Destinations

Nosy Be

Known as the "perfumed island", Nosy Be smells of ylang-ylang and vanilla off Madagascar's north-west coast.

Photo: mwanasimba from La Réunion — CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

By Mirado Rakotoarison · updated on 14 July 2026

Nosy Be is Madagascar's main beach destination, tucked into the Diana region in the north-west of the country. Its ylang-ylang and vanilla plantations earned it the nickname "perfumed island", but travellers mainly come for its turquoise water and reefs, often as the beach add-on to a wider Madagascar itinerary.

At a glance

Location: Diana region, off Madagascar's north-west coast.
Best time to visit: April to December; avoid January–March, cyclone season.
Getting there: Fascène Airport (NOS), or by boat from Ankify on the mainland.
Suggested stay: 3 to 5 days to enjoy the beaches and boat trips.

What to see on Nosy Be

The beaches of Andilana, Ambondrona and Befotaka rank among the island's finest, with pale sand and calm, swimmable water. Many visitors also make time for Nosy Komba, a small neighbouring island known for its semi-wild lemurs, or Nosy Tanikely, a protected marine reserve perfect for snorkelling and diving among turtles and colourful fish.

Sunsets along the island's west coast, especially around Ambatoloaka, make for a memorable end to a day out.

Practical tips

Cyclone season (January to March) can disrupt boat and flight connections, so plan your trip outside that window if possible. Book excursions to Nosy Komba and Nosy Tanikely ahead of time in high season, and protect your camera gear during boat crossings.