Why visit
Antananarivo is the capital of Madagascar. A practical starting point for museums, food, and onward routes into the country.
Madagascar at a glance
Country center
-20.0°, 47.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
587,041 km²
226,658 mi²
Country population
30.3 million
52/km²
Subregion
Eastern Africa
Currency
Malagasy ariary (Ar)
MGA
Dial
+261
Languages
French, Malagasy
Demonym
Malagasy
Internet
.mg
UN
Member state
ISO code
MG / MDG
Where in the world
-20.0° · 47.0°
Madagascar
Open in Google Maps ↗
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world · CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Madagascar separated from mainland Africa ~160 million years ago: ~90% of its wildlife exists nowhere else.
- The island hosts all of the world's lemurs: more than 100 species, all endemic.
- The Avenue of the Baobabs is one of Africa's most photographed landscapes: the trees can live 2,500+ years.
Plan checks
- Choose a neighborhood first: many capitals have tourist centers that are not the best places to stay.
- Public transport passes usually beat taxis and rideshares for multi-day visits.
Explore more
Frequently asked about Antananarivo
What currency is used in Antananarivo?
Antananarivo uses the Malagasy ariary (Ar), ISO code MGA.
What languages are spoken in Madagascar?
The primary languages are French and Malagasy.
What is the international calling code for Madagascar?
The calling code is +261.
Other Africa destinations
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Democratic Republic of the Congo is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Côte d'Ivoire
Côte d'Ivoire is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Djibouti
Djibouti is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Egypt
Egypt pairs the Giza pyramids, Luxor temples, and Abu Simbel with Red Sea reefs at Dahab and Hurghada. A Nile cruise is the classic seven-night frame; Cairo adds the Grand Egyptian Museum.
Equatorial Guinea
Equatorial Guinea is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Eritrea
Eritrea is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.