Indian Ocean Islands
MAURITIUS
Mauritius is a beach paradise ideal for honeymooners, families, couples and is the perfect complement to a Southern African Safari. It’s turquoise waters, lush tropical vegetation, sun-soaked sandy beaches are protected by coral reefs that encircle most of the island. The clear, calm waters off the coast make ideal conditions for all kinds of water sports including snorkelling, windsurfing, water skiing and sailing. Quality and high standards apply to every aspect of infrastructure and service – accommodation, food, sightseeing, transportation and attractions.
It is a year-round destination. Temperatures during the warm, dry months between May and October are in the mid 20oC, rising to upper 20oC in the summer months between November and April. During the summer, tropical weather may cause storms and heavy rains, occasionally resulting in cyclones.
MOZAMBIQUE
Mozambique’s coastline extends from South Africa to Tanzania, it’s crystal blue waters, palm fringed beaches and coral reefs make it an idyllic romantic paradise or peaceful end to a safari. The Bazaruto Archipelago is in the Southern region, closer to the capital city, Maputo. It is the largest sea park in Africa boasting a string of beautiful islands providing stretches of unspoilt sandy beaches, diving reefs, tropical fish, whales, sea turtle, dolphins and the endangered Atlantic Dugong as well as big game fish such as marlins and barracudas. Dolphins tours and sunset dhow sailing trips are also experiences to be enjoyed. It has a warm, tropical climate, averaging around 28oC, the weather along the coast is sunny and warm even in midwinter. Summer, from October to April is rainy, humid and very hot. June to October is dry and cooler.
SEYCHELLES
The Seychelles is one of the most pristine places in the world, an unspoiled tropical paradise offering adventure and stunning natural beauty. Palm-fringed beaches, crystal clear azure waters, it is an idyllic destination for honeymooners, families or a place to unwind after an adventurous safari.
The most popular of the inner islands are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, multiple islands trips can be enjoyed. Mahe is the largest and most populated, surrounded by coral reefs and warm sparkling water. A tour around Mahe island will take you through amazing coastal scenery, botanical gardens to view Coco De Mer palms, orchids and giant tortoises. A walk into the forests and spice plantations will reward you with magnificent views of the smaller islands. It’s national parks and reserves provide a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on earth. The Outer Islands of Alphonse and Desroches offer luxury accommodation, sailing fishing diving in the most remote of places offering adventure and natural beauty in pristine surroundings. The climate is generally warm, not reaching extremes of heat or cold. Temperatures rarely drop below 24oC or rise above 32oC. All but the remotest southern islands lie outside the cyclone belt making it a year round destination for sun and beach lovers.
ZANZIBAR
Zanzibar, known as the spice island, is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean made up of Zanzibar, Pemba Islands and many islets. Sun soaked sandy beaches, fringing coral reefs and little fishing villages make it the ideal place to relax, unwind after an exhilarating safari. For the active there is an array of water sports on offer and for those who enjoy culture, a visit to the old city of Stone Town with it’s alleyways, bazaars, mosques and Arab houses is an experience. The climate is tropical, hot all year round with two rainy seasons, March to May (April & May are the wettest, downpours can be strong and cause floods) and “short rains” Mid October to December. Temperatures are high throughout the year, warmest is October to March approx. 31/38oC. May to August are cooler, approx. 29oC
