Tsimbazaza Zoo, Antananarivo

Welcome to Tsimbazaza Zoo and Botanical Gardens, an essential stop for nature enthusiasts and curious explorers visiting Antananarivo. Situated near the National Assembly building, this urban oasis merges lush botanical gardens with an eclectic zoo, creating a haven for Madagascar's extraordinary flora and fauna. Tsimbazaza offers a two-in-one experience where the rich greenery of an arboretum complements an up-close encounter with Madagascar's unique wildlife.

The botanical gardens are a delight, with pathways winding through an array of plant species that range from grand trees to exotic flowers, creating a serene escape from city life. For plant lovers, the gardens are also home to Madagascar’s largest herbarium, housing around 80,000 specimens under the code "TAN."

In the zoo, the animal kingdom comes to life with Madagascar’s iconic creatures, including playful lemurs, striking chameleons, and rare species such as the aye-aye lemur, a nocturnal marvel that is nearly impossible to spot in the wild. The zoo also features a collection of giant tortoises, rare reptiles, and exotic birds, offering an immersion into the island’s biodiversity.

The star attraction is undoubtedly the museum, a treasure trove of history displaying fossils and skeletons of extinct megafauna. Here, you can see the remains of Madagascar’s prehistoric residents, including the awe-inspiring giant lemurs and the legendary elephant birds—some of the largest birds ever, now extinct, whose eggs were once as large as basketballs. Since its opening in 1989, the museum has doubled as an environmental education center, showcasing a remarkable selection of tribal carvings and Malagasy artifacts.

At Tsimbazaza, each step connects you to Madagascar’s natural heritage, offering an immersive and educational journey that leaves visitors with a deeper appreciation for this unique island.