Sainte Marie Island

Madagascar, Africa

Sainte Marie Island, a captivating destination off Madagascar's northeastern coast, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich biodiversity. It's a paradise for whale watchers during the migration season, offering breathtaking views of humpback whales. The island is also home to vibrant coral reefs, coconut palms, and traditional Malagasy culture. Visitors can explore historic pirate graves, engage in water sports, or relax in idyllic beach settings, making it the perfect escape for adventure enthusiasts and tranquility seekers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Sainte Marie

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Sainte Marie Island

1

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Nosy Boraha

Discover stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the pirate cemetery

Explore the historical burial site of pirates.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkel at the coral reefs

Swim among colorful fish in pristine waters.

Booking required
4

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hike in the lush forests

Experience stunning landscapes and unique wildlife.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat tour

Enjoy a scenic voyage along the coastline.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend local festivals

Experience vibrant culture through music and dance.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Learn about vanilla farming

Discover the process of cultivating Madagascar's famous vanilla.

Booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on pristine beaches

Unwind on some of Madagascar's most beautiful shores.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Malagasy Ariary

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Malagasy

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Romazava

Beef and greens stew (National dish)

Ravitoto

Pork with cassava leaves

Lasopy

Vegetable soup with meat

Koba

VE

Rice cake with peanuts

Akoho sy Voanio

Chicken with coconut milk

Phrases to learn

English

Malagasy

Hello

Salama

(Sah-lah-mah)

Yes/No

Eny / Tsia

(Eh-nee / Tsee-ah)

Thank you

Misaotra

(Mee-sah-oh-tra)

Excuse me

Azafady

(Ah-zah-fah-dee)

How much?

Ohatra?

(Oh-hah-trah)