FAQ
Your questions about our excursions in Nosy Be
Do you have questions about organisation, pricing or safety? We answer them here with complete transparency.
Are the excursions suitable for children ?
Yes. All our excursions are accessible from age 5.
Do you need to know how to swim for snorkelling ?
No. You can wear a life jacket. Our guides stay with you in the water. Quality equipment is provided.
What happens in case of bad weather ?
Your safety comes first. In the event of unfavourable conditions, we postpone the outing at no charge.
Can you book the day before ?
Yes, subject to availability. Contact us directly via WhatsApp to check for spots.
Is the excursion guaranteed ?
Departure guaranteed from 5 people. In case of unfavourable weather, postponement at no charge.
Can you camp overnight on Nosy Iranja ?
Yes. We organise overnight camps on the island. This service includes transfers, meals, drinks and full camp setup and management.
Can you swim with turtles ?
Yes. In full respect of the turtles and their environment. Your guide will explain the approach rules before entering the water.
Can you touch the lemurs ?
No. Lemurs may approach on their own, but physical contact is discouraged for their protection. Your guide will show you how to interact respectfully.
Is there an entrance fee for Nosy Tanikely ?
Yes. A small entrance fee of a few euros is collected by Madagascar National Parks to preserve the reserve. This is included in the excursion price.
Can you watch turtles laying eggs ?
Yes, from May to October. Your guide takes you to observe nesting in silence, using a red lamp so as not to disturb the females. It is one of the most memorable moments of the bivouac.
What is provided for the night ?
Each tent is equipped with a double bed. Fresh water and all meals are included.
What is the maximum number of people ?
The bivouac is limited in size to preserve the island's tranquillity and the quality of the experience. Booking is mandatory.
Are the flying foxes dangerous ?
No. Flying foxes are fruit-eating and harmless. They do not approach humans. Your guide will advise on the distances to maintain to observe the colony without disturbing it.
Is the island accessible outside organised excursions ?
Access is free but without a local guide the visit lacks cultural context. Nosy Be Promenade gives you the best access to the island with a guide who knows its history and traditions.
Is there a beach on Nosy Fanihy ?
Yes. The island has a quiet white sand beach. The waters are calm and shallow, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.
Does the half-day include a meal ?
No. The half-day includes a light snack. A full sit-down meal is included only in the full-day option.
What is the best time to observe sea turtles ?
Observing green turtles in the Sakatia seagrass beds is possible year-round. However, for optimal underwater visibility, aim for the incoming tide or the start of the outgoing tide.
How to choose between a day trip and a bivouac ?
For a first stay, start with a day trip (Nosy Iranja or Komba & Tanikely). If you seek adventure and have 2-3 days, opt for a bivouac. Contact us.
Can you see whales all year round ?
No. Humpback whales are present from July to November. Whale sharks and dolphins are visible year-round.
Can you swim with whale sharks ?
Yes, depending on conditions. The whale shark is harmless to humans. Our guide accompanies you and explains the approach rules.
Can you swim with whales ?
No. Swimming with humpback whales is prohibited under Malagasy regulations. Observation takes place from the boat only, at a respectful distance from the animals.
Can a sighting be guaranteed ?
No honest operator can guarantee a sighting - that is nature. Our success rate in high season exceeds 85%. In case of bad weather, the outing is postponed at no charge.
What is the best period for humpback whales ?
August and September are peak season. Groups are numerous and surface activity is frequent. Book early - spots are limited and the season is short.
Are children welcome on board ?
Yes, from age 5. The boat is stable and safe. Children are often the most attentive to blows on the horizon. Life jackets provided for all ages.
What are the must-see sites on the island tour by Starex ?
The full-day circuit covers the strategic highlights of Nosy Be: the ascent of Mont Passot (329 m) for a panoramic view, discovery of the sacred lakes, a visit to the ylang-ylang plantations, and an immersion in Hell-Ville and traditional fishing villages.
Is the visit to the Lokobe reserve free or guided ?
To ensure the protection of endemic wildlife and visitor safety, access to the Lokobe nature reserve is compulsory with a licensed guide. Your guide accompanies you through the primary forest to observe black lemurs, Duméril's boas and chameleons.
Is it possible to customise your land itinerary in Nosy Be ?
Yes. In addition to the classic circuits, we offer tailor-made excursions. You can define your programme according to your interests and we build the technical and logistical itinerary with you.
Do you need to be in good physical shape for the hikes ?
The forest hike lasts about 2 to 3 hours on uneven terrain. You need to be able to walk on a forest path with roots and gentle slopes. No mountain climbing or technical ascents.
Are lemur sightings guaranteed ?
Yes. Black macaco lemurs are permanently present in the reserve. Our guide knows their habitat zones. Observation rate: close to 100%.
Can you combine Lokobe with the island tour ?
Not on the same day — both programmes are full-day activities. We can plan them on two consecutive days of your stay.
Can the programme be personalised ?
Yes. If you wish to spend more time at a particular site or add a stop, let us know at the time of booking. The tour adapts to your interests.
Is the tour suitable for children ?
Yes. It is even the ideal excursion for families with children. The lemurs, plantations and local life fascinate them.
Can you combine the island tour with a sea excursion ?
Not on the same day. But we can organise both on different days of your stay.
Can't find your answer? Contact us directly.