The capital of Madagascar, Antananarivo or ‘Tana’, is as diverse as the rest of the country. Set on a group of a dozen hills, it is full of colourful houses, grand churches, long avenues and narrow winding streets. The various houses and buildings dotted on the hilltops overlook large areas of countryside and vast paddy fields. Although most people tend not to spend too much time in the city during their trip, it is well worth a night or two and most itineraries require a couple of nights due to the international and internal flight schedules.

Attractions here include a visit to view the Queen's Palace, the artefacts at the Prime Minister’s Palace, the handicraft markets and the UNESCO world heritage site of Ambohimanga – the rest and relaxation place of various past kings and queens. Although the capital has all the hustle and bustle like most African capitals, it has a certain charm and unique quality that makes it unlike anywhere else.