Isolated from the African continent for millions of years, the island nation of Madagascar boasts a breathtaking array of unique flora and fauna. It’s the fourth-largest island in the world and a paradise for nature lovers, with surreal baobabs, enigmatic lemurs and untamed forests to discover. While Madagascar has become an increasingly popular tourist destination in recent years, its dive scene remains relatively unknown, especially when compared to other Indian Ocean scuba hotspots.
But the marine biodiversity here is astounding, with hundreds of species of tropical fish and a dazzling array of corals, not to mention more than 30 different cetaceans. Madagascar is located on the migratory route of humpback whales and provides feeding grounds for whale sharks. Nosy Be (off the northwest coast) and Nosy Boraha (to the east) are the two main dive hubs, although you’ll also find exceptional dive experiences on the Toliara Reef along the southwest coast.
For an off-the-beaten-path dive vacation, Madagascar really can’t be beaten and its scuba infrastructure is blossoming to meet newfound demand. Dive schools and centres can be found in each of the major scuba hubs, together with a handful of dive resorts and hotels offering sustainable stays. Eco-friendly accommodation in Madagascar is nothing new, with many properties designed using locally sourced materials and to be sustainable in terms of energy consumption.
In this article, discover the best places to dive in Madagascar and what makes each destination unique. We’ll also share recommendations for eco-friendly hotels in Madagascar to help you plan a sustainable scuba vacation.
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Nosy Be
Overall best place for diving in Madagascar
Nosy Be is undoubtedly the best dive destination in Madagascar, with its chain of islets and reefs providing habitat for around 1,300 varieties of reef fish. The clarity and depth of the waters here make it a perfect spot for beginner divers to safely explore while still captivating experienced scuba enthusiasts with the sheer biodiversity on display. Aside from up-close encounters with sea turtles and numerous shark species, there’s the opportunity to witness whale sharks who congregate in the nutrient-rich waters during October and November. Further north, the Mitsio Archipelago enchants with its volcanic topography, an abundance of marine life and exhilarating pelagic action.
Dive trips in Nosy Be can be arranged with the teams at Scuba Nosy Be and Tropical Diving.
Eco-friendly hotels in Madagascar
Eco-friendly hotels in Nosy Be
Overlooking a stunning beach on Nosy Be’s northwest coast, this eco-friendly lodge features just a handful of thatched-roof bungalows, each individually themed. Fresh seafood caught by local fishermen is served at the onsite restaurant, which specialises in Malagasy cuisine and Italian favourites. Aside from harnessing solar power and prioritising water saving, Sangany Lodge prides itself on offering sustainable employment for the local community.
"Piece of paradise without compromise.” - Barbora (read more reviews here)
Just steps from Djamanjary Beach, this boutique hotel on Nosy Be features light and spacious rooms complete with four-poster beds. Organic toiletries are provided in the ensuite bathrooms while delicious Madagascan cuisine is available at the open-air restaurant. The sparkling swimming pool is an added bonus.
“Great staff offering a lovely oasis in a quiet neighbourhood, right on the beach.” - Stephanie (read more reviews here)
As the only hotel on Nosy Be to earn certification for its responsible practices, this Green Globe Madagascan resort is a stand-out for eco-conscious travellers. The property's charming bungalows are nestled amidst tropical foliage, just steps from the pristine shores of Madirokely Beach. Throughout the grounds, L'Heure Bleue has implemented a range of green initiatives, from renewable energy sources and water conservation methods to community engagement programs.
“This is the 4th time I have stayed here and it is still great. Very clean, great location but the best thing is the staff.” - Simon (read more reviews here)
Best places to dive in Madagascar
Nosy Boraha
Best place for wreck diving in Madagascar
Also known as Île Sainte-Marie, Nosy Boraha is a former pirate haven off the east coast of Madagascar. It is rapidly becoming a must-visit destination for wreck diving enthusiasts, with a wealth of submerged treasures hidden beneath the water’s surface. Aside from its fascinating wreck dives, the ocean surrounding Île Sainte-Marie also serve as a migratory route for humpback whales. Between the months of July and September, these gentle giants can be spotted breaching and frolicking in the surrounding seas, putting on a spellbinding display for lucky onlookers.
Dive trips in Nosy Boraha can be arranged with the team at Bora Dive & Research.
Eco-friendly hotels in Madagascar
Eco-friendly hotels on Nosy Boraha
This boutique hotel on Nosy Boraha was designed by Sophie Démichilis and exudes a barefoot luxury vibe. Its beachfront villas are constructed from natural rosewood and enjoy spectacular sunset views while the floating bar within a converted seaplane is a highlight. Aside from diving with qualified PADI instructors, a stay at this eco-friendly Nosy Boraha resort supports local conservation and community development initiatives.
"Best hotel in Sainte-Marie!” - Attila (read more reviews here)
Perched on the east coast of Île Sainte-Marie, this eco-friendly Nosy Boraha hotel offers budget-friendly bungalows overlooking a turquoise lagoon. It has been recognised for its sustainable design and operations and organises whale safaris that uphold marine conservation best practices. Fresh, local produce is served up at the onsite restaurant, which specialises in crab.
“The location is beautiful, with dream colors on the lagoon that stretches out of sight.” - Gwenaelle (read more reviews here)
On the northeast coast of Île Sainte-Marie, this beachfront resort is dedicated to responsible tourism and offers a variety of excursions and activities. After a day spent diving, hiking and quad biking, you can refuel on traditional Malagasy cuisine at the open-air restaurant. The beachfront bungalows at this eco-friendly Nosy Boraha resort were constructed using local materials and designed to harness natural ventilation and light to reduce the resort’s carbon footprint
“An outstanding experience from start to finish.” - Maria (read more reviews here)
Best places to dive in Madagascar
Toliara Reef and Anakao
Best place for macro diving in Madagascar
Madagascar's southwest coast is home to another cluster of exceptional dive sites around the Toliara Reef, Anakao and Nosy Ve. Macro photography enthusiasts are particularly drawn to these waters due to an abundance of rare and fascinating critters. It may come as a surprise to hear that the Toliara Reef is the world's third-largest coral reef area, extending 450 kilometres between Androaka and Morombe. Off the coast of Anakao, you’ll find stunning coral formations and underwater caves, with the dive sites around the island of Nosy Ve particularly impressive. Further south lies Nosy Satrana, where underwater arches and tunnels serve as a sanctuary for countless species.
Dive trips in southwest Madagascar can be arranged with the teams at Il Camaleonte Anakao and Atimoo Plongee.
Eco-friendly hotels in Madagascar
Eco-friendly hotels in Anakao
Located partway between Toliara and the airport, Le Vahine offers beautifully decorated rooms set around a sparkling swimming pool. It offers a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling streets beyond and provides a good base for diving the Toliara Reef. Inventive Asian cuisine is available at the onsite restaurant of this eco-friendly Toliara hotel.
“Excellent place to stay in Tulear!” - Elisa (read more reviews here)
This beachfront hotel in Anakao features large stone-and-wood chalets, from where you can enjoy sweeping views across the Indian Ocean. Italian cuisine is the focus of the onsite restaurant, with its menu changing according to the catch of the day. Whale-watching excursions and pirogue trips to the nearby islands can be arranged at Chez Peter Pan.
"Absolutely stunning aesthetic, the suite we stayed in felt like a treehouse overlooking the beach.” - JK (read more reviews here)
Tucked away in the village of Ifaty, this eco-friendly hotel near Toliara features 18 elegant rooms set within picturesque gardens. There are two refreshing swimming pools on-site, plus a gourmet restaurant specialising in locally caught seafood. Much of the kitchen’s produce is sourced from the onsite vegetable garden.
"A beautiful hotel…socially engaged with a cosy village for its employees and a beautiful vegetable garden.” - Isabelle (read more reviews here)
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