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Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie
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Landmark
The Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie, located on the island of Nosy Boraha off the east coast of Madagascar, is the only known cemetery of its kind in the world. During the 17th and 18th centuries, the island served as a strategic base for hundreds of pirates who found refuge in its sheltered bays and abundant resources. The cemetery is situated on a hilltop overlooking the Baie des Forbans and contains several dozen graves of legendary seafaring outlaws. Many of the weathered tombstones are marked with the classic skull and crossbones symbol, though some have been worn down by centuries of tropical weather. This site has a unique historical perspective on the 'Golden Age of Piracy,' when Madagascar was a key hub for ships raiding the lucrative trade routes of the Indian Ocean. Today, it remains a poignant reminder of the island's turbulent maritime history and attracts historians and travelers interested in the legends of Captain Kidd and other notorious privateers.
- Location: Madagascar
- Nearby: Île Sainte-Marie (9 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 261 | 216 | 291 | 160 | 121 | 86 | 88 | 52 | 39 | 49 | 70 | 149 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The historic pirate cemetery is fully accessible to the public, offering an outdoor exploration of old, weathered graves dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can freely wander among these fascinating historical tombstones, many of which bear traditional pirate symbols.
Typical hours
The site is generally accessible during daylight hours, typically opening from early morning until late afternoon. It is highly recommended to arrive well before sunset to ensure good visibility of the faded inscriptions on the old graves and to navigate the pathways safely.
Photography
Photography is highly encouraged, as the worn tombstones set against the lush tropical backdrop create strikingly atmospheric images. Please respect the historical and sensitive nature of the site by avoiding climbing on or physically touching the fragile, centuries-old graves.
Time needed
A comprehensive visit to this compact site usually takes around one to two hours, allowing enough time to examine the cryptic inscriptions and appreciate the scenic coastal views. Exploring with a knowledgeable local guide might slightly extend your visit due to the captivating storytelling.
Combine with
Combine this haunting site with a larger exploration of Île Sainte-Marie, including its pristine beautiful beaches, the nearby Île aux Nattes, or a seasonal whale watching excursion. Exploring the island's main town of Ambodifotatra is also a great addition to your daily itinerary.
Getting there
The cemetery is located on Île Sainte-Marie and is typically reached by walking from the main road near Ambodifotatra or taking a local tuk-tuk. The final approach involves a short, scenic walk over a footbridge or causeway, which can sometimes be affected by the local high tides.
Insider tip
Consider hiring a local guide at the entrance to learn the captivating legends and historical facts behind the famous pirate graves, which are otherwise unmarked or difficult to decipher due to heavy erosion. Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the paths can be quite muddy and uneven.
Geography
Facts
- Only pirate cemetery in the world
- Dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries
- Located on Nosy Boraha island
- Overlooks the Baie des Forbans
- Tombstones feature skull and crossbones
- Refuge for pirates like Captain William Kidd
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is the cemetery easy to find?
Yes, there are signposts.
Do I need a guide?
A local guide enriches the visit.
Is it safe?
Absolutely safe during the day.
When is the best time?
Morning is most pleasant.
What is special here?
The island's pirate history.
Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie: where is it located?
Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie is located in Madagascar.
Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie: why is it worth visiting?
The Pirate Cemetery of Sainte-Marie, located on the island of Nosy Boraha off the east coast of Madagascar, is the only known cemetery of its kind in the world.
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History & landmarks
Nature
More places
Ambodifotatra Port
The main port of the island of Sainte-Marie, forming an important bridge for tourism and freight transport to the mainland.
Sainte Marie Pirate Cemetery
A historical burial ground for pirates from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Île Sainte-Marie French Fort
Remains of the French military headquarters after the conquest of the pirate island.
Nosy Boraha
An island off the east coast, known as Île Sainte-Marie.
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Tampolo Nature Reserve
A beautiful reserve with dense vegetation and many lemurs.
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Manda Fort Mahavelona
A coral stone fort built in the 19th century by King Radama I to protect the coast.
Galana Refinery
The only facility of its kind in the country, responsible for processing imported crude oil and supplying fuels.
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Port of Toamasina
The country's most important seaport handles the vast majority of the island's international maritime trade.