Nosy Tanikely Travel Guide

Plan your next vacation to Nosy Tanikely in Madagascar with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover top attractions, hiking and biking routes, must-try food, where to stay, local culture and customs, transportation options, and more.


Introduction to Nosy Tanikely

Nosy Tanikely is a charming little island located off the coast of Nosy Be in Antsiranana Province, Madagascar. With its crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant marine life, it is a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. The island is also a national park, which means it is home to many unique species of flora and fauna. Here is a comprehensive travel guide to help you plan your next vacation to Nosy Tanikely.

List of Places to Visit in Nosy Tanikely

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in the history and culture of Madagascar, be sure to visit these attractions in Nosy Tanikely:

  • Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve: This reserve is home to a variety of marine species, including sea turtles, rays, and exotic fish. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to observe the colorful flora and fauna of the reserve.
  • Nosy Iranja: Located north of Nosy Tanikely, Nosy Iranja is a stunning double island with white sand beaches and turquoise waters.
  • Nosy Komba: Known for its lemur population, Nosy Komba is a volcanic island filled with lush vegetation and unique wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, such as snorkeling, diving, and surfing.

Natural Attractions of Nosy Tanikely: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nosy Tanikely is home to a variety of natural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit places for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Mount Passot: The highest point on the island, Mount Passot provides a stunning panoramic view of Nosy Be and surrounding islands.
  • Nosy Tanikely Beach: With its crystal clear waters and white sand beaches, Nosy Tanikely Beach is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun.
  • Nosy Tanikely Lighthouse: Built in 1908, the lighthouse provides a stunning view of the Indian Ocean and surrounding islands.
  • Montagne d’Ambre National Park: Located a few hours drive from Nosy Be, Montagne d’Ambre National Park is home to a variety of lemur species, as well as many unique plants and animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nosy Tanikely

Nosy Tanikely is a great place for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Mount Passot Hike: The hike to Mount Passot takes about 2 hours round trip and provides stunning views of Nosy Be and surrounding islands.
  • Nosy Tanikely Nature Trail: This scenic trail takes about 45 minutes to complete and provides a glimpse of the island’s unique flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Nosy Tanikely: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you occupied during your stay in Nosy Tanikely. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: With its crystal clear waters and vibrant marine life, Nosy Tanikely is a great place for snorkeling or scuba diving.
  • Whale Watching: From July to September, visitors can observe the migration of humpback whales.
  • Surfing: Nosy Tanikely has some great surf spots for experienced surfers.
  • Island Hopping: Explore the nearby islands of Nosy Iranja and Nosy Komba.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nosy Tanikely

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for your trip to Nosy Tanikely:

  • Day 1: Arrival and check-in at your hotel. Relax at the beach.
  • Day 2: Snorkel or scuba dive at Nosy Tanikely Marine Reserve.
  • Day 3: Hike to the top of Mount Passot and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding islands.
  • Day 4: Take a day trip to Nosy Iranja.
  • Day 5: Visit Montagne d’Ambre National Park.
  • Day 6: Surf at one of the local surf spots.
  • Day 7: Departure day.

Food and Drink Scene of Nosy Tanikely

Must-Try Dishes

Here are some of the must-try dishes in Nosy Tanikely:

  • Ravitoto: A traditional Malagasy dish made from cassava leaves and pork.
  • Romazava: A stew made with beef, greens, and spices.
  • Lasary: A side dish made from finely chopped vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, and carrots.

Local Beverages

Here are some of the local drinks in Nosy Tanikely:

  • Three Horses Beer: A popular local beer.
  • Ranovola: A traditional rice-based drink.
  • Rhum Arrange: Rum infused with various fruits and spices.

Where to Stay in Nosy Tanikely: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in Nosy Tanikely:

  • Nosy Tanikely Camping: This camping site offers tents and cabins for rent.
  • L’Heure Bleue: This hotel offers spacious rooms and great views of the Indian Ocean.
  • Niaouly: This guesthouse is located on a hill and provides stunning views of Nosy Be and surrounding islands.

What to Buy in Nosy Tanikely: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from Nosy Tanikely:

  • Handmade Crafts: Locally made crafts, such as baskets, hats, and jewelry, are great souvenirs to bring home.
  • Vanilla: Madagascar is known for its high-quality vanilla, and you can find it at local markets.
  • Essential Oils: The island is known for producing many natural essential oils, such as ylang-ylang and lemongrass.

Local Culture and Customs of Nosy Tanikely

The people of Madagascar have a rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the customs and traditions to be aware of:

  • Fady: Certain things are considered taboo in Malagasy culture, such as cutting down a sacred tree or killing a lemur.
  • Silk Scarves: Silk scarves are a symbol of Madagascar’s cultural heritage and are often worn by women.
  • Music and Dance: Malagasy music and dance play an important role in the culture, with a variety of traditional dances and instruments.

Best Time to Visit Nosy Tanikely

The best time to visit Nosy Tanikely is from April to December, when the weather is dry and warm. July to September is a great time for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate to the area during this time. However, be aware of cyclones during the months of January to March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nosy Tanikely

Do:

  • Try local food and drinks.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Keep the beaches and waters clean.

Don’t:

  • Harm or harass local wildlife.
  • Take anything from the national park.
  • Wear beachwear in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nosy Tanikely

Nosy Tanikely is generally a safe place for tourists. However, be aware of pickpockets and take precautions, such as not carrying too much cash or valuables with you.

Health in Nosy Tanikely

Be sure to bring any necessary medication and insect repellent, as the island is home to mosquitoes that can carry diseases such as malaria and dengue fever. It is also important to drink bottled water and avoid tap water.

Getting to Nosy Tanikely: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nosy Tanikely

The nearest airport to Nosy Tanikely is Fascene Airport in Nosy Be, which is served by several airlines, including Air Madagascar and Ethiopian Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Nosy Tanikely

There are no bus stations on Nosy Tanikely, but you can take a taxi or rental car to get around the island.

Other Options

Boat rides are available from Nosy Be to Nosy Tanikely. You can also rent a private boat from local operators.

How to Get Around in Nosy Tanikely

The best way to get around Nosy Tanikely is by foot or bike. If you prefer not to walk or bike, you can take a taxi or rental car.

Where to Go Next from Nosy Tanikely: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Nosy Be: A larger island nearby, known for its beaches and water sports.
  • Antsiranana: A city on the northern tip of Madagascar, known for its beautiful natural scenery and French colonial architecture.
  • Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park: Located a few hours drive from Nosy Be, Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park is known for its unique geological formations and diverse wildlife.

Conclusion

Nosy Tanikely is a beautiful island with rich cultural heritage, stunning natural beauty, and plenty of things to do and see. Whether you are interested in snorkeling or scuba diving, hiking or biking, exploring local cultures or just relaxing on a beach, this island is the perfect place for your next vacation. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Nosy Tanikely.

Nosy Tanikely from the water Nosy Tanikely from the water