Get to Know the Indian Ocean Islands in Africa
Africa is a world-famous destination for many things: wildlife, natural resources, coral wilderness, pristine beaches, and many more. It is, in fact, often regarded to as the “rawest place on Earth since the universe was born.” True enough, Africa’s natural beauty exudes. Its east coast is naturally endowed with a string of gorgeous islands sitting along the breathtaking Indian Ocean. While some of these islands are famous for their historical and cultural treasures, others remain Africa’s best-kept secrets. Without further ado, here are Africa’s Indian Ocean islands…
SEYCHELLES
Remote, intimate and indubitably beautiful, Seychelles sits 1,500 kilometers east of Kenya. It is made up of 115 paradise islands that boast of beaches dotted with giant granite rocks that are flanked by Coco-de-Mer palms. Its powder white sand beaches and turquoise waters — not to mention its ultimate romantic setting — draws thousands of visitors each year.
Most accommodation in Seychelles offer luxury at its finest as this paradise is mostly frequented by honeymooners all over the world. Diving, snorkeling and swimming along the azure ocean is very popular in this archipelago. Of course, the wonder doesn’t stop there. Rare wildlife ranging from seabirds to giant tortoise can also be found in the area. When it comes to cuisine, Seychelles highlights superb food selection inspired from African, Asian and European styles.
Explore more about Seychelles here.
MAURITIUS
A name that resounds all over the world especially for honeymooners, Mauritius is an island blessed with white flour sand beaches, turquoise lagoon, lush vegetation, inland activities and rich cultural values. It is a melting pot of cultures, with Indian, African and European influences.
With a beautiful string of shores, Mauritius is a popular destination among couples, families and even adventure-seekers. It is best known for its luxury resorts, superb shopping district, rolling sugar cane fields, mountainous interior as well as world-class scuba diving and deep sea fishing sites.
ZANZIBAR
Arguably the most famous archipelago nearest the East African countries, Zanzibar is composed of 4 main islands and a plethora of islets. Three of the fours main islands are inhabited by humans while the fourth coral island serves as an essential breeding ground for seabirds. The main and largest island in the Zanzibar archipelago is Unguja, and the two other gorgeous islands are Pemba and Mafia.
Unguja is steeped in history. Each wall along its narrow pathways share a fascinating story of the past. The island was once a major part of the movement of slaves, the main trade route for spices, gold and ivory. Now, the island’s history is evident all throughout, especially the interesting architecture in its historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Unguja, most popularly called Zanzibar, is famous for its fascinating history, wealth in spices and striking beaches. Aside from that, the island also has a bustling nightlife scene as well as plenty of great opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Pemba offers untouched landscapes and seascapes, with less visitors compared to other popular Zanzibar islands. It boasts of splendid mangrove lagoons as well a greener, hillier and more fertile terrain which is why it is called “The Green Island.”
Pemba also offers rare wildlife. Special sightings include spotted eagle rays, green turtles and whale sharks. Stunning coral reefs and vertical dive walls are also in Pemba, offering fantastic opportunities for drift diving. But do you know what draws a lot of families in this island? The dolphins. From schools of bottlenose to spinner to unique Indian Ocean humpback dolphins, Pemba island showcases these lovely creatures promenading its waters.
Indeed, Pemba island is an excellent off-the-beaten-path destination offering ocean activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, visit to Ngezi Forest, picnicking and possibly swimming with dolphins. What’s more is that Pemba is world-renowned as one of Tanzania’s “Spice Islands” as it features grand clove plantations within its picturesque tropical expanse. Banana, cassava, mango and coconut plantations are also aplenty.
Another little-known island in the Zanzibar archipelago is Mafia. It contains the same features of Unguja — white sands, sparkling waters and clear blue skies — except, it doesn’t have that much crowds. With an underdeveloped infrastructure, Mafia island remains a laidback option for vacationers looking to just relax in a quiet, no-frills beach.
Mafia is particularly popular for its breeding sites for hawksbill and green turtles as well as its protected reefs named Mafia Island Marine Park, Tanzania’s first marine national park. Naturally, it is a favorite among those who love to go scuba diving and deep-sea fishing. Another fascinating event that visitors can revel in is during November to February when whale sharks conglomerate the Mafia waters.
Find the best Zanzibar Tours here.
You can also easily combine Tanzania safari tours with Zanzibar beach-capades!
MADAGASCAR
When people hear Madagascar, it is almost a reflex to remember the Disney movie “Madagascar.” The animals, the landscapes, the unique giant baobab trees. Truly, Madagascar is exotic and extraordinary — even more in real life.
Nestled off the coast of Mozambique, Madagascar is fringed by the world’s third largest coral reef system. Its waters offer superlative wonders both under the sea and on the shores. Activities like scuba diving, whale watching, deep sea fishing and hiking are very much enjoyable in Madagascar.
Also, did you know that Madagascar is often called the “Eighth Continent”? Thanks to its highly unique flora and fauna in which 90% of its wildlife can be found nowhere else in the world, the island is recognized as one of Earth’s greatest treasures. It has national parks that offer opportunities to see these unique creatures up close, and bird watching is intensely rewarding as well.
LAMU
Located in the northern coast of Kenya, Lamu Island provides an ethereal view even as you approach the island. It has mosques and shops creeping out from behind a forest of dhow masts, and it highlights a very beautiful ancient town, Lamu Old Town, which is a UNESCO site.
Lamu is said to be the oldest living town in East Africa and arguably the best-preserved Swahili town in existence. It features old alleyways, unpaved roads and unique transportation system consisting of donkey carts and dhow ships.
Apart from its very rich culture and history, Lamu also boasts of a stunning stretch of beaches, offering exhilarating experiences like sailing, scuba diving and even swimming with dolphins. Learn more: Lamu Island
Check out Our Sample Beach and Safari packages
Experience two of Tanzania’s most spectacular regions during the one vacation on this eight-day safari and beach package.
.jpg)
Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Beach Rejuvenation
7 nights + 8 Days Safari
$6,700.0 *Price From
Spend a week wildlife spotting in northern Tanzania followed by a few days relaxing in idyllic Seychelles during this unforgettable ten-day adventure.
From the Serengeti to the Seychelles
10 Days + 9 Nights
$9,500.0 *Price From
Enquire now and a Vencha Travel's Expert will be in touch within 24 hours!
Let's start planning
1-321-766-6821
