The Best Backpacker Hostels in Antananarivo, Madagascar

Antananarivo is the capital city of Madagascar, in the island's Central Highlands. Overlooking the city, the Rova of Antananarivo palace complex was the center of the Merina kingdom from the 17th century. It features wooden houses and royal tombs. The pink baroque Andafiavaratra Palace sits in the nearby Haute Ville neighborhood. In the city center, heart-shaped Lake Anosy is ringed by jacaranda trees. Tana, as the capital is commonly known, is all about eating, shopping, history, and day trips. Tana has been the home of Malagasy power for three centuries and there is a huge amount of history and culture to discover, as well as some unexpected wildlife options. In the city itself, the Haute-Ville, with its beautiful colonial buildings, steep streets, and cool climate, is a great place to wander about. There are also some excellent markets and shops that stock products and crafts from across the country at very competitive prices. Finally, Tana is the place in Madagascar to treat yourself to a fine meal: some establishments rival Europe's Michelin-starred restaurants, but without the price tag. So there's no shortage of things to do here, and these hostels provide an excellent base for exploring the area.