7 safari lodges
    Northeast Rainforests & Masoala Peninsula, Madagascar
    Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Safari in Nosy Mangabe

    An island reserve in Antongil Bay, covered in dense rainforest and serving as a crucial sanctuary for the aye-aye, Madagascar's most unusual lemur. It's also home to black-and-white ruffed lemurs and offers excellent opportunities for night walks.

    Best timeApril to November (dry season) for wildlife and trekking. September to November for lemur births.
    Species
    3
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    7
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Nosy Mangabe Map

    Park location and safari lodges

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    3 species recorded in Nosy Mangabe2 threatened

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    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Nosy Mangabe

    Madagascar is a year-round destination, but we find the dry season from April to October offers the most comfortable travel conditions and excellent wildlife viewing. For lemur enthusiasts, the 'baby...

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Cyclones are possible, particularly in the east.

    This is baby season for many lemur species, offering incredible opportunities to see mothers with their newborns. Birding is also excellent with resident birds in full plumage.

    We love spotting the tiny new lemur babies clinging to their mothers' backs during this lush, green time.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with the highest rainfall typically occurring this month. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    Lemur infants are growing, and the rainforests are teeming with life. It's a prime time for observing chameleon activity as they are very active.

    We recommend embracing the humidity for unparalleled access to the vibrant, post-rainy season jungle and its active inhabitants.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it remains warm and humid. The landscape is incredibly verdant and beautiful.

    The island is at its greenest, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Lemur activity is high, and many species are still seen with their young.

    We find March offers a perfect blend of lush scenery and accessible wildlife viewing before the main tourist season begins.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Isalo National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather starts to dry out, becoming more pleasant with less humidity and rainfall. Temperatures are still warm.

    Lemurs are active and easier to spot as vegetation thins slightly. It's a good month for seeing the iconic baobab trees in bloom in the west.

    We love the transition to drier weather, making trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more rewarding.

    Isalo National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant and dry with cooler temperatures, especially at night. This is generally considered one of the best times to visit.

    Lemur spotting is excellent as they are very active. The dry conditions make it easier to traverse parks and observe wildlife.

    We highly recommend May for its comfortable climate and the ease with which we can find lemurs and other unique creatures.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler and dry, particularly in the highlands. The west remains warmer. This is peak dry season.

    Excellent visibility for spotting wildlife, including the elusive fossa. Birding is good, though some migratory species may have departed.

    We adore the crisp, dry air of June which makes exploring the Tsingy formations an absolute joy.

    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry, with temperatures dropping further in the highlands. The west is still warm and dry.

    This is prime time for whale watching off the coast, particularly humpback whales. Lemur spotting remains excellent.

    We recommend July for the incredible spectacle of humpback whales breaching off the coast of Sainte Marie.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still cool and dry, with minimal rainfall across the island. The highlands can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings.

    Humpback whale migration continues. Lemur activity is high, and the dry conditions aid in spotting them.

    We find August offers fantastic opportunities for both terrestrial wildlife and marine encounters, especially with the whales.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Ranomafana National Park
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures starting to warm up again. It's a shoulder month before the rains return.

    Lemur breeding season begins, with males becoming more active and vocal. Birding is good as resident species prepare for nesting.

    We love September for the energetic lemur courtship displays and the comfortable, warming weather.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The first rains begin, bringing humidity and warmer temperatures. Showers are usually short and localized.

    The landscape starts to green up. Chameleons become very active, and it's a great time for birdwatching as many species start nesting.

    We recommend October for the vibrant colours returning to the landscape and the exciting activity of chameleons.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm and humid conditions with increasing rainfall, though it is generally less intense than the main rainy season.

    Lemur infants start to appear, marking the beginning of baby season. The island is lush and vibrant, with excellent photographic conditions.

    We adore November for the return of the baby lemurs and the incredibly lush, green scenery.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Ranomafana National Park

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Hot and humid with frequent, often heavy, afternoon rains. Cyclones are possible, especially in the east.

    This is peak baby season for lemurs, offering unparalleled viewing opportunities. Birding is excellent with resident birds in full breeding plumage.

    We find December to be magical for witnessing the very first moments of new lemur life amidst the vibrant, rain-kissed forests.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Cyclones are possible, particularly in the east.

    This is baby season for many lemur species, offering incredible opportunities to see mothers with their newborns. Birding is also excellent with resident birds in full plumage.

    We love spotting the tiny new lemur babies clinging to their mothers' backs during this lush, green time.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with the highest rainfall typically occurring this month. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    Lemur infants are growing, and the rainforests are teeming with life. It's a prime time for observing chameleon activity as they are very active.

    We recommend embracing the humidity for unparalleled access to the vibrant, post-rainy season jungle and its active inhabitants.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it remains warm and humid. The landscape is incredibly verdant and beautiful.

    The island is at its greenest, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Lemur activity is high, and many species are still seen with their young.

    We find March offers a perfect blend of lush scenery and accessible wildlife viewing before the main tourist season begins.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Isalo National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather starts to dry out, becoming more pleasant with less humidity and rainfall. Temperatures are still warm.

    Lemurs are active and easier to spot as vegetation thins slightly. It's a good month for seeing the iconic baobab trees in bloom in the west.

    We love the transition to drier weather, making trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more rewarding.

    Isalo National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant and dry with cooler temperatures, especially at night. This is generally considered one of the best times to visit.

    Lemur spotting is excellent as they are very active. The dry conditions make it easier to traverse parks and observe wildlife.

    We highly recommend May for its comfortable climate and the ease with which we can find lemurs and other unique creatures.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler and dry, particularly in the highlands. The west remains warmer. This is peak dry season.

    Excellent visibility for spotting wildlife, including the elusive fossa. Birding is good, though some migratory species may have departed.

    We adore the crisp, dry air of June which makes exploring the Tsingy formations an absolute joy.

    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry, with temperatures dropping further in the highlands. The west is still warm and dry.

    This is prime time for whale watching off the coast, particularly humpback whales. Lemur spotting remains excellent.

    We recommend July for the incredible spectacle of humpback whales breaching off the coast of Sainte Marie.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still cool and dry, with minimal rainfall across the island. The highlands can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings.

    Humpback whale migration continues. Lemur activity is high, and the dry conditions aid in spotting them.

    We find August offers fantastic opportunities for both terrestrial wildlife and marine encounters, especially with the whales.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Ranomafana National Park
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures starting to warm up again. It's a shoulder month before the rains return.

    Lemur breeding season begins, with males becoming more active and vocal. Birding is good as resident species prepare for nesting.

    We love September for the energetic lemur courtship displays and the comfortable, warming weather.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The first rains begin, bringing humidity and warmer temperatures. Showers are usually short and localized.

    The landscape starts to green up. Chameleons become very active, and it's a great time for birdwatching as many species start nesting.

    We recommend October for the vibrant colours returning to the landscape and the exciting activity of chameleons.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm and humid conditions with increasing rainfall, though it is generally less intense than the main rainy season.

    Lemur infants start to appear, marking the beginning of baby season. The island is lush and vibrant, with excellent photographic conditions.

    We adore November for the return of the baby lemurs and the incredibly lush, green scenery.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Ranomafana National Park

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Hot and humid with frequent, often heavy, afternoon rains. Cyclones are possible, especially in the east.

    This is peak baby season for lemurs, offering unparalleled viewing opportunities. Birding is excellent with resident birds in full breeding plumage.

    We find December to be magical for witnessing the very first moments of new lemur life amidst the vibrant, rain-kissed forests.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Green Season

    Expect hot and humid conditions with frequent heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Cyclones are possible, particularly in the east.

    This is baby season for many lemur species, offering incredible opportunities to see mothers with their newborns. Birding is also excellent with resident birds in full plumage.

    We love spotting the tiny new lemur babies clinging to their mothers' backs during this lush, green time.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park

    February

    low

    Green Season

    Still very hot and wet, with the highest rainfall typically occurring this month. Roads can become impassable in some areas.

    Lemur infants are growing, and the rainforests are teeming with life. It's a prime time for observing chameleon activity as they are very active.

    We recommend embracing the humidity for unparalleled access to the vibrant, post-rainy season jungle and its active inhabitants.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    March

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though it remains warm and humid. The landscape is incredibly verdant and beautiful.

    The island is at its greenest, making for stunning photographic opportunities. Lemur activity is high, and many species are still seen with their young.

    We find March offers a perfect blend of lush scenery and accessible wildlife viewing before the main tourist season begins.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Isalo National Park

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather starts to dry out, becoming more pleasant with less humidity and rainfall. Temperatures are still warm.

    Lemurs are active and easier to spot as vegetation thins slightly. It's a good month for seeing the iconic baobab trees in bloom in the west.

    We love the transition to drier weather, making trekking more comfortable and wildlife spotting more rewarding.

    Isalo National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Pleasant and dry with cooler temperatures, especially at night. This is generally considered one of the best times to visit.

    Lemur spotting is excellent as they are very active. The dry conditions make it easier to traverse parks and observe wildlife.

    We highly recommend May for its comfortable climate and the ease with which we can find lemurs and other unique creatures.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    June

    high

    Dry Season

    Cooler and dry, particularly in the highlands. The west remains warmer. This is peak dry season.

    Excellent visibility for spotting wildlife, including the elusive fossa. Birding is good, though some migratory species may have departed.

    We adore the crisp, dry air of June which makes exploring the Tsingy formations an absolute joy.

    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    July

    peak

    Dry Season

    Cool and dry, with temperatures dropping further in the highlands. The west is still warm and dry.

    This is prime time for whale watching off the coast, particularly humpback whales. Lemur spotting remains excellent.

    We recommend July for the incredible spectacle of humpback whales breaching off the coast of Sainte Marie.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Kirindy Forest Reserve
    Ankarafantsika National Park

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Still cool and dry, with minimal rainfall across the island. The highlands can be quite chilly in the mornings and evenings.

    Humpback whale migration continues. Lemur activity is high, and the dry conditions aid in spotting them.

    We find August offers fantastic opportunities for both terrestrial wildlife and marine encounters, especially with the whales.

    Sainte Marie Island
    Ranomafana National Park
    Tsingy de Bemaraha National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather remains dry and pleasant, with temperatures starting to warm up again. It's a shoulder month before the rains return.

    Lemur breeding season begins, with males becoming more active and vocal. Birding is good as resident species prepare for nesting.

    We love September for the energetic lemur courtship displays and the comfortable, warming weather.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Kirindy Forest Reserve

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The first rains begin, bringing humidity and warmer temperatures. Showers are usually short and localized.

    The landscape starts to green up. Chameleons become very active, and it's a great time for birdwatching as many species start nesting.

    We recommend October for the vibrant colours returning to the landscape and the exciting activity of chameleons.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Masoala National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm and humid conditions with increasing rainfall, though it is generally less intense than the main rainy season.

    Lemur infants start to appear, marking the beginning of baby season. The island is lush and vibrant, with excellent photographic conditions.

    We adore November for the return of the baby lemurs and the incredibly lush, green scenery.

    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Ranomafana National Park

    December

    low

    Green Season

    Hot and humid with frequent, often heavy, afternoon rains. Cyclones are possible, especially in the east.

    This is peak baby season for lemurs, offering unparalleled viewing opportunities. Birding is excellent with resident birds in full breeding plumage.

    We find December to be magical for witnessing the very first moments of new lemur life amidst the vibrant, rain-kissed forests.

    Ranomafana National Park
    Andasibe-Mantadia National Park
    Planning & reference

    Nosy Mangabe is a truly special place, a living laboratory where we feel a profound connection to Madagascar's unique evolutionary story. We particularly love the thrill of spotting the elusive Aye-aye at night, a truly unforgettable experience that makes the journey here so worthwhile. The island's ancient rainforests and pristine beaches offer a raw, authentic encounter with nature that is increasingly rare.

    Gate Times

    Access to Nosy Mangabe is primarily by boat from Maroantsetra, and visits are always guided. The reserve generally operates from dawn until dusk, typically around 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though specific boat transfers will dictate your exact schedule. Permits must be arranged in advance through local tour operators in Maroantsetra, which also includes your mandatory guide fee.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. For your local guide on Nosy Mangabe, we recommend 10,000-20,000 MGA per person per day, depending on the length and quality of the trek. Boatmen who transfer you to the island can be tipped around 5,000-10,000 MGA per person. Always tip in local currency, Ariary, if possible, or small USD/EUR notes if not. Hand tips directly to the individual.

    Dress Code

    For trekking on Nosy Mangabe, we recommend lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long trousers in neutral colours to protect against sun, insects, and scratches from vegetation. Quick-drying fabrics are ideal given the humidity. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with good grip are essential for the often muddy and uneven trails. A wide-brimmed hat is also a must for sun protection.

    Photography

    Nosy Mangabe offers incredible photographic opportunities, particularly for lemurs and chameleons. We recommend a lens with good zoom capabilities, as animals can be high in the canopy or well-camouflaged. Low light conditions are common in the dense forest, so a fast lens or a camera with good high-ISO performance is beneficial. Drones are generally not permitted within national parks and reserves in Madagascar without special, hard-to-obtain permits; we advise against bringing one.

    Etiquette

    When exploring Nosy Mangabe, always follow your guide's instructions implicitly; they are experts in spotting wildlife and ensuring your safety. Maintain a respectful distance from all animals, especially the lemurs. Keep noise levels to a minimum to avoid disturbing the wildlife and enhance your chances of sightings. Do not feed or attempt to touch any animals. Stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem.

    What to Bring

    Sturdy walking shoes with good grip
    Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Rain jacket or poncho
    Insect repellent (high DEET content)
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Sunscreen
    Small backpack for day trips
    Reusable water bottle
    Binoculars
    Headlamp or small flashlight (if staying overnight)
    Basic first-aid kit
    Malaria prophylaxis (as prescribed by your doctor)

    Packing list not yet available for Nosy Mangabe - weather data needed

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    Nosy Mangabe Reviews