Africa’s neighbouring islands in the Indian Ocean and the beautiful coastlines of Kenya and Mozambique provide ideal settings for relaxing post-safari holidays. With their beautiful sandy beaches, coral reefs, tropical vegetation and exotic markets comes a choice of superb accommodation in places like Lamu, Zanzibar, Reunion and Mauritius. A highlight of all these popular destinations is the exotic cuisine ranging from rich Creole flavours, Indian curries, Muslim biryanis and tangy Chinese stir-fries - many of them put into a truly unique category by the infusion of flavours from the French and Portuguese influence dating back to the trading era.
Africa’s neighbouring islands in the Indian Ocean and the beautiful coastlines of Kenya and Mozambique provide ideal settings for relaxing post-safari holidays. With their beautiful sandy beaches, coral reefs, tropical vegetation and exotic markets comes a choice of superb accommodation in places like Lamu, Zanzibar, Reunion and Mauritius. A highlight of all these popular destinations is the exotic cuisine ranging from rich Creole flavours, Indian curries, Muslim biryanis and tangy Chinese stir-fries - many of them put into a truly unique category by the infusion of flavours from the French and Portuguese influence dating back to the trading era.
A short hop from mainland Tanzania, the island is an exotic location for a complete change of pace. Surrounded by pristine coral reefs, azure blue water, natural lagoons, mangrove swamps and beautiful coconut palm fringed sandy beaches, choose to snorkel, dive or relax on the beach and explore the historic charms of Stone Town, a striking labyrinth of Arabian style crooked alleyways, old mansions, palaces and bazaars.
This island is characterised by white sandy beaches embraced by coral reefs, translucent lagoons, rolling landscapes, sophisticated cuisine and a cross- cultural people. It enjoys a superb sub-tropical climate with year-round sunshine. Mauritius boasts some of the best beaches in the world and is both a romantic destination as well as a superb beach holiday for families.
This island is known for its astounding geographical diversity. The landscape morphs from lava fields to lush forest, from jagged peaks to sprawling coastal towns and Réunion’s riviera, a long string of beach suburbs and resorts. The pièce de résistance is one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, Piton de la Fournaise.
The islands in the Quirimbas Archipelago off the coast of northern Mozambique offer some of the most spectacular dive and deep sea fishing spots in the world. Only recently opening up to tourism the region offers that rare experience, far away from the masses, where relaxation, revival of the senses and a romantic atmosphere can be experienced.
The town of Mombasa is east Africa’s largest port and Kenya’s main tourist hub. Located on the south east coast, it is one of the major destinations for tourists visiting Kenya. The coastal city of Mombasa is actually an island with magnificent stretches of white sandy beaches and coral reefs, but has a lot more to offer visitors than just the beautiful beaches. It was a very influential port in the 15th century, and has played a significant role in laying the foundations of Mombasa today. Some of the popular attractions in the town relate directly to its history.
Situated off the east coast of Kenya, the island seems to have stood still in time around the 14th century. With its narrow streets, no cars, only donkeys, and a culture that is warm, friendly and laid-back, Lamu has an ambience experienced nowhere else on earth.
Location: Zanzibar |
Located along a pristine beach on the east coast of the island, the hotel, with 70 air conditioned rooms leading out to balconies or terraces, is renowned for its attention to detail, design, flair and hospitality. Stroll on the white sandy beach, dine in candlelight, and relax and enjoy an excellent variety of recreational, dining and spa facilities.
Location: Mozambique |
Explore a coastline fringed by tropical islands in a traditional Arab dhow on this unique mobile safari. Sea kayak or sail up wide coastal river mouths teeming with bird species and pristine mangrove forests. Snorkel off deserted white sandbanks and into turquoise sea, and sleep for three nights in comfortable eco camps on uninhabited tropical islands. The safari ends at the mystical and ancient Ibo Island with two nights at the luxury lodge.
Location: Mombasa |
This multi award-winning boutique hotel is situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, south of Mombasa. Intimate and stylish, the resort features 38 rooms in clusters around the gardens, and 20 spacious one and two bedroom suites with their own personal chef. A wide range of facilities on offer include a swimming pool, Amani spa, gym, themed dining, bars and a water sport centre.
Here is a selection of popular areas to visit in the Indian Ocean.
The white beaches and protected coral reefs of the relatively unknown Quirimbas Archipelago, off the coast of Northern Mozambique, are still very untouched, but rapidly becoming the ‘hottest’ new destination. With history and ancient culture, combined with crystal clear azure waters, abundance of marine life – a diving, deep sea fishing and snorkelling paradise – and boutique accommodation, it makes this region a very special place. Together with deserted beaches, clear tropical water and palm trees, you will find a wonderful holiday destination.
Lamu remains a relatively undiscovered gem. It may only be about an hour’s flight north east from Nairobi, but it feels as if you have travelled back in time. Lamu Old Town is the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in east Africa, where donkeys are still the only form of transport. Life slows down, and long days are spent strolling along the waterfront, exploring the town or relaxing on the beaches.
In close proximity to Mauritius, Reunion Island is a very different kind of Paradise, inviting both outdoor enthusiasts as well as those more adventurous travellers. With an active volcano and vast craters, cliffs, gushing waterfalls and tropical forest, there is a rugged beauty here and the ideal place for more extreme sports like river rafting and paragliding, as well as walking and trekking, while experiencing a local culture that is quite different.
A short hop from mainland Tanzania, the island is an exotic location for a complete change of pace. Surrounded by pristine coral reefs, azure blue water, natural lagoons, mangrove swamps and beautiful coconut palm fringed sandy beaches, choose to snorkel, dive or relax on the beach and explore the historic charms of Stone Town, a striking labyrinth of Arabian style crooked alleyways, old mansions, palaces and bazaars.
The town of Mombasa is east Africa’s largest port and Kenya’s main tourist hub. Located on the south east coast, it is one of the major destinations for tourists visiting Kenya. The coastal city of Mombasa is actually an island with magnificent stretches of white sandy beaches and coral reefs, but has a lot more to offer visitors than just the beautiful beaches. It was a very influential port in the 15th century, and has played a significant role in laying the foundations of Mombasa today. Some of the popular attractions in the town relate directly to its history.
Here is a selection of the properties available in the Indian Ocean.
Location: Mozambique
A magical island steeped in history and rich in culture, this is the perfect place from which to explore one of the most ancient Portuguese settlements in Mozambique. With its crumbling buildings and forts from a bygone era, experience an unchanged culture. The lodge has 14 ensuite air-conditioned rooms, stylishly renovated from the original historic mansions, overlooking the waterfront and surrounded by tranquil gardens. At the end of the day relax and enjoy the unforgettable sunsets on the rooftop terrace with drinks and dinner.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov 11 - Jul 12 | $1,365 | $1,690 |
| Aug 12 | $1,440 | $1,830 |
| Sep - Nov 12 | $1,365 | $1,690 |
| Dec 12 | $1,440 | $1,830 |
Location: Mozambique
A luxury lodge with 30 ocean-front or ocean-view air-conditioned suites, offering guests the opportunity to experience the splendour and romance of Mozambique in a peaceful setting. Located 80kms north of Inhambane these spacious units are ideally nestled to ensure absolute privacy with stylish bathrooms, lounge, private deck, and plunge pool. The lodge has two restaurants, a bar and pool deck with many optional activities available.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan – Dec 12 | $1,005 | $1,285 |
Location: Mozambique
Offering barefoot luxury, privacy and unparalleled hospitality Medjumbe has earned its enviable reputation as Mozambique’s best-kept secret. With stylish simplicity, delicious seafood, and some of the world’s premier diving and fishing, the 13 secluded beach chalets with their own private plunge pool are just steps away from the azure blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Each air-conditioned chalet is luxuriously furnished, with ensuite bathroom, indoor and outdoor shower, ceiling fans, mosquito nets and all necessary amenities.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov - Dec 11 | $2,005 | $2,340 |
| Jan - Dec 12 | $2,610 | $3,045 |
Location: Lamu
Described as one of the most incurably romantic coastal hideaways in all of Africa, on 12kms of almost deserted beach, this remote property has a rustic laid-back fusion of luxury and simplicity, with thatch and palm-mat bandas furnished with soft king-sized beds and hammocks. Laze by the pool, indulge in kayaking or wind-surfing, snorkel, fish or enjoy a Dhow sunset cruise.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan 12 | $1,370 | $1,775 |
| Feb 12 | $1,650 | $2,195 |
| Mar 12 | $1,370 | $1,775 |
| Jul – Oct 12 | $1,650 | $2,195 |
| Nov 12 | $1,370 | $1,775 |
Location: Lamu
Peponi is a family run hotel, opened in 1967, and retains much of the character and charm that it had then. Small and personal this is the perfect place to recharge. There are a total of 24 rooms divided into superior and standard, all with ocean views and Swahili furnishings. No two rooms are alike, and all feature overhead fans, mosquito nets, showers and fresh flowers.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan - Dec 12 | $1,175 | $1,530 |
Location: Mauritius
A unique superior four star resort located in the north east of the island, Legends is only a 15 minute drive from the restaurants, clubs and shopping of Grand Baie. Based on the principles of Feng Shui – the art of living in harmony with your environment, Legends will sooth the soul whilst spoiling you with stunning views, service and cuisine.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 – 25 Nov 11 | $910 | $1,460 |
| 26 Nov – 16 Dec 11 | $830 | $1,295 |
| 17 Dec - 23 Dec 11 | $910 | $1,460 |
| 24 Dec 11 – 06 Jan 12 | $1,365 | $2,365 |
| 07 Jan – 31 Jan 12 | $910 | $1,460 |
| Feb – Apr 12 | $830 | $1,295 |
| May – Sep 12 | $645 | $925 |
| Oct 12 | $910 | $1,460 |
Location: Mauritius
Located under the magnificent Le Morne Mountain in beautiful tropical gardens fringed by a white sandy beach and calm blue lagoon, Les Pavillons is five star luxury capturing the charm and sophistication of colonial Mauritius. This is Mauritius at its most picture perfect – lose yourself in this romantic hotel in a spectacular setting.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 – 25 Nov 11 | $1,235 | $2,060 |
| 26 Nov – 16 Dec 11 | $1,045 | $1,680 |
| 17 Dec - 23 Dec 11 | $1,235 | $2,060 |
| 24 Dec 11 – 06 Jan 12 | $1,790 | $3,160 |
| 07 Jan – 31 Jan 12 | $1,235 | $2,060 |
| Feb – Apr 12 | $1,045 | $1,680 |
| May – Sep 12 | $885 | $1,350 |
| Oct 12 | $1,235 | $2,060 |
Location: Mauritius
Within walking distance from the village of Grand Baie this three star deluxe property is located on the best beach in the north. Merville Beach offers a variety of room types and a lively bustling ambience. This property is an attraction for all with its great value for money and an amazing location.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 – 25 Nov 11 | $555 | $835 |
| 26 Nov – 16 Dec 11 | $530 | $780 |
| 17 Dec - 23 Dec 11 | $555 | $835 |
| 24 Dec 11 – 06 Jan 12 | $720 | $1,165 |
| 07 Jan – 31 Jan 12 | $555 | $835 |
| Feb – Apr 12 | $530 | $780 |
| May – Sep 12 | $475 | $670 |
| Oct 12 | $555 | $835 |
Location: Mauritius
This funky and fun four star resort on the beach lies in the unspoilt southern region of the island. Spacious modern rooms with beautiful open bathrooms, lively atmosphere, night club and four swimming pools, together with an all-inclusive room rate that includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, a range of drinks, land and water-sports, kids and teen clubs.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 – 25 Nov 11 | $830 | $1,200 |
| 26 Nov – 16 Dec 11 | $805 | $1,145 |
| 17 Dec - 23 Dec 11 | $830 | $1,200 |
| 24 Dec 11 – 06 Jan 12 | $1,045 | $1,635 |
| 07 Jan – 31 Jan 12 | $830 | $1,200 |
| Feb – Apr 12 | $805 | $1,145 |
| May – Sep 12 | $665 | $875 |
| Oct 12 | $830 | $1,200 |
Location: Mauritius
For those wishing to combine the pleasures of the beach with proximity to the heart of the bustling village of Grand Baie, this is the perfect choice. Only five minutes to the shopping centre, the hotel with 94 garden or pool facing rooms offers a comforting haven with its sandy beach, giant palm trees and flourishing exotic plants. With the authentic Creole architecture and the harmony of the environment visitors are welcomed into the heart of a relaxed and serene holiday.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 Nov – 22 Dec 11 | $645 | $870 |
| 23 Dec 11 – 03 Jan 12 | $630 | $840 |
| 04 Jan – 21 Apr 12 | $645 | $870 |
| 22 Apr – 10 Oct 12 | $630 | $840 |
| 11 – 31 Oct 12 | $645 | $870 |
Location: Mauritius
Named after the legendary young couple immortalised by French author Bernardin de St Pierre in his novel Paul & Virginie, the hotel is an invitation to a relaxing and romantic stay enhanced by idyllic tranquility and a soothing atmosphere. The hotel with 81 en-suite rooms with sea view offers a decor of colonial inspiration. With a subtle combination of wood, stone and thatch roofs, it reveals a peaceful haven for couples seeking an unforgettable getaway to paradise island.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| 01 Nov – 22 Dec 11 | $640 | $865 |
| 23 Dec 11 – 03 Jan 12 | $555 | $745 |
| 04 Jan – 21 Apr 12 | $640 | $865 |
| 22 Apr – 10 Oct 12 | $555 | $745 |
| 11 – 31 Oct 12 | $640 | $865 |
Location: Reunion
With 174 rooms, the hotel is ideally located on one of Reunion’s most beautiful white sand beaches, on the island’s only lagoon. It invites you to rest and get away from it all in a haven of peace and relaxation. The elegant rooms, in creole-style villas with balconies or terraces, are decorated in a harmony of colours and contemporary materials and scattered amidst the coconut and Filao trees. There is a majestic colonial lobby, three restaurants and a pool bar.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov 11 | $860 | $1,545 |
| 01 - 16 Dec 11 | $750 | $1,325 |
| 17 - 23 Dec 11 | $860 | $1,545 |
| 24 Dec 11 - 02 Jan 12 | $915 | $1,650 |
| 03 Jan - 03 May 12 | $750 | $1,325 |
| 04 May – 30 Sep 12 | $590 | $995 |
| Oct 12 | $860 | $1,545 |
Location: Reunion
This charming hotel offers 146 rooms with furnished terraces set in 17 Creole-style villas, decked out in the colours of the Indian Ocean. Set amongst tropical gardens on the banks of the Hermitage lagoon, with its beachside location, there are two swimming pools, two restaurants and a pool bar, numerous land and water activities and a very friendly staff. For a fee guests have privileged access to an 18-hole golf course, with free shuttle service.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov 11 | $575 | $1,010 |
| 01 - 16 Dec 11 | $470 | $805 |
| 17 - 23 Dec 11 | $575 | $1,010 |
| 24 Dec 11 - 02 Jan 12 | $600 | $1,065 |
| 03 Jan - 03 May 12 | $470 | $805 |
| 04 May – 30 Sep 12 | $425 | $715 |
| Oct 12 | $575 | $1,010 |
Location: Zanzibar
Located along a pristine beach on the east coast of the island, the hotel, with 70 air-conditioned rooms leading out to balconies or terraces, is renowned for its attention to detail, design, flair and hospitality. Stroll on the white sandy beach, dine in candlelight, and relax and enjoy an excellent variety of recreational, dining and spa facilities.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan - Mar 12 | $650 | $920 |
| Apr - May 12 | $505 | $625 |
| Jun - Oct 12 | $670 | $940 |
Location: Zanzibar
Situated on the northern most tip of the island, the hotel with 32 charming air-conditioned thatched chalets or lodge rooms, each with private balcony and en-suite facilities, overlooks a sparkling expanse of iridescent water. The lush gardens drop down to one of the finest and most unspoilt beaches on the island. Fringed by a wide and thriving coral reef this creates one of the most exciting areas to dive and snorkel.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan - Feb 12 | $585 | $795 |
| Mar 12 | $545 | $735 |
| Jun 12 | $585 | $795 |
| Jul – Aug 12 | $650 | $895 |
| Sep – Oct 12 | $585 | $795 |
| Nov 12 | $545 | $735 |
Location: Zanzibar
This beautifully restored and owner managed boutique property in the heart of Stone Town offers just two luxury rooms and seven suites, on three floors, charmingly decorated in true Zanzibari style. Each room has its own unique decor with many local originating antique pieces of furniture, magical beds, Persian rugs and colourful silks. The hotel offers a wide range of modern facilities, a bar and breakfast room.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov - Dec 11 | $565 | $895 |
| Jan - Dec 12 | $575 | $855 |
Location: Zanzibar
This small yet very comfortable hotel is situated in the heart of historic Stone Town. The 28 spacious rooms are furnished with traditional four-poster beds and have balconies overlooking a central courtyard creating a tranquil retreat away from the hustle and bustle. The rooftop restaurant offers a variety of food and features panoramic views over the town and Indian Ocean.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov - Dec 11 | $370 | $450 |
| Jan - Dec 12 | $380 | $460 |
Location: Zanzibar
The Zanzibar Serena Inn is a haven of tranquillity and opulence amongst the bustle of Stone Town. Faithfully restored, the interior design concept is a fusion of authenticity and opulence that reflects the very essence of Zanzibar, with a view of the Indian Ocean from every angle and every room. The 51 guest rooms are fully air-conditioned and elegantly furnished.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan - Feb 12 | $695 | $990 |
| Mar 12 | $635 | $905 |
| Apr - May 12 | $580 | $675 |
| Jun – Oct 12 | $695 | $990 |
| Nov 12 | $635 | $905 |
Location: Zanzibar
This chic, boutique hotel is located in a secluded spot in Nungwi on the north coast of the island. It blends elegance and contemporary design with traditional Zanzibari features, creating a unique environment. With 35 rooms, all with four poster beds and Italian designed bathrooms, opening out on to spacious balconies with uninterrupted sea views, this property offers luxury and comfort.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Jan - Feb 12 | $540 | $740 |
| Mar 12 | $515 | $695 |
| Jun 12 | $540 | $740 |
| Jul - Oct 12 | $560 | $795 |
| Nov 12 | $540 | $740 |
Location: Mombasa
This superb beach resort and spa located on the dazzling Diani Beach and set in 25 acres of tropical gardens, dropping onto the white sandy shores of the Indian Ocean below. It is the epitome of Swahili style. The property offers a wide range of high quality accommodation with 158 rooms, a choice of dining and entertainment venues, as well as extensive sporting and leisure facilities ranging from diving to golf.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov - Dec 11 | $475 | $690 |
| Jan - Feb 12 | $510 | $795 |
| Mar 12 | $470 | $695 |
| Apr 12 | $395 | $515 |
| Jul – Aug 12 | $510 | $795 |
| Sep – Nov 12 | $470 | $695 |
Location: Mombasa
This multi award-winning boutique hotel is situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, south of Mombasa. Intimate and stylish, the resort features 38 rooms in clusters around the gardens, and 20 spacious one and two bedroom suites with their own personal chef. A wide range of facilities on offer include a swimming pool, Amani spa, gym, themed dining, bars and a water sport centre.
| Departures | Twin | Single |
| Nov – Dec 11 | $420 | $685 |
| Jan 12 | $450 | $735 |
| Feb 12 | $490 | $795 |
| Mar - Apr 12 | $450 | $735 |
| May - Jun 12 | $390 | $650 |
| Jul 12 | $450 | $735 |
| Aug - Oct 12 | $490 | $795 |
| Nov 12 | $450 | $735 |