Nicknamed Nosy Boraha, Île Sainte-Marie is a tropical jewel off the eastern coast of Madagascar. This narrow island, nearly 30 miles long, is an authentic and preserved destination, offering an idyllic landscape of traditional fishing villages, white-sand beaches lined with coconut palms, and lush vegetation. A former pirate haven, the island has a rich and romanticized history that adds to its mysterious charm, while the warm hospitality of its inhabitants makes it an unforgettable place to visit.

Name and Address

• Name: Île Sainte-Marie (official name), also known by its Malagasy name, Nosy Boraha.
• Address: Located in the Indian Ocean, off the northeastern coast of Madagascar. The main town is Ambodifotatra.

How to Get There

The island is accessible by air and sea, offering different options depending on your budget and timeframe.

• By Air: This is the fastest method. The Sainte-Marie Airport (SMS), located at the southern tip of the island, is served by regular flights from Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, and Toamasina. The flight from Antananarivo takes about one hour.
• By Sea: For a more adventurous approach, boats connect the island to the east coast of Madagascar. The crossing is typically made from the town of Soanierana Ivongo to the port of Ambodifotatra and takes a few hours.

Landscape and Architecture

The landscape of Île Sainte-Marie is an enchanting mix of tropical nature and historical remnants.

• Natural Landscape: The island features a central chain of green hills, primary forests, mangroves, and a spectacular lagoon protected by a coral reef. This makes it an ideal spot for safe swimming and diving. To the south, the tiny, paradise-like Île aux Nattes (Nosy Nato) is separated from the main island by a narrow channel.
• Architecture and Historic Sites: The architecture consists mainly of traditional buildings and a few colonial-era structures. The island is home to Madagascar’s oldest Catholic church (1857) in Ambodifotatra. Remnants of its tumultuous past are visible across the island, most notably the famous pirate cemetery in Saint-Pierre, where tombstones engraved with skulls and crossbones mark the golden age of piracy. Several historic lighthouses, like the Eiffel Lighthouse, are also found here.

What Makes It Famous

Île Sainte-Marie is world-renowned for reasons that go beyond its dreamlike beaches.

• Humpback Whale Sanctuary: Every year from June to September, the warm waters of the Sainte-Marie channel become the stage for a magnificent natural spectacle. Hundreds of humpback whales migrate from Antarctica to breed and give birth here, making it one of the best whale-watching locations in the world.
• Its Pirate History: During the 17th and 18th centuries, the island was a strategic base for many famous pirates and privateers. Legends of hidden treasure and maritime adventures still permeate the island’s atmosphere.
• Authenticity and Tranquility: Far from mass tourism, Sainte-Marie has managed to maintain its authentic character. Life here is paced by nature, with a peaceful atmosphere centered around fishing villages that is perfect for relaxation.
• Marine Biodiversity: Its coral reefs host a rich array of marine life, offering exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling sites where you can see colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and even a few pirate shipwrecks.

Differences from Other Wonders

Sainte-Marie stands out from other tropical destinations in several unique ways.

• Focus on Ecotourism: Unlike many other tourist islands, Sainte-Marie emphasizes nature observation (whales, lemurs) and sustainable tourism, offering a more authentic and environmentally-friendly experience.
• A Unique Pirate History: While many islands have a colonial past, few can boast such a rich and well-documented history tied to the golden age of piracy. This gives it a unique cultural and historical dimension.
• A “Dual World” (Land and Sea): The destination is not just famous for its beaches but also for its spectacular marine life. The annual humpback whale migration is a world-class event that puts it in a class of its own.
• Preserved Character: Compared to more developed islands like Nosy Be (in northwestern Madagascar), Sainte-Marie is often seen as wilder, quieter, and less affected by large-scale tourism, attracting travelers who are seeking tranquility and authenticity.