The Banana Museum in Martinique: a journey into the heart of the banana plantations

As you travel around Martinique, particularly through the lush landscapes of the north, it is hard not to notice the many banana plantations lining the roads. Bananas are an integral part of Martinique’s agricultural landscape and have played an important role in the island’s economy for decades.

In Sainte-Marie, the Banana Museum offers another way to discover this iconic crop. Located on the Habitation Limbé estate, the museum explores the history of bananas in Martinique and invites visitors to learn more about how they are grown, their many varieties and their different uses.

With exhibition areas and a walk among the banana plants, the visit provides an immersive introduction to one of Martinique’s most emblematic fruits.

The history of bananas in Martinique

Originally from Southeast Asia, bananas were introduced to the Caribbean in the early 16th century. In Martinique, banana cultivation gradually developed, although it remained secondary for a long time compared with sugar cane, which was then at the heart of the island’s agricultural economy.

It was mainly during the 20th century that banana production became increasingly important. After the Second World War, demand grew in mainland France, and bananas gradually became a major export crop, particularly as the sugar industry faced significant difficulties.

Even today, banana plantations shape part of Martinique’s landscape, particularly in the north and along the Atlantic coast. The Banana Museum offers an opportunity to learn more about this history and discover how bananas are grown, harvested and used in Martinique.

Bananas play an important role in Martinique’s agriculture and cuisine.

What to See at the Banana Museum

A visit to the Banana Museum offers an opportunity to discover the fruit from different perspectives, from how it is grown to its many uses. The tour begins with an exhibition area dedicated to the history of bananas, their cultivation, harvesting and uses.

The visit continues through the grounds of Habitation Limbé, where 64 varieties of banana plants grow amid tropical vegetation. Plantain, figue sucrée, pink bananas and other lesser-known varieties: the walk reveals the diversity of this plant far beyond the bananas commonly found on market stalls.

As the museum is located on a working plantation, visitors can also learn more about the different stages of banana production, from harvesting to packing.

Finally, the experience extends to local cuisine, with specialities showcasing bananas in different ways.

The Banana Museum’s outdoor trail offers visitors the opportunity to discover numerous varieties of banana plants in a tropical garden.

Did you know? The banana flower in Martinique

In Martinique, the banana plant’s inflorescence is commonly known as “popotte”. The bunch of bananas gradually develops from this flower.

Restaurant and Tastings at the Banana Museum

The banana experience continues on the plate. Located on the museum grounds, La Bananeraie restaurant serves dishes made with local ingredients, featuring bananas in a variety of savoury and sweet preparations. You can also enjoy the restaurant without visiting the museum.

Bananas in Martinican Cuisine - La Bananeraie restaurant

Banana-based culinary creations at La Bananeraie restaurant. Photos: La Bananeraie.

On the Road to the Banana Museum

Rent a car in Martinique and set off to discover the Banana Museum in Sainte-Marie and the lush landscapes of the island’s north.

Rent a car in Martinique

Plan Your Visit to the Banana Museum

The Banana Museum is located in the Fourniols district of Sainte-Marie, on Martinique’s North Atlantic coast. The museum can be visited independently and no reservation is required.

Practical information:

📍Address: Quartier Fourniols, 97230 Sainte-Marie
🕘Opening hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., every day except Saturday. Last admission at 4 p.m.
🎟️Adult: €8.50
👧Children aged 5 to 12: €7
👶Children under 5: Free
👴Seniors aged 65 and over: €8
♿Visitors with reduced mobility: €7
👥Groups of more than 10 people: €7 per person
🎒School groups: €6 per person

Opening hours and admission prices may change, so remember to check the latest information on the Banana Museum website before your visit.

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