Logo lémurienMadagascar Island Tour
Nosy Be
All regions

North-West Coast

Nosy Be

The Perfume Island

Season

May to November (dry season)

Duration

6 to 10 days recommended

Access

Direct flight from Paris (Air France, Corsair), or domestic flight from Antananarivo (Tsaradia, ~1h30)

Climate

Dry tropical, 25–32 °C

From

860 €

About Nosy Be

Nosy Be, meaning 'big island' in Malagasy, is the country's main tourist island. Located in the Mozambique Channel, it enjoys a dry and sunny climate for much of the year.

Its nickname comes from the huge ylang-ylang plantations that perfume the air in the morning. The island is also an ideal starting point for exploring an archipelago with evocative names: Nosy Komba (the island of lemurs), Nosy Iranja (the most beautiful beach), Nosy Tanikely (protected marine park), and Nosy Sakatia (the orchid island).

Diving, snorkeling, catamaran trips, white sand beaches, and seaside restaurants: Nosy Be combines relaxation and adventure in an exceptional tropical setting.

Nosy Iranja

Don't miss

Must-sees

1

Nosy Iranja

Two islets connected by a white sandbar at low tide—one of the most beautiful beaches in the Indian Ocean.

2

Lokobe Reserve

Primary forest home to nocturnal lemurs, chameleons, and boas.

3

Diving at Nosy Tanikely

Protected marine park, ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving.

4

Nosy Komba

The island of macaque lemurs, 30 minutes by boat from Hell-Ville.

5

Mont Passot

The island's highest point, offering a panoramic sunset over the sacred lakes.

Suggested itinerary

7 days on site

  1. Day 1

    Arrival in Nosy Be

    Flight, transfer to Madirokely or Ambondrona, dinner facing the sunset.

  2. Day 2

    Nosy Komba & Tanikely

    Boat trip: lemurs on Nosy Komba then snorkeling in the marine park.

  3. Day 3

    Nosy Iranja

    Full day on the mythical islet, barbecue lunch with your feet in the water.

  4. Day 4

    Lokobe Reserve

    Traditional canoe then a trek into the last primary forest of Nosy Be.

  5. Day 5

    Scuba Diving

    Introductory dive or exploring the reefs (rays, turtles, clownfish).

  6. Day 6

    Mont Passot & Ylang-Ylang

    Visit to a distillery, sunset at Mont Passot.

  7. Day 7

    Relaxation & Return

    Morning at the beach, return flight.

Flavors

Gastronomy

  • Grilled Prawns

    Giant freshwater prawns, a specialty of the northwest.

  • Mango Achard

    Spicy condiment made from green mango and spices.

  • Infused rum

    Maceration of tropical fruits and spices in local rum.

Identity

Culture & people

Nosy Be blends Sakalava, Indian, Comorian, and Creole cultures. The Hell-Ville market, Sakalava ceremonies, and Tsapiky music are a testament to this mosaic.

Language

Malagasy, French widely spoken

Currency

Ariary (MGA), euros widely accepted

Where to stay

Recommended lodgings

High-end resorts

4*–5* establishments with spa and private beach (€200–600/night).

Boutique hotels

Small, charming places in Madirokely or Ambatoloaka (€90–200/night).

Beachfront bungalows

Simple but well-located accommodations (€40–90/night).

Ready to book

Itinerary ideas

Three journeys crafted for Nosy Be, from quick discovery to premium expedition.

Découverte

Escapade Nosy Be

5 days / 4 nights

Beaches, Nosy Komba lemurs, and snorkeling at Tanikely in just a few days.

  • 4 nights in a bungalow
  • Komba + Tanikely excursion
  • Breakfasts
  • Transfers

From

860 €

Most popular

Premium

Archipel Iranja

7 days / 6 nights

The winning combo: Iranja, Lokobe, Mont Passot, and 2 guided dives.

  • 6 nights in a 3* hotel
  • Full day at Nosy Iranja
  • Lokobe trek
  • 2 PADI dives
  • Half-board

From

1 290 €

Luxe

Nosy Be Catamaran Privé

10 days / 9 nights

Private inter-island catamaran cruise + 5* resort with spa.

  • 5 nights in a 5* resort
  • 4 nights on a private catamaran
  • Crew & chef
  • Unlimited dives

From

3 190 €

Good to know

Frequently asked questions

Direct flight from Europe?+

Yes, weekly flights from Paris with Air France and Corsair in season.

Safety?+

The island is generally safe, but exercise standard caution on beaches at night and with valuables.

Diving for beginners?+

Yes, numerous PADI centers offer introductory dives and Open Water courses.