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Sainte-Marie, the Pirate Island
Humpback whales, a pirate cemetery and wild beaches on the east coast.
6Days
- Duration6 days / 5 nights
- RegionSainte-Marie Island · Île aux Nattes
- Departure fromAntananarivo
- TransportPrivate transfers and Antananarivo – Sainte-Marie flight
- AccommodationHotel
- MealsBreakfasts
- Best periodJuly to September (whales)
- Tour typeIslands & beaches
- LevelEasy
- Group2 to 8 travellers
- LanguagesAssistance in French and English
- VisaDepending on your nationality
Overview
Sainte-Marie was a pirate hideout in the 17th and 18th centuries. Today it is a quiet island fringed with beaches and coconut palms, where humpback whales come to calve between July and September.
A nature and relaxation stay, with a stopover in Antananarivo to discover the capital.
Highlights
- Whale watching (July to September)
- Île aux Nattes
- Pirate cemetery
- Wild beaches
- Seafood cuisine
- Bike or pirogue rides
Ideal profile
- Couples
- Nature lovers
- Travellers seeking calm
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 01Arrival in Antananarivo
- Airport welcome
- Night at the hotel
Day 02Flight to Sainte-Marie
- Hotel check-in
- Beach and sunset
Day 03Island tour
- Pirate cemetery
- Natural pools
Day 04Île aux Nattes
- Pirogue crossing
- Waterside lunch
Day 05Whales or relaxation
- Boat trip (July to September)
- Free time the rest of the year
Day 06Departure
- Return flight
- Airport transfer
Indicative programme, adjustable to your dates, pace and the weather.
What's included
Included
- Accommodation (5 nights)
- Breakfasts
- Private transfers
- Antananarivo - Sainte-Marie return flight
- Excursions listed in the programme
- ZEN Travel assistance
Not included
- International flights
- Madagascar visa
- Lunches and dinners outside the programme
- Drinks, tips and personal expenses
- Whale-watching outing outside the season
- Travel insurance
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Sainte-Marie island?
By domestic flight from Antananarivo, round trip included in the pack. The crossing to Île aux Nattes is then by pirogue.
When can I see the whales?
From July to September, peaking in August. Outside that period the programme focuses on beaches and island discovery.
Do I need a visa for Madagascar?
It depends on your nationality. We tell you which steps and documents are needed when we prepare your quote, but you remain responsible for the validity of your travel documents.
Can the programme be changed?
Yes. Dates, length, stops, accommodation and activities can be adapted to your wishes and budget: request a personalised quote.
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