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Sainte Marie Madagascar Tour

Helinirina Raharomanana – Madagascar Tours Guide

• 10 days / 09 nights
• Minimum age: 10 years
• Availability: All year
• Sainte Marie
• Maximum number of persons: 40

Sainte Marie Madagascar Tour - Itinerary

Circuit : Antananarivo – Andasibe National Park– Tamatave – Foulpointe et Mahambo – Ste Marie – Iles aux Nattes.

• Day 1 – Arrival in Antananarivo – Visit of the city of thousands
• Day 2 – Andasibe National Park
• Day 3 – Departure for Tamatave – visit of the city
• Day 4 – Tamatave – Foulpointe and Mahambo
• Day 5 – Mahambo
• Day 6 – Departure for Ste Marie – Visit from North to South, from West to East
• Day 7 – Free day in Ste Marie
• Day 8 – Ste Marie – Iles aux Nattes
• Day 9 – Return to Ste Marie – Return to Antananarivo
• Day 10 – Country of origin

Sainte Marie Madagascar Tour - Details of the itinerary

Just landed on the island of dreams, heading to the paradise island of eastern Madagascar ! This is possible thanks to the Sainte-Marie Madagascar tour proposed by Madagascar Tours Guide. The objective is to visit this pearl of tourism in the east of Madagascar in 7 days and realize the dream of visitors to spend an unforgettable moment in the Big Island of the Indian Ocean. This 7 days tour will make discover the beauty of the east coast of Madagascar from the capital to the island of Sainte Marie.

Day 1 - Arrival in Antananarivo - Visit of the city of thousands

On the first day of your arrival in Antananarivo, the capital of Madagascar, the team of Madagascar  Tours Guide welcomes you at the international airport of Ivato and installs you in your hotel.

In the afternoon, your guide will accompany you for a tour of the unavoidable places of the capital such as the district of the upper town, the district of Antaninarenina, next to the presidential palace, the market of the Analakely pavilion… Towards the end of the afternoon, you will join your hotel to rest while waiting for the departure towards the eastern part of the island.

Day 2 - Andasibe National Park

After a crossing of a central highlands landscape from the capital, the adventure begins on the descent of the escarpment of the eastern part of Madagascar to reach the intermediate plateau before joining the park of Andasibe at 140 km from the capital along the National Road 2.

On the program, visit of the lemurs’ islet, visit of the crocodiles’ park in canoe, discovery of the reptiles’ species. The park in two big parts : the Park Mantadia and the Reserve of Indri of Analamazaotra for a total surface of 16 000Ha. Discover in the sector of Indri of Analamazaotra the biggest species of lemur known under the name of Indri Indri as well as a variety of vegetable species of which ferns, medicinal plants and woods of precious essences. As for the Park of Mantadia, the ornithologists will find there their account thanks to the various species of birds, rare insects, reptiles and some varieties of lemurs. To better discover this vast park of Andasibe, travelers do it through the Madagascar tour accompanied in small group. At the end of the visit, you will be driven to your hotel in Andasibe.

Day 3 - Departure for Tamatave - Visit of the city

Early the next day, after a day rich in discovery of fauna and flora, direction the city of Tamatave. The adventure towards the east coast continues by criss-crossing the ravinala landscape (traveler’s tree) along the winding route of the National Road 2 to the big city of Tamatave, the capital of the Atsinanana region. Tamatave being also the arrival point of the Pangalanes canal tour which begins in the south-west of the island by following the Pangalanes canal on board the motor boat.

After a late lunch in the middle of the afternoon, it is time to visit the old colonial city, t he Bazary Be (big market) or the visit of the first big port of the country. This walk can be done on foot to the places not far away or on board of rickshaws to go further. Visitors can take advantage of the evening to experience a festive atmosphere with kabob vendors in the vicinity of the big port and in the neighborhoods before returning to the hotel. This itinerary is also common for the other circuits such as west to east tour which reserves a discovery along the axis that crosses the island in its width.

Day 4 - Tamatave - Foulpointe

On the fourth day, after breakfast, your guide will drive you to Foulpointe at 60 km from Tamatave. Foulpointe is known for its lagoon allowing visitors to enjoy swimming and canoeing on a site well protected by the coral reef.

Arriving on site in the middle of the morning, you will visit a historical relic from the time of Radama I, king of Madagascar who built a fort north of Foulpointe. This fort was built to better see the arrival of enemy troops from the Indian Ocean and to better protect the country against invasion from the east. The Manda (fort) is equipped with cannons pointed towards the sea. In the afternoon, you will enjoy swimming in the lagoon before reaching your hotel in the evening.

Day 5 - Mahambo

The next day, you will leave in direction of Mahambo located at 90 km from Tamatave. You will start by discovering a traditional village in the form of huts whose walls and roofs are made with dried ravenala leaves (traveler’s tree) . Mahambo has kept its authenticity in the middle of a well preserved ecosystem.

In spite of its large lagoon, its beaches both calm and magnificent, its dense and luxuriant vegetation, Mahambo remains less popular than Foulpointe. It is nevertheless an ideal ground for the amateurs of surfing thanks to a wind favorable to the practice and the improvement of this activity. After a pleasant day in Mahambo, you will be able to join your hotel to rest before the next stage in Sainte Marie.

Day 6 - Departure for Sainte Marie - Visit from North to South, from West to East

The day after the 6th day of your Sainte Marie Madagascar tour, you will leave for Nosy Boraha, another name of the island of Sainte Marie.  It is the best choice of destination for a total change of scenery in an idyllic setting, surrounded by turquoise blue seas, beautiful beaches with white sands. This is one of the reasons why Sainte Marie remains a must in many tours such as the Madagascar Wonders Tour.

In a word, it is a real paradise lost in a remote corner of the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, you will have the choice of transportation : cab, 4L, scooter, tuc-tuc or pirogue to visit the island from north to south and from west to east. Before reaching the hotel in the evening, a walk in the nearby beaches under the shade of coconut trees is a must to appreciate the beauty of this island. Although the itinerary is different, this destination is also in the list of places of passage of the east coast of Madagascar tour.

Day 7 - Free day in Sainte Marie

For this free day, you will always be accompanied by your tour guide who will be able to advise you on the activities to do or the places to visit. Among others, the visit of the two famous lighthouses of Sainte Marie, the Blevec lighthouse and the Eiffel lighthouse. If you are a little curious about the history of the island, the visit of the Museum of the Islet Madame as well as the Pirate Cemetery is a must.

Other magnificent places like the natural swimming pools of Ambodiatafana formed by wave basins of sea water and a barrier of black rocks or the waterfalls of Antanandava at 10 km from Ambodifotatra will not leave you indifferent. To finish this day, you can discover the fauna and flora of the botanical and zoological park of Ambodiforaha and the sumptuous beach of the bay of Ampanihy.

Day 8 – Ste Marie – Île aux Nattes

Apart from the sea trip, the scuba diving, the mountain bike or motorcycle ride, the visit of the traditional villages and the pirates’ cemetery and especially the whale safari , the visit of the “Ile aux Nattes” at the extreme south of Sainte Marie is the cherry on the cake. The journey to the island of Mats is done in a few minutes and once there, you can walk around the island along the beach.

If your Sainte Marie Madagascar tour or your vanilla coast cruise falls between the months of July and September, enjoy the natural spectacle offered by the humpback whales as they pass close to the island during this period. By taking a boat trip, you will be able to witness up close the leaps and parades of the whales that have come to the warmer sea of the Indian Ocean to mate and give birth. Towards the end of the afternoon, your tour guide will take you to your hotel in Sainte Marie.

Day 9 - Return to Sainte Marie - Return to Antananarivo

For this last day of your Sainte Marie Madagascar tour, you can still enjoy the beach in the morning depending on the time of your flight to Antananarivo. Your driver guide will then drive you to the airport to join the capital.

You will then be met at Ivato International Airport and settled into your hotel. The rest of the day, a visit to the royal palace of Ambohimanga or other relics of the history of the kingdom of Madagascar such as the Rova (Palace) of the Queen at Manjakamiadana, that of Ilafy, Antongona or Antsahadinta could be part of the program. At the end of the visit, you will relax in your hotel before your departure to your country of origin the next day.

Day 10 - Country of origin

On the day of your departure to your home country, your driver guide will meet you at your hotel to take you back to the airport. He will not fail to drive you to the craft market to allow you to buy some souvenirs of your stay in Madagascar. Your guide will then take care of your transfer before your final departure.

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FAMOUS SOO LOCKS BOAT TOURS

Make your visit to the UP memorable with a trip through the Soo Locks.

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Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours provides an educational tour of historic Sault Ste. Marie and an engaging experience of passing through the Soo Locks. Proudly operating since 1959, Famous continues the tradition of highlighting history and attractions for a relaxing and memorable experience for locals and visitors. Our yellow and blue boats, the Nokomis and LeVoyageur , accommodate 150 passengers and feature a full snack bar with beer, wine and hard seltzers.

The Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours team includes loyal and dedicated captains, crew and staff members. Captain Richard Brawley, who serves as President, is the son-in-law of one of the original founders of Famous Soo Locks Cruises, Inc. We are also proud to tell you about John Lowes, our senior Captain, who started his career with us at the age of 18, and celebrates 46 years with us this year. The entire Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours crew is committed to making your experience the highlight of your visit to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan!

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Enjoy both an up-bound and down-bound lockage through the Soo Locks.

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THE SOO LOCKS VISITORS CENTER IS OPEN

The Visitors Center is open daily 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. until the end of October. The Soo Locks Park and Observation Deck are open daily 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. in June, July and August; 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. in May, September and October; and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. all other months of the year.

A WONDER OF ENGINEERING & HUMAN INGENUITY

Affectionately called the “Linchpin of the Great Lakes” by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, the Soo Locks are a remarkable feat of engineering and human ingenuity that connect Lakes Superior and Huron. The locks operate by raising and lowering boats between the levels of Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes using a series of gates and chambers. Water and boats are moved solely by the force of gravity. The Soo Locks date back to the mid-1800s and are a popular tourist destination, attracting an estimated 500,000 visitors annually.

The Soo Locks, located on the St. Marys River, allow freighters to navigate between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and international markets. This essential transportation link moves nearly 86 million tons of cargo annually, including 95% of the United States’ iron ore.

Most ships utilize the Poe Lock, which was rebuilt in 1968 to accommodate larger and more modern ships. The MacArthur Lock, which is closest to Sault Ste. Marie, is also still in operation and was named after General Douglas MacArthur. The Davis and Sabin Locks were built in 1914 and 1919 respectively, but currently, only the Poe and MacArthur Locks are operational. However, construction of a new Soo Lock is currently underway, which will be the same size as the Poe Lock.

Construction of a new Soo Lock began in 2019, and it is expected to take up to 10 years to complete. The project as of 2023 now costs $3.22 billion, more than three times its initial price tag, due to labor shortages, supply chain disruptions, and material cost increases over the past four years. The new lock will be built adjacent to the Poe Lock and will be the same size, allowing for more efficient traffic flow and reducing delays. The project is seen as critical to the U.S. economy and national security, as the Great Lakes shipping industry is a vital part of the country’s transportation infrastructure. The new Soo Lock will ensure continued reliable and safe navigation of goods and materials through the Great Lakes, helping to support economic growth and maintain the region’s competitiveness in global markets.

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SEE THE SHIPS & EXPLORE THE PARK

Visitors to the Soo Locks can take in the sights and sounds of mammoth lake freighters and distinctive vessels, such as tall ships, sailboats, cruise ships, and military crafts locking into Lake Superior or Huron. The observation platform located in the Soo Locks Park provides a fantastic vantage point to watch the locking process. The park also boasts a lit fountain, manicured gardens, a beautiful Japanese archway, and trees representing those found throughout the Upper Peninsula.

The Soo Locks Visitor Center is located near the entryway into the park. The center offers a wealth of information about the history of the Soo Locks and the Great Lakes region as a whole. Numerous displays and interactive exhibits provide educational opportunities for all ages.

The historic 1899 US Weather Bureau Building is located to the left of the park’s main entrance and now houses the Great Lakes Shipwreck Historical Society. It offers a public exhibit, museum store sales area, and access to the Shipwreck Society’s noted Great Lakes Images and Papers Collection.

• The Soo Locks are 100% gravity-fed and require no pumps.
• To lift or lower a boat, the Poe Lock alone requires an astonishing 22 million gallons of water.
• During repairs, the locks are closed from January 15 to March 25 each year.
• The bedrock beneath the locks is 1,000 feet thick and is made from reddish sandstone.
• It would take 584 train cars to move 70,000 tons of cargo or one 1,000ft freighter.
• The Paul R. Tregurtha is the largest freighter that uses the Poe Lock. It measures in at 1,013.5′ feet long and 105′ wide.

THE FIRST LOCKS

The history of the Soo Locks dates back to the region’s earliest days when the Ojibway Indians portaged their canoes around the “Bawating” (rapids) to reach Lake Superior from the St. Marys River. The Ojibway were originally hunter-gatherers and traders, and they traveled extensively throughout the region by canoe. The area around the Soo Locks was an important gathering place and trading center for the Ojibway for many years. The Ojibway also used the rapids of the St. Marys River, which the Soo Locks were built to bypass, as an important fishing area.

THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT & THE SOO LOCKS

As trade increased and larger boats became prevalent in the Northwest Territory, the process of unloading and hauling cargo around the rapids in wagons became necessary. In 1797, the Northwest Fur Company constructed a 38-foot navigation lock on the Canadian side of the river for small boats. This lock remained in use until the War of 1812, when it was destroyed. Subsequently, freighters and boats had to be portaged around the rapids once again.

In 1852, Congress passed an act granting 750,000 acres of public land to the State of Michigan as compensation to the company that would build a lock permitting waterborne commerce between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes. In 1853, the Fairbanks Scale Company, with extensive mining interests in the Upper Peninsula, undertook this challenging construction project.

The first chamber to be built was the State Lock, completed in 1855. This lock tamed the 21-foot difference in water levels between Lake Superior and the other Great Lakes and made easy transport between the two possible.

The Federal Government took control of the property and the lock system in the 1870s. Boats that passed through the State Lock were required to pay a toll of four cents per ton until 1877, when the toll was reduced to three cents.

Within a few years, commerce through the canal had grown to national importance and the need for new locks became clear. The funds required exceeded the state’s capabilities, and in 1881, the locks were transferred to the United States government and were placed under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps has operated the locks toll-free since that time.

The Weitzel Lock opened in 1881, and the original Poe Lock, named after Orlando Poe, was completed in 1896. The Davis and Sabin Locks were built in 1914 and 1919, respectively. The MacArthur Lock, named after General Douglas MacArthur, was constructed in 1943, and the Poe Lock was rebuilt in 1968 to accommodate larger and more modern ships such as the 13 1,000 footers of the Great Lakes.

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The Ultimate Guide to Ile Sainte Marie and Ile Aux Nattes

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• Last Updated On: August 10, 2022

Ile Sainte Marie (also known as Nosy Boraha), a tropical island off Madagascar’s east coast, is one of Madagascar’s premier beaches and a backpacker’s paradise. With countless coconut trees, white sand beaches, and intensely turquoise water, it’s not hard to see why this place was once a big pirate hangout. While this island receives some tourism, comparatively to other island paradises of the world, this place is so secluded and hasn’t experienced the effects of mass tourism…yet.

I spent over a month traveling through this Madagascar and I made sure to write as much detail as possible in this post to make it your ultimate Madagascar travel guide!

Getting to Ile Sainte Marie

Most people elect to fly to ISM from Antananarivo via Air Madagascar . Prices are expensive (~$240 one way), so we elected to continue eastward in our 4×4 from Andasibe National Park, through Tamatave (Toamasina), to the ferry terminal at  Soanierana-Ivongo .

The drive east towards Tamatave again shows the geo-diversity of this island. It’s so incredibly green on this drive reminding me of Uganda , and the landscape is filled with banana trees, palm oil trees, and many species of trees unique to Madagascar, the most noticeable one being the Ravenala . The Ravenala is a palm tree but its branches and leaves fan out in a perfect semi-circle. This and the giant baobabs around Morondava are the iconic Madagascar trees in my mind.

Andasibe to Tamatave

The drive from Andasibe to Tamatave, Madagascar’s second largest city and its main port, takes us about four hours through extremely windy and untrustworthy roads. Tamatave is a nice port town that is every much a shitshow as Antananarivo with the exception of its Independence row, a wide road (first time I’ve seen this), organized with coconut trees and gardens, home to the parliament building. We stop here for a quick lunch before heading north to our accommodations for the night.

It’s refreshing to finally see the ocean again after traveling through the mainland of Madagascar for a month, and the drive north of Tamatave is again filled with lush vegetation. Coconuts can be purchased pretty much anywhere along this road, and depending on the season, different fruits will be available. Raspberry’s were the fruit of choice during our visit (September) but lychees, one of Madagascar’s biggest exports, are readily available for next to nothing in the month of December.

Staying in Mahambo

We stayed the night in the beach town of Mahambo, about 1.5 hours from the Ferry terminal where we’d go catch the ferry the next morning. We ended up staying at  Le Pirogue, a nice hotel right on the beach. Finally, this was the tail end of our trip, and starting off a tropical island getaway with another nice beach is always a good idea.

The best thing about this place was the resident ring tailed lemur that followed us around the entire time. It even came into our room when we were getting ready for bed. We were no match for its agility as we tried to get it out of our room that we just gave up and this lemur spent the night in our room! Who needs the lemur island excursion at Vakona Lodge when we can have this for free!

Ferry to Ile Sainte Marie

The next morning, we left at 7am to the Ferry terminals, where they leave between 10-11am. The port town of Soanierana-Ivongo is about 3 hours north of Tamatave and a 1.5 hour ferry ride to Ile Sainte Marie. The town is a complete shithole, and it’s no surprise to see that most of the ferry goers are locals.

There are a few ferry companies here and we went with Cap. Sainte Marie, the only company we could find online. The fare was about 75,000 Ar (~$30) for a one way ferry ride and 100,000 Ar (40$) if we needed transport from Tamatave. Since we had our 4×4, we went with the first option but there are daily buses that will run from Tamatave to Soanierana-Ivongo in the early morning.

Turns out, this ferry company had the oldest boat, and wow what a shitty experience this was! We were crammed into this little boat with 40 other people and maybe 5 foreigners. The seats were small, and we had no back support so the 1.5 hour ride to the island was miserable. My advice would be to go with one of the other companies. Not only are their boats cheaper, but bigger and more comfortable. No matter though, we were going to paradise!

Ile Sainte Marie

Ile Sainte Marie is a sleepy, backpacker friendly tropical island. It’s more developed and touristy cousin is Nosy Be, a  tropical island in Madagascar’s north west. When planning my trip, I was choosing between these two islands to end my Madagascar trip. While both islands had amazing looking beaches (Nosy Be maybe even more so), I ultimately decided on Ile Sainte Marie for its chilled vibe. I am not disappointed with my decision. Of course the beaches in Ile Sainte Marie can’t compare to the Quirimbas beaches in Mozambique!

Ile Aux Nattes

The island of Ile Aux Nattes is located off the southern tip of Ile Sainte Marie. To get here, we had to hire a tuktuk and/or taxi to drive us to the southern tip of the island, and take a pirogue (canoe) about 10 minutes to the island. Why visit Ile Aux Nattes? Because the beaches on this place are likely some of the nicest I’ve ever seen.

Ile Sainte Marie is filled with nice beach especially on the southern side of the island, but Ile Aux Nattes is the cream of the crop. There are a few places to stay on this island and it is all so chilled and incredibly beautiful. We were one of maybe a dozen people on the entire island during my stay.

Where we stayed – La Petite Traversee

There are many hotels on Ile Sainte Marie of all price ranges, but the majority are geared towards the backpacker crowd, under 100,000 Ar a night ($40). Where did we stay? On Ile Aux Nattes of course! I highly recommend staying on this little island. There isn’t much to do on Ile Aux Nattes, or Ile Sainte Marie, so why not be where the most beautiful beaches are?

We ended up staying at La Petite Traversee, an awesome little hotel owned by a South African who moved to Madagascar in the early 2000s. This place also received the highest ratings on TripAdvisor (which is how I found it) which never hurts. We stayed here a total of six nights and what a great end to our Madagascar trip. The rooms were well maintained, the bar was always stocked, and there was even a resident bamboo lemur, Mikey, that provided us entertainment every day.

The food at this place was delicious, and we felt no need to venture out, which is good because there aren’t many other places to venture to. Our breakfasts were always a complete meal with eggs and bacon, lunch was either pizzas or these incredible fish cakes, and dinner was always something tasty and freshly made.

What to do in Ile Sainte Marie

What does one do on a deserted tropical island? Not much if you don’t want to! Having gone on so many hikes, and driven for so long in the last 3 weeks, I was okay just to relax.

Then I felt the antsy again and needed to do something. This island is perhaps not the best place for that as it is still relatively undeveloped. Nevertheless, there is still enough on this island to keep us company for a few days.

Snorkeling around Ile Aux Nattes

One of the islands perks is it’s surrounded by reefs. The best part? No need for any boats to get there, a shore entry from its white sandy beaches is all that is needed. We grabbed some snorkeling equipment, walked about 50m into the ocean, put on our masks and fins, and then fish galore! This was some of the best snorkeling I’ve ever done. There were so may fish everywhere, and we were even lucky enough to see some cuttlefish.

Sunset at the Maningory

One of the other hotels on Ile Aux Nattes, the Maningory faced west and allowed for some amazing Madagascan sunsets. Time passes by slowly in this place but with the beautiful beach to yourself, there could be worse things in life. Walking back to La Petite Traversee at night, we saw so many fireflies which was a nice touch every night.

Diving at the Princess Bora Lodge

Diving was high on the list of things to do in Madagascar. Ile Sainte Marie has a few dive shops, the main one being the shop at the Princess Bora hotel, likely the most expensive place to stay on the entire island. The price was 220,000 for 2 dives (~90) which is on the more expensive end (credit cards accepted though!). Seeing how undeveloped Madagascar was during my time, I was nervous to see what kind of dive shops could possibly exist in Madagascar. Surprisingly, the shop on Ile Sainte Marie was very good! The shop is well maintained, up to date equipment, and a proper dive boat.

The diving itself did not blow me away. There were plenty of fish and corals that made for a nice day but it isn’t going to top anyone’s lists anytime soon. Talking to other tourists, the consensus was Nosy Be had superior diving to Ile Sainte Marie.

Whale Watching

This is likely Ile Sainte Marie’s top attraction. During the months of Jun-Sep, humpback whales frequent the shoes of this island. There are numerous companies that take tourists out to see them for prices far cheaper than anywhere else I’ve seen in the world. Sadly, we came here at the end of September, and the whales had all but left.

Rent a scooter and check out the North

Ile Sainte Marie is a huge island. Most of tourist developments are near the south but as you head north, the more rustic and untouched the island becomes. Scooters are readily available for rent, usually around 25,000 Ar for 1 day (~$10). We spent a day on a scooter and headed north.

The further we got away from the main town, the more we felt like we were in the middle of nowhere (and we already felt like this in the touristy areas!) Completely secluded beaches, local villages, and untouched viewpoints are all available for the adventurous. Sadly, the weather is on average wetter in the north and we ran into rain on our ride up so we had to turn around.

Returning to Tana

Alas, all good things have to come to an end. After six relaxing nights on a tropical paradise island, it was time to return to society. We ended up taking the ferry back to Soinerango-Ivango with the bus service provided back to Tamatave.

We had someone that was supposed to take us from Tamatave to Tana but he never showed! We had to get back to Tana that night as our flight left the next day. Thankfully, my French had improved during my 4 weeks in Madagascar and we chartered a Taxi-Brousse (Madagascar local bus service) to ourselves. We paid 240,000 Ar for our own private van from Tamatave to Antananarivo! Split between two people, this isn’t a bad price, and certainly beat waiting for the overnight public taxi brousse service!

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Hey Johnny,

Great blog and helpful info. One question: where did you leave your car when you went to Ile Sainte Marie? Did you park it near the port or at a hotel or something?

Hey Milan, we had a driver for the entire trip and then we parted ways right before going to Ile Sainte Marie. Didn’t make sense fo rhim to join us as we just got around with a scooter if we needed to. On the way back, we just took a taxi brousse home to Tana. Hope that helps!

I loooove your blog, got so much information from it 🙂 One question, did you need a 4×4 car at the route from Andasibe to Mahambo?

Hi Danielle! I had a 4×4 car for my whole trip but from Mahambo to Andasibe I don’t think the roads were that bad that you couldn’t do with a regular car. Hope that helps!

Hey Johnny! Love your post about your trio to madagaskar! I have one question, me and my girlfriend are going there now, the 10th of May, wich month did you travel there?

Best regards Elias

Hi Elias, was in Madagascar in September but I think May should be a good time as well! Enjoy your trip!

Thanks for all of the information! I am having a hard time figuring out how to book a stay at the Petite Traversee, I do not see a website for this hotel. Any recommendations? Thanks!

Hi dee, I booked la petite traverse by emailing [email protected] but this was a few years ago so it may have changed by now but be sure to go and try this!

Hi, we are planning a trip to Madagascar this summer. Loved your detailed trip blog.  One question – which hotel did you stay at in Mahambo that had the resident Lemer? Would be so fun to have one spend the night in a bungalow.  Where or how did the Lemer sleep:?

I stayed at hotel la pirogue. That lemur was a wile but domesticated lemur so it stayed in the hotel grounds but did its own thing. It just happened to bond with us and wouldn’t leave our room! But it has been a few years sk not sure if it is still there!

Ok great – thanks alot!

Nice blog and it is unlikely that we can find some info about Madagascar somewhere ???? Next time you come to this magnificent island drop by Diego and try to kitesurf in Sakalava Bay. We have an Hotel there called KiteParadise Madagascar and the atmosphere is really chill.

All the best!

Thanks Raph! My driver always said his favorite beach area in Madagascar was Diego Suarez! I just googled some photos of Sakalava Bay and it looks absolutely STUNNING. It looks like an out of this world place to kitesurf. Definitely putting it on the list for when I visit Madagascar again!

Hi Johnny, Thanx for your blog! Really useful. Is it also possible to rent diver equipment for a couple of days for your own instead with a whole group for a day? And is it possible to dive everywhere you want on the island? Thanx a lot. Greetings, Jorn

Hi Jorn, I’m not sure if there is much good shore diving to be done on ile sainte marie. We took a boat from the dive shop to various areas of the island. I would contact the dive shop and see if theyll lend you something!

Question about transport. Is it possible to take a minivan with you on the ferries to Île Sainte Marie? As we are traveling in a group of 8 persons it might be more practical to have our own transport then to always have to fall back on renting taxis.

Kind regards Jeroen

Hi Jeroen, from what I remember, there’s now way that these passenger boats can take a car. They’re pretty small and only fit about 50-70 people. As the island is quite far (almost 2 hours), I didn’t remember seeing if they had boats big enough to take a car. I feel like they must have something, as there are cars all over ISM and they had to get there by boat. Perhaps it would be better to ask the agency you’re renting the minivan from!

Love this !! Thanks so much. I hope to get to Madagascar one day soon.

Thanks Caroline! You’ll love it once you do! It’s unlike anything else out there

inspired by your report, grirlfirend + me think about visiting Ile aux Nattes as well. Can youn provide us with an indication of the prices for breakfast / lunch when staying on the island? Any places recommendable for getting (reasonably priced) food? Would you recommend going full/half board or going for accommodation only + buying food?

Thanks, any info is much appreciated!

Hey Fab, Ile Aux Nattes really isn’t your usual beachside destination. There isn’t a whole lot there except for a few guesthouses and there may be only a handful of places you can actually get food. We mostly ate at where we were staying, at the Petite Traversee. Lunch was no more than 10000 Ar, and dinner I think was around 20000 Ar. We had a few beers at the Princess Bora hotel on the main island and that place seemed to have a lot of different food for slightly more expensive (as it’s a nice resort) but it’s also not on Ile Aux Nattes. Regardless, the food I had at the petite traversee was absolutely delicious!

Well done Johnny, I really enjoyed reading your posts about Madagascar. Especially like it when you comment on your own choices for activities (worth it or not). I’m going for a month next week and this provided with nice and detailed info to get excited.

Question, could you have taken a normal car in stead of a 4×4 for the destinations you went?

Hi Chris, you will love Madagascar for sure! As for renting a 4×4, you absolutely need to have one if you’re going to the Tsingy. There are no roads to speak of on the way from Morondava to the Tsingy so a 4×4 is essential. If i did not visi the Tsingy, then a regular sedan would have sufficed. Hope that helps!

Now taking online reservations for the 2024 season!

AGAWA CANYON TOUR TRAIN

Train rides through northern ontario.

NEXT STOP: AGAWA TRAIN ADVENTURE

• Special Event!
• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 10 hours

Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre and Entomica Insectarium Train Tour

August 6th + 22nd only! The Northern Ontario landscape you will traverse is supported by some of the oldest geology on earth, the Great Canadian Shield, and is home to unique flora and fauna.

One-Day Scenic Rail Adventure

Join us on one of the most popular train tours in North America! Climb aboard the 10-hour Agawa Canyon Tour Train for a Northern Ontario travel experience that will leave you breathless.

THE STONE GARDNER

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is pleased to offer a new, higher level of service with the addition of private business car to the Tour Train fleet. For passengers wanting a first-class experience on the Agawa Canyon Tour Train, you can indulge your senses in this historic business coach – the Stone Gardner. This wood-paneled business car is considered a theater car.

ONE-DAY SCENIC RAIL ADVENTURE

About the agawa canyon train.

Thank you for a great season! Agawa Canyon Tour train rides will resume August 1st, 2024. We look forward to riding with you soon!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Looking for accommodations and attractions in our area.

Please visit Attractions in Sault Ste Marie site for more information!

Is there a gift shop?

Yes, the gift shop is located on the train and open during season.

Are pets allowed on the train?

No pets are permitted except certified service animals.

Will food and beverages be available for purchase?

The tour train will have a snack and beverage canteen   on   the cars during each ride. US and CAD cash and credit cards will be accepted.

Are there restrooms on the train and in the canyon?

Yes, restrooms are available on the train and at the canyon.

Is internet or Wi-Fi available on the train?

Unfortunately, not at this time.

Can I bring a bag or purse on the train?

Small purses or bags are allowed onboard. Bigger items like luggage are prohibited.

Is the train wheelchair accessible?

Yes. For more information, please email [email protected] or click here for more information.

When should I arrive to board the train?

The doors open one hour before .

Is parking available on-site?

Yes, free parking is available at the depot.

What, if any, COVID-19 protocols are in place?

Travel rules and regulations are always changing. Tour participants are encouraged to contact Health Canada for more information. For additional requirements related to Border Crossing, visit  Border Crossing – Tourism Sault Ste. Marie (saulttourism.com)

Is a passport or Enhanced Driver’s License needed for entry into Canada?

Americans from the states of Washington, Minnesota, South Dakota, Michigan, New York, or Vermont may elect to use an Enhanced Identification Card or Enhanced Driver’s License. For other non-Canadians, a passport is required for entry into Canada.

What other attractions are at Agawa Canyon Park?

There are several trails and a lookout at Agawa Canyon Park. Climb 300 stairs and gravel paths for a panoramic view above the tracks on the Lookout Trail. Other nearby attractions include Black Beaver Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Where does the train depart from?

The station depot is located at 87 Huron St in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada P6A 5P4.

How do I contact the Agawa Canyon Tour Train?

For additional questions, please email [email protected] or use the contact form on this page .

When will tickets be available for purchase?

Reserve your tickets online here!

THE BEST WAY TO SEE ONTARIO!

This was an all-day tour and you must remember water and eats. A great box lunch is available for an extra charge and is sufficient to share. The train trip was great and even saw a bear in the wild. The hikes took you to remarkable scenes. I would highly recommend this tour.

We had a beautiful ride up and back. People were friendly and the scenery was fantastic. We enjoyed the informative talk on the way north. The park was very nice. We enjoyed a picnic lunch by the river, then hiked to see the falls.

Very nice train ride and the train was well equiped for some disable travellers. The points of interests were announced prior to getting there so you can have your camera ready and position yourself to take the photos. The walk in the canyon is very refreshing and to have the view of the train when it makes the turn going or returning is totally awesome.

We had a great day on the Agawa Canyon Train ride today. Met some amazing people. The staff were all extremely friendly and helpful. The scenery was spectacular and when we stopped we had a picnic and a beautiful walk to see the falls.

Had a relaxing train tour through the countryside on the way to Agawa Canyon. We bought lunch items on the train with the provided vouchers before arriving at the canyon so we could enjoy a picnic there. Had a nice scenic walk along the river to the Bridal Veil and Black Beaver Falls after our lunch. Trails were well maintained. Clean restrooms at the canyon as well as on the train. Want to note the friendly helpful staff especially Mary who was of great assistance in helping with my lost sunglasses. Lots of historical commentary on the area during the trip.

We did this stop while doing the Lake Superior Circle tour. It was a great way to see the wilderness of Ontario. The staff was very helpful and was a beautiful area!

ALGOMA – SOLEMN LAND 2021 E BOOK

Spectacular Algoma and Montreal River landscapes that following in the famed Group of Seven’s footsteps – all work created at or near Mile 92, Algoma Central Railway and Agawa Tour Train.

• The great discovery
• Amazing island
• Wonders of the South
• Beaches of Nosy Be
• The Tsingy and the south
• Diego Suarez + Nosy Be Tour
• Andasibe & Sainte Marie Tour
• The South and Sainte Marie
• Baobab group – July 2020
• Cameleon group – August 2020
• Reniala group – September 2020

Whale Watching Madagascar

Sainte Marie Madagascar Tour allows you to see Andasibe - Tamatave - Sainte Marie

Price : From 980 Euros/person

The final price of this Whale watching Madagascar Tour will vary according to the desired customization. However, kindly let us know your budget and the plan you have in mind, we will come up with the final price that fits your needs.

11-day Whale Watching Madagascar – Sainte Marie Madagascar Island

Directions: Antananarivo – Andasibe – Manambato – Akanin’ny Nofy –  Pangalanes channel – Tamatave – Mahambo – Sainte Marie – Antananarivo

DAY 1 : ANTANANARIVO

Arrival at Ivato airport. Formalities for the visa. Guests are welcomed by our representative and transfer to hotel. Installation at the hotel. Night and lodging in hotel.

DAY 2 : ANTANANARIVO - ANDASIBE

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to Andasibe. On the road, panoramic view of the eastern highland of Madagascar. Stop in Marozevo to visit the private reserve of Peyreiras. During the visit, we can see endemic island animals such as chameleons, frogs ... After a 1 hour visit, continue towards Moramanga. Possibility to visit the market and the city of Moramanga. Then, road to Andasibe National Park. Arrival at the end of the afternoon Accommodation at the hotel

DAY 3: ANDASIBE

Breakfast at the hotel. Departure to visit the Analamazaotra National Park. It is the only national park where you can find the biggest lemur of Madagascar, the Indri Indri. The park is also located in a humid area, and several floras and Madagascar animals are found in this locality and many are endemic. We make a visit of 2-3 hours. In the afternoon, visit of the Vakona reserve. Possibility of seeing other species of lemurs and other Madagascar animals. Accommodation at the hotel

DAY 4. ANDASIBE – MANAMBATO – AKANIN’NY NOFY

Breakfast at the hotel Departure to Akanin'ny and Nofy, it is located 3 hours from the Andasibe National Park. Arrival at the pier of Manambato, transfer by boat through the Pangalanes Channel to Akanin'ny Nofy. Then transfer to the hotel Accommodation at the hotel

DAY 5: AKANIN’NY NOFY

Breakfast at the hotel Departure to visit the park reserve. We can see during the visit lemurs and the typical plants of the east coast of Madagascar. Free afternoon. At around 6 o'clock in the evening, night visit to see the nocturnal lemur Aye-Aye. Accommodation at the hotel.

DAY 6: AKANIN’NY NOFY – TAMATAVE

Breakfast at the hotel Departure by boat to the economic capital and the biggest port of Madagascar, Tamatave through the Pangalanes Channel. Arrival in Tamatave, transfer to the hotel. Accommodation at the hotel.

DAY 7: TAMATAVE – MAHAMBO – SAINTE MARIE

Breakfast at the hotel Departure to Mahambo. Then, transfer by boat to the island of Sainte Marie Madagascar. Arrival on the island, transfer to the hotel. Accommodation at the hotel.

DAY 8-9-10: SAINTE MARIE

Breakfast at the hotel. Free days on the beach Accommodation at the hotel.

DAY 11: SAINTE MARIE – ANTANANARIVO (domestic flight)

Breakfast at the hotel Transfer to the airport to take the flight Sainte Marie Madagascar - Antananarivo. Arrival in Tana, transfer to the hotel. Accommodation at the hotel

DAY 12: ANTANANARIVO - FLIGHT BACK

Breakfast at the hotel. Visit of the city of Antananarivo. Last shopping at the craft market. At the scheduled time, departure to the Ivato airport for the international flight. Boarding formalities

- 4x4 car (2-4pax) with French or English speaking driver - Minivan (4-6pax) - bus (from 7pax) with driver - Fuel all along the circuit - Tourist taxes. - Airport - hotel - airport transfer. - Hotel - port - hotel transfer - Local guides in national parks and nature reserves. - Entry fees into national parks and nature reserves mentioned in the circuit. - Rooms with breakfast. -Transfer by public boat from Mahambo to Sainte Marie Madagascar - Half board in Sainte Marie from 2 pax

NOT INCLUDED

– Visa – International flights and domestic flights - Lunch and dinner – Personal expenses – Drinks – Tips

This tour invites you to a real change of scenery punctuated by discoveries and encounters with local populations. Beyond the rich biodiversity, the luxuriance of the East coast of Madagascar, the various modes of transport used as the small train of the cliffs, the motor boat … constitute so many calls to a trip off the beaten track.

Alternating anarchically lagoons and streams, the canal is lined with plantations producing vanilla, cocoa, cloves and coffee with its milky flowers. Your sense of smell will be fulfilled. Sliding on this aquatic mirror, you will come across “elephant ears”, fishermen, mangroves, forests, villages … and sometimes, pirogues overloaded with goods that feed towns and villages. A mora mora trip as we say in Madagascar and essentially contemplative.

This Whale watching Madagascar tour will allow you to enjoy a bivouac in the middle of pandanus and ravinalas and discover the Palmarium. This private reserve, at the level of Akanin’ny Nofy, is aptly named “Dream Nest”. Because on this peninsula of 35 hectares, you will observe different varieties among more than 100 000 palm trees and will be able to look for the different species of lemurs which evolve in complete freedom.

ASK YOUR QUOTE NOW

+261340289812.

HOTELS & RESTAURANTS

Here, you will have an idea of in what hotels you will stay

we enjoyed our day on it toooo much on NosyBe. we did snorkling and diving we got a nice dinner on an malagasy restaurant

booked this company thru reading reviews and was not disappointed. our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly. my only gripe was we did not have enough time to explore small islands around nosybe since we only had one week. booked the snorkelling in nosy iranja be which was truly amazing experience, having first hand seen the variety of fish. our stay in nosy be madagascar was great thanks to tsiky tour and team.

Get the total wildlife experience on a 20-day trip from Antananarivo to Ifaty beach for a ride through the sand. Explore the National Parks of this beautiful country with their lovely Lemurs, amazing baobab trees. and discover the Madagascar nature and wildlife — in and out of the water. Take in the unspoiled beauty of this beautiful country, oldest national parks. Definitely worth the climb, the bad roads, the long drive for the sunsets in Baobab Alley which was magical. Wonderful memories!!!!

We were there and it was really amazing! Our guide and our driver were absolutely brilliant. They have helped us in every situation, if you are a bit scared they will reassure you. It was an absolutely perfect trip! We would do this tour again and recommend everyone to do it if they have the opportunity. Thanks for this nice trip! I lost my heart a bit there! Madagaskar was soooo wonderful moment for us. 5 Stars

The agency provided me with full and detailed customized itinerary. I booked the tour many months in advance. And one week before my trip to Madagascar, they emailed me again all necessary documents related to my tour and asked if there is still anything they help me with. They really take care of their customers. I will definitely consider using Tsiky Tour again next time I am back in Madagascar.

This was our first trip to Madagascar and I contacted 3 companies for itineraries and quotations. Tsiky Tour Madagascar stood out from the first email contact, offering an amazing itinerary presentation which was so easy to understand. From first enquiry to booking, everything was planned meticulously without any mishaps. Throughout our trip and beyond Tsiky Tour Madagascar were outstanding. This was planned as a once in a lifetime experience but my husband and I have fallen in love with this beautiful country and will surely return. This tour operator will undoubtedly be our agent, I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Hery and Fara were great. This tour company is really recommendable at 100% if not 10000% !!! Don't forget to also book a tour toNosy Be with and visit to the islands around Nosy Be !!! It took us almost 30 days to finish the tours as Madagascar is very wide. And satisfaction was guaranteed with this tour company. Thank you very much for everything

She was very concise and helpful in communicating, not being too naggy or giving too much information. I think In terms of living up to expectations, the tour location was a little more beaten up than we had anticipated and the food wasn't great, but the staff were very nice and we saw a ton of nature wildlife which was great.

Whale Watching Madagascar – More than a tourist attraction

Like every year, Sainte Marie Madagascar island, located in the east of Madagascar, has become the home of the whales. Being the beautiful world sanctuary of the humpback whales, it is at the heart of a high-potential economic zone composed of the Vanilla Islands (Comoros-Mauritius-Réunion-Seychelles-Mayotte-Maldives-Madagascar) and the East coast of Mauritius. ‘Africa.

CETAMADA – Ecotourism initiative association promoting whale watching madagascar

Born at the initiative of the association CETAMADA and the tourist office of Sainte Marie Madagascar (OSTM), the event receives the support of local communities and the country as a whole. It will also be an opportunity for people to gather around whale watching madagascar. For this purpose, several programs are at the rendezvous. All the forces of Sainte Marie island and outside the Island are welcome to participate.

Whale watching madagascar for sustainable tourism

Realizing a sustainable development approach through the protection of marine mammals and their habitat, the promotion of tourism and the involvement of the population through the development of community activities are the challenges that initiated the Festival. Women in Madagascar undoubtedly play a leading role in the country’s economic development. In rural community life, they are the backbone and occupy an important place. Thus, the women will be put in front of the stage through a team called “the funny of ladies”. Book Whale watching Madagascar tour with Tsiky Tour Madagascar.

Sainte Marie Madagascar : “A child, a whale”

The funny ladies, beyond the festival, will continue their social actions vis-à-vis the population through, inter alia, the operation “A child, a whale”. It is a colorful Festival, with animations worthy of the incessant ballet of the whales, heart of the subject and stars of the event. The carnival parade of twenty decorated floats, followed by a live performance by the villagers, will enhance the event. The ensemble will be based on the theme “Saint Mary … culture and tradition”.

The concerts will be open to all musical cultures, traditional music, variety, music of yesterday and today. The closing concert will be as amazing as it is explosive during this whale watching madagascar activity. The fair-exhibition, built near the port, with stands, designed in traditional materials, will present local crafts. Malagasy know-how, service providers and manufacturers … as well as a showroom representative of the economic potential of Madagascar.

Humpback Whale World Congress

Also at the Festival, will be the Humpback Whale World Congress to advance scientific studies and conservation efforts of humpback whales at their feeding site, breeding grounds and migrations. More than 20 researchers came from all over the world to share their work and attend the whale watching madagascar festival.

Tours have been created for travelers and individuals from Europe, Reunion or simply from Madagascar to allow them to combine a participation at the beginning or at the end of the festival, for 4-5 days, with an organized discovery of Madagascar including Les Pangalanes, nature reserves and the lush atmosphere of the East Coast and Sainte Marie Madagascar

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Whale watching & the honeymoon suite at Villas de Vohilava on Ile Sainte-Marie

One of the most amazing activities on Ile Sainte-Marie in Madagascar is a whale-watching tour The beautiful animals live part of the year near Ile Sainte-Marie, where you can see them well. In this blog, I will share our experiences with hotel Villas de Vohilava and the most amazing activity we did there: a whale safari in Madagascar!

Whale watching on Ile Sainte-Marie in Madagascar

Honeymoon suite at villas de vohilava, whale watching tour on ile sainte-marie.

After a good night’s sleep and a nice breakfast, we are ready to board a boat again. The waves are still quite high and it is drizzling a bit, so why on earth are we voluntarily on a boat? With a very good reason: to spot whales! One of the main reasons why we initially decided to go to Madagascar is because an enormous whale migration passes by here every year. Ile Sainte-Marie is known as the best place to spot humpback whales. The beautiful animals are here from the end of June to the beginning of October to mate and give birth to children.

Wondering if a trip through Madagascar is expensive? Read more in our Madagascar budget blog!

Jumping whales on Sainte-Marie

A little later we see even more whales, sometimes they are in a pair, other times they are by themselves. Of one, we only see the back, it is asleep. But two others join our boat for a long time, sometimes they jump out of the water, then again they raise a fin or their head above the water. We always stay at a suitable distance, more than 100 meters from the animals, but they are so large that we can see them well. Four hours later we are ashore again, thrilling about what we just saw! Seeing whales is a dream come true, but we never thought we would get such a beautiful show. The researchers say that it is very exceptional to see five whales so early in the season and so close. They are also happy about the results they have achieved in their research!

Cétamada: the whale organisation of Madagascar

The owner of our hotel, the jovial Henri, founded the Cétamada organization on Ile Sainte-Marie. An organization that aims to ensure that whale watching is conducted in a responsible manner, without the whales being affected. They also conduct research on whales, their migration patterns, their forms of communication and their lifestyles. We are lucky that we could join the researchers, they tell us everything about the humpback whales, collect skin flakes from the sea to find out more about the whale in question and let us listen to the sounds that the animals make.

Tip: Do you want to spot whales on Ile Sainte-Marie? Check-in advance if the organization with which you book is affiliated with Cétamada so that you are sure that the whales do not suffer from the whale safari For more information about Cétamada, take a look at their website .

Ultimate relaxation on Ile Sainte Marie!

Often after breakfast, I start working for a few hours, in the afternoon we go to explore the island. In this way, we visit the pirate graveyard, swim in the natural pools or cycle to the city. It really feels like a vacation during our trip. To celebrate our 10-year anniversary, I treat Ries (and myself) to a duo massage at Vanille Beaute. For an hour we are completely pampered, so relaxing!

After six wonderful days, it is, unfortunately, time to travel further. We don’t want to leave at all, it’s much too nice here. One thing is certain: Ile Sainte-Marie will always hold a special place in our hearts.

Ile Sainte-Marie in Madagascar

True paradise can be found on Sainte-Marie. This is one of these places where you want to completely change your travel plans immediately upon arrival so that you can stay here as long as possible. The island is not (yet) too touristy, has beautiful beaches and aquarium blue water. For me this is the definition of a tropical island, hardly any cars, you can buy coconuts everywhere and the sound of the waves is never far away.

Villas de Vohilava: a beautiful boutique hotel in Ile Sainte-Marie

Hotel on ile sainte-marie: villas de vohilava – bungalows and a restaurant, unique activities on ile sainte-marie.

Do you also want to stay at Hotel Villas de Vohilava? Then click here to make a reservation directly. In the low season (January to June) the price of the honeymoon suite where we stayed is €39, in whale season (July to September) it is €73, and in high season (September to December it is €45).

For more information take a look at the website or contact Kate :

Hotel Villas de Vohilava Ile Sainte-Marie Phone number: +261205790016 Website:   www.vohilava.com E-mail address: [email protected]

Other travel blogs on Madagascar

* We stayed here on invitation of Villas de Vohilava , however, everything above is true to me, as always I reflect my own opinion and experience.

Thanks for your great content! I'm planning a trip to Madagascar, but unfortunately I don't have 2 months so will need to decide between some places. Between Ile Saint Marie and Andavadoaka (Olobe Lodge) which one would you recommend? We are looking for beautiful beaches to just chill for 4 days or so. Thanks!

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4L Tour Sainte-Marie

I am a local born and raised Saint-Marien. I have been providing island tours in my customized 4L car for over 5 years now. I like to say that on this island, I know everyone and everyone knows me. I am able to take you anywhere on this long island to experience what life here is all about.

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Agawa Train

‘It will take you away and leave you breathless.’ 

There are many words that can be used to describe Northern Ontario’s rugged beauty: awe-inspiring, astonishing and inspirational are just a few. There are just as many opportunities to experience and explore these incredible landscapes on a trip to Sault Ste. Marie. Climb aboard the one-day Agawa Canyon Tour Train for a Northern Ontario travel experience that will leave you breathless.

Tickets for the 2024 season are available now for tours August 1st – October 13th. Book your tickets here!

Book Your 2024 Train Tickets Here!

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The train departs at 8am sharp from the new train station in the Canal District , downtown Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before, free parking is available next to the train station. Then the train doors will close and your one-day adventure to the Agawa Canyon will begin!

Sit back and enjoy the 114 mile excursion north, which truly showcases the rugged beauty of Algoma, and the Canadian Shield. At the Agawa Canyon, enjoy a 90-minute stop, where you can take in the sights, including a 30-minute roundtrip lookout hike and a walk along the canyon to Bridal Veil Falls. A conductor’s whistle will signal “all aboard” , then it’s back on the train, to return to Sault Ste. Marie by around 5:30pm.

The train and Canyon Park are both wheelchair accessible and certified service animals are allowed. The train ride itself is restful, with comfortable seats and large windows to enjoy the view. Restrooms are available on board for your comfort. Interpretive programming is delivered by wireless headsets in English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, and Mandarin for the train portion of the journey.

So put your phones and tablets away, (Wifi is not available on the train) sit back, relax and enjoy beautiful scenery on this one of a kind train ride. 

THE TRAIN STATION

Agawa canyon tour train, 9 facts to know about the agawa canyon tour train, the journey.

As you settle into your comfortable coach, traces of city life soon fade away as the Northern Ontario wilderness begins to unfold outside the windows. The mixed forests of the Canadian Shield open up as you skirt the shores of northern lakes, rivers and cross towering trestles. Set eyes on the same rugged landscapes and majestic views that inspired the Group of Seven to create some of Canada’s most notable works of art.

As you head north you’ll pass logging roads, quiet holiday camps and intriguing sign posts. Then at mile 102, just after a glimpse of Lake Superior, the train starts its descent into the canyon. As the rail line hugs the top of the canyon wall, you’ll descend 500 feet over the next 10 miles to the floor of the Agawa Canyon, created more than 1.2 billion years ago by faulting and widened and reshaped by the last ice age that retreated 10,000 years ago.

AGAWA CANYON PARK​

As the train pulls to a stop at mile 114, you’ll have an hour and a half to experience the jewel of the tour – Agawa Canyon Park, which is only accessible by rail. There are plenty of picnic areas for those wishing to have lunch during the stopover or you may want stretch your legs and go explore!

Enjoy scenic walks on graveled trails leading to the famous Bridal Veil Falls or the lesser know Black Beaver Falls, or experience the invigorating climb up over 300 stairs to the breathtaking lookout, perched 250 feet above the canyon floor. 

Experience The Group of Seven

Sault Ste. Marie played an important role in bringing together Canada’s greatest art collective, the Group of Seven. The group traveled to the city many times, capturing the landscapes with their beautiful brush strokes. 

The Agawa Canyon Tour Train will pass several sites captured by the Group of Seven, including The Solemn Land  (based on Montreal River Harbour) and  Algoma Waterfall  (based on Bridal Veil Falls), by J.E.H MacDonald. The original sketch of The Solemn Land, painted after MacDonald first visited the area in 1918, is part of the permanent collection at the  Art Gallery of Algoma . 

When the train stops within the Agawa Canyon, hike towards Bridal Veil Falls where you’ll see the cascading tiers of water which inspired multiple sketches and paintings by members of the Group of Seven including Lawren Harris and the aforementioned J.E.H. MacDonald.

EXPERIENCE THE GROUP OF SEVEN IN SAULT STE. MARIE

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A train ride on the famous Agawa Canyon Train will be a memorable experience, and why not extend your stay and see some of the other great attractions, trails, museums, restaurants and other things that Sault Ste. Marie has to offer? Check out these suggestions below or browse the website and discover so many fun things to do here. 

Exclusive offer! Once you book your Agawa Canyon Tour Train ticket, you will receive a promotional code in your confirmation email giving you 10% off at Miss Marie Sault Lock Tours!

So visit Sault Ste. Marie and join us on one of the most popular train tours in North America. 2024’s tour season is for August 1 through October 12, 2024. More details on pricing and purchasing tickets are available on the Agawa Train website  or call 1-844-246-9458.

MISS MARIE LOCK TOUR BOAT

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Every great trip starts with a great plan. Let us help! Whether you are looking for a Northern Ontario outdoor adventure experience, a ride on the scenic Agawa Tour Train, or just a long weekend getaway in Sault Ste. Marie, here are the tools to help you make that plan.

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Sault Sainte Marie Welcome Center

The Sault Sainte Marie Welcome Center is located in Sault Ste Marie in Michigan’s Chippewa County. The Center can be found right after you cross the International Bridge if you’re entering from Canada. It’s a great place to stop and find information about Sault Ste Marie and the surrounding area. The knowledgeable and friendly staff will help you find what you’re looking for and offer suggestions for the must-sees along your travels. Whether you’re looking for information, a rest stop, or a nice place to stop for lunch at a picnic table, the Sault Sainte Marie Welcome Center is the ideal place.

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Jill Biden wraps up U.P. tour with visit to Soo Locks and health care discussion

SAULT STE. MARIE — First Lady Jill Biden wrapped up her visit to the Upper Peninsula on Friday with a tour of the Soo Locks and a discussion with local tribal leaders about health care needs.

Biden, along with Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, arrived in town on Thursday after a visit in Marquette. They spoke with members of the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians and the Bay Mills Indian Community before touring the Soo Locks and visiting the construction site for the New Lock at the Soo project.

While visiting the locks, city, county and tribal officials accompanied the group while Biden and Emhoff received information about the Soo Locks from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and those involved in the construction of the new lock.

"The Great Lakes have been a major part of our transportation network as we move materials from the Lake Superior basin to our manufacturing centers in the Midwest," said Lt. Col. Brett Boyle, Commander for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District. "That process before there was a lock here would take up to six weeks for a commercial ship. It now takes about an hour with the current lock facility."

Biden and Emhoff witnessed the bulk carrier Mesabi Miner make its way through the Poe Lock, with Biden waving to crew members on board.

The Poe Lock is currently the only lock large enough for many shipping freighters transporting iron ore across the Great Lakes. Around 95 percent of all the iron ore mined in the country passes through the Soo Locks, making the locks a vital component of the national economy.

"The Soo Locks may be the most critical piece of infrastructure in North America," said Jim Weakley, president of the Lake Carriers’ Association. "The most critical cargo is iron ore because of its value and its national defense implications. There is no alternative mode of transportation for this dense cargo."

The locks see around 7,000 vessels and 75 million tons of cargo pass through each year. It's estimated that Great Lakes shipping supports 147,000 U.S. jobs, according to the Army Corps of Engineers.

"An unexpected six-month closure of this lock would result in the loss of 11 million American jobs and 3-5 million Canadian and Mexican jobs," Weakly added.

The First Lady is the first member of a presidential administration to visit the Soo Locks in many years. In 2022, the Biden Administration invested $3.2 billion into the construction of the new lock through the Water Resources Development Act.

The new lock, when completed, will allow for more traffic to pass through the Soo Locks and decrease strain on the two locks currently in operation.

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More: First Lady tours Soo Locks, sees New Lock construction

Prior to visiting the Soo Locks, Biden and Emhoff also met with local tribal leaders to discuss the importance of health care. Together, they celebrated achievements in tribal health care, such as the Sault Tribe's recent announcement of a health care revitalization program.

"We announced just this week that we will be implementing a two-year health care revitalization plan to increase access to care and improve the quality of health care services that we offer to the community," said Austin Lowes, chairman of the Sault Tribe. "This visit with our partners in the Biden Administration is very timely. Thank you for your continued collaboration and partnership, along with your willingness to listen and have an open dialogue today."

Other speakers, such as Bay Mills Indian Community President Whitney Gravelle, talked about how much tribal health care programs have improved over the years, despite struggles with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sault Tribe Vice Chairman Tyler LaPlaunt also talked about the great strides that have been made in tribal health care, but noted that there is still progress to be made.

"I appreciate everything that this administration has done, because it has done far more than any other administration for us, there's still a long way to go," said LaPlaunt.

More: First Lady Jill Biden visits Bay Mills Community College, talks with tribal officials

Biden addressed the need for addiction and mental health resources while visiting with tribal officials.

"As a teacher who has been in the classroom for 40 years, and since the pandemic, I see mental health is a much greater problem," said Biden. "I see students on Zoom calls who are missing out on a lot of classroom services, and are having a tough time coming back and being social again."

Biden also noted the importance of funding research in many areas, including women's health.

"All the research on women's health has been underfunded for decades, but that's going to change now. Because when I took this problem to Joe, he listened, and he said we have to fix this problem," she said.

Biden and Emhoff's visit was part of a U.P. tour that saw them make stops in Marquette, Brimley and the Soo before heading downstate to continue visiting Michigan communities.

—  Contact Brendan Wiesner: [email protected]