Sea excursions in Madagascar
From Anakao, by fast and comfortable boat or by traditional pirogue, accompanied by Vezo guides, you will enjoy the numerous sea and lagoon trips. It’s a great way to discover the region and its culture while enjoying the sea and sun of south Madagascar.
Among the great classics not to miss :
- The Nosy Ve island, about 5 kilometers in front of the Longo Vezo hotel, is located on the inside of the barrier reef protecting the lagoon. In Malagasy, Nosy means island. Reaching Nosy Ve by traditional Vezo pirogue, pushed by the morning hot winds to fish, wander and eat before coming back thanks to the thermal reversal of the afternoon is an extremely enriching experience. It is the occasion to share the daily and sailing life of the well-known Vezo fishermen, to understand the Malagasy winds and Vezo pirogues. Besides the hundreds of red-tailed tropicbirds, you will get to see herons, terns… While wandering on the path, you will be able to admire the lagoon’s transparency. The Nosy Ve island is one of the rare places of red-tailed tropicbirds breeding. They breed all year long with a breeding peak from June to November. You will admire the accessible floor nests and the hidden juveniles under the bushes pushing on the coral sand.
The area around Nosy Ve island is also a great place filled with numerous scuba diving spots. - The Nosy Satrana island, at a dozen kilometers south, just next to the famous Mangoro passage. Rarely visited, it offers great beaches of fine sand bordering a transparent turquoise water. You will enjoy a natural pool at ebb tide, a wonderful visit.
- The Onilahy river mouth is also an interesting trip to get closer to Saint-Augustin and Soalara. If you are lucky enough, you will get to see flamingo colonies a bit further up the river.
A lot of other excursions are possible on demand, not counting the whales trips off the Anakao coast and the diving trips to discover the barrier reefs and south Anakao’s turquoise waters.
Other maritime activities are possible, by pirogue, kayak, or fishing boat that can be rented for half a day of fishing.
A special mention to snorkeling, discovery of the lagoon’s subsea floor, equipped with a mask and flippers. From the diving boats, you will dive into a wonderful aquarium of tropical fishes and corals in total freedom.
