Festival des Baleines 2025 – A Celebration of Nature, Culture, and Conservation in Sainte Marie, Madagascar
From July 12 to 20, 2025, the idyllic island of Sainte Marie (Nosy Boraha), Madagascar will once again come alive with the colors, rhythms, and sounds of the Festival des Baleines — a world-renowned celebration of humpback whales, island traditions, and ecological commitment.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of turquoise lagoons, lush forests, and historical treasures, this annual event transforms Sainte Marie into a vibrant stage where nature meets culture, and celebration meets conservation.
A Natural Spectacle: Humpback Whales in the Spotlight
At the heart of the festival lies the annual migration of humpback whales, as they journey from the cold Antarctic to the warm, sheltered waters of the Sainte Marie canal. Here, they give birth, mate, and perform mesmerizing acrobatic displays — breaching, fin-slapping, and singing hauntingly beautiful songs.
Through guided whale safaris, visitors can witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat — an emotional, once-in-a-lifetime encounter that educates as much as it awes.
More Than a Festival – A Cultural Immersion
Festival des Baleines 2025 is far more than whale watching. It’s a cultural odyssey that brings together local communities, international guests, artists, athletes, and conservationists in a celebration of Malagasy heritage and oceanic life.
Live Music & Dance
Concerts by local and international artists light up the island with vibrant performances of Salegy, Tsapiky, and global rhythms.
Traditional Malagasy dances fill the streets with color, joy, and cultural pride.
Sports Competitions
Join or cheer at soccer, rugby, trail running, and beach volleyball tournaments.
Unique local events such as pirogue (dugout canoe) races and pétanque matches bring out the island’s playful and competitive spirit.
Art & Craft Exhibitions
Discover local artistry through exhibitions of handwoven baskets, wooden carvings, textiles, jewelry, and ceramics.
Every piece is a window into Malagasy identity and generations-old craftsmanship.
Conservation at Its Core
The festival is a platform for raising awareness and driving action for marine conservation. Led by organizations like CETAMADA, the festival emphasizes the importance of protecting humpback whales, coral reefs, and Madagascar’s broader biodiversity.
Discover the Island: History, Nature & Adventure
Sainte Marie isn’t just a whale-watching haven — it’s a living museum of pirate history, lush mangrove forests, and coral-rich coastlines. During the festival, you can:
Visit the legendary Pirate Cemetery
Explore the island’s botanical treasures and rare orchids
Snorkel or dive in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life
Hike through nature trails guided by local experts
Economic & Social Impact
The Festival des Baleines energizes the local economy by creating jobs, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting artisans, guides, and small businesses. Beyond the economic benefits, it fosters community pride, cultural exchange, and a shared commitment to protecting Madagascar’s natural legacy.
