activities and excursions in ile aux nattes and ile sainte marie with madagascat
WHERE TO GO AND WHAT TO DO ILE SAINTE MARIE AND ILE AUX NATTESS
Both islands have plenty on offer! The common denominator being R & R!
This is a selection of the most popular excursions and activities that we recommend you include in your holiday. Your lodge will be able to assist you with booking any of these.
DIVING in ile sainte marie
Princesse Bora has an excellent dive centre from which you can explore the extensive reefs around the islands. The centre has quality equipment and qualified PADI instructors. Diving programs are adapted for all levels of divers, starting with initiations in the swimming-pool for children from 8 old and above. Discover the coral reefs of Sainte-Marie, shipwrecks, or try a night dive.
FISHING in ile sainte marie
Your chosen accommodation management will be able to hook you up with local fishing charter companies. Barracuda, Bonita, jackfish, sea bream, snapper, tuna, GT, Mackerel etc. are all waiting for you to give them some fun and games!
Most outfits will have fishing gear either included in the charter rate or for hire.
whale watching ile sainte marie
Humpback whales migrate during winter from Antarctica to warmer water for reproduction and for giving birth. The channel between Ile Sainte Marie and ‘mainland’ Madagascar is one of these breeding sites. Humpback whales can reach up to 16 meters long and can weigh up to 30 tons!
kite surfing madagascar
The dominant south to south east winds are between May and September and this is just the spot for kite surfing enthusiasts and beginners! The best spot is Ankarena lagoon on the east coast. Princesse Bora has a centre where you can hire equipment and surf with their team. You could also bring your own but often baggage allowances don’t allow for this.
Cycling in ile sainte marie
Cycling on both islands is rewarding although Sainte Marie has a lot more space to offer than Ile Aux Nattes. Peddling at your own pace under road side palm trees, experience what is going on around you as you quietly cycle through the friendly villages along side the white beaches.
You can enquire about bicycle hire at your lodge.
illots au sables (Sand Islands)
These white sand banks are on a coral base surrounded by a natural aquarium within a magnificent turquoise lagoon. Mad up of three islets Nosy Rinditra, Nosy Andromba and Nosy Alanana are collectively known as Illots aux Sables. You will find a large variety of shells, superb coral reefs to snorkel or free dive and, depending on the season, many birds come to nest on the island. Fady (local customs) dictates that it is forbidden to visit the islands on Tuesday and Thursday. Pork and raffia are also taboo there.
rest & relaxation spas in ile sainte marie
You will be able to arrange for a heavenly massage from any of the lodges but Princesse Bora has an excellent Spa that visitors to the hotel may use. A unique experience awaits you at ‘The Jungle Spa in this serene and intimate place. Start with a revitalizing citrus bath in a traditional pirogue. Continue with a wild honey body scrub which softens skin. Complete the session with a relaxing massage with ivahona oils.
discover sainte marie
Discover Sainte-Marie by quad, 4×4 or motorbike. Explore the most beautiful landscapes of Sainte-Marie during a day of adventure. With a guide, you will pass through local villages, forests, beaches, mangroves, rice fields and so much more. You will learn everything about vanilla, cinnamon, clove and orchids, and the Malagasy way of life.
You will also visit the world’s only Pirate Cemetery and Madagascar’s oldest Catholic Church
