Humpback Whale Watching
Fijerena trozona
From July to September each year, thousands of humpback whales come to the channel to breed and nurse their calves. Boat trips bring you close enough to watch them breach.
The channel between Sainte-Marie Island and mainland Madagascar has warm water and gentle seas. Every year, during the southern hemisphere winter, large numbers of humpback whales migrate here from Antarctica to court and give birth, making it one of the world's best-known whale-watching destinations. Whale-watching boats usually depart from Ambodifotatra and the jetties of the hotels, and trips last about 2 to 3 hours. You often see whales breaching, slapping their tails, and mothers swimming alongside their calves. Choose a licensed operator that follows whale-watching guidelines on distance and time limits. Rough seas can easily cause seasickness.
Opening hours
Seasonal; mostly morning departures
Nearby sights
- Pirate Cemetery
- Église Saint-Joseph
- Ambodifotatra
- Baie d'Ampanihy
- Île aux Nattes
- La Crique Beach
- Ambodiatafana Natural Pools