MADAGASCAR: Iranja Island and Tsarabanjina Island

Iranja Island, Madagascar is idyllic, with stunning beaches surrounding a lush tropical island covered with coconut palms, Filao trees and tropical flowers. The bird life is diverse and remarkable and the island is also home to huge coconut crabs. The northern island, Nosy Iranja Be, is home to a delightful lighthouse designed by Gustav Eiffel and a small, traditional African fishing village.

The southern island, Nosy Iranja, has 23 luxurious chalets that dot the coastline. It is also an important breeding reserve for the hawksbill turtle, hundreds of them come to the island to lay their eggs in the soft, warm sand. The turquoise waters and pristine coral reefs around the island offer fantastic snorkeling, diving and swimming. A close encounter with one of the giant manta rays or whale sharks which frequent these waters is one of the most exhilarating marine experiences you can hope for!

Tsarabanjina Island is a small and beautiful mountainous island, fringed by white sand beaches and encircled by coral reefs. It is an ideal location for the ultimate, relaxing vacation or a romantic, off the beaten track honeymoon. Snorkeling and diving opportunities are unlimited, with giant manta rays and whale sharks frequenting the waters here as well. This island is owned and run by South Africans so language is not a problem.

THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT THE ISLANDS OF MADAGASCAR is April when the weather is calm and cool. April is also the best month to swim with the giant manta rays and whale sharks, as the cooler temperatures draw them in to feed.

HIDDEN GEMS Each island has its own lodge. Tsarabanjina lodge is a gorgeously designed lodge/hotel that is also home to a world-class diving center. The Iranja Island lodge is set amongst lush tropical gardens with hammocks slung across the verandahs.