Relaxed beach lodge ideal for couples and families alike
Deservedly popular beach lodge offering a range of land and marine-based activities
Location: Princesse Bora Lodge is located on the southwest coast of Île Sainte-Marie, a serene tropical island off Madagascar's eastern shore. Known for its warm climate and natural beauty, the lodge is set within lush gardens and overlooks a palm-lined white sand beach at the edge of a sparkling lagoon
Amenities: The lodge seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern luxury. The Anoka Jungle Spa offers rejuvenating massages and treatments inspired by the surrounding natural environment. The open-air restaurant serves an enticing mix of French, Creole, and Malagasy cuisine, with fresh seafood being a highlight, while a wood-fired pizza oven adds a casual dining option. The bar features an impressive selection of locally crafted rums and an extensive wine cellar. Guests can unwind by the infinity pool or lounge on the wooden pontoon that extends over the lagoon.
Rooms: Princesse Bora Lodge offers accommodation in 20 unique villas, designed with natural materials to blend seamlessly into the surrounding tropical landscape. There are three types of rooms; Charm Villas, Luxury Villas, and Executive Beach Villas. Each villa provides a tranquil retreat with elegant décor and thoughtful details like suspended beds and sea-facing verandas with hammocks for ultimate relaxation. The Charm Villas are intimate and perfect for couples, offering cosy comfort with fans to keep cool. The Luxury Villas are more expensive, featuring distinctive octagonal architecture, mezzanines ideal for families with young children, and air-conditioned interiors. For those seeking an elevated experience, the Executive Beach Villas deliver stunning ocean views, direct beach access, and added indulgences such as private gardens and luxurious ensuite facilities. These villas embody the perfect balance of comfort and harmony with nature.
Activities: A wide range of activities awaits guests at Princesse Bora Lodge. The lodge’s water sports centre provides snorkelling equipment, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the crystal-clear lagoon. Thrill-seekers can try kitesurfing, with lessons and equipment available. Diving enthusiasts can visit the Bora Dive & Research Centre for unforgettable underwater experiences. One of the most memorable activities offered is whale watching, available from July to October when humpback whales migrate to the area’s warm waters to breed.
Sustainability: Princesse Bora Lodge takes great pride in its sustainable initiatives and is actively involved in the community. Local workers, many of whom were given training and job possibilities, constructed the lodge. They work together on their whale-watching program with CetaMada, a marine mammal conservation organisation. This guarantees that local ecosystems will be preserved. The lodge provides an example of responsible tourism by emphasising the reduction of its environmental impact and the assistance of the local community.
Alistair
Let me help you create your perfect Madagascar holiday
Best places to stay in Ile Sainte Marie & Nosy Ankao
Madagascar Trip Inspiration
When to go to Madagascar
Find out the best time to visit Madagascar with our month by month guide.
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
The cyclone season in Madagascar is between January and March, which means it's hot and wet and isn't the best time of year to travel. The east coast is generally wetter than the west or south.
February
February is the wettest month, with heavy downpours and the risk of cyclones making travel difficult, and wildlife hard to spot.
March
March remains hot and wet, with high humidity making travel uncomfortable. The south is generally a bit drier and the roads more manageable than the north.
April
There are still heavy rain showers during April, May and June, but they don't disrupt too many activities, and the sun often shines in between. Parks are now open to visitors and it's a great time to visit Andasibe and Berenty, with the greenery lush and the wildlife coming out of hiding.
May
The rains have left the landscapes looking green and lush, and now is a great time to try and spot the famous lemurs. The tourists haven't yet arrived en-masse so accommodation is cheaper and easier to find. There are still a few rain showers, but sun prevails, making May an excellent overall choice for travel.
June
With the rain finally subsiding, the air becomes fresh and cool, with sunshine and just a few showers punctuating the day. It's a great time to travel across much of the country, and still outside of peak season it's easier to find accommodation at good prices.
July
July is the beginning of the peak season, with dry weather and lower temperatures meaning this is a great time to go trekking or explore the rainforests. Lemurs and other forest dwellers have come out of hiding, and humpback whales gather to calve offshore, with sightings frequent between now and September. July is one of the best times to visit Madagascar.
August
August is similar to July, with comfortably cool temperatures and sunny skies. It's another good month for whale watching, and for exploring Madagascar's many regions.
September
Want to see a baby lemur? Now is the time to visit, when lemurs give birth. The cooler weather is at an end, and temperatures begin to rise, bringing with them a few showers in anticipation of the approaching rainy season. It's quieter than July and August, and therefore an ideal month to visit Madagascar. Whale watching is still on the cards too.
October
Baby lemurs are still hopping around during October, and the warmer weather means it's an excellent time for the beaches and snorkelling in the turquoise ocean. Keep an eye out for the blooming purple jacarandas, and see if you can spot fossas in the western forests.
November
Increasing temperatures around Madagascar mean hot days, but the arrival of short rain showers helps cool things down. Wildlife is very active during November, so it's a great time for lemur spotting, as well as birds during their breeding season.
December
December is the start of the wet season in Madagascar, with high temperatures (the hottest of the year) and short, sharp rain showers. It's a bit cooler and drier in the south west of the island. It's a quieter time to travel, and if you visit at the beginning of the month, the beaches will still be glorious.
Speak to a Madagascar expert today
Let me help you create your perfect Madagascar holiday
Alistair
Plan with an expert
Have a look at our original holiday experiences and then contact us with your brief, or call 01768 603 715
A tailor-made itinerary just for you
Our experts will send you a detailed holiday itinerary specified to your desires. It's our service promise to you.
Value guarantee
Tailor-made doesn't mean expensive! Ask about our price promise and book with financial security.