Nosy Iranja is a small tropical island located off the Northwestern coast of Madagascar, 45km (28 miles) South of Nosy Be, a slightly larger and more popular island. Nosy Iranja consists of two islands that are connected by a bank of white sand only visible at low tide, but can still be traversed at high tide. Nosy Iranja is emerging as a popular tourist destination in Madagascar due to the idyllic white sand beaches and the excellent diving and snorkeling that can be had there. Visitors also come for the interesting wildlife, including green and hawksbill sea turtles, large coconut crabs, and many varieties of bird life.
Islands of Nosy Be: The northern and larger island is Iranja Komba, with a small fishing village where abandoned dhows are washed up on the sand and modest bamboo huts are tucked under badamier trees. The southern island, known often as Nosy Iranja Kely, has one small hotel. Both islands have gently shelving powderwhite beaches.
Hawksbill turtles: The islands are an important breeding site for hawksbill turtles and scientists are currently working on a turtle monitoring project. Guests can learn about their work and, with luck, watch turtles hatching at night.
