#1. Ambositra
Ambositra (amboostr) is located in the centre of a picturesque valley lined with rice paddies and ringed by verdant peaks.
The town is famous for the quality of its woodcarvings and marquetry (objects inlaid with coloured woods), which you'll find in dozens of shops, along with raffia products and other souvenirs.
It’s a lot quieter and smaller than Antsirabe, so many people simply skip Ambositra and just stop in a couple of shops en route. If you're looking to explore the Zafimaniry villages however, Ambositra is the best place to organise a trip.