Découverte
Évasion Sainte-Marie
5 days / 4 nights
The essentials of the island: Île aux Nattes, secret beaches, and sunset over the bay.
- 4 nights in a sea view bungalow
- Île aux Nattes excursion
- Breakfasts
- Private transfers
From
1 110 €
Season
July to September (whales) · April to November (climate)
Duration
5 to 8 days recommended
Access
Domestic flight from Antananarivo (Tsaradia, ~1h) to Sainte-Marie airport
Climate
Humid tropical, 22–30 °C
From
1 110 €
About Sainte-Marie
Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha in Malagasy) is a narrow, 57 km long island located 8 km off the east coast of Madagascar. A former pirate haven, it has retained an authentic atmosphere far from mass tourism circuits.
Every year between July and September, humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to mate and give birth in its warm waters. This majestic ballet, which can be observed just a few meters away, makes Sainte-Marie one of the best whale-watching spots in the world.
The rest of the year, the island charms with its tropical rhythm: outrigger canoes, colorful markets, deserted beaches lined with coconut trees, and the magnificent Île aux Nattes, accessible on foot at low tide.
Don't miss
Must-sees
1
Humpback Whales
From July to September, watch from dedicated boats just a few meters from the giants of the sea.
2
Île aux Nattes
A paradise islet accessible by canoe, perfect for snorkeling and relaxing.
3
Pirates' Cemetery
Remains of a legendary past when Sainte-Marie served as a hideout for 17th-century buccaneers.
4
Ampanihy Bay
Turquoise lagoon in the south of the island, perfect for kitesurfing and canoe trips.
5
Antanandava Waterfall
Hike through the rainforest to a refreshing waterfall in the island's wild interior.
Suggested itinerary
6 days on site
Day 1
Arrival in Sainte-Marie
Flight from Tana, transfer to the lodge, first swim at sunset.
Day 2
Whale Watching
3-hour sea trip to observe humpback whales, accompanied by a certified guide.
Day 3
Île aux Nattes
Canoe crossing, snorkeling, lunch with your feet in the sand, return in the late afternoon.
Day 4
Island Tour
Discovery of the pirates' cemetery, the Baie des Forbans, and secret beaches in the north.
Day 5
Waterfall & Forest
Hike to the Antanandava waterfall, lunch with a local family.
Day 6
Relaxation & Return
Free morning, return flight to Antananarivo.
Flavors
Gastronomy
Romazava
National dish made with zebu stewed with brèdes mafana.
Grilled Fish
Captain or king mackerel caught of the day, served with rice and achards.
Coconut Punch
Local rum infused with fresh coconut, a specialty of the island.
Identity
Culture & people
The island is home to a warm Betsimisaraka community, partly descended from 17th-century European pirates. Oral traditions, Salegy music, and Famadihana festivals (turning of the bones) punctuate local life.
Language
Malagasy, French, English in hotels
Currency
Ariary (MGA), euros accepted in lodges
Where to stay
Recommended lodgings
Charming lodges
Wooden bungalows facing the ocean, chic Robinson Crusoe atmosphere (€80–200/night).
Comfortable hotels
3*–4* establishments with swimming pool and restaurant (€100–250/night).
Local inns
Simple homestay accommodations (€15–40/night).
Ready to book
Itinerary ideas
Three journeys crafted for Sainte-Marie, from quick discovery to premium expedition.
Premium
Sainte-Marie Baleines
7 days / 6 nights
The great humpback whale adventure + a complete tour of the island by bike and canoe.
- 6 nights in a 3* lodge
- 2 whale watching trips
- Guided island tour
- Half-board
From
1 590 €
Luxe
Sainte-Marie Robinson Luxe
10 days / 9 nights
Intimate lodge, whale watching by private boat, gourmet dinners facing the ocean.
- VIP transfers
- 9 nights in a premium eco-lodge
- Private boat for whale watching
- Spa & massages
- Full board
From
2 690 €
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for Madagascar?+
Yes, a tourist visa is issued upon arrival (€35/30 days, €40/60 days).
Is there malaria?+
Yes, prophylaxis is recommended + mosquito repellent in the evening.
Can you swim there all year round?+
Yes, the water is permanently 25–28 °C. Be cautious of riptides on the ocean side.
