Looking for an escape? Explore Nosy Be, a hidden paradise nestled off Madagascar’s northwest coast. This island boasts rich biodiversity, lazy lemurs, volcanic lakes, and rum distilleries. With its tropical climate and pristine beaches, Nosy Be is a dream destination for unforgettable vacations. Plan your trip, select your accommodation, and indulge in scuba diving to discover the island’s remarkable marine life.

Introduction to Nosy Be

Nosy Be, known as the Perfume Island, is situated in the Indian Ocean to the northwest of Madagascar. It is celebrated for its stunning beaches and vibrant flora. The island is particularly famous for its Ylang Ylang plantations, which fill the air with their delightful fragrance.

The local population is warm and welcoming. The island offers a wide range of activities. Its turquoise waters and fine sandy beaches make it a haven of peace for nature lovers.

Nosy Be is also considered as on of the main Madagascar tourist destination. Its natural beauty, combined with a mild climate almost all year round, make it a destination of choice for tourists in search of a change of scenery and tranquility.

Where is Nosy Be?

Nosy Be is situated in the Indian Ocean, specifically in the Mozambique Channel, off the northwest coast of Madagascar. It lies approximately eight kilometers from the mainland and is the largest island in the Mitsio archipelago, belonging to the Diana region.

Geographically, Nosy Be is characterized by :

• A surface area of 321 km².
• Its length is around 26 kilometers from north to south.
• 20 kilometers wide from east to west.

Its location gives it a mild tropical climate and crystal-clear waters along its coastline.

How do I get to Nosy Be?

There are multiple ways to reach Nosy Be from abroad or within Madagascar. The quickest option is by plane, with direct or connecting flights available from various cities such as Paris and Antananarivo. Fascene Airport, close to Ambatoloaka town, serves as the main international gateway.

For a more adventurous journey, tourists can opt to travel by road from Antananarivo to the port of Ankify. From Ankify, boats are available to transport travelers to Nosy Be.

• By bush cab, the journey takes over 18 hours.
• By 4×4, the journey can be quicker and more comfortable.

Once on the island, a variety of means of transport are at your disposal, including car, tuk-tuk or bicycle.

When to go to Nosy Be?

To determine the best time to visit Nosy Be, consider the island’s tropical climate. The rainy season spans from November to April, while the dry season lasts from May to October. Temperatures remain pleasant throughout the year, averaging around 24 degrees Celsius.

Generally, the optimal time to visit Nosy Be is from May to October, during the dry season. These months typically feature minimal rainfall and more comfortable humidity levels, perfect for enjoying the beaches and ocean activities.

Alternatively, visiting outside the peak tourist season, which typically occurs from July to August, can offer a quieter experience with fewer crowds.

Nosy Be’s beaches

Nosy Be is home to some of Madagascar’s most beautiful beaches. Its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches offer the ideal setting for relaxation and idleness.

Several beaches on the island are well worth a visit:

• Andilana, reputed to be one of the most beautiful on Nosy Be, offers postcard-perfect scenery with its crystal-clear waters and fine sand.
• Further south, Madirokely and Ambatoloaka are the island’s liveliest beaches, particularly popular for their festive atmosphere.
• Ambondrona and Palm Beach are perfect choices for those looking for a quiet spot to relax.
• Nosy Iranja, accessible by boat, is actually made up of two small islands linked by a sandbar. A real gem not to be missed.

Each beach has its own particularity, offering a variety of landscapes and unique experiences for visitors.

The island’s most beautiful beaches

For travelers seeking tranquil beaches to unwind, Madirokely and Nosy Fanihy are ideal options. These secluded spots offer a peaceful environment to bask in the sun and enjoy the sea away from the crowds.

On the west coast, Andilana stands out for its pristine white sand, clear waters, and rich biodiversity. It is perfect for those looking to experience both serenity and natural beauty in Nosy Be.

On the contrary, if you prefer vibrant beaches, Ambatoloaka is a must-visit. This beach is bustling with tourists and offers a wide range of water sports and land-based activities. Along the seafront, you’ll find numerous restaurants, hotels, and bars, creating a lively atmosphere.

For a truly unique experience, take a boat trip to Nosy Iranja, often referred to as the turtle island. It consists of two islets connected by a stunning sandbank, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.

Water sports on Nosy Be’s beaches

Water sports are a must when visiting Nosy Be. You can enjoy the Indian Ocean by practicing :

• Scuba diving: Nosy Be is renowned for its exceptional seabed. There are plenty of diving sites to suit all levels.
• Snorkeling: accessible to all, this activity lets you observe the island’s coral reefs and colorful fish.
• Sailing: sail along the island’s coastline and discover breathtaking scenery.
• Sea kayaking: kayaking is the ideal way to cruise along the water’s edge. You’ll be able to get close to the coast and discover inaccessible places.
• Jet-skiing: for thrill-seekers, jet-skiing offers a unique experience.
• Sport fishing: another way to enjoy Nosy Be’s marine riches.

Don’t forget to respect the marine environment during your activities. And don’t forget to check the condition of your equipment and follow safety instructions.

Diving in Nosy Be

Nosy Be is a treasure trove for diving enthusiasts. Here’s a list of the must-see spots:

• Nosy Tanikely Marine Park: This park offers an extraordinary diversity and profusion of coral and reef fauna. It’s an ideal spot for divers of all levels.
• Lokobe Nature Reserve: This spot is a veritable natural aquarium. You’ll discover a rich and varied marine fauna.
• Nosy Iranja islands: These islands are a veritable paradise for divers. The seabed is exceptional and the marine fauna very rich.
• The Radama and Mitsio archipelagos: These sites offer exceptional diving conditions, with a variety of dive sites ranging from coral reefs to wrecks.

Don’t forget that each site has its own characteristics and biodiversity. So it’s important to get the facts before you dive.

Diving equipment and tips

For the best diving experience on Nosy Be, it’s essential to have the right equipment. Make sure you have at least a mask, fins, snorkel and wetsuit. For deeper dives, you’ll need a stabilizing vest, regulator and dive computer.

• Mask: a comfortable, snug-fitting mask to prevent water leaks.
• Fins: the right size to facilitate swimming.
• Snorkel: must be flexible and easy to use.
• Wetsuit: adapted to water temperature.

When choosing equipment, give priority to quality and comfort. If you don’t have your own equipment, many Nosy Be dive centers offer equipment rental.

Nosy Be’s flora and fauna

Discover lazy lemurs

Sloth lemurs are a significant draw on Nosy Be, especially on the nearby island of Nosy Komba. These endemic primates of Madagascar thrive in the island’s favorable climate and abundant food resources, making it an ideal habitat. Nosy Komba is affectionately dubbed « Lemur Island » due to the prominence of these unique creatures.

The sloth lemurs hold sacred status among the locals, who safeguard them from hunters through the fady, a local prohibition. Known for their gentle nature, sloth lemurs are approachable, often welcoming interactions where visitors can offer bananas and capture memorable photographs.

Exploring the volcanic lakes

Nosy Be is renowned for its volcanic lakes, providing visitors with a distinctive exploration opportunity. These eleven lakes are primarily located around Mont Passot, each possessing unique characteristics and hosting diverse flora and fauna.

Crocodiles are frequently spotted in these lakes, along with a variety of bird species inhabiting their shores. Certain lakes hold sacred significance to the local population, adding to the cultural and ecological richness of Nosy Be’s landscape.

One of the most renowned lakes is Lac Andjavibe, considered one of Nosy Be’s twelve sacred lakes. Situated 20 kilometers from the mainland, it is interconnected with the island’s other lakes, with water levels rising and falling in unison across the interconnected system.

Nosy Be travel highlights

Visit the Lokobe reserve

The Lokobe Reserve is a must-visit destination on Nosy Be, located in the southeastern part of the island and preserving the last remnants of primary forest in the region. Accessible via a traditional pirogue from the fishing village of Ambatozavavy, the reserve offers a rich biodiversity of endemic flora and fauna.

Among its attractions are the Macaco lemurs, Boa constrictor snakes, various chameleons including the world’s smallest species, frogs, and a diverse array of lizards. Guided tours are available to provide insights into this exceptional biodiversity. It’s essential to respect nature by avoiding disturbance of animals and vegetation.

While it’s possible to explore the reserve independently, a thorough understanding of local flora and fauna is recommended for a more enriching experience.

Discover the Ylang Ylang plantations

Nosy Be, renowned as the Perfume Island, is celebrated for its ylang ylang plantations. These fragrant flowering shrubs cover approximately 60 hectares of land, with trees spaced 4 to 5 meters apart.

A visit to the Ylang Ylang plantations provides a unique insight into Nosy Be’s agricultural heritage. Visitors can observe the harvesting and distillation process of the flowers used to produce essential oils for perfumery. Several touristic routes for hiking trails are available for exploring these plantations, including well-known routes like Amparihibe, Antsidihy, and Antsamanavaka circuits.

Staying in Nosy Be: Top Accommodation Picks

Selection of the best hotels in Nosy Be

Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for an unforgettable stay in Nosy Be, as the island offers a diverse range of hotels catering to various preferences and budgets.

For travelers seeking luxury and comfort, establishments like Eden Lodge and Nosy Be Hôtel Resort & Spa are top choices, renowned for their high-quality services and amenities.

For those preferring a closer-to-nature experience, ecolodges such as l’Heure Bleue provide an authentic and environmentally-friendly stay.

Families visiting Nosy Be can find hotels offering specialized services for children, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all guests.

Finally, for those seeking proximity to the sea, several beachfront hotels offer breathtaking ocean views.

• Luxury hotels: Eden Lodge, Nosy Be Hôtel Resort & Spa
• Ecolodges: l’Heure Bleue
• Family hotels: to be specified
• Seaside hotels: to be specified

Each hotel has its own particularities, so it’s advisable to find out more before making your choice.

Visit Nosy Be’s hidden islands

Nosy Be archipelago features a collection of charming and secluded islands, each offering unique and enriching experiences. Among these, Nosy Komba stands out as the « lemur island », home to protected fauna cherished by locals. Accessible by a 15-minute boat ride, Nosy Komba also offers hiking opportunities to Antaninaomby, where the summit rewards hikers with magnificent views.

Further out in the Nosy Be region, Nosy Iranja attracts day trippers with its pristine white sands, clear waters, and untouched natural beauty, perfect for beach lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.

For those seeking a more extended adventure, the Radama Islands are a must-visit. Accessible only via multi-day cruises, these islands promise an unforgettable journey of exploration and discovery.