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Nosy Be
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Island
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Water temperature…
Nosy Be, also known as 'Ambariobe' or the 'Perfume Island', is Madagascar's largest and most significant offshore island, covering 321 square kilometers. Located in the Mozambique Channel, about eight kilometers off the northwest coast, the island is of volcanic origin and features several crater lakes considered sacred by the local Sakalava people. The climate is tropical, with a distinct rainy season from December to March. Nosy Be is world-renowned for its production of Ylang-Ylang essence, which forms a cornerstone of the local economy and gave the island its nickname. Besides tourism, agriculture, specifically the cultivation of cocoa, vanilla, and pepper, plays a vital role. The island provides a blend of volcanic hills, coral reefs, and the Lokobe rainforest, making it a hub for regional biodiversity.
- Location: Madagascar
- Nearby: Hell-Ville (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 309 | 248 | 235 | 83 | 31 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 13 | 27 | 101 | 238 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The beautiful island is readily served by an international airport and can also be reached by ferry from Ankify. Local transport practically relies primarily on standard taxis, rented scooters, or small boats.
Best season
The generally dry season from May to October specifically provides sunny days and significantly calmer seas for marine activities. The wet season naturally brings heavier tropical rains and a higher risk of cyclones.
Terrain & paths
The lively island universally features gracefully rolling volcanic hills, lush tropical forests, and numerous white-sand beaches. The coastal shallow waters are beautifully dotted with coral reefs and surrounding islets.
What to bring
Lightweight, appropriately breathable tropical clothing and objectively strong sun protection are essential daily necessities. Basic snorkeling gear and effective insect repellent for the warm evenings are highly recommended.
Parking
Most hotels and coastal resorts usually actively provide reasonably secure parking for local guests renting cars or scooters. Public beach parking is often decidedly informal, mostly utilizing open spaces near the sand.
Safety
Visitors should definitely strictly practice standard travel safety regarding their personal belongings in busy areas. In the water, specifically be highly mindful of strong tidal currents and sea urchins near the edges.
Time needed
A comprehensively standard holiday visit usually smoothly lasts dynamically between five total days and two full weeks. Exploring the interior green forests and taking dedicated boat trips easily fully fills a week's itinerary.
Geography
Facts
- Area: Madagascar's largest offshore island at approx. 321 km²
- Economy: World center for Ylang-Ylang essential oil production
- Geology: Volcanic island featuring 11 inland crater lakes
- Culture: The crater lakes are considered sacred (fady) by the Sakalava
- Climate: Tropical and warm with an average annual temperature of 26°C
- History: Officially became a French protectorate in 1840
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
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Nosy Be?
The best time to visit is from April to November when the weather is dry and sunny.
What is the best way to get to Nosy Be?
There are direct international flights to the island's Fascene (NOS) airport.
Is snorkeling good around Nosy Be?
Yes, especially around Nosy Tanikely, you will find excellent reefs and clear water.
What local dish should I try in Nosy Be?
Be sure to try the fresh fish or lobster, caught daily by local fishermen.
Is Nosy Be family-friendly?
Yes, many resorts offer programs for children and beaches with shallow entry into the water.
Nosy Be: where is it located?
Nosy Be is located in Madagascar.
Nosy Be: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Nosy Be: why is it worth visiting?
Nosy Be, also known as 'Ambariobe' or the 'Perfume Island', is Madagascar's largest and most significant offshore island, covering 321 square kilometers.
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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.
🗺️
Andilana
Andilana is renowned for the most beautiful beach on Nosy Be, featuring fine white sand and crystal-clear water.
Nosy Komba
A volcanic island between Nosy Be and the mainland, famous for its friendly black lemurs and handicrafts.
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 Be Coral Reef
A paradise for underwater observation of fish and turtles.
Nosy Be Fishery Plant
An important seafood processing plant, especially for shrimp, which are shipped from here to international markets.
🗺️
Dzamandzar Rum Factory
A historic distillery on the island of Nosy Be, famous for producing traditional rums from local sugar cane.
Marodoka Ghost Town
Once a thriving trading town of Indian merchants on Nosy Be, today abandoned ruins.
🗺️
Lokobe Forest
An important nature reserve on the island of Nosy Be.
Nosy Komba
An island near Nosy Be, known for its lemurs.
Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve
Excellent area for snorkeling with a rich underwater world.
Nosy Tanikely
A protected marine reserve near Nosy Be.