How to compare African island beach holidays

If you’re coming all the way to Africa for a safari, it may be worth looking into a few blissful days’ break on one of our island paradises. Some choose to unwind on an island before hitting the dawn game drives, while others prefer relaxing after late nights in the boma.

Africa’s islands have warm water, excellent diving, top-notch accommodation, and a great mix of authentic local culture and up-to-the-minute mod cons. But because there are so many options, we’ve created this list to help you choose the island that best suits your vacation plans.

Quick Overview: How to Compare Indian Ocean Islands

Location & Landscape  

Seychelles

Both the smallest country in Africa and the least populous, the Republic of Seychelles lies southeast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago, situated northeast of Madagascar has around 115 named islands that are spread over an area of 455 km² (175 sq. miles). The small collection of islands is similar in size to the island of Barbados. If we take the oceanic expanses of the country into consideration, the Seychelles measure up to a total of 390,000 km² (150,000 sq.).

The landscapes of the Seychelles range from sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs nature reserves teeming with diverse flora, fauna, and wildlife and even mountain ranges that adorned with lush green forests.  The three main islands in Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, with the capital city of Victoria located on Mahe.

Mauritius

The postcard perfect Mauritius rests in the south-western part of the Indian Ocean, just over 1130km from Madagascar and almost 2400 kilometre off Africa’s south-east coasts as part of southern Africa. The volcanic island is known for its warm waters, white beaches, and tan-inducing sunny skies, but the nation’s interior is home to five grand and paradisical mountain ranges- a treat for nature lovers. In land, the landscapes boast thriving forests, stunning waterfalls, meandering canyons, and several rivers with the Grande Rivière Sud-Est being the longest at 40 kilometres (25 miles). The grand River Southeast and the Black River are two particularly important rivers for the nation as they act as sources of hydroelectricity.

The vibrant capital city of Port Louis is located on the northwest coast of Mauritius, acting as a cultural and historical hub, as well as city centre where travellers can enjoy open-air markets, street food, shopping precincts, and anything else you may not be able to find on the surrounding islands.

Zanzibar

Commonly referred to as the “Spice Island”, the mesmerising Indian Ocean Island of Zanzibar lies just 35 kilometres (22 miles) from east-central Africa along the Swahili Coast, a 2900 kilometre (1800 miles) long coastal area of East Africa that extends from Somalia in the north of Africa all the way to Mozambique in the south. The archipelago, adjacent to the Tanzanian mainland of Tanganyika, is considered a semi-autonomous region of Tanzania and is made up of the two major islands of Pemba and Unguja as well as fifty smaller islets.

Mozambique

Mozambique lies on the southeast coast of Africa, sharing borders with Eswatini (southwards), South Africa (south-west), Zimbabwe (to the west), Zambia and Malawi (north-west) and Tanzania, which is located directly north of the country.  The eastern part of the island is framed by 2500 kilometres (1550 miles) of stunning beachfront where a string of pristine tropical islands lie, bordered by the warm and crystalline waters of the Indian Ocean. At nearly 800,000km², Mozambique is a little larger in area than the US states of Virginia, California, New York, and Pennsylvania combined! The coastal area is also home to stunning coral reefs which only add to the country’s beachy appeal.

Inland, the landscapes of Mozambique vary from vast mountain ranges to savannahs and woodlands which support a diverse range of life. The middle course of the Zambezi River runs all the way from Victoria Falls to Lake Cahora Bassa in Mozambique where it flows before emptying out into the Indian Ocean. In addition to the Zambezi, the Limpopo River which begins its course in South Africa flowing through two countries before reaching Mozambique and emptying into the Indian ocean. While the tropical side of the country tends to garner the most attraction, Mozambique’s beauty extends beyond its sandy shores and into its varying terrains and diverse scenery.

Madagascar

The remote island of Madagascar is the largest of all the Indian ocean islands and the fourth largest in the world, covering 587,041 km² and making it greater in size than France and only slightly smaller than Texas. The island country lies off the southeast coast of Africa, just 250 miles (402 kilometres) east of Mozambique, placing its western boarder along the Mozambique Channel. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, 71% of the land is used for agriculture, but Madagascar has a diverse range of landscapes ranging from forests (which take up 21% of the total land area) to lakes, coral reef systems and mangroves to rivers floodplains, swamps and so much more.

The mainland of Madagascar has a selection of gorgeous beaches for you to choose from, but if you are looking for somewhere a little more exclusive -as in you might be the only ones there- there are also several spots for you to visit on the smaller surrounding islands. Nature lovers will delight in the rich biotic communities all throughout the mainland, there are many national parks scattered all throughout, ensuring the protection of the rare flora and fauna.

Diani (Beach)

More popularly known for its beach, Diani is a coastal area nestled on the southern coast of Kenya in Kwale County, about 30 kilometres (19 miles) or an hour south of the coastal city of Mombasa. Due to its star attraction, Diani Beach, the area has developed over the years, now housing resorts and hotels offering travellers the opportunity to be close to the number one beach in Kenya and East Africa. What was once known as Diani Forest has now been fragmented and most of it cleared, leaving only small patches. To the west, the Shimba Hills National Reserve offers a shift in scenery, characterized by its coastal rainforest landscape and rich biodiversity but of course, all eyes are set on Diani Beach for visitors to the area.

The picturesque shores of Diani Beach consist of 20 kilometres (12 miles) of rolling white sands with flourishing palm trees and calm, warm waters that draw water sports enthusiasts and beach-lovers from everywhere. The wind makes Diani a kite surfers dream, a wonderful sight to witness when the breezed picks up. Offshore, mesmerising coral reefs make this an ideal destination for snorkellers and divers.

Lake Malawi

While technically not an Indian Ocean Island, Malawi earns a noteworthy mention for its breathtaking scenery, particularly the majestic Lake Malawi. Often dubbed “the warm heart of Africa,” this landlocked country in southeast Africa seamlessly combines bush and beach experiences. Covering just 118,480 km², Malawi boasts a mixture of landscapes including mountains, lakes, lagoons, savannahs, forests, and hills. Beyond its scenic allure, Malawi features superb game viewing, with Liwonde National Park standing out for its abundant wildlife and prolific birdlife which ranks among the best on the continent.

Lake Malawi alone, constitutes ¼ of the country at approximately 30,000 km², offering a scenic “tropical” escape. The large area falls short in no aspect when compared to its Indian Ocean counterparts. Grand baobab trees line the shores with just as much appeal and a little more individuality than the palms of most beaches, a crystal body of freshwater filled with an assortment of multicoloured fish adding to its rating as a top scuba diving destination and an enthralling playground for snorkellers. The southern and central parts of the area are the most accessible, which is where you’ll find a selection of accommodations such as private villas that overlook the lake and tucked away tents perfect for families.

What Sets the Islands Apart?

Seychelles

The ivory shores of Seychelles captivate in a manner exclusive to this exquisite archipelago. Here, the beaches stand out as the predominant allure, offering you many to choose from. Whether you seek private island retreats or public, more vibrant, family-friendly stretches, quieter havens perfect for romance, or popular spots embraced by tourists and locals alike, Seychelles accommodates every preference. Its natural beauty has consistently earned international recognition, with many of its beaches being hailed as among the best in the world.

Mauritius

Similarly to Zanzibar, one of the things that makes Mauritius special is its cultural diversity. An island country with a rich cultural history, Mauritius seamlessly blends  Asian, African and European influences. From the aromas savoured and the flavours encountered in the local cuisine to the sega and reggae music that fills the streets, and even the coexistence of various faiths- the influences surface in every aspect of the Mauritian way of life. Beyond making for a perfect tropical vacation, Mauritius provides a culturally enriching experience that is hard not to take notice of and immerse yourself in, should you decide to leave the comforts of your resort for some local exploring (which we highly re commend).

Zanzibar

Contrary to what you may hear, Zanzibar isn’t quite the beach paradise it is so often painted out to be. While the archipelago has many a beach, and water sports enthusiasts are sure to find less tidal waters to splash around if they look hard enough, what really makes Zanzibar special is the combination of its friendly people who radiate the hakuna matata philosophy- don’t worry be happy, most people smile, and seem completely content in what they are doing; as well as the array of diverse cultures that come together, making it the “cultural melting pot” it is so frequently referred to as, and for good reason.

From the Omani-Arab, Indian and Persian architecture and décor that permeate Stone Town, to the Swahili traditional houses found in rural areas known as Makuti homes- every element reflects a rich heritage with a story to tell. In Zanzibar, the resonating notes of Taarab music blend Middle Eastern melodies with East African rhythms, crafting a distinctly Tanzanian sound. The local cuisine is fragrant and spice-laden, each dish bearing a unique East-African take on traditional Indian flavours. Woven together by the welcoming people of Zanzibar, these cultural characteristics form a harmonious blend of a truly Zanzibari identity.

Mozambique

Mozambique’s islands, mainly the Quirimbas archipelago and Bazaruto, are praised for their pristine and unspoiled coral reefs that make their waters particularly excellent diving and snorkelling. Unlike some of the other Indian Ocean islands where snorkelling and diving are standard experiences, Mozambique truly epitomises an off-the-beaten-track experience. In Southern Africa, most travellers opt for the famous beaches of Cape Town after a bush experience, but getting away from the crowds is a little harder in the mother city. Mozambique, however, strikes the perfect balance, providing an opportunity to conclude your vacation away from the noise, and decompress undisturbed and in perfect tranquillity.

Madagascar

Unbeknownst to be many, Madagascar is possibly one of the best countries to go on vacation if you truly want to escape the crowds. From the pristine shorelines with remote and unspoiled beaches to the extraordinary biodiversity found inland throughout the nation’s forests and national park, Madagascar gives you a slice of everything you could want in an enriching getaway. If you’re a nature or wildlife enthusiast, you’ll find the island particularly special because of its abundant and diverse natural offerings. According to the World Wildlife Fund, around 90% of all the plants, reptiles and mammals in Madagascar cannot be found anywhere else in the world, making for a particularly unique nature-watching experience.

Diani Beach

Third on our list of the best things to do in Kenya other than safari, Diani Beach is the perfect sequel to a safari in East Africa. While Kenya isn’t typically known as a beach destination, Diani is renowned as one of the best beaches to go to in East Africa for water sports enthusiasts and those looking to indulge in a change of scenery after several days of diverse safari landscapes. As is the standard for the archetypal idyllic Indian Ocean Island, you can expect pristine stands, safe and shallow waters perfect for swimming, and the cherry on top? No crowds.

Diani beach is the perfect tropical getaway for those looking for an Indian Ocean beach destination that is a little more on the exclusive side but is not quite a private beach. While Diani does pull tourists, you will never find it crowded allowing you to enjoy the warm waters of the east coast and an enticing range of water-based activities.

Malawi

We often refer to Lake Malawi as “Malawi’s drawcard,” because it is both one of the most unique places to visit in East Africa and inarguably one of the most serene. It’s easy to forget where you are because there isn’t anything quite like Lake Malawi in the country, or even the continent for that matter. While aesthetically, it would be easy to convince yourself that you are on a tropical Indian Ocean Island, lake Malawi is neither an Indian Ocean Island nor a tropical destination, making its coastal charm that much more magical. After some time spent on safari, this isolated paradise whisks you away to a dreamlike haven, where you can wind down, and “beach is life” becomes your daily motto.

When is the Best Time to Go to the Islands?

Seychelles

Best time to go: April-May; October, and November.

Why: There is less wind during these times of the year- the northwest trade monsoon blows from November to March while the southwest monsoon blows from the month of May to September. December to April are the hottest months in Seychelles, and while short rains occur throughout January and February the sun comes back out afterwards. You may find that the rain provides relief from the enjoyable but warm and humid weather.

If you would prefer to avoid the heat altogether, July is the coolest month to visit the Seychelles and indulge in water activities with a little less worry about getting sunburnt, but of course, it’s important to never head outdoors without sunblock!

Mauritius

Best time to go: May-December

Why: during this time, the weather is sunny, cooler, and dry. While Mauritius experiences warm weather year-round, January to March are peak cyclone season and as such, we do not recommend visiting the region during the wet season. From July to August, the winds are strongest particularly in the east coast, so while the island is still accessible and you will find tourists there during those months, we advise you to avoid the east coast throughout that period.

Zanzibar

Best time to go: June-October

Why: While you can still visit the Zanzibar outside of these months, June to October mark the archipelago’s driest season. Outside of this period, it’s only advised that you go if you don’t mind the heat and humidity in January and February. Additionally, June to October coincides with Tanzania’s best safari season, making it easy to tailor the perfect bush and beach combo! Some resorts do close during the April-May rainy season.

Mozambique

Best time to go: May-November, August and September

Why: During Winter runs during the months from May to November and during this time the temperatures are cooler and the rain is minimal making this a great time to be outside, although it does begin to get slightly nippy in the evenings from June to August. August and September are ideal if your priority is game viewing as the wildlife congregates around water sources during then. Game reserves in the north start opening from the beginning of June, so this time is ideal for safari experiences. Avoid the cyclone season between January and March.

Madagascar

Best time to go: May-October, June-September, November-March

Why: Madagascar experiences its dry season from May to October and during this time, the weather is cooler and there is less rainfall, making this the ideal time for outdoor activities such as observing wildlife. The temperatures also drop during this time with May marking the final “hot” month before they increase one more in October. Between June and September is the best time to witness the humpback whale migration, and if you want to dive with whale sharks, November to March is prime time! October to December entices those who have come to witness the lemur-breeding season, but it is important to keep in mind that December is the wettest time of the year.

Diani Beach

Best time to go: June-September, December- March

Why: During these months the weather gets hot and sunny and there is little rain. From June to October the temperatures are not extreme, so you can still enjoy the warmth without it getting too hot. While the rainy seasons in Kenya run from mid-March to June and from November to December, Kenya is still considered a great year-round destination, particularly for safari-goers. Those chasing the waters of Diani beach must simply keep in mind that the months of April to May are wet and humid while October to November are very sunny and extremely humid months.

Lake Malawi

Best time to go: May-late October/November

Why: From May marks the official dry season and the weather here is just right, after which (from November) the heat becomes extreme. The weather begins to warm up in August, making this a good time to indulge in afternoon-long swims and days filled with other water activities without concern for water temperatures or heat. At the beginning of the year the rains of the wet season are intense, as such most of the lodges in Malawi close during this time; it is only in April that the country begins to dry up.

Who is Each Island Best Suited for?

Seychelles

Best for: Honeymooners, couples, and small families. Some resorts are family-friendly for older children. There are very few kids’ clubs or child-friendly activities on private islands such as Fregate, North, Denis & Cousine so consider other islands if you’re travelling with children or teenagers.

Mauritius

Best for: Families with young children as there are many kids’ club and most resorts offer childminding services. Active honeymooners or couples will enjoy hiking and the plethora of water sports available.

Zanzibar

Best for:  Honeymooners, couples and adventurers who want a good dose of culture. Some resorts have small kids’ clubs, but Zanzibar is mostly geared toward adults.

Mozambique

Best for: Honeymooners, couples and adventurers. There are no kids’ clubs on Bazaruto.

Madagascar

Best for: Nature and wildlife enthusiasts, travellers looking to go off-the-beaten path.

Diani Beach

Best for: Travellers looking to combine a beach vacation after safari in East Africa, especially Kenya.

Lake Malawi

Best for: Couples, honeymooners and nature lovers.

How to Get There

Seychelles

There are direct flights from Johannesburg in South Africa and Nairobi in Kenya, making them easy to combine with a Kruger or Masai Mara safari.

Mauritius

Direct medium-haul flights from Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban in South Africa, making Mauritius easy to combine with Cape Town holiday or a Phinda safari. There are also direct flights from London Gatwick and Dubai.

Zanzibar

Direct flights from Nairobi and Johannesburg, making Zanzibar an easy add-on for Mara and Kruger safaris. There are also flights from Dar es Salaam in Tanzania; many hikers who’ve climbed Mount Kilimanjaro head to Zanzibar afterwards to celebrate and recuperate.

Mozambique

There are direct flights from Johannesburg and the Kruger National Park in South Africa to Vilanculos. Transfers to the surrounding islands will be by boat or helicopter.

Madagascar

Antananarivo is a common arrival point for travellers to Madagascar. There are flights to Madagascar from most major airports, including Kenya and Johannesburg which provides flights both Antananarivo and Nosy Be.

Diani Beach

Diani is accessible by flights to Mombasa, and just a short drive from Moi Mombasa International Airport.

Lake Malawi

Lake Malawi is accessible from Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, with the first being the most preferred access point. There are daily to flights to Malawi from Johannesburg as well as regular flights from Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya. This makes for ease in planning big game safari in Southern or East Africa followed by a beach holiday on Lake Malawi.

Activities:

Seychelles

Beaches: Some are public, some are private all with long stretches of white sand. Water is not tidal, so swimming is safe.

Snorkelling & diving:  Generally straight off the beach.
Non-motorised water sports:  Plenty such as pedalos, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.
Motorised water sports:  There are none – jet skis, speedboats and so on are banned to preserve the peacefulness of the islands.

Mauritius

Beaches:  Most are sandy with occasional small coves. Water is not tidal with shallow waves, so swimming is safe.
Snorkelling & diving:  Good for beginners. There are two marine reserves.
Non-motorised water sports:  Plenty such as pedalos, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding.
Motorised water sports:  Plenty including water-skiing, jet skiing, parasailing, and snorkelling from the reef.

Zanzibar

Beaches: Most are short stretches of white sand with small coves and coral or rock in certain places. The water can be very tidal so take care when swimming and bear in mind that not all beaches are suitable for water sports.
Snorkelling & diving: Mostly taking place off the reef from a boat, there is good visibility and excellent options for beginners. There are very few places where you can do both straight off the beach.
Non-motorised water sports: Plenty such as kiteboarding, sailing and kayaking. Traditional dhows still go out daily and are a fantastic way to toast the sunset.
Motorised water sports: Largely limited to boats for diving and snorkelling.

Mozambique

Beaches: Expect very long sandy beaches. Although the water is tidal, swimming is considered to be safe as the waves are not large.
Snorkelling & diving: Very rewarding for experienced divers – there is good visibility, but currents can be strong and water choppy at the reef.
Non-motorised water sports: Laidback but limited to swimming, dhow trips and kayaking in estuaries.  Fantastic windsurfing and sailing conditions on Medjumbe Private Island.
Motorised water sports: Largely limited to boats for diving and snorkelling.

Madagascar

Beaches: Diverse coastlines with sandy stretches. Tidal conditions can vary.
Snorkelling & diving: Exceptional marine biodiversity, making it an emerging destination for snorkelling and diving.
Non-motorised water sports: Limited, with some areas offering kayaking and paddleboarding.

Motorised water sports: Limited availability, with some locations offering boat tours.

Diani Beach

Beaches: The beach is pristine with warm Indian Ocean waters. The tidal conditions vary.

Snorkelling & diving: Excellent opportunities for diving, especially at nearby marine reserves. Snorkelling is popular, with diverse marine life.
Non-motorised water sports: There is an abundance of options, including dhow safaris, kayaking, and windsurfing.
Motorised water sports: Water-skiing, jet skiing, and boat tours are common.

Lake Malawi

Beaches: Sandy beaches along the lake. Current-free, walm, and clear and freshwater conditions.
Snorkelling & diving: Excellent for snorkelling with a variety of colourful cichlid fish, also known to provide some of the best freshwater diving in the world.
Non-motorised water sports: A wide variety to choose from including kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are common.

Motorised water sports: More limited options than motorised, water skiing is available and some locations offering boat tours.

Ready to Plan Your Indian Ocean Island Vacation?

No matter which African island you choose, you can expect sunshine, friendly people, warm water, and an itinerary that caters to all your needs. Get in touch with one of our Go2Africa African Safari Experts to tailor a bespoke itinerary for the perfect African beach vacation: