Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, is the biggest city of the island. Antananarivo was established in the seventeenth century. The former name of Antananarivo was Tananarive. The capital of Hova chiefs was Antananarivo. In the year 1993 the population of Antananarivo was 675,669 and in 2001 the population was 1,403,449.
The administrative, economic and communication center of Madagascar is Antananarivo. Antananarivo is linked with Toamasina and Antsirabe by railways. Rice is the main crop which is produced in Antananarivo. Food products, cigarettes, and beverages are the chief manufacturing products of Antananarivo.
Antananarivo stands on a high hill with two forts constructed on this high hill, to defend the city.
While visiting Madagascar you can explore the capital Antananarivo by taxi, bus or by foot. Plants and gardens at various parts of Antananarivo have made the city very attractive.
Good accommodation, places of attractions, shopping, food and other significant tourist amenities. have made Antananarivo one of the most popular destinations of Madagascar. Antananarivo has both budget and expensive hotels. The hotels in Antananarivo include -
- Hotel Colbert
- Select Hotel
- Radama Hotel
- Hilton Madagascar
- De France Hotel
- Mercure Palissandre
The attractions in Antananarivo include-
- Royal Hill Ambohimanga
- Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve
The majestic city, consecrated places , etc. has made Royal Hill Ambohimanga an interesting place in Antananarivo. High peaks, Manambolo river's outstanding canyon, billowing hills and picturesque landscapes. have made Tsingy de Bemaraha Strict Nature Reserve very popular.
Shopping in Antananarivo needs lots of bargaining. At one time Zoma market was very famous but now it is closed. You can enjoy shopping in the hustling markets that are located at the top and at the bottom of the Avenue of Independence.
Tourists would no doubt enjoy the Madagascar destination Antananarivo to the fullest.
