Explore Nosy Be

Nosy Be, often dubbed the "Island of Perfumes," is a true gem for divers seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure. Located off the northwestern coast of Madagascar, this enchanting island offers a unique diving experience characterized by its pristine coral formations and vibrant marine life. The Tanikely Marine Reserve stands as the epicenter of Madagascar diving, boasting giant gorgonian sea fans and delightful macro life. Divers can explore a kaleidoscope of colorful nudibranchs and encounter fascinating creatures like antennariids, making every dive a discovery of the ocean's hidden treasures.

Dive enthusiasts in Nosy Be are treated to a diverse range of underwater environments, from the gentle slopes of Nosy Tanikely to the dramatic plateaus of Vatatimo, Miravava, and Banc des Pirogues. These sites are teeming with life, including schools of snappers, jacks, and the occasional barracuda. Adventurous divers can also explore two captivating wrecks, where marine life flourishes in the nooks and crannies. Whether opting for shore dives, boat excursions, or liveaboard adventures, Nosy Be provides ample opportunities to experience the incredible biodiversity that makes this region a standout dive destination.

Dive Sites Show on map

Diving in Nosy Be

Nosy Be, Madagascar, offers a diverse range of diving experiences for enthusiasts. One of the top dive sites is "The Mitsio Wreck," where divers can explore a sunken fishing vessel teeming with marine life. This site is perfect for those fascinated by wreck diving and provides a glimpse into the ocean's captivating underwater world. Shore dives, such as the ones at Nosy Tanikely, are popular for their easy access and vibrant coral reefs, offering a more relaxed exploration. Unique experiences in Nosy Be include night dives where divers can witness the bioluminescent plankton illuminating the water with ethereal glows. Marine life behaviors, such as the seasonal migration of whale sharks, add to the allure of these waters. Nosy Be balances shore diving and liveaboard options well, allowing divers to enjoy both leisurely shore dives and adventurous excursions to more remote sites.

The best Months to Dive in Nosy Be

Nosy Be offers excellent diving conditions year-round, with water temperatures ranging from 26°C–30°C/79°F–86°F throughout the seasons. Visibility is typically excellent, often reaching 20–30 meters/66–98 feet, making it ideal for underwater exploration.

Diving is possible all year, although the best conditions are from April to December, when the weather is dry and stable. From January to March, the region experiences more rainfall and potential cyclones, which can affect visibility and create stronger currents. Divers should plan accordingly, considering these seasonal variations.

Statistics

Dive Activity

Top Wildlife Sightings

Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

Green Turtle

452 Sightings
J
26
F
0
M
0
A
11
M
14
J
0
J
25
A
65
S
64
O
92
N
86
D
69

Hawksbill Turtle

403 Sightings
J
12
F
0
M
7
A
22
M
29
J
7
J
27
A
48
S
50
O
60
N
97
D
44

Moray Eel

295 Sightings
J
12
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
12
J
29
A
39
S
63
O
73
N
37
D
30

Barracuda

132 Sightings
J
16
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
5
J
0
J
1
A
7
S
35
O
37
N
10
D
21

Octopus

46 Sightings
J
4
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
1
J
0
J
0
A
0
S
14
O
0
N
27
D
0

Wrasse

36 Sightings
J
0
F
0
M
0
A
0
M
0
J
10
J
0
A
0
S
13
O
13
N
0
D
0

Stingrays

613 Sightings
J
6
F
0
M
0
A
25
M
57
J
17
J
40
A
98
S
78
O
98
N
128
D
66

Angelfish

455 Sightings
J
6
F
0
M
0
A
23
M
14
J
25
J
19
A
67
S
93
O
106
N
60
D
42

Grouper/Basslets

443 Sightings
J
20
F
0
M
0
A
11
M
17
J
15
J
17
A
43
S
65
O
113
N
95
D
47

Butterfly Fish

434 Sightings
J
11
F
0
M
2
A
22
M
12
J
25
J
17
A
63
S
88
O
101
N
50
D
43