Island resorts scattered throughout the Indian Ocean provide everything from uber five-star luxury to barefoot chic.  Whether you want to combine a beach holiday with time on safari, or are simply looking for a ‘fly and flop’ destination – there’s an island out there for you.  Here are some of our favourites:

North Island – Just 11 villas, exquisite, untouched Seychelles beaches and fabulous personal service are the hallmarks of this supremely stylish spot favoured by celebrities and royals alike.  Don’t be put off by the glitzy clientèle, it’s quite simply one of the most beautiful places on the planet and utterly welcoming – whoever you are.  Kids are brilliantly catered for (any child under 17 staying in the villa’s second room stays complimentary), it is honeymoon heaven, and fishermen, ecologists, scuba-divers and sun worshippers will all fall under its spell.

Miavana – Recently opened amid much excitement from the travel press, this exotic resort is part of the Nosy Ankao archipelago just off the north eastern tip of Madagascar.   The magnificent lodge and pristine setting aren’t the only attractions.  Stray away from your sumptuous suite and you can track lemurs, dive and snorkel in aquamarine waters, fly fish or try your hand at paddle boarding, kite surfing and kayaking.  All the reports coming back our way are excellent.

Azura Benguerra – With 20 villas nestled on pristine stretch of beach, this little idyll, just off the southern Mozambique coast, is paradise found.  Characterised by pure white sand, sparkling turquoise seas, sunny days and star studded nights, it’s a stunning eco-beach retreat.  The wonderful hosting team will arrange all sorts of activities, from sailing in a traditional Mozambican dhow, to diving and snorkelling the amazing coral gardens, or picnicking on dazzling white sand.

Soneva Jani – Think Indian Ocean beach and more than likely the Maldives spring to mind – definitely sun, sea and sand at its best.  The 90 or so island resorts are all subtly different and it’s impossible to pick a favourite.   But for the sheer fun factor, we love Soneva Jani where several of the villas have a roof top slide straight into the lagoon.  How cool is that?  Once you’ve finished sliding then there’s an outdoor ‘silent’ cinema, a great kids’ club, five dining options and a wealth of marine-life to enjoy.

Kaya Mawa – We’ve strayed away from the Indian Ocean here to mention one of our most loved beach resorts.  The collection of villas and cottages that comprise the resort are snuggled into a picturesque bay on the shores of Likoma Island in Lake Malawi.  Colourful local fabrics and furnishings lend a chic and cheerful air to this unusual but simply gorgeous spot.  With none of the pressures of large-scale tourism it’s a wonderful choice for a relaxing few days before or after a safari.

What Next?

Start your safari holiday planning now. Our team of friendly safari experts can ask the right questions, suggest camps, lodges and safari areas, or match you and your family with an Indian Ocean island perfect for your holiday. Just give us a call or pop us an email and we will do the rest.

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