Nosy Be

Madagascar, Africa

Nestled in the turquoise waters off Madagascar's northwest coast, Nosy Be is a tropical paradise famed for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and lush landscapes. This island is the gateway to a myriad of water activities like snorkeling and diving in the Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve. Additionally, visitors can explore the enchanting Ylang-Ylang plantations and witness breathtaking sunsets at the popular Nosy Komba. With a mix of vibrant local culture and natural beauty, Nosy Be offers an unforgettable escape for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Nosy Be Fascene

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Nosy Be

1

Est. 3.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve

Explore vibrant marine life and pristine beaches.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Taste local rum at a distillery

Experience Madagascar's unique rum-making traditions.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike Mount Passot

Enjoy breathtaking views over Nosy Be and islands.

No booking required
4

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Andilana Beach

Unwind on the beautiful white sand beaches.

No booking required
5

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Lokobe National Park

Discover unique wildlife and lush forests.

Booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel in Nosy Sakatia

Swim with turtles and colorful fish in clear waters.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Hell Ville

Experience local culture and vibrant markets.

No booking required
8

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip to Nosy Komba

Visit charming villages and see local lemurs.

No booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience a traditional Malagasy meal

Savor authentic flavors of Madagascar's cuisine.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Watch the sunset at Nosy Be's beaches

Capture stunning sunsets over the Indian Ocean.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Malagasy Ariary

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Malagasy

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Romazava

Beef and greens stew (National dish)

Ravitoto

Pork with cassava leaves

Lasopy

Vegetable soup with meat

Koba

VE

Rice cake with peanuts

Akoho sy Voanio

Chicken with coconut milk

Phrases to learn

English

Malagasy

Hello

Salama

(Sah-lah-mah)

Yes/No

Eny / Tsia

(Eh-nee / Tsee-ah)

Thank you

Misaotra

(Mee-sah-oh-tra)

Excuse me

Azafady

(Ah-zah-fah-dee)

How much?

Ohatra?

(Oh-hah-trah)