Frequently Asked Questions…

And more information.

How do I get there?

Please click on the button below for a detailed explanation

Do I need a visa? YES/NO

Visitors staying less than 15 days do not need a visa. You do need to pay a admin fee of 10 euro.

  • Visitors to Madagascar staying for longer than 15 days must be in possession of a 30 or 60 day entry visas. You can buy these on arrival - since there are no ATM's in the arrival halls at international airports, you’ll need to carry cash (US$ or Euro) with you when you travel. You won’t need passport photos.

  • E-visas are available in advance via www.evisamada.gov.mg (only for 30 or 60 day tourist visas).

  • The visa sticker will cover a half page in your passport.

  • International Embarkation Card

    • On arrival at the Fascene airport on Nosy Be, you will be required to complete a short questionnaire called an International Embarkation Card. Since the officials usually don't have pens available for this purpose, please carry a pen with you when you travel.

    • Please have the following at hand: personal information (name, address, date of birth, etc.); passport information (number, expiry date, place of issue); flight information (flight number, date, airport of disembarkation); the address of your place of residence in Madagascar - Komba on the Rocks, Nosy Komba, Madagascar.

Do I need to carry my passport with me?

As a visitor, you’re required by law to carry your passport at all times. You may be stopped and fined in the event that you don’t have it on hand or in your possession.  

How do I pay for everything?

We have credit card facilities (Visa/Master card) at Komba on the Rocks. We do accept cash: Euro, US$, or Malagasy Ariary or feel free to arrange an online transaction with Management. You can withdraw Ariary from any ATM in Hellville with a credit card (1.5 million Ariary per day). Euros and US dollars can be exchanged in Hellville as well.

If you find yourself exploring Nosy Be or nearby villages you’ll probably need to pay in cash.

Is there Malaria? Do I need any immunizations?

  • Madagascar - and therefore Nosy Komba - is situated in a malaria zone. Please consult your healthcare professional about suitable anti-malarial medication well in advance of your departure.

No immunizations are currently required for Nosy Komba. Please check with your local travel clinic especially if you're traveling to other areas in Madagascar. Depending on your travel history, you may need to show a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate.

What's the weather like over there?

Nosy Komba is on the northwest coast of Madagascar. Similar to the rest of Madagascar we have a dry and rainy season. Both have sunny days. We get plenty of sunshine throughout the year and lots of rain in January and February. However the best time to come for your dream holiday depends on what you want to do. Madagascar also has high humidity and a cyclone season between January and February.

What should I pack?

We suggest flip flops, sandals and a good pair of walking shoes. Your best friends for these few days will be swimsuits, sunglasses and a hat. With the humidity, breathable clothes are the best. Guests should be advised that they may need to walk into the water to about knee level for boat trips depending on the tide. Keep this in mind and dress correctly on the day of travel. Sandals and shorts or easy roll up pants are therefore advised.

Consider bringing:

  • Sunblock or sunscreen.

  • Hats.

  • Sunglasses.

  • Mosquito repellent (the beds in the bungalows are fitted with mosquito nets).

  • Personal medication, as well as re-hydration medication and plasters.

  • A light raincoat or jacket.

  • 3-pin to 2-pin plug adapters (same as cellphone chargers). Contact us if you need any advice.

Will I be safe?

You’re generally safe traveling around Madagascar, but please take the usual precautions (don’t flash expensive items, ask local advice about walking alone after dark). Also, beware of pickpockets, and take precautions against theft from your luggage when using public transport or taxi-buses

Traditions, customs & taboos?

The Malagasy people observe many taboos and traditions - so if your guide asks you not to point a finger or photograph a grave, for example, please respect their wishes.

Which languages are common in Madagascar?

The main language on the islands is Malagasy, with French as our second official language - although it’s really only spoken in the main centers. In general, very few people speak English - but don’t worry: traveling around Madagascar’s quite easy since everyone’s pretty eager to point you in the right direction, even if they don’t speak your language.

  • At Komba on the Rocks, we speak English, Afrikaans and the Malagasy dialect of Sakalava

We’re not a couple, can we still come?

Of course! Brothers, sisters and friends are all welcome. If you prefer not to sleep in the same bed (even if it’s a King Size) please let Management know ahead of time so we can arrange two 3/4 beds for you instead.

How can I be more sustainable while traveling?

We suggest bringing reef safe sunscreen and try to minimize single use plastics.