Extended Stay - Sainte-Marie Island

Nosy Boraha, or Île Sainte-Marie, is quite famous for Pirates, and whale watching. Thankfully, these days, whale watching is still a huge hit and Pirates haven't been spotted for at least 100 years! 

Île Sainte-Marie is a small island of Madagascar less than 10kms wide. The island has remained somewhat of a hidden gem as it exudes an "island living" sort of vibe without an abundance of tourists and big crowds. The island was a well-known stop off for many Indian Ocean Pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries. Although the island is said to still have some treasures buried, they are yet to be found.  

In addition to hosting remnants of Pirate history, perhaps one of the greatest reasons to visit here is the fact that during certain times of the year, typically from July to September, there are large numbers of Humpback Whales that come to breed and calve in the warm waters of the Bay. 

From an incredibly dense and lush forest to its breathtaking coastline the entire island boasts a picturesque moment at every corner and offers plenty of adventure too. 

Over the course of 5 days and 4 nights, you'll have a chance to experience some history, relaxation, and some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. 

Itinerary:

Day 1: Saint-Marie

Upon arrival to the airport of Sainte Marie Island, you can expect a very warm welcome and to then be transferred to your hotel, by car. 

Accommodation this evening will be at  Hotel Vanivola, Samaria Lodge, or Hotel Lakana pending availability.

Day 2: Saint-Marie - Natural Pools and Coconut Grove

This morning after you've enjoyed breakfast at the hotel, we will head off on our first adventure.  Our mode of transportation this morning will be the famous Tuk-tuk, also known as a type of Rickshaw. This morning we will enjoy the natural pools and coconut grove. As we cruise along this afternoon to the natural pools, we will be sure to stop near another natural wonder, a unique waterfall. Next, we will continue on back to the hotel. 

The afternoon is completely free for you to enjoy the island and/or make arrangements for some other great activities possible on the island.

Accommodation this evening will be at  Hotel Vanivola, Samaria Lodge, or Hotel Lakana pending availability.

Day 3:  Saint-Marie - Island aux Nattes

After breakfast this morning, we will leave the hotel to explore some more. Today we will transfer by boat to reach the Island aux Nattes. The island is very small, around 3km in diameter and home to approximately 1500 people, and is almost too serene and beautiful to be real. The island is as a postcard as they come - turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and scattered palm trees. The lagoon hosts to a well-preserved coral reef home to many different species of marine life.

Popular land marks on the island include the cemetery and the lighthouse. Today we will enjoy and explore this small island that does not have one car on it if you can believe it!

The afternoon as we make our way back to the hotel, is completely free for you to enjoy the island and/or make arrangements for some other great activities possible on the island.

Accommodation this evening will be at  Hotel Vanivola, Samaria Lodge, or Hotel Lakana pending availability.

Day 4: Saint-Marie

As you enjoy your breakfast this morning rest easy knowing that you're not scheduled me meet anyone at a particular time. The entire day is yours to do as you please. The island is a hikers paradise and also includes amazing coral reefs should you opt to dip below the surface of the water. There are plenty of opportunities for excursions or adventure today, but also, you're in one of the best locations to sunbathe and enjoy the beach in the entire world if that is more your forte. 

**Additional and optional excursions not included in the price, also listed below. 

Accommodation this evening will be at  Hotel Vanivola, Samaria Lodge, or Hotel Lakana pending availability.

Day 5:  Saint-Marie - Antananarivo

Your last day on the island this morning will include breakfast at your hotel before you're transferred to the airport of Sainte Marie to catch your flight to Antananarivo.      

• Whale Watching from July to September
• Excursion at the ilôt Sables
• Diving and snorkeling
• The island tour by car

• The transfers Airport / Hotel / Airport at Sainte Marie
• Bed and Breakfast Accommodation
• Activities with guide according to the program

Not Included:

• Beverages
• Tips
• "Other Activities" listed
• International and Domestic flight tickets