The Petrification Savannah

A desert in the middle of the island of flowers! Hard to imagine? Perhaps, but it is no less real. The Savane des Pétrifications located in the South of Martinique on the peninsula of Sainte-Anne offers a landscape, which in contrast with the rest of the island is guaranteed to leave you speechless.

Far from the often colorful and exotic vegetation of the rest of the island, the panorama of the Savane des Pétrifications looks like lunar craters. But what are we going to do in a desert?  To your backpacks, let's go hiking! Many people prefer hiking with family, friends or lovers, but I tell you that even solo, you will have plenty of crabs and hermit crabs on the road to keep you company!

The history of the Petrified Savannah

The Petrification Savannah? Funny name, you will say! Well, its origin is due to the fact that in the past, pieces of wood were found everywhere. These pieces of wood and even whole trees had fossilized through thousands of years of exposure to the unique climate of the region. You won't be able to see these geological remains, however, because they have been looted. At least now you know where the name of this amazing landscape comes from. Especially since it is located on an island so flamboyant of colors.

The hike of the Savane Pétrifications

The trail we choose for you for this hike is a part of the Trace des Caps - a great hike in Martinique with a length of more than 27 kilometers. However, for the Savane des Pétrifications, we start light, only 5 kilometers (only?!) For the regular hikers, 5 kilometers is a piece of cake, enough to relax you! And for the novice hikers, it is the ideal start to put the flame to the passion and encourage you to start!

To begin, go to the undergrowth at the edge of Anse Prunes. Following the path, you will eventually come to the Etang des Salines river which you will have to cross. Don't worry, there is a small wooden bridge waiting for you. This is where the Savannah begins, you will feel it reveal itself little by little as you walk along the path that has on one side the sea and on the other a plain of earth with high yellow grass. Enjoy the contrast of colors, because soon you will be in the middle of the Savannah, a desert landscape that will remind you greatly of the Moon! The rock of the area is different from anything you will see elsewhere on the island, it is the product of the erosion still present.

Finish in style: swimming at Anse Trabaud or visiting Sainte Anne

You can stop at one of the many beautiful beaches of Sainte-Anne, including our favorite selection: Anse Trabaud where an unforgettable swim awaits you after a good day of walking. Its turquoise water is hypnotizing. You also have the choice of Anse Meunier, our favorite for moments of calm and relaxation. Or the beach of Pointe Marin, where you will certainly find many more people, and especially activities! From swimming, to beach restaurants, to water activities, you will never be bored.

 How about a visit to the town of Sainte Anne? The market of the city will leave you amazed by all its colors, organic products and handmade souvenirs. Before finishing the day, go taste some delicious Creole dishes, you'll tell me about it!

Savane des Pétrifications: A destination not to be missed

Whether it's your first visit to Martinique, or you are regulars, the Savane des Pétrifications is a destination not to be missed! You can spend the whole day at the activity, starting with the hike, bring some protection against the sun, because it will heat up! In the afternoon, you can relax on one of the beaches along the coast. Finally, you can end the evening with some good Creole food at one of the restaurants of Sainte-Anne.