Central Madagascar
Antananarivo (known locally as Tana), is situated in the central part of the island of Madagascar. The city is dramatically set around three hills with a ridge that rises to above 1400m, bisecting the city. It was founded as a fortress in the early 17th century by the Merina rulers.
The Queen’s Palace that overlooked the Antananarivo from the top of the ridge was a spectacular monument until it was recently destroyed by fire. The ruined palace is well worth a visit, along with the central market and Botanical Gardens.
The central highlands form the backbone of Madagascar and stretch from the densely forested area north of Antananarivo all the way to the bone-dry south of the country. The Route du Sud (N7) covers most of this area, making for relatively good driving conditions. The winding road takes you past pretty mountain villages, Madagascar’s largest zebu market and several national parks.
Mantadia Lodge
Andasibe, Eastern Madagascar, Madagascar
Mantadia Lodge is a welcome addition to the Andasibe area having opened in 2018. It offers contemporary accommodation set on the edge of the rain forest offering wonderful panoramic views.
Couleur Cafe
Antsirabe, Central Madagascar, Madagascar
Couleur Cafe is a guesthouse in Antsirabe, Madagascar, dominated by charm, comfort and friendliness. There is a family house, (consisting of two rooms) for 4 people and 4 pavilions arranged in two or twin.
Relais des Plateaux
Antananarivo, Central Madagascar, Madagascar
Relais des Plateaux is conveniently located close to Antananarivo’s international airport and offers simple yet comfortable accommodation for an overnight stopover.
Setam Lodge
Ranomafana National Park, Southern Madagascar, Madagascar
Setam Lodge is situated inside the mountainous Ranomafana National Park in Central Madagascar. All the rooms have a river view and are surrounded by rainforest. It is the perfect base from which to explore Ranomafana and spot the lemurs found here.
Vakona Forest Lodge
Andasibe, Eastern Madagascar, Madagascar
Vakona Forest Lodge is located next to Parc National d'Andasibe-Mantadia, a three-hour drive from Antatanarivo, and offers simple accommodation in 28 rooms, some with a mezzanine sleeping area which are suitable for families.