Nosy Be: Your Gateway to Paradise on the Perfumed Island

Tropical Paradise

Nosy Be is situated in the Northwest of Madagascar. The local Sakalava people call Nosy Be, “Big Island”. Nosy Be’s archipelago offers a vast playground, with more than 15 virgin islands to discover with some of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean. It’s tropical climate and superb location makes it Madagascar’s beach-resort destination per excellence. This is the tropical paradise with sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries, ylang-ylang bushes and lounging lemurs. This beautiful island offers some amazing snorkelling and diving opportunities and some primary forests with great wildlife.

 

Escape to Nosy Be, the jewel of Madagascar and the epitome of tropical island luxury. Nicknamed the “Perfumed Island,” Nosy Be—meaning “Big Island”—will awaken your senses with the sweet, intoxicating scent of ylang-ylang, vanilla, coffee, and clove plantations carried on the warm ocean breeze.

This volcanic island archipelago offers an unparalleled blend of exotic wildlife, world-class marine adventures, and the tranquil, mora mora (slowly, slowly) pace of Malagasy life.

Why Choose Nosy Be for Your Dream Holiday?

1. The Perfume & The Peace

From the moment you arrive, you’ll understand the island’s famous nickname. Wander through lush, fertile landscapes where ylang-ylang, the key ingredient in many luxury perfumes, is distilled. Nosy Be is the perfect place to unplug and embrace a holiday dedicated to relaxation and natural beauty, all while staying in comfort with some of Madagascar’s best infrastructure.

2. World-Class Island Hopping

Nosy Be is the ideal base for exploring a stunning collection of satellite islands, each a postcard-perfect destination:

  • Nosy Iranja: Witness the majestic, kilometer-long white sandbar that connects two islands, creating one of the world’s most breathtaking beach scenes. Keep an eye out for sea turtles!
  • Nosy Tanikely Marine Park: Dive or snorkel in a protected marine reserve that is an underwater kaleidoscope of vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and gentle sea turtles.
  • Nosy Komba (Lemur Island): Get up close with the curious and friendly Black Lemurs in their natural habitat and explore the local craft market.
  • Nosy Sakatia: Swim in calm, clear bays alongside giant Green Sea Turtles as they graze on seagrass—a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

3. Wildlife Encounters

Beyond the beaches, a world of endemic Malagasy wildlife awaits:

  • Lokobe National Park: Trek into one of the island’s last remaining primary rainforests to spot the iconic Black Lemur, tiny chameleons, geckos, and rare bird species.
  • The Big Swimmers: Visit in the late season (typically October to December) for the chance to swim alongside the majestic, harmless Whale Sharks, the biggest fish in the ocean.

4. The Perfect Sunset View

No visit is complete without a journey to Mont Passot. Climb this extinct volcanic peak in the late afternoon to witness a truly spectacular 360-degree sunset over the tranquil crater lakes and the vast expanse of the Mozambique Channel.

5. Comfort Meets Adventure

Nosy Be is Madagascar’s premier tourist destination, offering a range of accommodations from charming local lodges to elegant resorts. Enjoy the convenience of international direct flights, excellent local cuisine with a French and Creole flair, and a variety of activities from sailing and sport fishing to hiking and quad-biking.

Book your escape to Nosy Be—where the rhythm of the waves meets the scent of paradise.

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Our travel specialists are seasoned explorers with deep local insights. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems or planning immersive cultural experiences, we design trips that go beyond the ordinary. Get in touch today!

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Speak to our Madagascar travel expert today

Aleem Raheem

Speak to our Madagascar travel expert today

Aleem Raheem