Off the northwest coast of Madagascar lies Nosy Be, an island whose name means “big island” in Malagasy — though its character is anything but ordinary. Known for its turquoise lagoons, vanilla-scented air, and laid-back rhythm, Nosy Be is a destination that combines raw natural beauty with a growing sense of sophistication.
Whether you’re after adventure, culture, or simply time to do nothing at all, Nosy Be delivers with ease. Here are the ten best things to experience — from jungle trails to Nosy Be’s nicest beaches.
1. Lounge on Andilana Beach
If you picture paradise, it probably looks like Andilana Beach. Located on the island’s northwest tip, it’s the most famous and arguably the most beautiful beach in Nosy Be. Calm, shallow water and fine white sand make it ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. Small beachside restaurants serve grilled seafood and fresh coconut — perfection at sunset.
2. Explore Lokobe National Park
Nosy Be isn’t just about the sea. In Lokobe National Park, dense tropical forest shelters lemurs, chameleons, and rare orchids. Guided walks through the reserve reveal the island’s untouched interior, a glimpse of Madagascar’s ancient ecosystems. It’s humid, wild, and deeply rewarding.
3. Discover Nosy Komba
A short boat trip from Nosy Be takes you to Nosy Komba, known as Lemur Island. Villages here still thrive on traditional fishing and crafts, while curious black lemurs leap from the trees above. The island also has excellent snorkeling and small guesthouses for those wanting a quieter escape.
4. Dive at Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve
For underwater explorers, Nosy Tanikely is a must. This small, uninhabited island is surrounded by a marine reserve teeming with life: clownfish, sea turtles, rays, and coral gardens that glow in the sun. Snorkeling here feels effortless — the reef begins right off the beach.
5. Visit Hell-Ville Market
Nosy Be’s main town, Hell-Ville, offers a lively look at island life. Its market is a kaleidoscope of colour — stalls filled with spices, coffee, fresh fruit, and handwoven baskets. Bargaining is part of the fun, and the scent of vanilla seems to follow you everywhere.
It’s also where you can see how Nosy Be connects the local and the global: fishermen from nearby islands mingle with travellers seeking authenticity.
6. Hike to Mont Passot
For the island’s best panorama, climb Mont Passot, an extinct volcano in the centre of Nosy Be. The view stretches over crater lakes and coastline — especially magical at sunset, when the sky turns from gold to indigo. Bring a camera and mosquito repellent, and stay to watch the island fall quiet.
7. Cruise to Nosy Iranja
Often called “the island of turtles,” Nosy Iranja is actually two islands linked by a narrow sandbar that disappears at high tide. It’s about an hour from Nosy Be by boat and offers one of the most photogenic scenes in Madagascar: bright turquoise shallows, swaying palms, and white sand so fine it squeaks underfoot.
This is the definition of postcard perfection — a highlight among Nosy Be’s nicest beaches.
8. Visit a Ylang-Ylang Plantation
Nosy Be is known as the “Perfume Island” thanks to its ylang-ylang flowers, whose oil is used in high-end fragrances. Visit a plantation to see how the flowers are distilled and to learn about the island’s long tradition of spice and essential oil production. The scent is intoxicating — sweet, floral, and unforgettable.
9. Try Island Hopping and Sailing
Several nearby islets can be reached on day trips — Nosy Sakatia for snorkeling with sea turtles, Nosy Mitsio for its dramatic basalt formations, and Nosy Fanihy for total seclusion. Chartering a sailboat lets you design your own route, finding hidden coves where you might be the only swimmer in sight.
10. Experience Nosy Be by Night
After dark, the island’s rhythm changes. In Ambatoloaka, beach bars come alive with music and conversation, while the scent of grilled fish fills the air. Whether you’re sipping rum under the stars or listening to live Malagasy jazz, the energy is easygoing and inclusive.
A Different Kind of Island
Nosy Be is not a place that overwhelms; it seduces. Its beaches rival the Caribbean, its wildlife rivals the Galápagos, and its people welcome visitors with genuine warmth.
For travellers looking for more than just another tropical escape, this island offers something deeper — a rare harmony between land, sea, and spirit.