the ultimate safari finale:
Beaches and islands in Africa
Picture this: you’ve just spent a week on safari looking for the iconic predators, largest land mammal and more with your heart racing at every encounter. Leopards lazing in the trees, giraffes journeying across the plains in front of you. Your camera roll by now is bursting with memories of a lifetime – and loads of hours reviewing and editing! But Africa’s best kept secret is perhaps the beauty and reward of its beaches and islands. It’s not surfing and white sand… but it’s rich with reward in other ways and the ideal finale to any safari.
For Aussies especially, the idea of choosing beaches and islands in Africa for a holiday might seem counterintuitive because of course we’re spoilt rotten here with our stunning coastlines and reef and sand islands. But let us share with you some great information about Africa’s islands and beaches.
You never know, maybe they will become somewhere on your radar. Remember it’s not just about perfect sand and crystal-clear waters (though there’s plenty of that).
For us, it’s the intoxicating blend of history, culture, and untouched wilderness that creates something truly magical. it’s your chance to wash off that safari dust while diving headfirst into stories of ancient spice traders, colonial adventures, and vibrant local communities that will leave you absolutely speechless.
Let’s take a closer look and some of our favourite beaches and islands below. Or click here to peruse our Beach and Island Look Book.
The eight continent
Madagascar
Madagascar isn’t just an island; it’s practically another world. There’s over 5,000 kilometres of pristine coastline and it’s a special biodiversity hotspot that offers you endless adventures. Imagine snorkelling through coral gardens where 90% of marine life exists nowhere else on earth, then stepping ashore to encounter playful lemurs in their natural habitat. From barefoot beach bungalows where you’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves, to luxury eco-lodges that blend seamlessly with the landscape, Madagascar caters to every traveller’s dream and budget.
The diving here is fantastic. They have untouched coral reefs, whale shark encounters, and underwater caves that feel like nature’s own cathedral. On land, you can trek through spiny forests, spot chameleons the size of your thumb, or simply sink your toes into beaches so perfect they seem almost unreal… some of it may just rival Aussie beach sand (gasp!).
Where there’s magic
Mozambique
Mozambique’s coastline tells stories of Portuguese explorers and ancient Arab trading routes, but it’s the present-day magic that will capture your heart. Here’s another picture this moment. Just imagine sipping cocktails as traditional dhows sail past at sunset, their triangular sails are silhouetted so elegantly against a sky painted in the most impossible shades of orange and pink.
From budget-friendly owner run bed and breakfasts where you can feast on the freshest seafood for the price of a Sydney coffee (ok slight exaggeration, but it’s cheap that’s for sure compared to our prices), to ultra-luxurious resorts where your private villa comes with its own slice of pristine island or beach, Mozambique delivers romance and adventure in equal measure. There’s stunning coastlines worthy of exploring and archipelagoes of islands that offer world-class Robinson Crusoe type stays and the diving in the Bazaruto archipelago is worthy of a mention. There’s manta rays, whale sharks (seasonal), and dugongs making regular appearances.
The spice route
Zanzibar
Zanzibar’s name even sounds like poetry! This UNESCO world heritage island is part of Tanzania and where Africa meets Arabia in the most captivating way imaginable. Stone Town’s narrow alleyways wind past ancient buildings with epic doors where sultans once ruled and fortunes were made in cloves, cardamom, and cinnamon.
These days, what makes Zanzibar extraordinary is when you step outside the cultural melting pot of Stone Town (but do have a few nights here, it’s worth every minute with exceptional exploring!) and you explore the vast coastline with local culture at your doorstep. Many people say Zanzibar is just too busy now – and they have a point. There are more properties than ever before and that will continue. But if you know where to go, who to stay with and what to experience it’s easy to get away from the crowds and for a fraction of first world coastal costs.
Whether you choose a rustic beachfront banda where local fishermen become your neighbours, or a luxury resort where your biggest decision is whether to book the sunset dhow cruise or the spice tour, Zanzibar offers authentic experiences that money simply can’t buy anywhere else.
There’s some great diving and snorkelling operators that are well trained, know the best reefs and times so the underwater safari awaits. Or you can choose to simply relax, there’s ample shady spots, insta-perfect hammocks and pool loungers worthy of lazing.
Let’s talk food because the scene here alone is worth the trip! Imagine dining on rooftops overlooking the Indian ocean, sampling Swahili fusion cuisine that tells the story of centuries of cultural exchange, all while traditional Taarab music drifts through the warm evening air. Even better why not do a Swahili cooking course or visit the spice plantation then savour spice infused lunch before your afternoon beachfront snooze.
The famous
Indian Ocean Islands
Everyone’s heard of Mauritius and Seychelles, and for good reason. These islands serve up postcard-perfect beaches with luxury resorts that cater to every whim. But here’s where it gets exciting: the outer islands.
Seychelles’ secret islands
Forget La Digue and Mahé for a moment because the outer islands of Seychelles offer something far more precious. Imagine complete solitude on beaches where your footprints might be the only ones in the sand. We want to take you to exclusive islands in your almost private atoll, like Cosmoledo Atoll. It’s the farthest-flung atoll where twenty-two uninhabited islands and islets outnumber the guests in camp! And then you’ve got Astove Atoll, here there’s outstanding snorkelling with remarkable underwater drop offs and this place has been witnessed by fewer people than those who’ve successfully summited Everest! There’s a company committed to sustainable tourism and conservation we love working with – Blue Seychelles. Take a look, start saving and we’ll get you there for your safari finale!
Mauritius’ hidden depths
Beyond the luxury resorts of the busy Grand Baie, Mauritius reveals a wilder side. We love exploring the Le Morne peninsula where there’s an optical illusion like an underwater waterfall, some spectacular private beaches and laid back lifestyle.
West Africa’s ultimate secret
São Tomé and Príncipe
Now, if you’re truly ready for adventure, allow us to introduce you to São Tomé and Príncipe – Africa’s best-kept secret tucked away in the gulf of Guinea. this volcanic twin-island nation is where Indiana Jones would holiday if he were real and alive today!
Another picture this moment, ready? This time, think emerald rainforests that have reclaimed colonial-era cacao and coffee plantations, creating mysterious jungle cathedrals where butterflies the size of dinner plates (and that’s no exaggeration) flutter through shafts of golden sunlight. Waterfalls cascade down volcanic slopes into crystal-clear pools perfect for swimming and untouched beaches with no other tourists!
The accommodation options reflect the island’s authentic character – from charming plantation houses converted into boutique hotels, to simple but comfortable eco-lodges where you’ll wake to the sounds of exotic birds rather than alarm clocks. The local cuisine is a revelation – fresh seafood prepared with Portuguese flair and tropical ingredients you’ve never heard of.
Now if you love walks and hikes, this place will blow your mind! Hiking trails wind through primary rainforest where you might spot endemic birds found nowhere else on earth, while pristine coral reefs offer diving experiences reminiscent of the Caribbean decades ago – before the crowds arrived of course.
Have we got you ready? You’ll need a good few weeks to explore it well but even just a four night stay will take you away to paradise!
