Nosy Ankao reef-protected archipelago

Time + Tide Miavana, Madagascar

The 37,000-acre protected marine area surrounding the island, home to dolphins, manta rays and whales.

Places in Nosy Ankao reef-protected archipelago

Under-the-stars destination dining A fine-dining experience savoured under the stars, featuring freshly caught seafood.

Best time to visit: April to December, avoiding Madagascar's cyclone season, for calm seas ideal for kite surfing, fishing and boat excursions to see whales.
Getting around: Guests typically fly into Nosy Be or Diego Suarez in northern Madagascar, then transfer via helicopter directly to Nosy Ankao, the only way to access the island; once at Miavana, the resort's grounds and beach are explored on foot, with boats used for excursions to the surrounding archipelago.
Currency: Malagasy Ariary (Ar)
Language: Malagasy and French (both official); English is spoken at the lodge.
Timezone: EAT (UTC+3)
Current trends: Miavana continues to trade on its extreme exclusivity, with helicopter-only access to a protected 37,000-acre reef archipelago reinforcing its position as one of the Indian Ocean's most difficult-to-reach ultra-luxury properties; its Italian-inspired indoor grotto with wine cellar alongside beachfront destination dining reflects a broader trend of varied, mood-driven dining formats across the villas, beach, and under-the-stars settings.

Villa beachfront row — 14 villas with direct beach access and sensational Indian Ocean views.
Indoor grotto and wine cellar — An Italian-inspired indoor dining grotto with its own wine cellar.