Set off on a full immersion in the heart of Nosy Be, from sunrise to dusk. This day trip by private vehicle with a live guide takes you through the history, Sakalava culture, and the most spectacular landscapes of the Isle of Perfume.
The morning begins in Marodoka, the first town founded on Nosy Be in the 18th century. There, you will discover the old stone wharves of the first historical harbour and the mysterious Maison Fantôme, a colonial residence steeped in legends. A stop at the local market allows you to explore spices, essential oils, and handicrafts. The tour continues to Mahatsinjo, where an imposing centuries-old sacred kapok tree (Ceiba pentandra) stands tall — a place of meditation and worship for Malagasy ancestors.
The road north passes through the ylang-ylang, vanilla, and pepper plantations that earned the island its nickname, with scenic stops at the bays and fishing villages. Lunch is served on the beach at Andilana, one of the most beautiful on Nosy Be, followed by a free afternoon for swimming and relaxing.
In the late afternoon, head for Mont Passot, the highest point of the island at 329 metres. From the summit, you'll discover the 7 sacred lakes with their changing colours (brown, green, red, turquoise), considered fady (taboos) by the Sakalava tradition. The day ends with a 360-degree sunset over the island, the islets of Nosy Komba and Nosy Sakatia, and the Mozambique Channel — an unforgettable show.
