Nosy Iranja: A stunning secret island recommended by Vogue

For those familiar with Madagascar, particularly the Nosy Be archipelago, it’s no surprise that Nosy Iranja made Vogue’s list of the top 10 secret islands. Both Robinson Crusoe and Chuck Noland (Tom Hanks’ character in Cast Away) would have undoubtedly dreamed of being stranded here! If you’re searching for a paradisiacal island to bask in the sun and enjoy the sea while staying off the beaten path, Nosy Iranja is your ideal spring 2019 destination. Book your trip to Madagascar now!

Two idyllic islets connected by a sandbar

As a "secret island," reaching Nosy Iranja requires a bit of patience: it’s about a 1.5-hour boat ride southwest from Nosy Be. The journey may feel long, but it’s well worth the effort! As you speed through the vastness of the ocean, you might question your decision—until you arrive and wish you could stay forever. 

Nosy Iranja emerges like a mirage: two verdant islets connected by a strip of fine white sand about a kilometer long, surrounded by a lagoon with shimmering turquoise-to-celadon waters and a magnificent beach stretching far and wide. 

The larger islet, Nosy Iranja Be, is home to a fishing village where you’ll be treated to a heavenly seafood buffet. The smaller islet, Nosy Iranja Kely, is private and features a fishing village along with a secluded cove dominated by a boutique hotel.

Dreamlike landscapes and activities

On the island, you can stroll along the beach, take a dip in the sea, and meet the friendly villagers. Crossing the sandbar that links the two islets is a magical experience, but be cautious of high tide, which submerges the connection. Every photo you take here will look like a postcard come to life! 

Unexpectedly, the island even has a lighthouse. In its lush tropical forest, you might spot some of Madagascar’s famous lemurs, which seem to inhabit even the most remote corners of the island. These playful creatures love to feast on mangos from the island’s trees. Whatever you choose to do here will feel extraordinary—like stepping into a dream!

Waters full of wonders

Nicknamed the "Turtle Island", Nosy Iranja is celebrated for its marine life. On Nosy Iranja Kely, you can see sea turtles and a variety of birds, including terns, herons, and sea eagles. The surrounding waters offer endless opportunities for water sports, including windsurfing, water skiing, jet skiing, and snorkeling. 

The crystal-clear water reveals a vibrant underwater world: parrotfish, tuna, barracudas, swordfish, manta rays, sardines, jacks, mackerels, sharks, and dolphins. Between July and October, hundreds of humpback whales visit the area, followed by harmless whale sharks from October to December. 

This island is nothing short of enchanting—plan your trip to Madagascar today!