Discover Antananarivo: Top Movies, TV Series, and Books Set in the Antananarivo

Welcome to the enchanting city of Antananarivo, a real-life film set teeming with history, culture, and captivating tales. From its rustic charm to its vibrant streets, Antananarivo has been a favorite backdrop for many renowned films, TV shows, and books.

The Cinematic Appeal of Antananarivo: 7 Renowned Films

Antananarivo, with its picturesque landscapes and compelling culture, has long captivated filmmakers globally. Here are seven notable films that have used Antananarivo’s beauty to tell their stories:

1. “Madagascar” (2005) – Although an animated film, the creators drew inspiration from the unique biodiversity and landscapes of Madagascar, the island which Antananarivo is the capital of.
2. “Antananarivo, Madagascar” (2011) – This documentary offers an exploration of Antananarivo’s rich history and vibrant culture.
3. “Ady Gasy” (2014) – A film that showcases the ingenuity and resilience of the Malagasy people through a series of vignettes.
4. “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” (2008) – The sequel to the popular “Madagascar” film, which further explores the island’s natural beauty through animation.
5. “Island of Lemurs: Madagascar” (2014) – This documentary takes viewers on a journey through Madagascar’s lush landscapes, focusing on its unique lemur population.
6. “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted” (2012) – The third installment in the “Madagascar” series, with the characters embarking on a journey that takes them far from their island home.
7. “Penguins of Madagascar” (2014) – A spin-off of the “Madagascar” series, highlighting the comedic exploits of the penguin characters.

These films not only present the diverse beauty of Antananarivo and Madagascar but also contribute to the city and island’s cinematic recognition.

5 TV Shows Set in Antananarivo

Beyond the silver screen, Antananarivo has also provided the setting for numerous television shows. Here are five series that encapsulate the essence of this captivating city:

1. “Madagascar” (2011) – This BBC documentary series presents a comprehensive look at the island’s unique wildlife and habitats.
2. “Madagascar: A World Apart” (2015) – A series that focuses on the island’s endemic species, highlighting the challenges they face due to environmental changes.
3. “The Real Madagascar” (2014) – This documentary series explores the daily lives of the Malagasy people, providing viewers with an inside look at the country’s social and cultural complexities.
4. “Madagascar’s Scars” (2018) – This series showcases the environmental challenges Madagascar faces and the efforts to mitigate them.
5. “Tough Rides: Madagascar” (2019) – In this travel series, the host embarks on a motorcycle journey across Madagascar, offering viewers a unique perspective of the island.

Through these series, viewers can delve into different facets of Antananarivo and Madagascar’s culture and environment.

5 Animated Films Set in Antananarivo

Antananarivo’s appeal is not limited to live-action films and TV shows. The city and island have also been a source of inspiration for various animated adventures:

1. “Madagascar” (2005) – This animated film, set primarily in a zoo, sees its main characters shipwrecked on the island of Madagascar, introducing children to the idea of the island.
2. “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa” (2008) – The sequel sees the characters trying to fly back to New York, only to crash-land in Africa. However, Madagascar still plays a pivotal role in the storyline.
3. “Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted” (2012) – While the focus shifts to Europe, the characters’ home island of Madagascar is still a central theme.
4. “Penguins of Madagascar” (2014) – The lovable penguins from the Madagascar series get their own spin-off, reminding viewers of their origins.
5. “All Hail King Julien” (2014-2017) – This Netflix Original Series is a prequel to the Madagascar franchise, focusing on the lemur character King Julien.

These animated features use Antananarivo and Madagascar as a backdrop, offering younger audiences an engaging and educational viewing experience.

Literary Antananarivo: Famous Books Set in Antananarivo

Antananarivo’s rich culture and history have inspired many authors. From classic tales to contemporary novels, here are some famous books set in Antananarivo:

Classics:

1. “Madagascar: Land of the Man-eating Tree” by Chase Salmon Osborn – Although more of a historical account, this book offers riveting tales of the author’s experiences and observations in Madagascar during the early 20th century.
2. “The Aye-Aye and I” by Gerald Durrell – A recollection of a conservation expedition to Madagascar, highlighting the unique fauna, including Antananarivo’s famous resident, the Aye-Aye.

Contemporary:

1. “Beyond the Rice Fields” by Naivo – This is the first novel from Madagascar to be translated into English and offers a historical tale set in the 19th-century pre-colonial and colonial period.
2. “The Eighth Continent: Life, Death and Discovery in the Lost World of Madagascar” by Peter Tyson – A modern exploration of Madagascar, detailing the island’s unique biodiversity and the threats it faces.

These books offer readers a literary journey through Antananarivo’s past and present, enriching their understanding of this diverse city.

Exploring Antananarivo’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Interested in walking through the scenes of your favorite films or series? Here are some essential filming locations in Antananarivo you must visit:

1. Analakely Market – This bustling market is the heart of Antananarivo, often featured in documentaries for its vibrant atmosphere and traditional Malagasy wares.
2. Rova of Antananarivo – The historical royal palace complex offers commanding views of the city, making it a popular backdrop in films and series.
3. Zoma Market – Once considered the second-largest market in the world, its flurry of activity and array of goods make it a frequently used location for capturing the essence of Antananarivo.
4. Andasibe-Mantadia National Park – Just a short drive from the city, this national park is renowned for its biodiversity, particularly its population of Indri lemurs, and is often featured in wildlife documentaries.
5. Lake Anosy – This artificial lake in the southern part of the city center, with its beautiful ‘Angel of Peace’ monument, is a picturesque location often used in films and series.

Exploring these places offers a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing, allowing you to engage with Antananarivo’s film heritage while enjoying its cultural and natural attractions.

Where to Sleep in Antananarivo: Budget to Luxury

Antananarivo offers a diverse array of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some options:

Luxury:

1. Hotel Carlton Madagascar – Located near Anosy Lake, this 5-star hotel offers luxurious rooms and an outdoor pool with panoramic views of the city.
2. Pavillon de l’Emyrne – A charming boutique hotel located in the old town of Antananarivo offering a peaceful retreat with antique décor.
3. Relais des Plateaux & Spa – This hotel offers spacious rooms, a large pool, and is conveniently located near Ivato Airport.

Budget:

1. Sakamanga Hotel – A popular budget option, this hotel offers clean rooms in the heart of the city, with many restaurants and shops nearby.
2. Tamana Hostel – This friendly hostel is a great choice for budget travelers, with dormitory rooms, a communal kitchen, and a helpful staff.
3. La Varangue – A boutique hotel offering comfortable rooms at a reasonable price, with the added bonus of a renowned restaurant on site.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury retreat or budget accommodation, Antananarivo has a wide range of options to suit every traveler’s needs.

A Taste of Antananarivo: Where to Eat From Budget to Luxury

Antananarivo offers a wide array of dining options, from street food stalls to upscale restaurants. Here are some recommendations:

Budget:

1. Hotely Vavy – These simple eateries, found throughout the city, offer hearty Malagasy dishes at affordable prices.
2. La Cantine de la Gare – Located near the Soarano train station, this restaurant offers a range of Malagasy and French dishes at reasonable prices.
3. Chez Sucett’s – A popular spot for Malagasy brochettes (skewers), offering a variety of meats cooked over charcoal.

Luxury:

1. La Varangue – Known for its French-Malagasy fusion cuisine, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience in a cozy setting.
2. Pousse Pousse – This upscale restaurant offers a modern interpretation of Malagasy cuisine, with an emphasis on locally sourced ingredients.
3. Ivy – For a unique dining experience, this restaurant offers gourmet cuisine in a lush garden setting.

Whether you’re a foodie on a budget or a gourmet connoisseur, Antananarivo offers a range of culinary delights to explore.

The Perfect Itinerary: Exploring Antananarivo in 5 Days

Experience Antananarivo’s cinematic charm with this five-day itinerary, exploring famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Day 1: Antananarivo – Cultural Immersion

Begin your tour with a visit to the Rova of Antananarivo, a prominent location in many films. Wander through the Analakely Market, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere captured in numerous documentaries.

Day 2: Antananarivo – Historical Exploration

Visit the Andafiavaratra Palace, once the residence of Prime Minister Rainilaiarivony of Madagascar, a popular backdrop in period films. End your day at the Ambohimanga Rova, a UNESCO World Heritage site featured in historical series.

Day 3: Andasibe – Nature Adventure

Head to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, a popular location in wildlife documentaries. Enjoy a guided tour, spotting Indri lemurs and other unique species.

Day 4: Antananarivo – Culinary Journey

Spend your day indulging in Antananarivo’s culinary scene. Visit the street food stalls at the Zoma Market, and enjoy a fine dining experience at La Varangue.

Day 5: Antananarivo – Leisurely Exploration

Explore the city at your own pace. Visit the Tsimbazaza Zoo, a location in several children’s films, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Anosy, a popular filming location.

This itinerary allows you to experience the cinematic charm of Antananarivo, exploring familiar filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities of Antananarivo

Beyond its cinematic allure, Antananarivo is also home to intriguing legends and cryptids. One of the most famous legends is the Imahaka, a vampire-like creature believed to dwell in the tombs around the city. This cryptid has inspired numerous local films and series, adding a note of mystery to the city’s lore.

Hidden Gems in Antananarivo

Apart from its popular landmarks, Antananarivo also boasts lesser-known locales that are cinematic gold. Here are a few hidden gems:

1. Tana Water Front – A shopping center with a twist, offering scenic views of Lake Anosy.
2. Mahamasina Stadium – This multi-purpose stadium has hosted numerous sports scenes in local films.
3. Isotry Market – One of the largest markets in the city, offering a more authentic experience than the more touristy Analakely Market.

Whether you’re a filmmaker seeking unique locations or a tourist looking for less-crowded spots, these hidden gems offer a unique perspective of Antananarivo.

What to Pack for a Trip to Antananarivo

Packing for a film-themed trip to Antananarivo requires consideration of the city’s climate and the activities you plan to do. Here are some essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear – Essential for all the walking you’ll be doing.
2. Versatile clothing – Pack layers to adjust to the changing weather. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits.
3. Rain gear – An umbrella or lightweight rain jacket is essential as rain showers may occur unexpectedly.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories.
5. Travel guide and map – For finding those filming locations and hidden gems.

With these packing tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your cinematic journey through Antananarivo.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Antananarivo

Getting around Antananarivo can be quite easy, thanks to the city’s transportation network. Here are some tips:

Bike – Antananarivo is bike-friendly, with dedicated bike lanes in some parts of the city. Renting a bicycle can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.

Taxi-be – These minibusses are a common form of public transportation in Antananarivo. They’re an affordable way to travel, but they can get quite crowded.

Taxi – Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around, especially if you’re not familiar with the city.

With these transportation options, you can easily navigate Antananarivo’s cinematic locations.

Travel Documents Needed for Visiting Antananarivo

When planning your trip to Antananarivo, it’s crucial to have the right travel documents:

1. Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Madagascar. Check the Madagascar Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your valid driver’s license.

Having these documents in order will help ensure a smooth journey to the heart of cinematic Antananarivo.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Antananarivo’s Cinematic Landscape

From the bustling streets of Analakely Market to the iconic Rova of Antananarivo, Antananarivo offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Antananarivo’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Antananarivo’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this city a filmmaker’s dream. Bon voyage!