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Lokobe Forest
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Forest
The Lokobe Special Reserve is located in the southeast of Nosy Be island and protects the region's last remaining primary lowland rainforest. Covering an area of approximately 740 hectares, the reserve provides sanctuary for a variety of endemic species, including the Black Lemur (Eulemur macaco), where males are entirely black and females are reddish-brown. Geologically, the area is characterized by volcanic rocks and steep slopes that descend to the sea. The flora is distinguished by giant Canarium trees and endemic palm species. As there are no drivable roads within the interior, visitors often reach the reserve using traditional pirogues (dugout canoes) from neighboring villages. Besides lemurs, Lokobe is a refuge for rare reptiles and amphibians, such as tiny Brookesia chameleons and various diurnal geckos. The reserve plays a vital role in maintaining the local microclimate and the water supply for surrounding communities on Nosy Be.
- Location: Madagascar
- Top sights: Le musée royal Sakalava · Ampasimenabe Distillery de Parfum · Musée océanographique
- Nearby: Nosy Komba (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 343 | 281 | 259 | 83 | 31 | 17 | 13 | 11 | 14 | 25 | 92 | 239 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Access to the Lokobe Forest on Nosy Be is typically achieved by taking a traditional pirogue (canoe) from a nearby fishing village, such as Ambatozavavy, directly to the reserve's entrance.
Best season
The dry season, generally from May to October, gives the most comfortable conditions for exploring the forest, with fewer insects and significantly less muddy trails for hikers to navigate.
Terrain & paths
The reserve features a dense, tropical forest environment with narrow, sometimes steep and uneven dirt trails that intricately navigate through thick green vegetation and ancient tree roots.
What to bring
Lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the skin is crucial for insect protection. Sturdy walking shoes, a waterproof bag for the boat ride, and strong insect repellent are strictly necessary.
Parking
Vehicles are usually left at the departure village where the boat trips are formally organized, as there are no direct roads for passenger cars leading straight into the protected forest area.
Safety
Visitors should stay on marked trails and always travel with a certified local guide to avoid getting lost in the dense jungle and to safely identify the diverse, sometimes venomous, local wildlife.
Time needed
A typical guided tour of the forest reserve, including the scenic boat transfer to and from the protected area, generally takes about a half-day to a full day depending on the chosen trail length.
Geography
Facts
- Location: Southeastern tip of the volcanic island Nosy Be
- Ecosystem: Region's last remaining primary lowland rainforest
- Fauna: Known for the distinct dimorphism of the Black Lemur
- Access: Usually only reachable by traditional pirogue from the sea
- Size: Relatively small but dense protected area of approx. 740 ha
- Biodiversity: Habitat for the tiny Brookesia chameleon
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lokobe Forest (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Lokobe Forest?
A protected nature reserve on Nosy Be with primary rainforest.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, an official guide is required for entry into the reserve.
How do I get to the forest?
Usually, the journey is by boat from Nosy Be.
What animals can you see there?
You can observe lemurs, chameleons, and many rare birds.
Is the place family-friendly?
Yes, the hikes are moderate and easily manageable for children.
Lokobe Forest: where is it located?
Lokobe Forest is located in Madagascar.
Lokobe Forest: what is there to see?
Highlights include Le musée royal Sakalava, Ampasimenabe Distillery de Parfum, Musée océanographique.
Lokobe Forest: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lokobe Forest: why is it worth visiting?
The Lokobe Special Reserve is located in the southeast of Nosy Be island and protects the region's last remaining primary lowland rainforest.
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Nearby cities
Antsiranana
Northernmost city in Madagascar.
Sambava
Vanilla capital in Madagascar.
Antalaha
Spice center in Madagascar.
Ambilobe
Center of the Ankarana Karst in Madagascar.
Ambanja
Cocoa production in Madagascar.
Hell-Ville
Main town of Nosy Be in Madagascar.
Andapa
Rice granary of the north in Madagascar.
Vohemar
Historical trading post in Madagascar.
Nosy Komba
A volcanic island between Nosy Be and the mainland, famous for its friendly black lemurs and handicrafts.
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Andilana
Andilana is renowned for the most beautiful beach on Nosy Be, featuring fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
Tsarabanjina
An exclusive private island in the Mitsio Archipelago, known for its powder-white sand and sacred royal tombs.
Nosy Iranja
Consists of two islands connected by a long sandbar, famous for nesting sea turtles.
History & landmarks
Ambatoloaka Lighthouse
A prominent navigation point on the island of Nosy Be, offering a wide view over the Mozambique Channel.
War Memorial Diego Suarez
A memorial in Place Joffre in Antsiranana dedicated to the victims of the various conflicts in Madagascar.
Cap Miné Lighthouse
An old lighthouse in the bay of Diego Suarez, which still guides ships into one of the world's largest bays.
Nature
More places
Nosy Komba
An island near Nosy Be, known for its lemurs.
Marodoka Ghost Town
Once a thriving trading town of Indian merchants on Nosy Be, today abandoned ruins.
Nosy Komba Lemur Peninsula
Famous for the many friendly lemurs on the island.
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Dzamandzar Rum Factory
A historic distillery on the island of Nosy Be, famous for producing traditional rums from local sugar cane.
Nosy Be Fishery Plant
An important seafood processing plant, especially for shrimp, which are shipped from here to international markets.
Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve
Excellent area for snorkeling with a rich underwater world.
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Nosy Be Coral Reef
A paradise for underwater observation of fish and turtles.
Nosy Be
The most famous resort island of Madagascar off the northwest coast.