Northern Madagascar Madagascar Travel Guide
Nosy Be's natural environment lends itself to outdoor pursuits.
Lokobe National The park has guided treks (2-4 hours, varying difficulty). Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Mont Passot offers an easy hike for views. Plantation walks in vanilla, ylang-ylang, or coffee farms are also possible.
Guided tours explore the island's interior, plantations, and lesser-known beaches. An exciting way to see the island.
Rent mountain bikes for exploring quieter roads and trails. Be prepared for varied terrain plus vehicle flow conditions.
Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife. Never feed wild animals. Follow instructions from your guides, especially in areas that are protected, to ensure both your safety and the animals' well-being.
Engage with Nosy Be's local its culture through a range of experiences.
Some hotels feature traditional Malagasy dance and music. Enjoy live displays of local artistry.
If fortunate, you might witness a local "tromba" (spirit possession) ceremony. These are private events requiring extreme sensitivity and local permission.
Donia Music Festival (May/June): A large international music festival held annually, attracting artists from the Indian Ocean region. Fisemana (Royal Bathing Ceremony): A traditional Sakalava ceremony held every five years in Mahajanga, with spiritual ties to Nosy Be. Check local calendars.
Engage in tourism that supports local communities and respects cultural heritage. Choose reputable tour operators.
Seek permission to photograph people, especially in cultural settings. Respect privacy.
Seek local details from guides or hotel staff for real understanding into traditions and events.
Nosy Be has many ways to unwind and rejuvenate.
Many resorts comprise their own pools and beach access. Bars on the beach along Ambatoloaka are well-liked for relaxation and sundowners.
Some luxury resorts offer exclusive private beaches for tranquility and privacy.
Enjoy breathtaking sunsets from various points, notably from beachfront lounges or Mont Passot.
Several restaurants and bars in Ambatoloaka frequently host live musical acts playing Malagasy music or international covers.
Ambatoloaka contains a couple of nightclubs that stay open late, popular with tourists and locals.
Ambatoloaka is the main district for bars, offering a variety from lively to more relaxed beachfront options.
Find local crafts, spices, and souvenirs at Nosy Be's markets.
Vanilla beans (high quality), ylang-ylang essential oil, spices (peppercorns, cloves), and local rum.
Handcrafted wooden items (lemurs, dhows), raffia bags, and woven baskets.
Precious and semi-precious stones (sourced from mainland Madagascar but sold in Nosy Be).
Purchase directly from local artisans if you can. This supports their livelihoods. Be aware of items made from endangered species.
Ensure vanilla and other agricultural products are responsibly sourced. Seek out fair trade products labels if available.
Check with local postal services for international shipping. Be aware of customs regulations in your home country regarding agricultural products, alcohol, and products from animals.
Nosy Be has diverse experiences. Plan ahead for a memorable journey by researching tours and activities in advance.
