Is Antananarivo Tap Water Safe To Drink?
No, it's not advisable to drink the tap water.
Tap water in Antananarivo, Madagascar, is generally not considered safe for direct drinking due to potential microbial contamination. Local authorities often recommend boiling or treating water before consumption.
Water quality can vary, and aging infrastructure may contribute to contamination risks. Bottled or filtered water is commonly used by residents and visitors for drinking purposes.
For safe drinking, use certified bottled water or boil tap water for at least one minute. Always follow local health advisories for water safety.
Last checked: 2025-04-25
Madagascar is ranked as number 176 globally with a score of 12.9% in the water quality EPI research conducted by Yale University.
Source of Water in Antananarivo, Madagascar
Antananarivo's tap water primarily comes from surface water sources, including the Ikopa and Sisaony rivers. These rivers supply raw water for treatment plants.
Water treatment involves sedimentation, filtration, and chlorination to improve safety before distribution. However, challenges in infrastructure affect consistent water quality.
Groundwater is a minor source due to limited aquifer exploitation. The city's growing population increases demand on surface water supplies.
Antananarivo Drinking Fountains
Public drinking fountains in Antananarivo are generally not recommended for direct use due to potential contamination and inconsistent maintenance. Water quality is not always guaranteed.
Users should treat water from fountains by boiling or filtering before consumption to reduce health risks from microbial or chemical contaminants.
Using bottled or properly treated water remains the safest option for drinking in public areas within the city. Local health guidelines advise caution.
Drinking Water Map
Here is a map showing all the locations of drinking water spots in Antananarivo. You can click on each water drop to open the spot directly in Google Maps for directions.