7 Days Sainte-Marie Madagascar Tour – Beach, Nature & Whale Watching
Discover Sainte-Marie Island, Madagascar
Sainte-Marie Island, also known as Nosy Boraha, is one of the most beautiful and authentic destinations in Madagascar. Located off the island’s northeastern coast, this tropical paradise offers a perfect combination of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, marine biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage.
Famous for its pirate history, preserved natural environment, and spectacular humpback whale migrations, Sainte-Marie attracts travelers seeking a peaceful and unforgettable island experience.
With its tropical landscapes, coconut palms, fishing villages, and coral reefs, Sainte-Marie is an ideal destination for nature lovers, marine wildlife enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a relaxing beach holiday in Madagascar.
This tour is organized by Zamilane Travel, a local Madagascar tour operator specializing in nature tours and authentic travel experiences.
Highlights of this Sainte-Marie Madagascar tour include:
✔ Whale watching safari (July–September)
✔ Discover the stunning Île aux Nattes and Île aux Sables
✔ Visit the historic Pirate Cemetery
✔ Explore mangroves by traditional canoe
✔ Hike through tropical forests and discover endemic plants
✔ Swim in the island’s famous natural rock pools
✔ Relax on beautiful tropical beaches
Every year between July and September, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to the warm waters around Sainte-Marie Island.
These calm tropical waters provide the perfect environment for whales to mate and give birth.
During whale watching excursions, visitors may observe spectacular behaviors such as:
- breaching (whales jumping out of the water)
• tail slapping
• interactions between mothers and calves
Sainte-Marie is considered one of the best whale watching destinations in the Indian Ocean.
Detailed Tour Program
Day 1 – Arrival in Sainte-Marie
Arrival at Sainte-Marie Airport, where you will be welcomed by our team.
Transfer to your hotel Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa.
Check-in and free time to relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 2 – Île aux Sables and Île aux Nattes Excursion
After breakfast, departure by car toward the southern part of the island to reach the boat departure point.
Boat transfer to Île aux Sables, located about 7 km east of Sainte-Marie. This beautiful sandbank is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in crystal-clear waters.
You may also observe seabirds nesting on the small preserved islands nearby.
Return to the main island and continue to Île aux Nattes, one of the most charming islands in Madagascar.
Lunch by the sea in a tropical setting.
In the afternoon:
- boat tour around the island
• walk through the village
• visit to La Maison Blanche viewpointto enjoy a spectacular sunset
Return transfer to the hotel.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 3 – Whale Watching and Pirate Cemetery
After breakfast, departure for a whale watching safari (seasonal activity from July to September).
During this excursion you may observe the famous humpback whales that migrate to Sainte-Marie each year.
Lunch at Princess Bora Lodge.
In the afternoon, departure by tuk-tuk or car to visit the famous Pirate Cemetery, where you will learn about the island’s fascinating pirate history.
Continue to Îlot Forban, offering panoramic views over a beautiful bay.
The excursion continues with a visit to Îlot Madame, connected to the history of Queen Betia, including:
- her former residence
• a small local aquarium
You will also visit the first stone Catholic church built on Sainte-Marie Island.
Return to the hotel.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 4 – Natural Swimming Pool Discovery
After breakfast facing the ocean, departure toward the northern part of Sainte-Marie, which is more authentic and less visited.
The famous Natural Swimming Pool is located at the northern tip of the island.
During the journey you will pass through traditional villages where local houses are built using ravinala (traveler’s palm) roofs and raised on stilts.
Stop along the way to visit a beautiful tropical waterfall.
This excursion also offers a great opportunity to discover the daily life and culture of the local Malagasy population.
Upon arrival at the natural pool, a local guide will explain the traditions, taboos, and history of this sacred place.
Lunch on site before returning to the hotel in the afternoon.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 5 – Forest Hiking and Mangrove Discovery
Today is dedicated to exploring the flora and fauna of Sainte-Marie Island.
Transfer by car to the starting point of a hike in Kalalao Forest.
The hike lasts approximately 3 hours through lush tropical vegetation where you may observe birds, endemic plants, and butterflies.
Around midday, arrival in Agnafiafy for lunch in a traditional restaurant serving products from the mangrove ecosystem.
In the afternoon, board a traditional pirogue canoe to explore the Ampanihy Bay mangrove, a rich ecosystem home to many species of fish and birds.
Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 6 – Free Day
Free day to relax on the beach, enjoy the hotel facilities, or explore the island at your own pace.
Optional excursion to Île aux Nattes if you wish to spend more time enjoying its beautiful beaches.
Dinner and overnight: Mantis Soanambo Hotel
Day 7 – Departure
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Sainte-Marie Airport for your departure flight.
End of our services.
Tour organized by Zamilane Travel – Madagascar Tour Operator
7 days and 6 nights
Number of travelers: 2 persons
1250€/ per person
Full board
Included in the Price:
✔ Accommodation in double room at Mantis Soanambo Hotel & Spa (4★)
✔ Breakfast and lunch during the stay in Sainte-Marie
✔ Airport transfers on arrival and departure
✔ Excursion to Île aux Sables and Île aux Nattes
✔ Transfers to Île aux Nattes during free time
✔ Guided hike in Kalalao Forest
✔ Mangrove exploration by traditional pirogue
✔ Visit to Pirate Cemetery and Îlot Forban
✔ Whale watching safari (or diving activity depending on season)
✔ Excursion to the Natural Swimming Pool and waterfall
✔ Local guide and tuk-tuk driver during excursions
✔ Assistance from the Zamilane Travel team
Not Included:
✘ Drinks during the stay
✘ Lunch on arrival and departure days
✘ Tips and personal expenses
✘ Activities not mentioned in the program
Best Travel Period
The best time to visit Sainte-Marie Island is between July and September, when humpback whales migrate to the region.
However, the island remains a beautiful destination throughout the year thanks to its tropical climate and peaceful beaches.
FAQ – Sainte-Marie Madagascar Tour
The best whale watching season is July to September.
Sainte-Marie (Nosy Boraha) is located off Madagascar’s northeast coast in the Indian Ocean.
Yes. The island offers beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a beach holiday.
Popular activities include whale watching, snorkeling, island excursions, forest hikes, and cultural visits.
