Analamanga is renowned as a hiking destination, offering both domestic and international tourists the chance to discover the treasures of the Highlands. The Analamanga Regional Tourism Office (ORTANA) is making considerable efforts to create, develop and maintain tourist circuits by marking trails to encourage travelers to choose this region. The promotion agency has already catalogued 49 marked trails dedicated to this activity. Listed in the hiking guide titled "Visit Analamanga," these routes traverse a total of 27 rural communes and 303 neighborhoods spread across the region's eight districts.
Boosting Local Economy
Promoting the destination contributes to enhancing Analamanga's cultural, historical and natural heritage while stimulating the local economy, particularly within the decentralized territorial communities traversed. Hikers purchase local products and handicrafts, with village communities fully involved in rural tourism development. ORTANA trains local guides, an initiative that also benefits other private sector actors. Beyond discovering Highland landscapes, ORTANA organizes family outings, sports hikes and major treks. The office plans guided tours around Antananarivo, including the Upper Town and Manjakamadiana Palace. Exploration of sacred hills particularly attracts walking and history enthusiasts.
Onion is "Fady"
Throughout the year, ORTANA publishes a hiking program to historic and legendary villages, often unknown to the general public. Among these is Antolojanahary, visited this past Saturday. The first Akamasoa center was founded here in 1989, giving many families the opportunity to rebuild their lives. Located approximately 60 km northwest of the capital, Antolojanahary is considered a promised land by those who settled there. Previously, a hike was organized at Ambohitrimamoladahy via Andranomasina village, where visitors observed traditional basketry demonstrations. A "cassava aperitif" with hot coffee prepared by residents was offered to participants. Hikers also discovered Andrefandolo village, renowned for local rum production. The route followed the Sisaony and Andromba rivers through hills and valleys.
A Cultural Anecdote
In Ambohitrimamoladahy village, onion is "fady," or forbidden. According to tradition, its smell recalls "vanja," or traditional Malagasy gunpowder, which once announced the arrival of enemies. A museum dedicated to Andohalo. ORTANA recently proposed a circuit to Lohavohitra to experience the famous saying "Babay sy Lohavohitra." Located 40 km from the capital, the 685-meter summit allows exploration of Vonizongo village's history. Finally, ORTANA has its own museum at Andohalo, nestled between the former Palace of Justice and Rovan'i Madagasikara. Access is free, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Madagascar's history, particularly the royal period, and discover the nation's rich heritage.