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Things to Do in Nosy Be, Madagascar

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Most popular attractions in Nosy Be, Madagascar

When you think about the things you can do in Madagascar, you cannot imagine anything more magnificent than a walk among the 30-meter-tall baobabs at the Avenue of the Baobabs. Be sure to visit Isalo National Park with its canyons and natural pools. And for the perfect getaway, there is also the island of Nosy Be with its turquoise waters and more than 20 diving spots.

1. Nosy Be

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Nosy Be

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An island that smells of ylang-ylang and where humpback whales leap out of the water just a stone's throw from the shore. You will swim along coral reefs, stroll through vanilla plantations, and in the evening eat freshly caught seafood at sunset.

Quick facts: It lies off the northwestern coast of Madagascar and is known for its ylang-ylang plantations, which give the island a sweet scent of tropical roses. Every year it attracts more than 120,000 visitors, who come for the lemurs, humpback whales, and breathtaking beaches.

Highlights: In the bay of the Nosy Be island, more than 7,000 humpback whales gather between June and September, one of the largest concentrations on the planet. Local fishermen can bring a boat among them almost silently, so you hear the breathing of a 15-meter giant barely ten meters away.

Where to Stay in Nosy Be, Madagascar

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Traditional Sweet Dishes

Koba Akondro

Koba Akondro is a steamed banana and peanut cake wrapped in banana leaves. It is often sold as a popular street food snack across Madagascar.

Mofo Gasy

Mofo Gasy are small, sweet rice flour fritters traditionally cooked in half-spherical pans. They are a beloved breakfast treat often eaten with coffee.

Mokary

Mokary is a dense, sweet cassava cake that is often flavored with coconut milk and vanilla. It is a staple dessert at celebrations and family gatherings.

Traditional Savory Dishes

Romazava

Romazava is the national dish of Madagascar, a hearty meat and greens stew often made with zebu beef. It is typically served over a mound of steamed rice.

Ravitoto

Ravitoto is a savory dish made from pounded cassava leaves cooked with coconut milk and pork or beef. The pounding of the leaves gives the dish a uniquely creamy, rich texture.

Lasopy

Lasopy is a traditional Malagasy vegetable soup made with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and often zebu beef bones. It was influenced by French colonial cuisine but adapted to local ingredients.

Traditional Beverages

Ranonapango

Ranonapango is a simple yet beloved drink made from burnt or toasted rice steeped in hot water. It has a slightly smoky, nutty flavor and is commonly enjoyed after meals.

Betsabetsa

Betsabetsa is a traditional homemade ginger drink, often sweetened with sugar and served chilled. It is widely believed to aid digestion and provide natural energy.

Trembo

Trembo is a traditional palm wine tapped from the sap of coconut or raffia palm trees. It is naturally fermented and has a mildly sweet, effervescent taste, popular in coastal regions.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nosy Be, Madagascar

Is Madagascar a safe destination for travelers?

Madagascar is considered a relatively safe country, but caution is recommended. The rate of petty crime is moderate, especially in cities. According to the Global Peace Index 2023, it ranks 82nd out of 163 countries. It is advisable to avoid secluded places at night.

How many days do you recommend for visiting Madagascar?

For a complete visit to Madagascar, we recommend at least 14 to 21 days. Most travelers spend 16 days on average. This allows you to visit national parks such as Andasibe, relax on the beaches of Nosy Be, and explore the native flora and fauna.

When is the best time to visit Madagascar?

The best time is from April to October, during the dry season. Temperatures then range between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. It is warmest from November to March, but that is when the rainy season with frequent cyclones lasts. July and August are the coldest months.

Is Madagascar an expensive travel destination?

Madagascar is an affordable destination. The average daily budget for a traveler is 30 to 60 euros. For a basic hotel you can set aside 20 euros per night, and a meal at a local restaurant costs 3 to 7 euros. Travel by car is more expensive due to poor roads.

What is the easiest way to get around Madagascar?

The most common mode of transport is a private driver or taxi. The roads are mostly gravel, and the average speed is 30 km/h. For longer distances, domestic flights are available between major cities. Taxi-be (shared transport) is a cheaper option, but less comfortable.