Nosy Be Lokobe Park: Guided forest tour with lunch

Summary

Lokobe forest walk and wildlife with Malagasy lunch on Nosy Be

You’ll travel by pirogue from Nosy Be to Lokobe Natural Park with a local guide, passing through fishing villages before exploring Madagascar’s last primary forest. Spot lemurs and chameleons up close, then share a traditional Malagasy lunch on the beach. It’s an experience that lingers long after you’ve brushed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

"You see that tree? It’s older than my grandfather," our guide grinned as we stepped off the pirogue and into the edge of Lokobe Natural Park. The boat ride itself was quiet — just the slap of water against wood and the smell of salt mixing with something green and earthy. I kept thinking I’d tip over when I tried to balance, but the fisherman steering barely blinked. We passed a fishing village first, kids waving from the shore, chickens darting around. Someone called out “Salama!” and I tried to say it back — not sure if I got it right.

We stopped in Ampasipohy village for a quick change into shoes that could handle mud (definitely needed them). The air felt thick, almost sweet, like wet leaves after rain. Our guide pointed out plants used for medicine — he said one cured headaches, but honestly I was distracted by a lemur peering at us from above. Its eyes were huge. There were chameleons too, so small you’d miss them unless someone showed you. The forest felt old in a way that made me whisper without meaning to.

I didn’t expect lunch to be so good — grilled fish with rice and something spicy on the side, eaten right by the beach after walking back through the trees. A couple of locals joined us; one laughed when I tried to ask about the turtles in French (my accent is hopeless). After eating, we just sat there for a bit watching boats come in, sand sticking to my feet. The whole day moved slow — not lazy exactly, just… unhurried. Maybe that’s what Lokobe means by “many colors.”

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Lokobe Natural Park Exploration

• Boat ride from fishing village to Lokobe reserve
• Stop at Ampasipohy village to change clothes
• Explore Lokobe primary forest and see wildlife
• Lunch and beach relaxation at fishing village

Top questions

How do you get to Lokobe Natural Park from Nosy Be?

You’ll travel by pirogue (traditional boat) from a small fishing village on Nosy Be to reach Lokobe Natural Park.

Is lunch included in the Lokobe tour?

Yes, a typical Malagasy lunch is included during your visit.

What animals can you see in Lokobe Natural Park?

You may see lemurs (Macaco and Lepilemur), chameleons, reptiles, tropical insects, snakes, and giant turtles.

Is this guided tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the visit to Lokobe Natural Park.

Does the tour include transportation?

Private transportation is included as part of your day trip experience.

Can infants join this day trip to Lokobe?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport.

Will there be a local guide during the park visit?

Yes, you’ll explore Lokobe Natural Park with a local guide who shares insights about wildlife and plants.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Nosy Be, access fees for Lokobe Natural Park, guidance throughout your walk in the forest and villages, plus a traditional Malagasy lunch served right by the beach before heading back in the afternoon.