Top 5 Excursions to Enjoy from Your Aparthotel in Sainte-Marie

Sainte‑Marie Island (Nosy Boraha), a jewel of Madagascar’s east coast, is far more than its postcard-perfect beaches. It offers a wealth of activities and excursions to discover lush nature , a rich culture and unspoilt landscapes .

Whether you are travelling as a couple, with family or with friends, here are the 5 must-do excursions departing from your accommodation — in particular from La Colombine Aparthotel , located in Ambodifotatra.

1. Île aux Nattes: a paradise escape within easy reach

Located to the south of Sainte‑Marie and accessible by traditional pirogue, Île aux Nattes is a small gem with a wonderfully timeless atmosphere.

• Walk around the island (2‑3h)
• Swimming in secluded coves
• Snorkelling above the coral reefs
• Lunch with your toes in the sand

Travel time: ~30 min from La Colombine (tuk‑tuk + pirogue).

2. The Pirates’ Cemetery and the Bay of Ambodifotatra

Sainte‑Marie was a haven for privateers in the 17th century. Today, a handful of remarkable vestiges bear witness to this extraordinary history.

• The Pirates’ Cemetery, unique in the world
• The bay of Ambodifotatra, perfect for a sunset stroll
• The old Catholic church (1857), the oldest in Madagascar

Access: on foot or by tuk‑tuk (less than 10 min from La Colombine).

3. Boat excursion to watch humpback whales (July–September)

Every year, humpback whales come to breed and calve in the calm waters surrounding Sainte‑Marie.

• Guided boat outing with a local guide
• Watch breaches, blows and songs
• Respectful, ethical distances maintained at all times

4. Primary forest trek and Antanandava waterfall

For nature lovers, an immersion in the tropical forest of Antanandava is an absolute must.

• Encounters with lemurs, chameleons and rare butterflies
• Discovery of the flora (orchids, pandanus, ferns)
• Swimming in the natural pool at the foot of the waterfall

5. Pirogue tour through the mangrove and fishing villages

For a genuine cultural immersion, set out to explore the mangrove channels and meet the local communities.

• Discovery of the mangrove’s fragile ecosystem
• Visits to traditional fishing villages
• Birdwatching and shell collecting

An authentic excursion that supports the local economy.

Bonus: more activity ideas around La Colombine

• Scuba diving (wrecks and reefs)
• Fishing trips with local fishermen
• Cycling along the east coast
• Ambodifotatra market (tropical fruits, spices, local crafts)

How to organise your excursions from La Colombine Aparthotel?

• Recommendations for trusted local guides
• Booking of sea, forest or pirogue excursions
• Arrangement of transfers by tuk‑tuk or scooter
• Tailor-made activities to suit your preferences

📍 More information: www.lacolombineaparthotel.com

Conclusion: Sainte‑Marie, an island to explore differently every day

Sainte‑Marie is far more than a beach destination. It is a land of history , nature , encounters and unique experiences.

Thanks to its ideal location, La Colombine Aparthotel is the perfect base for all your excursions, while offering a peaceful and comfortable setting.

Every day can become a new adventure — between ocean, forest and culture.

© — Sainte‑Marie (Nosy Boraha) Excursion Guide, Madagascar.