Things to Do in Nosy Be: 15 Must-Do Activities and Excursions

Nosy Be is basically paradise, Malagasy-style: turquoise beaches, orange-eyed lemurs, sea turtles that pretend not to notice you, and a flavored rum that will make you forget you have a flight to catch. Here are the 15 activities and excursions we recommend to our travelers — tested, approved, and occasionally accompanied by fresh coconut juice.

1. The 4 islands you shouldn't miss

Nosy Be is the main island. Around it orbit several smaller islands, each with its own personality. One day per island, and you'll come back with a well-filled photo album.

🐠 Nosy Tanikely: the snorkeling kingdom

This is the classic trip. A protected marine reserve, crystal-clear waters, multicolored fish and turtles that casually swim by. Snorkeling is excellent even for beginners: you put on the mask, look down, and bam — you're in a giant aquarium.

• Best for: snorkeling, beach, lounging
• Duration: full day (8 AM–5 PM)
• Bring: reef-safe sunscreen, mask and snorkel, waterproof camera

🦎 Nosy Komba: the lemur island

Nosy Komba is the island of artisans and lemurs. You'll see black lemurs (also called "makis") who pose for photos like movie stars. The village is famous for its wood carvings and embroidery — a good place to bring back a souvenir that won't end up forgotten in a drawer.

• Best for: lemurs, handicrafts, local immersion
• Duration: half-day or full day
• Tip: ask before photographing locals (a matter of respect)

🏝️ Nosy Iranja: the postcard sandbank

Nosy Iranja is two islands connected by a white sandbank that appears at low tide. Yes, it's as beautiful as in photos. Yes, everyone wants the same picture. No, that doesn't ruin it. The walk to the lighthouse is worth the detour (bring good shoes).

• Best for: photos, beach, snorkeling
• Duration: full day (the trip is longer than for the other islands)
• Tip: leave early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the sandbank

🐢 Nosy Sakatia: the quiet island

Less crowded than its neighbors, Nosy Sakatia charms with its calm and its sea turtles. It's the perfect option if you want to avoid groups and swim with turtles without elbowing anyone.

• Best for: turtles, snorkeling, tranquility
• Duration: half-day or full day
• Tip: turtles are more active in the morning

2. Activities on the main island

Nosy Be isn't just about the sea. The main island is full of spots to explore — and no boat required.

🌳 Lokobe National Park

Lokobe is one of the last primary rainforests in Nosy Be. You'll see black lemurs (the famous makis macaco), chameleons, geckos and vegetation that looks like a Jurassic Park movie — minus the dinosaurs, don't worry.

• Best for: wildlife, hiking, primary forest
• Duration: half-day (3–4h)
• Tip: closed shoes are mandatory (there's mud)

🌅 Mont Passot: the sunset

Mont Passot is the highest point in Nosy Be (329 m, we're not kidding). From up there, you overlook the crater lakes and the Indian Ocean. The sunset is spectacular. Arrive 45 minutes early to get a good spot and avoid other people's selfies.

• Best for: photos, sunset, panoramic views
• Duration: 1h–2h
• Tip: bring a light jacket, it's windy up there

🌸 Ylang-ylang distillery

Nosy Be is nicknamed "the island of perfumes" because of ylang-ylang, a flower used in luxury perfumes. Visit a distillery to discover the process (and sniff a few free whiffs). Good news: you can buy essential oil on site, at producer prices.

• Best for: culture, perfumes, souvenirs
• Duration: 1h–2h
• Tip: ask your guide to take you to a family distillery

🏛️ Hell-Ville and its market

Hell-Ville (Antsiranana... no, just kidding: Andoany) is the "capital" of Nosy Be. This is where you'll find the local market, banks, and shops. The market is a festival of colors, smells, and sounds — a real Malagasy bath.

• Best for: local immersion, shopping, photos
• Duration: 2h–3h
• Tip: negotiate gently, it's the norm here

3. The most beautiful beaches in Nosy Be

There are beaches everywhere in Nosy Be. Here are the 3 we recommend, depending on what you're looking for.

Note: the sand in Nosy Be is white, the water is turquoise, and the sun is strong. Sunscreen is not optional. Nor is a hat. Nor is water.

4. Culture and local food

A trip to Nosy Be wouldn't be complete without tasting the local cuisine. Here's what to try:

• Grilled fish by the beach (zebu, tuna, swordfish).
• Rhum arrangé (vanilla, coconut, ginger). Warning: it goes down way too easily.
• Romazava: the national dish, a zebu stew with mafana greens.
• Ravitoto: pounded cassava leaves with pork.
• Fresh fruit: mangoes, pineapples, lychees (in season), bananas.
• Fresh coconut juice: the best remedy against the heat.

And for rum lovers: don't leave Nosy Be without trying the homemade rhum arrangé. It's the unofficial national drink, and every family has its own recipe.

5. How many days to plan in Nosy Be?

Existential question. Honest answer: it depends on what you want to do. But here's a reference:

• 3 days: the vital minimum. One day for an island (Nosy Tanikely), one day for Lokobe + Mont Passot, one day for Hell-Ville and beach.
• 5 days: the sweet spot. Two islands, Lokobe, Mont Passot, Hell-Ville, and a lounging day at Andilana.
• 7 days and more: the relaxed pace. All the islands, all the activities, and time to do nothing (which is also an activity).

Our advice: if you're coming from far away, plan at least 5 days. Below that, you spend more time organizing than enjoying.

6. What's the best period to visit Nosy Be?

The dry season (May to November) is ideal: calm sea, clear skies, pleasant temperatures (25–30°C). It's also the ideal period for diving and snorkeling.

• May–June and September–November: the sweet spot. Good prices, good weather, fewer crowds.
• July–August: high season. Perfect weather but high prices and crowds.
• December–April: rainy season. Low prices, but risks of rain and cyclones (January-February).

Tip: humpback whales pass off Nosy Be between August and September. If you want to see them, that's the period.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best things to do in Nosy Be?

The 5 must-do activities: snorkeling at Nosy Tanikely, a day at Nosy Iranja, discovering Nosy Komba and its lemurs, Lokobe National Park (rainforest), and sunset at Mont Passot. Add Hell-Ville market, the ylang-ylang distillery, and Andilana Beach for a complete stay.

How many days do you need in Nosy Be?

Plan at least 3 days for a first discovery (one day per main island + one day on the big island). 5 to 7 days allow you to combine several islands, land activities, and a more relaxed pace.

What is the best time to visit Nosy Be?

The dry season (May to November) is ideal for sea excursions, diving and beach days. Avoid January-February (rainy season and possible cyclones). June and September offer the best balance of price and weather.

Which islands to visit around Nosy Be?

The 4 main islands: Nosy Tanikely (snorkeling, coral reef), Nosy Komba (village, lemurs), Nosy Iranja (sandbank, postcard landscapes) and Nosy Sakatia (quiet, sea turtles). Each can be visited in one day.

How much does a Nosy Be excursion cost?

The Nosy Be discovery package is €40 per person for non-residents. It includes sea transfers, land transport, a local guide, entrance fees, lunch and a bottle of water.

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