White sandbank, fishing village, lighthouse and snorkelling in the Indian Ocean
Nosy Iranja is one of the finest excursions from Nosy Be. About 1h30 away by boat, two islets are linked by a long white sandbank that appears more at falling tide, surrounded by turquoise water. It is the most famous image of the Nosy Be archipelago.
Pick-up at your hotel at 7:30 am to the port, then a crossing of about 1h30 depending on the sea. Arrival around 9:30 am for a first walk on the sandbank, when the light is at its best.
With your guide, you discover the fishing village and local life. Depending on conditions and time, climb to the lighthouse for a panoramic view over both islets and the ocean.
Lunch in the shade of coconut palms depending on the catch: grilled fish, prawns, local side dishes and tropical fruit. In the afternoon, swimming and snorkelling with mask, snorkel and fins provided. Sea turtles live in the area, but seeing them is a matter of luck. Back at your hotel around 5:00 pm.
Want to stay on the island after the day boats leave? The Nosy Iranja bivouac offers a night on the beach. Discover all our Nosy Be excursions: Nosy Sakatia, Nosy Mitsio or the quad tour.
07h30
Transfer to the port, then boarding for Nosy Iranja. The crossing takes about 1h30, depending on sea conditions.
09h30
A first look at the island and its famous white sandbank: a walk, photos and shades of blue around the two islets.
10h30
With your guide, discover the fishing village and local life, then, depending on conditions and time, climb to the lighthouse for the panoramic view.
12h30
Lunch in the shade of coconut palms depending on the catch: fresh seafood, grilled fish, prawns, local side dishes and tropical fruit.
14h00
Relax in crystal-clear water, with mask, snorkel and fins provided to see tropical fish. Sea turtles live in the area, but seeing them is a matter of luck.
15h00
Free time to enjoy the beach, swim or take last photos of the sandbank.
15h30
Boarding and departure from Nosy Iranja, with a last look at the archipelago's scenery during the crossing.
17h00
Arrival on Nosy Be and transfer to your hotel around 5:00 pm.
Pick-up at 7:30 am from your hotel on Nosy Be, back around 5:00 pm. Groups of 2 to 12 people. Times and the programme may be adjusted to weather, sea and tides. Entrance fees on site are not included. Bring swimwear, a towel, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
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€85 per adult, €20 per child aged 5 to 10 and €26 for ages 11 to 15. The price includes the transfer from your hotel on Nosy Be, the boat, the guide, lunch, water, the village visit and snorkelling gear. Entrance fees on site are not included. For children under 5, please contact us.
A full day: pick-up at your hotel at 7:30 am and return around 5:00 pm. The crossing takes about 1h30 each way, depending on the sea.
The sandbank linking the two islets appears more at falling tide. It stays visible for much of the day, but its size varies with the tides. Our departures are timed to make the most of it.
Sea turtles are known to live around Nosy Iranja and are often seen while snorkelling. They are wild animals, though: sightings depend on the day's conditions and remain a matter of luck.
Yes. It is rated easy and runs at a relaxed pace, with free time on the beach. The crossing takes about 1h30 each way, to keep in mind for younger children. Groups of 2 to 12 people.
We run the excursion from April to November, the best period for sailing and swimming. Ask us for advice based on your dates on Nosy Be.
It is led by our local team, with an experienced boat and crew, and we only leave when sea conditions allow. Before travelling to Madagascar, also check your government's official travel advice.
This excursion lets you discover Nosy Iranja in one day. To enjoy the island after the boats leave, with a night on the beach and, depending on the season, turtle watching, choose our two-day Nosy Iranja bivouac.
Times and the programme may be adjusted to weather, sea and tides. If conditions make sailing impossible, we contact you to arrange a new date or another solution.
Alessandra C.IT
★★★★★
Ho conosciuto Edèse, fondatore di Sakalava Tours, in un'escursione da Nosy Be fino alla meravigliosa Nosy Iranja, passando per la piccola splendida isola dei lemuri. È stata una guida fantastica, oltre che una persona molto simpatica. Conosceva l'italiano così bene da individuare l'area geografica da cui provenivo! Ci ha insegnato i trucchi per poter scovare le tartarughe marine, e grazie a lui ho dei ricordi memorabili. Spero di poter esplorare un giorno aree più vaste del Nord del Madagascar. Congratulazioni Edèse per il tuo lavoro!
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