From Penitentiary To Tourists Attraction - Nosy Lava

 
Turquoise coloured waters, stunning beaches, lush forests with mainly palm trees, Nosy Lava is a unique destination for those wishing to get away from it all. It is situated in the north-west of Madagascar, at the opening of the bay of Narinda, south of Nosy Saba and close to Analalava. Along with five other islands (Tsarabanjina, la Grande Mitsio, Nosy Lava, Nosy Ankarea, les Quatre Frères
and le Banc du Castor), this small island is part of the Mitsio Archipelago.
 
In addition to its natural beauty, the island is steeped in history. A penitentiary, which became one of Madagascar's most famous, was built there in the 1900s. Vestiges of the former prison have, in fact, become the destination's main attraction. The visit will take you back to the island's past, conjuring up images of the daily life and conditions experienced by the prisoners of the period. The lighthouse of Nosy Lava, overlooking the penitentiary like a surveillance tower, also remains one of the island's
attractions. It was built in 1907 by the French and is still visible today, with its houses now in ruins.
 
As it is a seaside resort, you can also enjoy the many activities proposed: deep-sea or surface fishing, swimming close to the famous lighthouse or simply sunbathing on the long white sandy beach.
 
This article was featured in Prime Magazine April 2019

Useful Information

When to go

The north-west of Madagascar is characterised by a tropical climate. The best time to visit Nosy Lava is the period between April and October.

How to get there

You can reach Nosy Lava from Nosy Be or Analalava. Take an air Madagascar/Tsaradia flight to Nosy Be and then continue by motorboat as far as Nosy Lava. If you decide to go from Analalava, you will have to sail down the Loza and out through the mouth of the river.

Where to stay

It is best to spend the night in Analalava, at the Malibu hotel or the Varatraza. Another possibility is to book accommodation in Nosy Be, at the Nosy Be Hôtel Resort & Spa, or at the Vanilla Hôtel & Spa, or the Home résidence.

Where to eat

You are advised to bring a picnic basket if you wish to eat on Nosy Lava. You can also order a meal at the Malibu hotel. If you prefer to take a meal on Nosy Be, the Beach Bar Restaurant, the Safari Restaurant, Batumoch, Karibo, or Chez Tantine will all give you a warm welcome.

What to see

The ruins of the buildings and the old lighthouse, as well as the tombs of the Sakalava kings are worth a visit in this spot steeped in history. After getting away from it all on Nosy Lava, take advantage of your trip to visit the other islands close by, such as Nosy Mitsio and why not go as far as Nosy Iranja.