Africa is famed for its countless natural wonders filled with an abundance of wildlife. Not many people are aware, however, that the most perfect, pristine island holidays are available in Africa as well. Some of the most isolated, Robinson Crusoe-esque escapes on earth can be found in the Indian Ocean off the African continent and are all conveniently accessible from all the major safari destinations. From the lemur-filled island of Madagascar to the white sandy beaches of the Maldives & Mauritius, volcanic Reunion to the archipelagos of Zanzibar & Seychelles; the island life is a sun-filled paradise & without a doubt the perfect pairing to any safari holiday. Need more convincing? Here are 4 reasons to add an island holiday to your safari adventure.
Photo credit: Jean-Marie Hullot
1. Getting the best of both worlds
One minute you’re trundling through some of the continent’s most untouched wildlife conservation areas on the back of a 4X4 vehicle admiring Africa’s Big 5, the next you’ve got your sand in the toes on a remote island in the Maldives enjoying the perfect beach cocktail. Sounds great, doesn’t it?
Photo Credit: Ibrahim Egan
2. Island time is the best way to unwind
Especially after all the excitement of the bush! Going on safari will be one of the most thrilling experiences of your life, but make no mistake – it’s tiring. You’re up before the sun and in bed long after it has set and while it’s true that you’ll spend a lot of your day consuming tasty treats and exploring landscapes on game drives, your sleeping patterns are bound to be a bit out of whack by the time your safari has come to an end. All the more reason to jet off to an island afterwards!
Photo Credit: Mnemba Island
3. An island holiday is all about the romance
Watching the setting sun, on a sandy white beach with your special someone next to you: this is epitome of romance. And what better way to do that than in your bathing suit, on a deserted island, under gently swaying palm trees with a pina colada in hand?
4. Islands aren’t just great additions – they’re the practically perfect!
With flight routes from private airstrips direct to nearby islands, such as those between the Serengeti and the Zanzibar Archipelago, hopping from bush to beach has never been so easy. Which is why you’ll find several of our Tour Ideas include just that!
Now that you know why we love to include an island retreat at the end of a safari holiday, here are some of our most popular bush & beach holidays.
Our Favourite Bush & Beach Breaks
Wandering Wildebeest to African Archipelagos
Encounter every spectacular side to Tanzania from coffee plantations & the Big 5 in the Serengeti to flocking flamingoes and tropical fish surrounding Zanzibar Island.
A Heavenly Honeymoon with Kristy
Explore the vibrant Mother City before a memorable safari adventure in the wildlife-rich Sabi Sand. From here, escape to the ivory beaches and azure waters of Mauritius.
Alongside Lemurs & White Sand Beaches
More a lemur safari than a Big 5 safari, animal viewing still abounds on this Malagasy tour. Explore vibrant Antananarivo & lush, lemur-filled rainforests before ending off this Madagascan extravaganza on the pristine & luxurious beaches of Nosy Be island.
Romantic Bush and Beach Honeymoon Tour
A romantic African escape awaits you on this honeymoon adventure. Travel from the spectacular sunsets in Cape Town to the sensational Sabi Sands before ending the trip on the blissful beaches of Mozambique.
Experience the Ultimate East African Bush & Beach Break
Paradise awaits in two idyllic and contrasting destinations in Tanzania. Safari in style in the Serengeti followed by a tropical island holiday made to soothe the soul.
A Superb Bush and Beach Holiday
Explore the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and enjoy all the South African wild has to offer before heading to the idyllic beaches of Mauritius.
Are you on the edge of your seat and waiting to hit that island beat? Contact one of our Travel Experts to start planning your bush and beach break.
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