Why visit
Antananarivo, often called Tana, is Madagascar's hill capital of steep streets, royal history, markets, and highland views. It is the unavoidable hub before lemur parks, baobab routes, or the RN7 road trip.
How to use this result
Use it as a capital-city prompt
Antananarivo is useful when you want a city-level starting point in Madagascar. Check whether the capital is the best arrival city, a practical transfer point, or mainly a geography and planning reference.
Check practical trip fit
Before planning around Antananarivo, compare airport access, local transport, time zone, neighborhood choices, weather, safety guidance, and whether another city in Madagascar better matches the trip style.
Antananarivo at a glance
City population
1.3 million
Elevation
1,274 m
4,180 ft
Time zone
UTC+3
Indian/Antananarivo
Airport
TNR
Ivato International Airport
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
- Antananarivo is often shortened to Tana by locals and travelers.
- The Rova palace complex on the city's highest ridge was the historic seat of the Merina kingdom.
- The name means city of the thousand, after the thousand soldiers said to have guarded the royal hill.
- 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.
Traveler notes
- The Rova palace complex crowns the upper city
- Analakely Market gives a busy central-city snapshot
- Andasibe is the classic first wildlife trip from Tana
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
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
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.
When is the best time to visit Antananarivo?
Apr–Nov. Check current weather and local events before booking.
What airport serves Antananarivo?
Ivato International Airport (IATA: TNR).
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