About Licorne
Licorne is a prominent dive site located in the Nosy Be region of Madagascar, known for its distinctive underwater topography and rich marine biodiversity. It is characterized by a series of plateaus that begin at depths of 13 to 16 meters before dramatically descending to 27-40 meters, with potential for even deeper exploration along its fault lines. The site's structure features vibrant fan and table corals covering steep sections of the reef, interspersed with numerous caves and crevices that provide shelter for smaller marine species. This diverse environment supports a variety of life, including hawkfish and shrimp within the reef's protected areas. Licorne experiences significant currents, making drift diving a common and exciting practice here. These currents also play a role in attracting larger pelagic species, particularly seasonally. Divers frequently encounter humpback whales, manta rays, mobula rays, and whale sharks, especially when plankton concentrations are high. The currents, combined with the depth profile, mean that multiple dives are often required to fully explore the site. This destination is often visited as part of a liveaboard itinerary, allowing for extended exploration and access to quieter, less crowded areas.
Highlights
Vibrant fan and table coralsSteep drop-offsDrift diving opportunitiesSeasonal whale shark encountersHumpback whale sightingsManta and mobula raysHawkfish and shrimp habitatsCaves and crevices
Season calendar
Best months to dive here
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Excellent
Good
Apr – Nov (Dry Season)
Best visibility and calm seas. Whale sharks from September, humpback whales July–September.
Dec – Mar (Wet Season)
Warmer water but reduced visibility due to rain and plankton. Still diveable with exciting pelagic activity.
Dive site facts: Licorne
- Depth
- 13–40 m
- Current
- Moderate
- Visibility
- 10-50 m
- Water temperature
- 24-28°C
- Entry
- Liveaboard or dayboat
- Level
- Intermediate
- Dive type
- Reef, Reef
- Region / port
- Madagascar
- Coordinates
- 13.3995° S, 48.1633° E
Conditions & Currents
Moderate to significant currents are a characteristic feature of Licorne, necessitating careful dive planning, often involving drift entries to manage the flow. Divers should be prepared to stay close to their group and utilize techniques appropriate for moving water. Surge is generally not mentioned as a primary concern; however, strong currents are a consistent factor. Visibility at the site is typically excellent, ranging from 10 to 50 meters, and water temperatures remain warm, between 24-28°C, with no indication of thermoclines. Given the potential for strong currents and the varied depth profile, including deeper sections, this site is best suited for intermediate to advanced divers comfortable with drift diving and managing dynamic conditions, ensuring proper gas planning and safety protocols.
Getting there & logistics
The primary international gateway to Madagascar is Ivato International Airport (TNR), situated approximately 16 km from the capital, Antananarivo. Divers can choose between liveaboard excursions or land-based operations, with reputable centers available, particularly in the Nosy Be region. It's important to note that many dive centers may close during the cyclone season, which typically runs from January to March. Travel time and specific itinerary combinations will vary depending on the chosen departure point and the extent of exploration planned for Madagascar's diverse dive regions.
Safety & environment
Ensuring proper dive insurance is paramount for any diving trip to Madagascar, as medical evacuation and recompression chamber access may be limited. While the exact location of the nearest recompression chamber is not specified for every dive site, divers should be aware that evacuation to a major medical facility or even out of the country might be necessary in case of a serious incident. Divers should adhere to PADI Standard Safe Diving Practices and consult local dive professionals for current site conditions and specific safety protocols.
Why dive Licorne from a liveaboard?
Licorne is one of Madagascar's signature dive sites. A liveaboard sleeps you on the water and puts you in the water for three to four guided dives per day, including dawn and night dives that day-boat operators rarely offer. You skip the daily commute back to port and reach quieter, less-crowded sites in the same region on a single trip.
Below are the liveaboards that include Licorne on their Madagascar itineraries.
Dive sites similar to Licorne
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© EsriMaxar, Earthstar, GIS
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The dive site known as "Abyss" is not specifically mentioned or described in the provided sources.
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Aldebaran Wreck
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- Liveaboard or dayboat
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