Nosy Be Highlights

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT:
Nosy Be Panoramic Tour
Your excursion through this unhurried refuge begins with a panoramic drive through Andoany (formerly Hell-Ville), the colonial capital of Nosy Be. The town's curious name comes from Louis de Hell, 19th century French admiral and Governor of nearby Réunion Island. As you travel through town you'll see the crowded marketplace, a noisy and colorful hub of Sakalava life. Heading out into the verdant countryside, you'll pass many Malagasy villages and plantations.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
A stop in Dzamandzar, the island's second's largest town, boasts the unusual cyclone-proof houses that resemble cement igloos. Just when you thought your camera couldn't hold more photos, you'll journey into the center of the island and stop at the volcanic hill known as Mont Passot. Rising 1,079 feet, it offers a 360° panoramic view of Amparihi Crater Lake, a deep blue lake filled with crocodiles that, according to legend, are sacred.

SNACKS
Enjoy snacks and drinks in a local restaurant at Andilana Beach while watching an entertaining Sakalava folkloric performance.

SHOPPING
Upon returning to Hell-Ville, you'll have free time to explore the handicrafts market and pick up a souvenir.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you make your way into the countryside, your onboard guide will point out ylang-ylang trees, whose flowers yield fragrant oil that is used in the making of perfume.

Special Notes:

Transportation is by non-air-conditioned buses or vans that lack a public address system. Guides will be present at venues, but may not accompany every transport.

The level of guide experience varies due in this the location. Limited tourism infrastructure is part of the charm here, and you are trading breadth of experience for authentic interaction. Please bring your spirit of adventure and bear with any language difficulties your guide may encounter and with any operational surprises that may crop up.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing suited to the day's conditions. Bring a hat and adequate sun protection.