Exploring the Hidden Gem of Sainte-Marie Island

Madagascar, an island in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its unique biodiversity and natural beauty. One of its hidden gems is the enchanting Sainte-Marie Island, where the Mantis Collection has recently breathed new life into the Soanambo Hotel. With 48 rooms, the Soanambo Hotel is the largest on the island and offers all the comforts, activities, and services you’d expect for a high-end getaway.

Sainte-Marie is a small, charming, and family-friendly destination with a peaceful ambiance.

Travel highlights include:

• Whale watching – plan your visit for July or August and witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through these waters.
• Explore the island and it’s picturesque villages by bike or Tuktuk
• Île aux Nattes – a short boat ride from Sainte-Marie takes you to Île aux Nattes, a tiny island paradise known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
• Pirates’ Cemetery – a testament to the island’s history and the legends of pirates who once roamed these waters.

Private Plane Tour of Madagascar

Sense of Oceans organized a one-of-a-kind tour of Madagascar in a Cessna Caravan private plane for a Swiss family of 2 adults and 3 children.

Highlights of the trip:

• Spotting lemurs in the rainforest of Ranomafana National Park
• The Great South – a destination that combines nature and culture in every sense with its multitude of parks and diverse ethnic groups. Stay at Mandrare River Camp in luxury tents.
• Hiking in the otherwordly Isalo Park and accommodation at the Rock Lodge.
• The famous Baobabs Avenue in Morondava.
• An incredible flight over the Tsingy of the West (Stone Forest) in Bemaraha National Park.
• A luxury stay at Anjajavy Le Lodge, the only Relais et Chateaux property in Madagascar with 20 seaview villas and 4 premium villas.

Birdwatching in Madagascar – A 100% Endemic Adventure

If you’re a bird enthusiast, Madagascar offers a wealth of bird species, some of which are incredibly rare and others that pass through the island’s lush forests. In October and November, Sense of Oceans is hosting two groups of birdwatchers eager to discover Madagascar’s avian treasures.

Accompanied by passionate guides, you’ll embark on early morning excursions to observe these amazing species. Your birdwatching journey will take you to diverse ecosystems, including:

• Rainforests of the East: Explore Iaroka, Mantadia, Ranomafana, and Vohiparara, where you’ll encounter an array of birdlife amidst lush, tropical landscapes.
• Dry Forests of the South West: Visit Isalo, Zombitse, and St. Augustin, known for their unique flora and fauna.
• Mangroves and Salt Ponds of the Mozambique Channel: Witness the incredible bird species that call the coastal mangroves and salt ponds home.

Contact Sense of Oceans DMC to make your travel dreams a reality in Madagascar!