Top Island Destinations in Africa: Seychelles, Madagascar, and Mauritius

When one thinks of Africa, savannas and safaris are often top of mind; however, the continent boasts glorious sandy stretches that should not be overlooked. Many travelers to the region opt for a combination “bush and beach” escape, pairing wildlife adventures with downtime by the sea. The top destination for this is the Seychelles, a 115-island archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles are known for their incredible biodiversity, housing approximately 7,200 species of animals.

Why Visit the Seychelles

Visitors can experience unique wildlife such as Aldabra giant tortoises on Curieuse Island and the gigantic coco-de-mer palm trees in Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site on Praslin. The beaches are spectacular: mountain-backed Beau Vallon Bay on Mahé, family-friendly Anse La Réunion on La Digue, and secluded Anse Citron on Praslin are just a few examples. Every year, travelers worldwide rank their island experiences through the World’s Best Awards survey, evaluating aspects like activities, sights, natural attractions, and overall value.

2. Mauritius

Score: 83.71

Each year, deep-sea fishing enthusiasts flock to Mauritius, drawn by the chance to reel in impressive marlin. The beautiful beaches often see more tortoises than people, creating a serene atmosphere. Villages welcome visitors with delightful restaurants and shopping opportunities, while history lovers can explore buildings dating back to the 17th century. Mauritius provides a unique blend of cultural immersion and adventure, supported by luxurious five-star resorts like the Four Seasons.

3. Madagascar

Score: 80.63

Madagascar is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity, home to species rarely found elsewhere. It ranks as the world’s 47th-largest country and fourth-largest island, covering 227,000 square miles. Lush rainforests abound with wildlife and rare orchids, featuring over 100 lemur species and 285 endemic birds. Additionally, Madagascar offers unparalleled diving opportunities off its spectacular beaches.

Unparalleled Luxury in the Seychelles

The Seychelles are not merely an undiscovered paradise; they have drawn attention from global travelers, including royal couples. With luxurious five-star resorts available, this archipelago uniquely balances celebrity-worthy opulence with uninhabited beaches and pristine nature trails. One traveler evocatively described it as, “It is like you are in the Garden of Eden.” For those seeking vibrant culture, Mahé boasts numerous attractions and restaurants that showcase a delightful blend of African, French, Chinese, and Indian culinary influences.