Lac Andraikiba is a crater lake 7 km west of Antsirabe, reached by a flat road that makes it accessible by bicycle or on foot. The lake sits in an extinct volcanic crater and is surrounded by eucalyptus plantations and market gardens worked by highland Malagasy farmers. The water is calm enough for swimming, the surroundings are peaceful, and the whole excursion makes a fine half-day from town.
Rowboats are available for hire at the lakeside, and the road around the perimeter is walkable in a couple of hours. On weekends Malagasy families come here for picnics and the atmosphere is cheerful without being crowded. A couple of simple restaurants at the water's edge serve grilled fish and rice. Take the direct road west from town rather than the more winding routes shown on some maps.