Overview
Ambalavao is a small highland city that functions as the gateway to Andringitra National Park, one of Madagascar's premier trekking destinations. The town hosts Madagascar's largest zebu market, held every Wednesday and Thursday morning, offering a vivid window into local Betsileo culture.
Budget Travel · Day Trips · Nature · Trekking · Wildlife
Before you go
Activities
Anja Reserve (12km southwest) offers guided lemur walks for 36,000 Ar including entrance. Andringitra National Park requires 4x4 transport arranged from town.
Connectivity
Airtel, Orange, and Telma offer 4G data. SIM cards cost 500-2,000 Ar. A 12GB/30-day plan runs 75,000 Ar as of late 2018. Wi-Fi available at most hotels.
Culture
Madagascar's largest zebu market occurs every Wednesday and Thursday morning south of town on RN7.
Transport
Taxis brousse to Fianarantsoa (5,000 Ar, 2 hours) and Ihosy (8,000 Ar, 2.5 hours) depart regularly from town. Local transport to Anja Reserve costs 2,000 Ar.
