Lokobe Strict Nature Reserve ***

Located on the island of Nosy Be in northwestern Madagascar, the Lokobe Strict Nature Reserve protects the only large block of intact forest remaining on this tourist island. It is easily accessible and close to the capital of Hellville, and can actually be seen from Hellville itself. Several tours visit forests around this reserve, and local guides usually know the whereabouts of black lemurs (Eulemur macaco) and daytime sleeping sites for Nosy Be sportive lemurs (Lepilemur tymerlachsonorum), both of which are quite easy to observe. This is also the only place where one can see the Nosy Be mouse lemur (Microcebus mamiratra). Several enterprising villagers run tours to the edge of the reserve. One that is easy access starts at the village of Ambatozavavy, a few kilometers from Hellville, goes 20–30 minutes by outrigger canoe to the village of Ampasipohy, and from there into the forest a few minutes away. An overnight stay at one of the two hotels at Ampasipohy is highly recommended. One is called the Paradisa-Kely and the other the Jungle Lodge, and both are quite comfortable and located right on the beach.