Central Highlands

Antananarivo & the Central Highlands

Royal palaces and lively markets of Antananarivo, the crater lakes of Antsirabe, Ambositra's woodcarving, scenic railways and the peaks of Andringitra — the highlands blend history, culture and nature.

Antananarivo & Antsirabe

The capital balances royal palaces, bustling markets and green spaces across its twelve hills. South lies Antsirabe, the 'City of Water,' with colonial architecture, thermal springs and the volcanic crater lakes of Tritriva and Andraikiba — and the cascading rice terraces of nearby Betafo.

Ambositra & the Zafimaniry Villages

In the rolling hills near Ambositra, the Zafimaniry villages preserve a UNESCO-listed woodcarving tradition — watch artisans create intricate houses and objects. Ambositra itself, capital of Malagasy craftsmanship, brims with carved furniture, markets and charming streets.

Fianarantsoa, the FCE Train & Sahambavy Tea

Fianarantsoa, the cultural heart of the highlands, charms with cobblestone streets and a historic old town. From here the legendary Fianarantsoa–Côte Est railway winds through rainforests and villages to Manakara, while nearby Sahambavy is Madagascar's only tea estate.

Ambalavao & Anja Park

A lively highland town, Ambalavao is famous for handmade Antemoro paper pressed with flowers, its vineyards and its bustling weekly zebu market. The nearby Anja Community Reserve is a highlight, where iconic ring-tailed lemurs can be observed among dramatic granite boulders.

Andringitra & the Tsaranoro Valley

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Andringitra dazzles with granite peaks, valleys and waterfalls. Its ultimate challenge is Pic Boby (2,658 m), the country's second-highest summit, with over 100 km of trails. The nearby Tsaranoro Valley impresses with soaring cliffs, climbing routes and traditional villages.