Weather in Антананариву by month: what to expect

Антананариву sits on the highlands of Madagascar, where the climate stays mild year-round but shifts noticeably between wet and dry seasons. From November to March, Антананариву experiences its warmest and wettest months, with frequent rain showers and lush green landscapes. The air feels warm, often hovering around +21...+28 °C, but the humidity can make it feel heavier, especially in January and February.

The dry season arrives in April and lasts through October, bringing cooler and crisper air. By June and July, evenings in Антананариву can drop to +10 °C, so a light jacket becomes useful. Days remain pleasant, usually between +15...+25 °C, with plenty of sunshine—ideal for exploring the city’s markets, hills, and historic sites without the interruption of rain.

Temperatures in Антананариву rarely reach extremes, thanks to its elevation. The warmest months are November through March, when daytime highs average +27...+29 °C, though nights cool down to around +16...+18 °C. December and January are the peak of warmth, but the frequent rain can make the heat feel more intense.

From May to September, Антананариву cools down, with daytime temperatures ranging from +21...+25 °C and nights dipping to +10...+13 °C. July is the coolest month, with lows near +10 °C, so layers are helpful for early mornings or evenings. By October, the warmth returns, and the city gradually transitions back into the wet season.

Антананариву has a clear wet and dry season pattern. The heaviest rains fall from December to March, with January and February seeing over 270 mm of rainfall each. Downpours can be sudden and intense, often in the afternoons, but they rarely last all day. Roads may become muddy, and some rural paths around Антананариву can be harder to navigate.

The dry season, from April to October, brings almost no rain at all. June, July, and August are the driest months, with rainfall dropping below 10 mm. This is the best time to visit Антананариву if you prefer dry weather, though the cooler nights might surprise travelers expecting tropical warmth.

If you’re visiting Антананариву during the wet season (November to March), pack lightweight, quick-drying clothes and a compact umbrella or rain jacket. The warmth and humidity mean breathable fabrics work best, but evenings can still feel mild, so a light sweater is useful. Waterproof shoes or sandals will help navigate wet streets.

For the dry season (April to October), layers are key. Days are warm and sunny, so light clothing is ideal, but evenings—especially in June and July—can be chilly. A jacket or wrap will keep you comfortable during cooler nights. Sunscreen and a hat are good additions year-round, as the highland sun can be strong even when temperatures are moderate.