Nosy Be

Known for its air delicately scented with vanilla, pepper and ylang-ylang, its flamboyant sunsets and its peaceful pace of life, Nosy Be — literally “Big Island” — has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination. Located off Madagascar's north-west coast, just 8 kilometres from the mainland, Nosy Be's fragrant history dates back to the 15th century, when the first Indian and Swahili settlers established their first trading posts here.

This large, easily accessible volcanic island is the main gateway to an enchanting archipelago made up of neighbouring smaller islands such as Nosy Komba, Nosy Fanihy, Nosy Sakatia, Nosy Iranja and Nosy Tanikely, as well as the more distant Mitsio and Radama archipelagos. Each of these islands offers some of Madagascar's most sublime beaches, ideal for recharging after exploring the mainland's natural and cultural richness.

Among them, Nosy Komba is a true favourite. This volcanic islet south-east of Nosy Be perfectly embodies the spirit of mora mora, the Malagasy philosophy that invites you to savour life gently and without haste. It's the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature and experience the region's authentic serenity.