Travel Guide to Nosy Be
Discover Nosy Be, Madagascar's 'Perfumed Island'—a tropical paradise known for its fragrant plantations, pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and unique wildlife experiences.
Nosy Be: The Perfumed Island of Madagascar
Nosy Be, often referred to as the 'Perfumed Island', is a little slice of paradise off the northwest coast of Madagascar. This tropical island is known for its fragrant ylang-ylang plantations, vanilla, and spices that fill the air with delightful scents. The island boasts of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush green landscapes that make it a top destination for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. For those who love marine life, Nosy Be offers some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the Indian Ocean. The coral reefs are teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks during certain times of the year. Don't miss a visit to the nearby smaller islands such as Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely, which are perfect for day trips and offer unique wildlife experiences. The island's capital, Hell-Ville, is a charming town with colonial architecture, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Here, you can savor delicious Malagasy cuisine, buy local crafts, and experience the vibrant culture. For a more tranquil experience, head to the Lokobe National Park, where you can trek through untouched rainforests and encounter rare lemur species in their natural habitat.
Local tips in Nosy Be
- Visit during the dry season (May to October) for the best weather and to avoid cyclones.
- Bring mosquito repellent, as the island is a tropical destination with a fair number of insects.
- Renting a scooter is a great way to explore the island independently and at your own pace.
- Try the local seafood dishes; the fresh catch of the day is always a treat.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Malagasy or French, as not everyone speaks English.
Popular Attractions in Nosy Be
Nosy Be offers visitors a paradise of stunning beaches, crystal clear waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, and lush tropical forests waiting to be explored. From the bustling markets of Hell-Ville to the peaceful tranquility of Lokobe Nature Reserve, there is something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to visit the sacred crater lakes of Mont Passot at sunset, or take a boat trip to the surrounding islands for a taste of true island life. With friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and a vibrant culture, Nosy Be is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.
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Explore the tropical paradise of Nosy Ambariovato, an island gem in Madagascar with stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
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Experience the wonders of Madagascar's wildlife at Lemuria Land, a premier animal park showcasing the beauty of lemurs in their natural habitat.
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Experience the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Nosy Sakatia, an idyllic island paradise in Madagascar.
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Discover the pristine wilderness of Lokobe Nature Special Reserve, a true gem of Madagascar's biodiversity and natural beauty.
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Explore Nosy Tanikely National Park, a vibrant tropical paradise in Madagascar, where adventure meets serene natural beauty and diverse marine life.
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Explore the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life of Nosy Tanikely, Madagascar's hidden gem in the Indian Ocean.
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Explore Mont Passot: An Observation Deck in Madagascar Offering Stunning Views and Rich Natural Beauty.
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Experience the enchanting beauty of Cascade de Nosy Be, a stunning waterfall oasis in Madagascar, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
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Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene landscapes of Mont Passot, a must-visit mountain peak in Madagascar for nature lovers and adventurers.
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Experience the serene beauty of Ambondrona Beach, a tranquil escape in Djamanjary, Madagascar, perfect for relaxation and stunning sunsets.
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Discover the pristine paradise of Nosy Antsoha, Madagascar's hidden gem, where adventure meets tranquility in a breathtaking island escape.
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Discover the pristine beauty of Andilana Beach, Madagascar's ultimate coastal paradise for relaxation and adventure.
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Discover the enchanting beauty and vibrant culture at Port de Nosy Be, a gateway to Madagascar's stunning islands and marine adventures.
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Explore the tranquil beauty of Djamanjary Beach in Ambaro, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable getaway.
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Explore the tranquil paradise of Cruise Mooring Nosy Be, where crystal-clear waters meet vibrant marine life in a breathtaking tropical setting.
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Experience the underwater wonders and breathtaking boat tours of Nosy Be at Oceane's Dream, your premier dive club and adventure hub.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Andilana Beach, Madagascar's tranquil paradise with stunning sunsets and vibrant marine life.
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Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Nosy Be Island through unforgettable horseback adventures at Ambaro Ranch.
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Explore the Mahatsingo Sacred Tree in Nosy Be, a serene place of worship that blends nature with rich cultural heritage and spirituality.
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Discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Reserve Lokobe, a hidden gem in Madagascar's tropical paradise of Nosy Be.
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Explore Isola dei Lemuri, a wildlife paradise in Madagascar, home to playful lemurs and breathtaking natural beauty for every nature lover.
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Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Ambanza, Madagascar – a hidden gem for every traveler seeking adventure and authenticity.
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Discover the serene beauty of Ampangorinana, Madagascar's tranquil park perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers.
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Discover the tranquil beauty of Nosy Be-er, a lush park in Madagascar perfect for nature lovers and those seeking serenity amidst stunning landscapes.
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Experience the enchanting scents and flavors of Madagascar at Parfums et Saveurs de Nosy Be, a unique tourist attraction in Ambatozavary.
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Discover breathtaking landscapes, vibrant marine life, and rich culture at Escursioni Nosybe e Tour in Nosy Be, Madagascar.
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Soar high above the stunning landscapes of Nosy Be with Parapente Madagascar, where adventure meets breathtaking views in paradise.
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Explore Domaine de Florette, Madagascar's enchanting tourist attraction featuring lush landscapes, delightful cuisine, and rich local culture.
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Explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life of Nosy Be at the enchanting Meva Excursion, Madagascar's tropical paradise.
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Experience the tranquility of Ma Petite Cascade Secrète, a hidden waterfall paradise in Marokindro, perfect for hiking and nature exploration.
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Explore Madagascar's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity with unforgettable excursions at F.P.H. Excursions in Hell-Ville.
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Experience the mesmerizing sunsets and breathtaking views at Sunset View Point in Ampangorinana, a must-visit tourist attraction in Madagascar.
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Explore the authentic charm of Ampasipohy Village, a hidden treasure in Madagascar, where culture and nature unite for an unforgettable experience.
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Explore the cultural treasures of Bureau Park, where Madagascar's rich history and traditions come to life in a serene and educational setting.
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Experience Plage d'Andilana: A breathtaking beach pavilion in Madagascar, offering pristine sands, clear waters, and vibrant local culture.
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Explore the serene beauty of the Sea Mangroves in Hell-Ville, a vital coastal ecosystem filled with unique wildlife and rich cultural experiences.
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Discover the breathtaking vistas and serene beauty of Mont Antaninaomby, a hidden treasure in Madagascar's natural landscape.
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Discover the serene beauty of Nosy Zanatany, a tropical paradise in Madagascar with pristine beaches and vibrant marine life.
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Discover the excitement at Rose et Bleu Parc d’attractions, a family-friendly amusement park in Hell-Ville filled with thrilling rides and fun activities.
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of Volcan Antsamantsara, a majestic volcano in Madagascar offering stunning landscapes and unique geological wonders.
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Explore Anjiamarango in Hell-Ville, Madagascar: A stunning blend of culture, nature, and adventure awaits every traveler.
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Explore Vosora André, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Madagascar, where nature meets vibrant culture for an unforgettable experience.
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Explore the breathtaking waterfalls and lush landscapes of Cascade in Ampangorinana - a natural haven for nature lovers in Madagascar.
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Discover the vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes at Crusoe Dive in Nosy Faly, Madagascar, a diver's paradise.
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Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich culture of Sambo Evasions in Ampasy, Madagascar, a must-visit tourist attraction for travelers.
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Explore the vibrant culture and stunning beauty of Mada Event in Nosy Be, Madagascar - a top tourist attraction for unforgettable experiences.
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Discover the historical legacy of Dzamandzar Ancienne Sucrerie, a fascinating tourist attraction in Ambaro, Madagascar, amidst stunning natural beauty.
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Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cascade de Dzamandar, a stunning waterfall in Ambaro, Madagascar, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
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Explore the Ambanoro Hiking Area: A breathtaking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers with stunning vistas and diverse trails.
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Explore the stunning Mangrove Forest at Andilana Beach, a natural paradise in Nosy Be, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation.
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Experience serenity at Arbre Sacré Ocean View, a stunning garden in Andilana, Madagascar, offering breathtaking ocean views and lush landscapes.
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Madagascar at the Wawa Event in Ambaro, where local traditions come to life through music, dance, and food.
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Discover the ultimate fishing adventure at Antafondro Extreme Sport Fishing, where stunning landscapes meet rich marine life in Madagascar.
Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Nosy Be
When is the best time to go to Nosy Be?
Local Phrases
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- HelloSalama
[sah-lah-mah] - GoodbyeVeloma
[veh-loh-mah] - YesEny
[eh-ny] - NoTsia
[tsi-ah] - Please/You're welcomeAzafady
[ah-zah-fah-dy] - Thank youMisaotra
[mee-sah-oo-trah] - Excuse me/SorryAzafady
[ah-zah-fah-dy] - How are you?Inona ny vaovao?
[ee-noh-nah nee vah-oh-vah-oh] - Fine. And you?Tsara. Ary ianao?
[tsah-rah. ah-ree ee-ah-nah-oh] - Do you speak English?Miteny teny Anglisy ianao?
[mee-teh-ny teh-ny ahng-lee-see ee-ah-nah-oh] - I don't understandTsy nety
[tsi nay-ty]
- HelloSalama
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hahita ny karazana, azafady
[teh hah-hee-tah nee kah-rah-zah-nah, ah-zah-fah-dy] - I don't eat meatTsy misy mofomamy aho
[tsi mee-see moh-foh-mah-mee ah-hoo] - Cheers!Mazotoa!
[mah-zoh-toh-ah] - I would like to pay, pleaseTe hanampy, azafady
[teh hah-nahm-pee, ah-zah-fah-dy]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTe hahita ny karazana, azafady
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- Help!Tongava!
[toh-ngah-vah] - Go away!Miala!
[mee-ah-lah] - Call the Police!Mangataka ny polisy!
[mah-ngah-tah-kah nee poh-lee-see] - Call a doctor!Mangataka dokotera!
[mah-ngah-tah-kah doh-koh-teh-rah] - I'm lostVoatery aho
[voh-ah-teh-ree ah-hoo] - I'm illMahafoy aho
[mah-hah-foy ah-hoo]
- Help!Tongava!
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- I'd like to buy...Te hahita mivarotra...
[teh hah-hee-tah mee-vah-roh-trah] - I'm just lookingMihaino ihany
[mee-high-no ee-hah-ny] - How much is it?Ohatra ny vidiny?
[oh-hah-trah nee vee-dee-ny] - That's too expensiveMahafinaritra be izany
[mah-hah-fee-nah-ree-trah beh ee-zahn] - Can you lower the price?Aza misalasala ny vidiny?
[ah-zah mee-sah-lah-sah-lah nee vee-dee-ny]
- I'd like to buy...Te hahita mivarotra...
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- What time is it?Inona no sahata?
[ee-noh-nah noh sah-hah-tah] - It's one o'clockIrery alina
[ee-ray ah-lee-nah] - Half past (10)Efatra sasany
[eh-fah-trah sah-sahn] - MorningMaraina
[mah-rah-ee-nah] - AfternoonAloatra
[ah-loh-ah-trah] - EveningHariva
[hah-ree-vah] - YesterdayOmaly
[oh-mah-ly] - TodayAnio
[ah-nyoo] - TomorrowRy zoma
[ree zoh-mah] - 1Iray
[ee-ry] - 2Roa
[roo] - 3Telo
[teh-loo] - 4Efatra
[eh-fah-trah] - 5Dimy
[dee-mee] - 6Enina
[eh-nee-nah] - 7Fitondra
[fee-tohn-drah] - 8Valo
[vah-loo] - 9Sivy
[see-vy] - 10Folo
[foh-loh]
- What time is it?Inona no sahata?
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- Where's a/the...?Aiza...?
[ah-ee-zah] - What's the address?Inona ny adiresy?
[ee-noh-nah nee ah-dee-reh-see] - Can you show me (on the map)?Azonao ve manome anareo (amin'ny saritany)?
[ah-zoh-nah oh veh mah-noh-meh ah-nah-ray-oh ah-mee-nee sah-ree-tah-ny] - When's the next (bus)?Aiza ny iray manaraka (bira)?
[ah-ee-zah nee ee-ry mah-nah-rah-kah bee-rah] - A ticket (to ....)Ny lalao (ho...)
[nee lah-lah-oh oh]
- Where's a/the...?Aiza...?
History of Nosy Be
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Long before European explorers set foot on its shores, Nosy Be was home to indigenous tribes such as the Sakalava people. These early inhabitants practiced fishing, agriculture, and trade with nearby islands, developing a distinct culture that still influences the island today.
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In the 9th and 10th centuries, Arab traders began to frequent Nosy Be, bringing with them goods, culture, and Islam. The island became an important stopover on trade routes, and its strategic location contributed to its growing prominence in the Indian Ocean trade network.
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Nosy Be became a French colony in 1841 when Admiral Pierre Passot took control of the island. The French established plantations, primarily for sugar and coffee, and built infrastructure to support their colonial activities. This period marked significant changes in the island's economy and social structure.
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During World War II, Nosy Be served as a strategic location for the Allies in the Indian Ocean. After the war, Madagascar gained independence from France in 1960, and Nosy Be began to develop its own identity separate from colonial rule. Tourism slowly started to become a key industry for the island.
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In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, Nosy Be transformed into a major tourist destination. The island's natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique wildlife, attracted visitors from around the world. Several festivals, such as the Donia Music Festival, further bolstered its cultural appeal.
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With the rise in tourism, Nosy Be has also seen increased efforts towards conservation and sustainable practices. Organizations and local communities work together to protect the island's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its natural and historical treasures.
Nosy Be Essentials
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Nosy Be is an island located off the northwest coast of Madagascar. The easiest way to get there is by air, with Fascene Airport (NOS) serving as the main airport on the island. Direct flights are available from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, as well as from international destinations like Réunion and Mayotte. Alternatively, you can reach Nosy Be by ferry from Ankify, a port town on the mainland of Madagascar. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.
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Once on Nosy Be, you have several transportation options to explore the island. Taxis are readily available and can be hired for short trips or for the entire day. Tuk-tuks (motorized rickshaws) are a popular and inexpensive way to get around. For more freedom, consider renting a scooter or a car, but be aware that roads can be uneven and driving conditions may be challenging. Public minibuses (taxi-brousse) are also an option, connecting major towns and attractions at a low cost.
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The official currency in Madagascar is the Malagasy Ariary (MGA). While some hotels, restaurants, and shops in Nosy Be accept credit cards, cash is still the preferred method of payment, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Hell-Ville, the main town, but it is advisable to carry enough cash for your needs. Exchange rates can vary, so it's a good idea to convert some money before arriving or at the airport.
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Nosy Be is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in crowded areas and markets. Areas like Hell-Ville and Ambatoloaka have higher instances of crimes targeting tourists, especially at night. Avoid walking alone after dark and be cautious with your belongings. It is also advisable to use hotel safes for valuables.
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In case of emergency, dial 117 for police assistance and 124 for medical emergencies. The main hospital is located in Hell-Ville and provides basic medical services. For serious medical issues, evacuation to a facility in Antananarivo or abroad may be necessary. It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuations. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress appropriately and remove your shoes if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Salama' (hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered rude.
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To experience Nosy Be like a local, visit the local markets in Hell-Ville where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and handmade crafts. Engage with the local fishermen and take a traditional pirogue boat ride. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the sacred Lake Amparihibe and the nearby village of Marodoka, which offers a glimpse into the island's history. For a truly local experience, participate in a zebu cart ride and enjoy a sunset at Mont Passot, the highest point on the island.
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