African Ocean Islands
Tropical beaches & cultural wonder
Location Highlights
Seychelles – The Seychelles consists of 115 idyllic islands situated in the Indian Ocean, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. It’s a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts who can explore a diverse underwater world of marine life with sunshine and blue skies all year round!
Mauritius – A beautiful island nation, just a 4-hour plane ride from South Africa. It’s a perfect family-friendly destination with plenty of water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and boating. With luxurious accommodation and exceptional service, you will experience ultimate relaxation. Travelers can hike the green mountain ranges and explore the unique wildlife and plant species that call this island home.
Maldives – A breathtaking archipelago made up of over 1,000 coral islands. Incredible luxury resorts, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The Maldives offers some of the best surfing and diving experiences in the world, with a range of marine life to experience.
Madagascar – A unique destination, with lush biodiversity and natural beauty. It’s home to a wide range of unique species, including lemurs and chameleons, and has magnificent Baobab forests that are must-see. Traverse untouched coastlines with picturesque beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Zanzibar – A stunning archipelago off the coast of Tanzania, with beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and spice plantations. Gifting amazing options to choose from, traves can take spice tours, visit Stone Town, and explore the turquoise waters and colorful coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving.
The Indian Ocean Islands
Off the coast of Southern and East Africa are some of the most picturesque and beautifully untouched islands in the world. Surrounded by warm “gin shot” clear waters and coral reefs sensationally rich with life painted by a kaleidoscope of colours. Exclusive lodges, like &Beyond Mnemba, Vamezi, and North Island, provide a luxurious and authentic experience where shoes are never required, dolphins greet you while snorkeling, turtles nest nearby, and “catch and release” fishing is enjoyed with thrilling success. These islands are a paradise for diving enthusiasts, offering a vast variety of reef options and underwater diversity.
Staying on an ocean island allows you to disconnect from modern life and ground yourself with nature. Accommodation blends into the tropical jungle and provides a luxurious and comfortable environment in harmony with surroundings. You’ll enjoy the fresh seafood and beaches so white your imagination won’t comprehend them.
zanzibar
A tropical island cultural wonder
A tropical cultural paradise off the coast of Tanzania in East Africa. The island has a rich history and culture with a blend of African, Arabic, and Indian influences, allowing travelers to experience local culture through music, dance, and cuisine. Stone Town is brimming with character, with narrow alleys, bustling markets, and historical landmarks. Zanzibar’s natural beauty is awe inspiring, with Jozani Forest, a nature reserve home to the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey. The island’s beaches are a bucket list visit with soft white sands and turquoise waters.
seychelles
An island paradise
With its sparkling turquoise waters, coral reefs flourishing with marine life, and immaculate beaches, it’s the perfect destination for relaxing beach days and ocean activities as a romantic getaway or Honeymoon. The archipelago is renowned for its world-class fishing, with anglers flocking here from all over the globe to try their luck at catching the elusive bonefish, giant trevally, and sailfish.
The archipelago’s stunning scenery, including rugged granite peaks and verdant forests, provides a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable romantic moments. The Seychelles also offers a wealth of activities beyond the beach. Spend your day in the mountains hiking, bird watching, and exploring local villages and markets. The archipelago’s unique flora and fauna, including the giant tortoise, coco de mer palm tree, and black parrot, make it an ecological wonderland. The islands remoteness truly gives your holiday a special feeling. And don’t forget to try their local coconut rum, Taka Maka!
Mauritius
White sandy beaches
Besides lounging on the beach, Mauritius offers thrilling outdoor experiences such as trail running, hiking, and mountain biking through its stunning mountainous rainforests. Travelers can get to know the authentic Mauritius by delving into the island’s vibrant Creole culture, explore its rich history through sightseeing, or indulge in some shopping for local crafts and souvenirs.
Mauritius is the perfect playground for a family or adventure holiday. Its warm tropical climate, white sandy beaches and beautiful oceans lend themselves perfectly for a beach vacation where you can enjoy cocktails on the beach, eat delicious food and take advantage of the many ocean activities.
Maldives
An island phenomenon
The Maldives is a breathtaking ocean and island phenomenon that gives a unique travel experience. Composed of 26 atolls and over 1000 islands, it is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean that is renowned for its clear turquoise waters and colorful coral reefs, making it a paradise for diving, fishing, and surfing enthusiasts.
The Maldives is perfect for romantic getaways and family fun. Exploring the islands on a charter is a bucket list “must-do,” but you can also enjoy your time by simply relaxing and soaking up the wonderful hospitality. For a more grounded and holistic experience, there are retreats where you can focus on mind, body, and soul. The stunning natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and warm hospitality is the perfect way to unwind and relax.
Madagascar
A truly unique island
Madagascar is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Africa. Its geological history goes back 165 million years, when it separated from Gondwanaland. This isolation led to the evolution of unique wildlife found nowhere else on the planet, including over 60 species of lemurs.
Madagascar’s diverse ecosystems range from rainforests to deserts, and from mountains to beaches. Its baobab forests are home to towering trees that are centuries old, while its coastlines boast crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and water sports. Madagascar’s ecological diversity is a major draw for travelers, with opportunities to see a range of unique flora and fauna, including chameleons and the incredibly beautiful baobab trees. The country’s cultural diversity is equally fascinating, with influences from Africa, Asia, and Europe creating a unique blend of traditions and customs.
Sao Tome and Principe
A land lost in time
Off the west coast of Africa lies the 2 island nation of Sao Tome Principe, an off-the-beaten-path gem that is truly a land lost in time. Its lush forests, rocky mountains, and quiet beaches create a breathtaking landscape reminiscent of the Jurassic age. The warm, deep blue waters surrounding the islands gift outstanding diving opportunities for the intrepid traveler.
Sao Tome and Principe also have a rich history, discovered in the 15th century, its past is a story of slavery and toil in the coffee and cocoa plantations. After gaining their independence in 1975, these islands have transformed into one of the most beautiful and unique destinations on earth. You can explore the vibrant culture and architecture of the capital city, São Tomé, or wander through the old colonial plantations, which have now been repurposed as charming guesthouses. The people of Sao Tome Principe offer world-class hospitality, and their passion for their island home is contagious.
