats, quieter streets and bigger apartments |
| Ankorondrano | Business district, malls, restaurants and coworking-style offices |
| Analakely–Haute Ville | Markets, Rova palace views; busy and chaotic |
Apps that work in Antananarivo
Food delivery apps don't cover this area.
Ride-hailing
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Yango | The main app; cars and cash payment |
- Maps: Google Maps
- Messaging: WhatsApp
- MVola: Mobile money used by locals
- Taxis: Taxis have no meters; negotiate before you ride. Official taxis outside the airport are safest.
Cash, cards and tipping
What to carry and how to pay. Money in Madagascar.
- Mostly cash Cash ariary is needed for most things; cards work at top hotels and some restaurants. ATMs have low limits.
- Currency: Ariary (MGA). US$1 ≈ Ar4,399.69 on 03 Oct 2026.
- ATMs: ATMs dispense ariary with low limits and fees; many fail. Withdraw in Antananarivo before heading out, and carry euros as backup.
- Tipping: 5–10% for good restaurant service; tip guides and drivers 5,000–20,000 Ar per day.
- Paying by phone: MVola, Orange Money and Airtel Money are common locally; foreign visitors mostly use cash.
Before you go
Visa and entry
- Apply for an e-visa before travel or buy a visa on arrival; tourist visas are 30 or 60 days, with longer stays extended in-country.
- Some nationalities get a short visa-free stay with a small fee on arrival; check the e-visa portal for your passport.
- Yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from risk countries; passport needs 6 months validity.
Emergency numbers
Police 117 · Ambulance 124 · Fire 118
Plugs
Type C, D, E, J, K · 220 V, 50 Hz. Do I need an adapter?
SIM and eSIM
Telma, Orange and Airtel SIMs are sold at airport kiosks and shops for a few thousand ariary; passport registration required. Coverage is poor away from towns.
More places in Madagascar
Going to Antananarivo solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Antananarivo meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
Prices are SoloSquare estimates; climate, air, safety and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.