Antananarivo offers some of the best shopping in Madagascar, with a number of markets selling a massive range of products, often for great prices. Most of the cities and towns throughout Central Madagascar also feature local markets with interesting products for sale, and can sometimes be a more pleasurable experience than the bustle and crowds found in the larger markets in Anatananarivo.

The markets of the smaller cities and towns of Central Madagascar are quite often one of the main highlights of visiting!

This Antananarivo & Central Madagascar Shopping Guide gives a bit of background of where to go shopping in the region, especially in Antananarivo. We've also detailed some examples of some of the types of goods on sale, both in this guide and in our Madagascar Shopping Guide. And to get the full local experience, why not try a traditional restaurants, such as one of the ones listed on our Antananarivo & Central Madagascar Restaurant Guide?

Antananarivo & Central Madagascar Shopping Guide

The markets found at the top of L'Avenue de I'lndependance and down near the railway station, as well as Market Artisanale, on Dike Road, offer a variety of inexpensive, locally produced handicrafts. Other items of interest include woven mats and baskets, wood carvings, precious stones, hats and embroidered tablecloth sets. These sort of items are also available in the markets of Antsirabé, Fianarantsoa, Morondava, and other smaller towns in Central Madagascar. Bargaining is the order of the day, and if you're willing to bargain hard you can get some great deals. The markets offer a great view into everyday life for local Malagasy people, and can also be very picturesque places. However, they also attract pickpockets, so make sure you keep an eye on your belongings.

For more detailed information about shopping, especially with regards to gifts, arts or souvenir shops, feel free to contact us. Below we've listed some recommended stores that you may wish to visit.