The Savannah of Petrifications

La Savane des Pétrifications: A Remarkable Site in Martinique

Located at the extreme southern tip of the island (at the Cape of Pointe de l'Enfer) in Sainte-Anne Martinique, the Savane des Pétrifications is known for its almost lunar arid landscape, cacti, strange petrified tree trunks, and their fossilized branches. Visitors to the site often enjoy taking home some fossilized wood as souvenirs.

It is a former marshland, established on the footsteps of an old volcano named Morne des Pétrifications, which is one of the very first on the island and rises just over 115 meters.

Savane des Pétrifications: A Geological Peculiarity in Southern Martinique

A unique feature of the soil in this desert area is that it is scattered with blocks of polychrome jasper in three different colors: yellow, red, and black. All of this combined creates an astonishing but very enjoyable landscape to admire.

The Savane des Pétrifications and the Presqu’île de la Caravelle in Trinité are actually the two oldest parts of the island, which were later connected by various volcanic eruptions that formed the entire Martinique.

How to Get to Savane des Pétrifications?

To access the Savane des Pétrifications in Martinique, you'll need to follow a coastal trail. You'll have to take a 4 km hike, which will last about 2 hours round trip—enough to work up a good sweat!

Arriving by car, you can park in the large parking lot at Grande Anse des Salines before the barrier. The trail begins at Salines Beach.

Once you've passed through the undergrowth and crossed the bridge over the Etang des Salines river, the real adventure begins. Among the cacti, the particularly arid, and even rocky ground, it's quite an exotic experience. The golden scenery and waves crashing against the cliffs are a magnificent sight, perfect for social media photos!

However, be careful not to get too close to the edge. From the golden terrain, you'll later come across reddish soil, and then you'll reach the driest point in the area. You're now 500 meters from the beach.

Since effort should always be rewarded, this long walk will take you to Anse Trabaud. So don't forget to pack your swimsuit and towel, along with your hiking shoes and water bottle.

Focus on Anse Trabaud, which is located near La Savane des Pétrifications.

A small corner appreciated by athletes attracted by its fabulous waves, it is not uncommon to see bodyboarders and surfers off the coast of Anse Trabaud beach. Stretching over almost 2 km, its access is still rocky, even somewhat chaotic through La Savane des Pétrifications, and paying for parking: you have to pay 2.50 euros

Unlike other beaches, this one is little frequented and has hours that range from 8am to 6pm . It should also be noted that naturism is tolerated on this beach. So those who want to venture there with their family should be careful .