Top Things to Do in Nosy Be for Cruise Ship Passengers

Exciting City Tour on Quad Bikes – Explore Nosy Be in Adventure Style

If you want adventure instead of a bus tour, a quad bike ride is one of the best ways to see Nosy Be in a few hours. These guided tours take you through Hell-Ville colonial buildings, local villages, volcanic lakes, Ylang-Ylang plantations, and panoramic hilltops.

Cruise passengers love this because it is safe, fun, and covers many attractions in a short time. Helmet and basic training are included.

Nosy Be City Tour – Hell-Ville & Top Attractions

Hell-Ville (Andoany) is the capital of Nosy Be — colorful markets, colonial architecture, old cannons by the port, souvenir shops, rum distilleries, and fresh vanilla everywhere. You can visit the marketplace, old church, governor's house ruins, and craft shops selling local art, spices, and gemstones.

It’s an easy activity for cruise passengers who prefer culture over nature, and it doesn't require long travel from the port.

Horseback Riding on the Beach of Nosy Be

Ride a horse along the sandy beaches and shallow turquoise waters of western Nosy Be. Perfect during sunrise or sunset. No experience required; professional guides handle safety, helmets, and gentle horses.

This peaceful tour is ideal for couples, nature lovers, or anyone looking for a relaxing escape from crowded cruise excursions.

Sacred Tree of Mahatsinjo (Ficus Tree)

This huge ancient banyan tree spreads more than 5000 m² and is one of the island's most sacred natural sites. Local people believe the spirit of the ancestors lives inside it. Visitors must wear a traditional cloth (lamba) provided at the entrance as a sign of respect.

The site is peaceful and spiritual — no loud noise, no shoes inside the roots, and no disrespectful gestures.

Sacred Waterfall of Nosy Be

Hidden in a forest near Andoany, the sacred waterfall is a freshwater source believed to have healing powers. Local families come to make offerings and pray. Visitors can walk along clear natural pools, take photos, and learn the myths from local guides.

Mont Passot – Best Sunset View on the Island

Mont Passot is the highest point of Nosy Be. From the top, you can see 360° views of the island, small crater lakes, and nearby islands like Nosy Sakatia and Nosy Komba. Most people visit during sunset — the sky turns orange, pink, and purple as the sun slowly drops into the Mozambique Channel.

Nosy Komba – Lemurs Island & Handicraft Village

Nosy Komba is famous for friendly black lemurs, traditional villages, volcanic landscapes, and handmade crafts. In the forest, lemurs may jump on your shoulder if you offer bananas. The island has no cars, no roads — only nature and small paths.

Cruise passengers can visit for a half-day. You can feed lemurs, meet local artisans, and see turtle breeding areas.

Lokobe National Park – Last Primary Rainforest of Nosy Be

If you love wildlife, this is the best place to see it. Lokobe is the only remaining primary forest on Nosy Be. You can spot black lemurs, colorful chameleons, boas, tree frogs, and rare birds. The tour starts with a canoe ride through mangroves before walking into the forest.

Lemuria Land & Ylang-Ylang Perfume Distillery

Lemuria Land is a small zoo and perfume distillery. Visitors can see crocodiles, tortoises, lemurs, reptiles, and learn how essential oils like Ylang-Ylang are made. It is close to Hell-Ville and ideal for short visits.

Nosy Sakatia – Swim with Sea Turtles

Nosy Sakatia is known as Turtle Island. In the shallow seagrass lagoon, sea turtles swim peacefully while eating. With a mask and snorkel, you can observe them closely in their natural environment. The island is quiet, authentic, and less touristy than others.

Nosy Tanikely Marine Park – Protected Snorkeling Paradise

Nosy Tanikely is a national marine park with crystal-clear water, coral reefs, tropical fish, rays, and sometimes sea turtles. Visitors can snorkel, climb to the lighthouse, spot fruit bats, and walk the white sandy beach. Ideal for cruise visitors wanting marine life in a short time.