Tag: Reunion

A Guide to Africa’s Exquisite Indian Ocean Islands

Indian Ocean Islands,Travel Tips
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By Matthew Sterne on

We are all in desperate need of a holiday! If, like us, you are in a world brimming with constant stimulation and find yourself spending large parts of your day in a holiday fantasy, we have some great news for you. Stop dreaming of your idyllic island holiday and start planning your Indian Ocean getaway now.

Forget the crowded beaches of the Mediterranean or the Caribbean. Africa has undeniably a set of unbeatable, authentic beach destinations which outshine their more illustrious counterparts. Not only that, they offer the perfect isolation getaway we are all craving. Consequently, here’s our Indian Ocean Islands guide!

A view of Praslin
Crystal clear waters, powdery white sands and swaying palms? Image credit: Paradise Sun Hotel

Even for those experienced travellers it can be tricky to differentiate between all Africa’s Indian Ocean islands. If you struggle to tell the difference between the Maldives and Mauritius or your sea shells from your Seychelles then this is for you. Each island enjoys its own unique attractions and qualities and all are worth visiting in their own right. To help you tell which one appeals specifically to you we crafted this special guide.

Our Indian Ocean Islands Guide

1. MAURITIUS

  • Islands: 1 (3 other islands form part of the Republic of Mauritius)
  • Best time to visit: April to June, and September to December
  • Activities: Scuba Diving – Deep Sea Fishing – Surfing – Hiking
Sunset on the pool of a Mauritius resort
Sunset on the pool of a Mauritius resort

Mauritius is considered the ideal island getaway. Postcard perfect beaches and world-class resorts ensure that this palm-fringed oasis of beautiful beaches, coral reefs and tropical rainforests is immensely popular.

Mauritius has a number of destinations, each offering a unique experience. Many travellers head north to Grand Baie, a seaside village and large beautiful bay that’s popular with tourists. The west coast is sheltered with calm waters while the east coast is rougher with a rocky coastline. The south is the least developed with more stretches of wild nature and offers a secluded getaway. There is a wide variety of accommodation on the island – you can choose from rustic retreats, luxury lodges or five-star hotels.

2. MALDIVES

  • Islands: 26 atolls & 1190 coral islands
  • Best time to visit: December to April
  • Activities: Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Beach Relaxing
The Maldives is an unmatched island paradise
The Maldives is an unmatched island paradise

Another amazing destination are the Maldives. These atolls is your quintessential island paradise of powder-white beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water and just enough palm trees to string up a few hammocks. The richness and variety of the marine life are astonishing with the Maldives being home to some of the best diving and snorkelling in the world. The warm underwater playground is home to beautiful coral labyrinths and a dizzying array of life from tropical fish to turtles and even whale sharks.

As the Maldives possess some of the best beaches in the world it is a popular romantic holiday destination. Every resort in the Maldives is its own private island, and with over 100 to choose from the only problem is selecting where you want to stay.

3. REUNION

  • Islands: 1
  • Best time to visit: All year
  • Activities: Hiking – Canyoning – Snorkelling – Rafting – Paragliding – Mountain Biking
Discover the volcanoes on Reunion: view of Salazie
Discover the volcanoes on Reunion, Credit: Thomas McGowan

This French enclave has a range of cultural influences but the real star of the show is the incredible rugged landscape that holds stunning forests, mountains, waterfalls, volcanoes and beaches. It is an outdoor lover’s ideal destination as the wide range of activities allow visitors the opportunity to see this beautiful island from the land, sea, river or air.

Considered a little off the track compared to the likes of the more well-known islands, this island of adventure offers non-stop excitement for intrepid travellers. Reunion deserves the nickname is has earned of “Little Hawaii”.

4. SEYCHELLES

  • Islands: 115
  • Best time to visit: All year
  • Activities: Island hopping- Scuba Diving – Snorkelling
Tropical Islands Seychelles
Tropical Islands Seychelles aerial view

The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands of white sand beaches and tropical forest with pristine coral reefs that hold an abundance of tropical fish. Towering palms frame rustic retreats, which open up onto this unspoiled getaway.

The Seychelles is ideal for island hopping. This is a fantastic experience and a very popular way to see the different islands either via plane, cruise or private yacht. The major destinations are Mahe Island, which is the main island, Praslin Island and La Digue Island which is smaller and more remote.

5. ZANZIBAR

  • Islands: 2 Main islands – Unguja and Pemba, with many smaller islands
  • Best time to visit: Great year-round destination (rainy season is generally in April & May)
  • Activities: Watersports – Cultural and Culinary Tours in Stone Town
One of the islands that make up the Zanzibar archipelago from the air.
One of the islands that make up the Zanzibar archipelago from the air

Only 40-kilometres from Tanzania’s mainland, Zanzibar is at the crossroads of Africa, the Middle East and Asia. The influence on the culture, cuisine and architecture is evident in Stone Town especially and it is this aspect of Zanzibar that makes it the most interesting Indian Ocean destination.

Zanzibar also offers some of the world’s best beach resorts (you can check our Top 6 Best Zanzibar Resorts). And then of course there are the beaches of Zanzibar. These world-class beaches are perfect for anyone who simply wants to enjoy a lazy and luxurious beach vacation, or relax after a busy East Africa safari.

6. MADAGASCAR

  • Islands: 1 main island (4th biggest in the world), with 250 smaller ones
  • Best time to visit: May to October
  • Activities: Safari – Hiking – Snorkelling – Diving.
Ilha Nosy Be em Madagascar
Nosy Be Island, Madagascar

Filled with a spectacular array of amazing wildlife and ringed by stunning beaches, Madagascar is an entirely unique holiday destination. Roughly the size of Texas or France, this haven for tropical fauna and flora is one of the world’s premier conservation areas possessing thousands of endemic species.

Madagascar is home to strange and alluring lemurs, magnificent baobabs, fascinating reptiles, soul-stirring landscapes and pristine beaches. This incredibly diverse land has roughly 5,000km of coastline, 450km of barrier reef and 250 islands. Divers will relish the chance to see rays, whale sharks, reef sharks and more. Snorkelers will be awed by the dynamic colour and vitality of the corals, turtles and fish. Madagascar’s diversity, and therefore uniqueness, ensures that it holds a special place in the hearts of all who visit it.

Why Travel with Rhino Africa?

Our passionate team of Rhinos at the Rhino Africa HQ
Our passionate team of Rhinos at the Rhino Africa HQ

As the leading safari company in Africa, we pride ourselves in knowing everything there is about our magical continent. Whether it’s an East Africa safari, a mokoro ride in the Okavango Delta or a beach holiday of your dreams, our expert consultants are on hand to make your dream holiday come true.

If you enjoyed this Indian Ocean Islands guide and are thinking of going on a trip to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches then don’t hesitate to contact one of our Travel Experts!

6 Reasons to Uncover Réunion Island

Experiences,Indian Ocean Islands,Travel Tips
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By Megon Venter on

The French-owned volcanic island of La Réunion is not widely known, even though comparably it offers more value for money than France. While the island uses euros, the local culture is diverse and although it has remnants of its colonial past, the island is worlds away from Europe. Read our six reasons to find out why you should jet off to uncover Réunion Island, a little oasis in the Indian Ocean.

Uncover Reunion Island
Photo Credit: Jean-Marc Astesana

1. No Visa Required

Several nationalities are exempt from applying for a tourist visa to Réunion. Stay for up to three months by entering only with your passport and return flight details if you’re from Australia, the UK, Canada, France or South Africa. These are only the countries we’ve researched, so visit your embassy website to find out if you qualify for this exemption.

2. Volcanic Matter

Réunion Island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Piton de la Fournaise. Trek one of the many trails that lead up to the volcano and through the ancient hills of the island. Horse riding is just one of the multitude of adventurous activities offered by the tropical landscapes. Alternatively, go underground and explore the vast lava tunnels, hidden in the depths of the mountain.

Uncover Reunion Island
Photo Credit: Vincente Villamón

3. A World of Flavours

Not only known for their French flair, the island produces two special exports. Bourbon Pointu coffee is a blend of coffee that is both rare and expensive while their species of vanilla is hand cultivated on the hills of Réunion. The cuisine found here is a fusion of French, Indian, Chinese, Madagascan and East African heritage, including grains, charcuterie and curries; sweet treats are made from sweet potato, cassava and bananas. Picnicking is a traditional affair, with spreads available to enjoy in multiple beach or hillside locations.

4. Remote Villages

There are three cirques, completely preserved on the island, where pointed hills were created due to glacial erosion. These areas are classified as UNESCO world heritage sites and most are only accessible on foot. There are legends and historical accounts that puzzle together the villages that occur here, secluded from main island life. It is said that escaped slaves ventured here in search of freedom, starting these villages and thereby a new life. One such village is La Nouvelle, hidden in the mountains with only a few houses dotted throughout the the valley.

Uncover Reunion Island
Photo Credit: Ryan McMinds

5. Traditions Abound

Tradition is what binds the people of Réunion together. Witness the island’s traditional music called Maloya, a tool in celebrating freedom which started as an act of resistance from the time of slavery. If you are lucky, your trip coincides with one of the many festivals where the locals sing and dance through their history, connecting you with the story of the island.

6. Four Hour Flights

Uncover Réunion Island after a short four hour flight from Johannesburg, South Africa. Not from South Africa? Why not add your Reunion trip to a safari getaway in the Kruger National Park? The island is easily accessible from here, with multiple wildlife destinations in proximity to it.

Have you been inspired to make the trip? Have a look at our six reasons to visit the Seychelles and find your ultimate Indian Ocean island adventure.

Featured Image: Rey Perezoso

Wish You Were Here! – Postcards from the Indian Ocean Islands

Indian Ocean Islands,Mozambique
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By Craig Harding on

Look at all the pretty pictures! Sometimes writing about a destination just won’t do it justice. Sure if you’re a master of the pen and your descriptions rival those of the Bard himself, that’s perfect. Unfortunately our esteemed writer and resident master of the written word, Tamlin is currently out of the office. This leaves the task to me and I’m still struggling too, to, two learn the difference, if you get my drift. So instead I’ve put together a visual feast showcasing the Indian Ocean Islands. The Indian Ocean is the third largest body of water in the world and nestled in its warm waters are some of Rhino Africa’s most romantic destinations.

Find out more about the Indian Ocean Islands on our website here.

Would you be happy with your husband on the phone in the Maldives?

Touch down in the Seychelles and stay for awhile.

The Indian Ocean is known for exceptional scuba diving.

Romantic dinner for two on a beach in Mozambique

Discover Madagascar, land of Lemurs and chameleons and find out about travelling to Madagascar on our website. If you’re looking for further reading, David Ryan wrote a great series of posts about his trip to Madagascar, right here on the Rhino Africa Safaris blog.

Catching a ride on a traditional dhow at Mnemba Island Lodge

Whooo hoo, what fun. Sking for kids in Mauritius.

Get in touch with your thoughts alone on a beach in Mauritius

Water based accommodation options in the Maldives

Situated in the western waters of the Indian Ocean off the east coast of Africa, the Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands scattered across the deep blue sea. Find out how you can book your trip to the Seychelles with Rhino Africa Safaris on our website.

Chilling out in your private plunge pool in the Maldives

Kick back and relax in Reunion

Work on your tan on a beach in Mauritius

Mention the word Mauritius, and travellers picture a palm-fringed oasis in the Indian Ocean, while those who have been here heave a sigh of contentment. Discover more about this fantastic island getaway on the Rhino Africa website.

Enjoy a ride ona traditional dhow in Mozambique

Take a stroll on fregate Beach in the Seychelles

If you’re looking for an idyllic honeymoon destination or just want some time out on a secluded and luxurious island retreat, the Maldives is the perfect destination for you, find out all about travel to the Maldives on the Rhino Africa website.

Champagne dinner on the dock in Mauritius

Champagne on the Rocks in the Seychelles

Kids jumping at sunset - Zanzibar

Dinner on the beach in Mauritius

Other great Indian Ocean Island destinations include the eclectic Zanzibar Island and in Mozambique you’ll also find the Bazaruto and Quirimbas Archipelagos. The best thing about all these fantastic island destinations is that they are very easily combined with a safari in the Kruger National Park or elsewhere.

Contact Rhino Africa to book your own trip to any one of these fantastic destinations.

 

Overachieving Africa

Cape Town,Namibia,Tanzania
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By Matthew Sterne on

You’d be forgiven for thinking that this morning’s mob of groggy, puffy eyed Capetonians were the product of a citywide spike in libido, but I assure you that our sleepless night was due to the 18°C night-time low (cue a collective gasp from the Northern Hemisphere). With the 2010/2011 summer touted by many to be a record breaker, I thought I’d continue the general overachiever theme and highlight some curious top ten record holders from across the continent. In no particular order:

1. For the hotheaded, a trip to Oldoinyo Lengai Volcano in northern Tanzania will reveal the world’s coldest erupting lava. The natrocarbonatite lava bubbles from the deepest earth at a nippy 500-600°C (a good 1000 degrees below the norm).

2. To escape the crowds, plan a visit to the country with the smallest population of any African state. With a population of some 84,000 the entire nation of the Seychelles could fit into Wembley Stadium with a seat or 6,000 to spare.

3. For those who enjoy a good paddle and a seaward challenge, follow in the footsteps of an intrepid South African who covered a distance of 6,152 km on a surf-ski between Hout Bay, South Africa, and Lamu, Kenya. With a strategic, luxury night or two on either end of the journey, I’m sure the 5 months at sea will fly by.

4. If you prefer to remain dry but still enjoy the thrill of surfing. The monstrous dunes outside Swakopmund, Namibia, have played host to the fastest recorded sand skiing run, clocking in at 92.12km/h.

5. While you have the momentum, try and match the fastest ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro, credited to a Frenchman who ran the 34 Km up to the summit in 5 hours and 26 minutes.

6. From the roof of Africa and her highest point, to well, the basement. The Maldives have the lowest general elevation of any African state at just 1.5 metres above sea level. If you fancy a hike, their highest peak is also the lowest highest point on the planet- a towering 2.3 metres above sea level.

7. For those who have a taste for all things sparkly, on a trip to Madagascar you will find yourself at the site where the world’s largest emerald in a matrix was discovered. Weighing in at 536 kg I think customs will be more than a little suspicious at the hefty hand luggage you are hauling around departures.

8. If you’re feeling a little homesick due to the lack of historic buildings, get your dose of yesteryear in Stone Town, Zanzibar, which is the world’s oldest, functioning Swahili village dating back to the early 1800’s. And you thought history was invented in Europe.

9. After your blast from the past, a leap over the Bloukrans River Bridge tethered to a bungee cord will leave you with only 18 more jumps to go to beat the record breaking 19 bungee jumps in one hour.

10. If, perhaps, Africa has grown on you more than you would like to admit and you can’t bear to go home, I would suggest you settle down on the island of Reunion. As the southernmost of the Outermost Regions of the European Union you’ll enjoy all the comforts of home; like driving on the right and being able to use the euro as legal tender. We must warn you though, they are… French.

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