Sainte Marie Island Weather in September

Overview:

(1) September has comfortable temperature and relatively low rainfall;
(2) The number of tourists coming to see whales decreases considerably from the peak in July and August.

Rainfall

In September, Sainte Marie Island has an average of 99 mm of rainfall, making it one of the least rainy months. Likewise, it is also one of the months with the fewest rainy days, which is 16 on average. Even though, it’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel and choose as many sunny days as possible during your stay on the Island. However, it doesn’t matter even if it rains, as most of the rain in September will not last for more than 30 minutes.

Blue Sky and Sea of the Island in September

Temperature

Temperature of Sainte Marie Island remains relatively cool in September, averaging 18 - 26°C (64 - 79°F). Even when the temperature is at its highest at noon, you will only feel warm but not hot. The sea temperature of about 24°C (75°F) on average is warm and favorable for various sea sports.

Daylight Hours/ Sunshine Hours

There are averagely about 12 daylight hours per day this month, of which the sunshine hours are more than 7 thanks to the not-high rainfall. However, it should be noted that the UV index rises to 11. This means that strict sun protection measures should be taken when going out, such as wearing a sunhat and sunglasses, and wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.

Is September a Good Time to Visit Sainte Marie Island?

Yes, September is a good month to visit Sainte Marie Island because of the great weather: less rainfall and cool and comfortable temperature. Besides, this month, the whales have not yet left and you will still be able to see them.

At this time, the large number of tourists who came for their summer vacations and whale watching have already left. Therefore, traveling to the Island in September 2025, you can enjoy a quiet, comfortable, and budget-friendly trip.

Packing List for Sainte Marie Island Trip in September

Clothes: You are recommended to mainly pack some thin clothes like T-shirts, short shirts, and thin long pants, which can fulfill most of your needs in September with the cool weather. In addition, you can bring one or two thin jackets, which are needed on rainy days and some cool mornings and nights.

Shoes: You will certainly go to the seaside, so water shoes or slippers are necessary. Besides, you may also do some outdoor explorations in Sainte Marie Island in cool September, so you are recommended to bring comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers. Non-slip and waterproof ones are more protective on rainy days.

Raingear: There are still some sudden rains in September, so you need to bring umbrellas or raincoats all the time.

Sun Protection Items: To prevent getting sunburn in September with strong UV rays, you are advised to bring sunscreen, sunhats, and sunglasses.

What to Do in Sainte Marie Island in September

Recommendation Rate:

With the relatively good climate, September is a good time to step into the nature, get close to the various cute animals, and enjoy the beaches and sea sports in Sainte Marie Island.

1. Visiting Amazing Animals like Whales

(1) Watching Whales

September is still a good time to watch whales in Sainte Marie Island. Taking a boat in the morning and heading to the sea, you will gradually get close to the locations where large numbers of whales are active. If you are lucky enough, you will not take long to see the whales swimming, jumping, and playing in the sea.

People on the Journey to See Whales

Whales in Waters near Sainte Marie Island

(2) Finding Chameleons

Chameleon in Sainte Marie Island

Madagascar is one of the main habitats of chameleons and is known as the “Kingdom of Chameleons”. Therefore, no matter where you go in Madagascar, it is recommended that you look for the famous animal. In Sainte Marie Island, there are many well-protected forests, where you can explore and spot chameleons.

(3) Visiting Lovey Lemurs

On Sainte Marie Island, you’ll find lovely resident lemurs in some hotels, including black and white ruffed lemurs, ring-tailed lemurs, and bamboo lemurs. If you want to get up closely and personally with them, you are recommended to pay attention to related information when booking a hotel.

2. Enjoying Beaches and Water Sports

Sainte Marie Island has fewer visitors compared with other destinations of Madagascar, and thus perfectly maintains natural scenery. Once you see the beautiful view of the blue sea and fine sandy beaches under the sunshine, you can’t help but want to spend your time here. In addition to sunbathing, you can try various exciting sea sports, like diving, snorkeling, surfing, etc.

People Surfing in the Sea

FAQs about Traveling to Sainte Marie Island in September

1. Are there still whales around Sainte Marie Island in late September?
Yes, there are whales though not as many as in July, August and early September. The probability to see them is still relatively high.

2. Are the road conditions of Sainte Marie Island good or not in September?
The road conditions of the Island are good this month. Because the rainfall is not high, the roads are less muddy, and you can go hiking and biking. However, you should note that there may be some small mud puddles on the road when it has just rained.

3. What to wear when watching whales?
You are advised to wear long-sleeve T-shirts and thin long pants, because you will set off early in the morning when the temperature is a little low and be exposed to the sunshine for a long period. In addition, you can prepare a raincoat to prevent your clothes from getting wet by the splashing waves.