Antananarivo, or Tana for short, is the capital of Madagascar. Surrounded by 12 hills, it is also known as “the city of one thousand warriors”, a name derived from when King Andrianjaka sent 1,000 soldiers to guard the city in the 17th century. The French occupied it in the 19th century and it continues to exude French flair — charming red brick houses with terracotta roofs, spired churches as well as boulangeries and patisseries you can pop into at every street corner. SHAWN BALAKRISHNAN

Trip to Ampefy Village: S$73.40

Start the day immersing yourself in Madagascar’s unique natural beauty with a guided tour to Ampefy with City Discovery (www.city-discovery.com) which costs US$60.02. The village is a great starting point for picturesque hikes in the volcanic region of the Big Island. In addition, you’ll be able to visit the Mount Of The Virgin Mary and the Lily waterfall. The tour also includes a delicious lunch, entrance fees and, best of all, a hotel pick-up — which is really a boon.

Pilgrimage to the Royal Hill of Ambohimanga: S$5.40

Set foot on sacred ground and explore a ruined royal city. The Royal Hill of Ambohimanga is one of the 12 hills and the palace of the royal family until 1890. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s quite ironic that tourists now flock here as foreigners were once banned. Entry is 10,000 AR (Malagasy Ariary) with a guided tour.

Play with lemurs at Lemurs’ Park: S$8.10

If you are an animal-lover, Lemurs’ Park is a must-see. The park is home to nine species of lemurs and, unlike the zoo, these friendly creatures get free range of the park. Entry is 15,000 AR and consider this money well-spent as you may even get one of these critters to jump on your shoulder for that quintessential Madagascan experience. If you’re lucky.

Meander through the Avenue of the Baobabs: Free

This distinctive row of baobab trees (Madagascar’s national tree) lining the road that runs near the neighbouring city of Morondava is one of the most quintessential sights. Be sure to hang around for sunset for some spectacular photographic opportunities and get your “been here, done that” shot.

Drinks at Bar Mojo

Wind down with a drink or two. Bar Mojo is unmissable when you walk down the stretch of Isoraka. The place throbs to the pulsating sounds of live reggage music performances and an energetic crowd. Rest assured you’d get the most out of your remaining budget here.

Prices and conversion rates accurate as of press time.

Total: S$101