If you’re expecting a sleepy island town from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, you need to think again. Tana (as the locals call it) is a whirlwind of history, culture, and city buzz, where colonial-era charm meets the everyday rhythm of Malagasy life.
Picture bustling markets overflowing with colourful spices and trendy cafés, hillsides dotted with centuries-old palaces and street art. Between the winding cobbled streets and the endless sights to explore, Tana is the kind of city that keeps you on your toes in the best way possible.
And beyond the city limits? You're on the doorstep of one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet - home to species found nowhere else on Earth. From lemurs and chameleons to baobabs and vibrant coral reefs, Madagascar’s natural wonders are as unique as its capital.
Where to stay
Radisson Blu, Antananarivo Waterfront
A 30-minute drive from Ivato International Airport, Radisson Blu in Antananarivo is perfectly located in the heart of the city, offering the ultimate urban retreat after days spent exploring Tana’s lively streets. With its chic, contemporary design, rooftop views overlooking the Tana Waterfront, and a service team that made us feel like absolute VIPs, it struck the perfect balance between luxury and comfort.
The rooms are spacious and stylish, with all the amenities you desire. The rooftop bar is perfect for sipping a cocktail while the sun sets over the hills, while it also features a fully equipped gym and a stylish swimming pool, perfect for a morning workout or a mid-afternoon dip with a view. Whether it was indulging in their gourmet breakfast, lounging poolside, or unwinding after a long day, Radisson Blu was the perfect home base for our Madagascar adventure.
The best things to do
Lemur park and Croc farm
Just 22 kilometres southwest of Antananarivo, Lemurs Park offers visitors an intimate glimpse into the world of Madagascar's beloved species. This botanical sanctuary is home to nine species of these charismatic primates, including the ring-tailed lemur (hello King Julien), black-and-white ruffed lemur, and the indri.
As you walk along the twisting trails, these free-ranging lemurs can be seen leaping between trees, brushing past you and foraging, providing an authentic and intimate experience. Beyond lemurs, the park has over 70 plant species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. A personal tour guide enriches the visit by sharing insights into the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting Madagascar's unique biodiversity. A visit to Lemurs' Park is a must to truly appreciate the island's natural wonders - and of course to tick that essential box of seeing Lemurs in Madagascar!!
Continuing the wildlife adventure, we also visited Croc Farm, a hidden spot super close to Ivato International Airport. This tropical escape offers a jaw-dropping (literally) encounter with Madagascar’s Nile crocodiles, some stretching up to five meters long. But it’s not just about the crocs - this lush little paradise is home to giant tortoises, colourful birds, snakes, and chameleons. Whether you're an animal lover or just looking to spice up your itinerary with something different, Croc Farm is an absolute must. I particularly enjoyed feeding this little cutie below.
Artisan markets and workshop textile masterclass
No trip to Tana is complete without diving into Madagascar’s vibrant artisanal scene. The city’s bustling artisanal market is a treasure trove of handwoven baskets, bold, colourful textiles, and intricate wood carvings, all lovingly crafted by talented local artisans. A highlight was exploring the capital in a classic vintage car. It made the whole experience feel straight out of an old-school movie.
But we didn’t stop at just shopping - we had the opportunity to create. We visited the chic and socially conscious Papaya store and factory, where we got a behind-the-scenes look at how their stunning raffia handbags, hats, and accessories are made. Then came the fun part: weaving our own pieces using sustainable raffia palm fibre, with expert guidance from skilled local artisans. It was hands-on, heartwarming, and a meaningful experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.
Continuing our journey through Madagascar’s creative scene, we had the honour of being introduced to BoGasy - a fashion label that beautifully blends Malagasy tradition with modern elegance. Founded by Kelhie BoGasy, the brand offers both bespoke and ready-to-wear pieces, each thoughtfully crafted to reflect the individuality of its wearer.
Chocolate making class and Vanilla tasting class
No trip to Madagascar is complete without indulging in its two most iconic exports: vanilla and cocoa beans. We kicked off our flavour-packed journey in the city with a visit to the world of Sambika, a gifted local chocolatier. Her handcrafted treats, made from Madagascar’s prized cacao, were rich and bursting with fruity notes. Watching the chocolate come to life in the factory - from bean to bar was an immersive and unique experience.
Later on in the trip, we explored Madagascar’s other superstar ingredient: vanilla. At an intimate tasting led by the incredible Bernadette de Lavernette, we experienced firsthand why the island’s vanilla is considered the finest in the world. Learning about the traditional growing and curing methods made me appreciate this luxurious spice on a whole new level.
Ampefy
If you're looking to swap the hustle of Tana for a slice of serene, natural beauty, Lily Waterfall in Ampefy is worth the day trip. Nestled among volcanic hills and lush countryside, this dreamy destination offers more than just stunning views - it’s a peaceful paradise where you can hike through scenic trails or rent a bike and explore the charming local villages at your own pace.
Heads up though - it’s a few hours drive from the capital. Think: lunchbox packed, suncream on, and comfy walking shoes ready to go. The ride there is an adventure in itself, driving past sleepy villages and postcard-perfect farmland. Perfect for nature lovers, and outdoor explorers, Lily Falls is raw Madagascar magic and absolutely worth the journey.
The best places to eat and drink
Street food tour
One of the most unforgettable (and mouth-watering) ways to experience Tana is by diving into its vibrant street food scene. As you stroll through the city's lively markets and buzzing streets, your senses are instantly awakened - piles of colourful, exotic fruits and veggies (don’t leave without tasting the sweetest mangoes), bubbling pots of mystery stews, and the heavenly aroma of freshly brewed Malagasy coffee (it’s super cheap and so worth the sip).
We kicked off our culinary adventure with street classics like koba, a sticky, peanuty rice cake wrapped in banana leaves (shown above), and sosisy ovy, a carb-loaded Malagasy-style potato sausage. Then came kitoza - smoky, chewy pork jerky that’s a dream for meat lovers. For a quick refresh, we stopped by street vendors squeezing fresh sugar cane juice right before our eyes - sweet, energising, and served in little paper cups.
To round it off, we visited modern street food gems like Zay Maika, where traditional dishes get a cool, contemporary twist, and Tafo Bozaka, a hotspot where bold Malagasy flavours meet street-style flair. But beyond the bites, what makes this food journey so special is chatting with passionate vendors, learning the stories behind the flavours, and getting a true taste of Malagasy hospitality.
Café du musée
Perched high in the historic streets of Tana, Café du Musée is a chic and contemporary gem that brings modern cuisine to the city. This stylish spot is known for its chocolate-infused menu, where Malagasy flavours meet refined French flair. Think elevated classics like steak tartare and seared duck breast drizzled in a rich chocolate sauce - yes, it’s as divine as it sounds.
Dining at Radisson Blu restaurant
When it comes to dining at the Radisson Blu, expect way more than just a hotel meal or room service - there is a variety of places to try local ingredients in the comfort of the hotel grounds.
At Firelake, the hotel’s signature grill house on the 8th floor has a welcoming rooftop space. From meats to delicate seafood, each dish is grilled to perfection. The vibe? Bright and breezy by day and intimate by night - with an open kitchen that turns dinner into a live show and a rooftop pool that adds a touch of luxury.
For those craving something easy going, The Larder is your go-to. Located next to the Hotel’s reception, its continental-style buffet, laid-back charm, and a sunny patio perfect for leisurely breakfasts or casual dinners, this restaurant delivers a warm and inviting setting.
Just across the way at the Radisson Hotel Tamboho Waterfront, don’t miss Tamboho Restaurant, a tranquil dining spot with stunning views over Lake Masay. The menu blends Malagasy specialties - all served in a stylish, relaxed sunset setting. What truly sets Tamboho apart, though, are the traditional Malagasy music and dance performances, which bring the island’s culture to life right at your table.
FYI:
Madagascar is so much more than just Antananarivo - so if you’ve got the time, extend your trip and explore beyond the capital. The northern part of the island, with gems like Nosy B, offers stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. Just a heads-up: getting around can take time, so consider booking an internal flight to make the most of your itinerary. And while Madagascar’s natural beauty is off the charts, so are its insects - so don’t forget your insect repellent (it’s a must-pack essential).
Jaime holds the position of UK Art Editor at Cosmopolitan, overseeing all things digital design across the brand. Her role encompasses the art direction of our digital covers, the animation of our forthcoming video franchises, designing Cosmo's social media presence and the curation of the visual identity across Cosmopolitan UK. Before joining Cosmopolitan, Jaime has gained experience working with renowned brands including ELLE, Stylist Magazine, and Woman's Health. Notably, her contributions to the world of design were recently recognised with the prestigious BSME's 2023 Designer of the Year award. Find her on LinkedIn, Instagram and Twitter.
