Way off the coast of mainland Africa lie the paradise tropical islands of the Maldives, Seychelles and Mauritius.
Secluded and exclusive, these idyllic escapes are known for their azure crystal clear water, pristine white palm-fringed beaches, opulent resorts and private villas. Sought after as a honeymoon destination, they are home to some of the best scuba diving sites and paradise beach locations on Earth. They offer the ultimate holiday experience for couples and families alike. Romantic seclusion or ocean adventures; we will ensure you find your own perfection on these magical islands.
After an intrepid luxury safari in Eastern or Southern Africa, catch a short flight to these opulent islands to relax in barefoot luxury – ultimate perfection to end an unforgettable holiday of a lifetime. On the other side of Africa, in the heart of the Atlantic, lies the Island of St Helena. One of the remotest islands on Earth, this fascinating island has been called the Galapagos of the Atlantic. Staying on the island is like stepping back in time and offers much for the adventure traveller to explore.
Popular Island Highlights
MAURITIUS
A dream oasis of tropical beach relaxation.
SEYCHELLES
Drift away in on a chain of tropical paradise islands.
MALDIVES
A turquoise blue idyllic archipelago.
ST HELENA ISLAND
St Helena Island is one of the remotest places on Earth, and is often called the Galapagos of the Atlantic!
FAUNA & FLORA
The Indian Ocean Islands of Mauritius, the Seychelles and Maldives are all home to their own unique natural biodiversity. Seychelles boasts over 75 endemic plant species, some of the world’s largest seabird colonies, and the Aldabra giant tortoise, which populates many of the islands. Mauritius offers opportunities to spot rare birds, giant ebony trees, underwater waterfalls, and swim with dolphins. The Maldives are noted for their various colourful coral reefs, sea turtles, 21 species of whales and dolphins, manta rays and even the majestic whale sharks.
PEOPLE & CULTURE
The local island inhabitants are amongst the friendliest on earth and are as diverse as the islands’ natural biodiversity. This is reflected in the regional cuisines and experiences. Mauritius is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and people with a mix of Bhojpuri, Tamil, Telugu, Creole, Franco-Mauritian, Chinese and European descendants. The Creole culture in Seychelles is female dominant, with pride in music and local crafts. In the Maldives, traditional ways of life are shaped by Indian, Sri Lankan, Malaysia, Arab, Persian, Indonesian and even African influences. Maldivians are incredibly warm, welcoming and friendly people who will go above and beyond to make your holiday truly unforgettable.
GETTING AROUND
Mauritius is the closest of the Islands to main-land South Africa and is easy to connect with daily direct flights from Johannesburg. Flights also connect from Cape Town direct on certain weekdays. The Seychelles and Maldives involve longer travel time when combined with an African safari, but if time & budget allows, the travel is worth it. Travelling around Mauritius is accessible by car, and exploring the archipelago of Seychelles can be done by boat or seaplane. In the Maldives, the trend is to relax at your resort in tropical bliss, but excursions by seaplane can be arranged. The Africa&You team will take care of all travel logistics and allow you to relax in white sand luxury to end your African adventure of a lifetime.
