Planning your trip to Madagascar or one of its incredible islands like Nosy Be?
You’ve come to the right place. This FAQ section covers everything you need to know before you go—from visa requirements and local customs to family-friendly activities, weather tips, and what to pack. Whether you’re heading into the forest, hopping between islands, or relaxing at a boutique beach lodge, we’ve got the answers to help you travel smarter and more confidently.
Yes, through Madagascar Island Safaris website for tailored packages and rates.
Yes! Island-hopping tours include Nosy Komba, Sakatia, Iranja, and Tanikely.
Some do. Many eco-lodges use natural ventilation and fans.
Book through Madagascar Island Safaris for custom packages, transfers, and guided tours.
From eco-lodges like Lokobe Forest Lodge to boutique hotels and guesthouses.
Fresh seafood, Malagasy dishes, tropical fruits, and international options. Special diets are welcome.
Visa and routine vaccines apply. No major COVID-19 rules currently, but check before travel.
No mandatory vaccines, but Hepatitis A, B, and Typhoid are recommended. Check with your doctor before traveling.
Yes, a visa is required. You can obtain one on arrival. A 30-day visa costs about €35, a 60-day visa about €40. Stays under 15 days are free, with a €10 admin fee.
Absolutely. Cover medical, cancellation, and emergencies.
Dress modestly in villages, greet with ‘Salama’, and respect taboos (‘fady’).
No. Withdraw cash in Nosy Be before traveling to other islands.
Yes. Clinics and hospitals in Hell-Ville. Serious cases may need evacuation.
No. Use bottled or filtered water. Avoid ice and uncooked produce unless safe.
Some hotels and restaurants accept cards, but cash is often preferred.
Yes. Local SIM cards recommended. Wi-Fi available but slow in remote areas.
Stay at local lodges, buy crafts, tip fairly, and use local guides.
Stick to hot, cooked food. Be cautious with raw salads.
Yes! Safe beaches, lemurs, cultural activities, and child-friendly lodges.
Yes—mostly in Ambatoloaka. Beach bars and live music are common.
Yes. Not mandatory, but appreciated for guides, staff, and drivers.
Malagasy Ariary (MGA). ATMs in Hell-Ville. Cash is often preferred.
Malagasy and French. English is limited but common in tourist areas.
Light clothes, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, power adapters, and walking shoes.
Type C and E plugs (220V, 50Hz). Bring an adapter if needed.
Yes. Cars, scooters, and quads are available. Use an international license.
Yes. Many activities and lodges cater to families with children.
Fly to Fascene Airport or take a ferry from Ankify to Hell-Ville.
Boat transfer from Hell-Ville or Ampasipohy, arranged by the lodge.
Yes, it’s generally safe. Take normal precautions and stay informed.
Taxis, tuk-tuks, scooters, car rentals. Boats to nearby islands.
5–7 days is perfect to explore Nosy Be, enjoy excursions, and unwind at the lodge.
The dry season, from May to October, is ideal with pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall.
May–Oct: dry and cool. Nov–Apr: hot and rainy. Whale season: Jul–Sep. Whale sharks: Oct–Dec.
Yes—tours include forest hikes, boat trips, cultural visits, diving, and more.
Nosy Iranja—remote, romantic, white sands, calm lagoons, and perfect sunsets.
Yes! From October to December. Ethical operators offer respectful viewing.
Yes. Certified local guides are required to protect the forest and wildlife.
Yes! It’s one of Madagascar’s best diving spots, especially at Nosy Tanikely and Nosy Sakatia.
Top activities include visiting Lokobe Nature Reserve, snorkeling at Nosy Tanikely, relaxing on Nosy Iranja, meeting lemurs on Nosy Komba, and exploring Hell-Ville markets.
Turtles, clownfish, starfish, coral, rays, and more—especially around Nosy Tanikely.
Expect sea turtles, whale sharks (Oct–Dec), humpback whales (Jul–Sep), coral fish, and dolphins.
Nosy Komba, Nosy Tanikely, and Nosy Iranja are ideal for wildlife, beaches, and diving.
Black lemurs, chameleons, boa constrictors, geckos, rare frogs, and many bird species.
“Well, in short, the trip was fantastic! Lodge great – staff lovely, service excellent. Lovely trip across to Nosy Be for a walk in the forest and beach lunch.“
Paul Vester – 293 on Komba
“We had an unforgettable time. Everyone keeps asking us how it was and we are still struggling to find the words to describe the experience. Everything was amazing.”
Lana Rolfe – Kayak trip
