When to travel to the Indian Ocean Islands You are here: Home » Luxury Travel Advice » On When To Travel » When to travel to the Indian Ocean Islands When to travel to the Indian Ocean Islands The Indian Ocean Islands are a year-round destination and a great way to end your visit to Africa. During summer, some islands experience a short rainy season. Bazaruto (Mozambique), Madagascar, Mauritius and Seychelles experience mostly exceptional weather year-round, with the exception of the wet months of January, February and March. Zanzibar experiences their rains from mid-March to May. Seychelles Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands scattered across the deep blue Indian Ocean. The islands have a tropical climate with year-round temperatures of about 30°C (86°Fahrenheit) during the day. Due to the islands’ proximity to the equator, the temperature, over the course of the year, varies by only one or two degrees. The Seychelles are a perfect holiday destination at any time of the year with temperatures ranging between 24°C to 31°C (75 – 88°F). From May to September temperatures are around 28 °C (82°F).

The bulk of the rain falls between December and February in brief, heavy showers that are followed by tropical sunshine. From October to April temperatures usually do not exceed 32 °C (90°F). The weather on the islands is heavily influenced by the trade winds; warmer, wetter airstreams blow from October to April and then from May to September slightly stronger and drier winds, which are great for sailing, but the seas can get choppy. December and January are by far the wettest months. July and August sees the Seychelles at its driest. The best months for diving and snorkeling are April/May and October/November when water temperatures can reach 29ºC (84°F) and visibility regularly reaches over 30 metres. Peak months are December, January, July and August. Mauritius Located 20 degrees south of the equator, Mauritius boasts a typical tropical climate, and is generally considered a year-round destination. Like the other tropical islands, it enjoys wet and dry seasons. The summer months are from December to April and the temperatures range between 25°C and 33°C ( °Fon the coast.

Summer can be hot and humid with December to February being the hottest months. Summer is the cyclone season, but these rarely impact the island. January to March, are however, the wettest months. Summer, especially December through March is the best time for scuba diving and for deep-sea fishing. The winter months, May to September, are cooler and drier. The lowest temperatures occur in August with noticeably cooler nights. Winter (June to August) is the best season for surfing. The best time to visit for cooler, drier weather is from May to December. That said, in July and August, the winds on the east coast can be quite strong. The generally regarded best periods are between the months of April and June and September and December. Something to also bear in mind is that Mauritius has a micro-climate – it could be raining in one place and five-minutes away, it could be bright sunshine. The northern and the western parts of the island are warmer and drier than the eastern and the southern regions. Peak season is Christmas, New Year and the month of August. Peak season is Christmas, New Year and the month of August.

Mozambique The Mozambique coastline stretches for almost 2 000km and has a tropical ocean current running north to south along its length for the whole year. The whole country broadly follows a southern African weather pattern, with summer rains falling largely between December and March. Rainfall is generally in brief, but vigorous downpours after which the sun comes out again. This does vary a little between the north and south of the country, with the rains starting earlier and lasting a few weeks longer in the north than the south. Humidity can be uncomfortably high during this period. As the country lies in the rain-shadow of Madagascar, Mozambique a relatively low annual rainfall, and is protected from the tropical storms and the occasional cyclone. Note that January and February is cyclone season in southern Mozambique and there is every chance of a great deal of torrential rain Around April or May the rains subside, the sun comes out and the humidity drops. June to October (winter) is the dry, cooler season, with often perfect tropical weather – clear skies, plentiful sunshine and almost no rain. This is the best time for most people to visit Mozambique. June, July and August are Mozambique’s coolest months.

Daytime temperature can exceed 30°C (86 Fahrenheit). September and October remains dry as daytime temperatures climb, although nights are considerably cooler. November is a less predictable month of transition – days are sunny and hot, but rainfall is not unusual. Peak season is June to September and Christmas & New Year. Zanzibar Just south of the equator, Zanzibar’s weather pattern follows that of Tanzania very closely, although it tends to be a little more humid, and occasional rain in the dry season, is less uncommon than in the heart of the mainland. Generally the main wet season, or the ‘long rains,’ occur during March, April and May. Afternoon tropical downpours are the norm – which can be heavy on any of the islands. The humidity is high and daily temperatures reach the low to mid thirties (86°F plus). June to October offers dry weather with cooler temperatures, and this period is often regarded as the best time to visit Zanzibar. Temperatures vary hugely with altitude and location, but fine, clear skies and sunny weather is the norm. During November and December there’s another rainy season, the ‘short rains.’ These are much lighter than the main rains and less reliable.

If it has rained during the short rains, then it normally dries up during January and February, which is Tanzania’s ‘short dry season,’ before the ‘long rains’ in March. Zanzibar’s sea breezes have a cooling effect on a typical tropical climate which is generally hot and somewhat humid throughout the year. Diving is best in July and August as well as February and March. Many travellers will combine Zanzibar’s beaches with a safari to northern Tanzania which offers spectacular wildlife opportunities and wonderful lodges. Peak season is December, January and June to September. Share this: Indian Ocean Islands Tour Operator Travel Packages Mauritius Seychelles Fregate North Island La Digue Praslin Reunion Sun and Sandals Tours Island Packages For those dreaming of island holidays in the sun, our range of Indian Ocean Beach specials are sure to entice even the most jaded of travellers. Explore our collection of exotic island destinations. This is the stuff that daydreams are made of, and with a host of affordable deals across breath-taking beaches such as Mauritius, Reunion and the Seychelles.

Warm azure waters, soft white sands spanning as far as the eye can see, palm trees swaying in the gentle wind and the heady fragrances of spices, frangipani and fresh sea breezesï¿½ paradise can now be found with our outstanding island packages ! packages to indian ocean islands deals. MAURITIUS ISLAND It's also one of Africaï¿½s great destinations, located in the middle of the turquoise Indian Ocean, inhabited by a multi-racial, peaceful people, covered in great golf courses, offering myriad water sports, mountain trekking, hunting, birdwatching, luxurious resorts, an old colonial capital, great food, three- and four-star hotels, one of the world's best botanical gardens, good nightlife, beautiful beach bars and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Mauritius is also home to superb resorts and hotels. We can arrange destination weddings on Mauritius, romantic honeymoons, anniversary and engagement trips, luxury beach villa stays, event and conferences on Mauritius. SEYCHELLES ISLANDS The Seychelles islands in the Indian Ocean are a collection of sought after islands well known for exquisite white beaches and romantic resorts and lodges. The islands are frequented by the rich and famous.

Mahe is the largest island in size and population, with a dramatic mountainous interior, rich old growth rainforest and enough bays and coves to keep you beach hopping for months. Praslin Ringed with white sands and calm turquoise seas, and sprinkled with just a handful of small villages, Praslin is peaceful and sublime. La Digue Picture postcard beaches, enjoyed in slow motion. La Digue is an island that time forgot. Bird, Seychellesï¿½ most northerly island is 100km or a 30-minute flight north of Mahï¿½. The island was once known as Ile aux Vaches because of the dugongs (sea cows) that thrived there. North lies only a few kilometres north of Silhouette and is the smaller of two visible in the distance from the beach at Beau Vallon on Mahï¿½. North island was one of the very first Seychelles islands to be visited in a 1609 expedition under Captain Alexander Sharpeigh who found the island to have excellent ï¿½cokker nuttsï¿½ (i.e. coconuts) as well as a thriving population of giant land tortoises.

Indian Ocean Island Travel Packages. Indian Ocean Islands Tour Operator Mauritius Seychelles Fregate North Island La Digue Praslin Reunion, event management, honeymoon packages, destination wedding, conference in mauritius, event management mauritius, dme, destination management company, wedding seychelles, honeymoon deals, honeymoon seychelles, business event management, conference event management organisers Sun and Sandals'sister sites: cosmetic online / honeymoon travel online / Madagascar: Island Country of the Indian Ocean | TravelCab Buzz Madagascar: Island Country of the Indian Ocean The islands of the Indian Ocean are as diverse in culture and history as the countries that surround and border the third largest ocean of the world. From Comoros to Zanzibar (sorry, there was no major ‘A’ island), Africans, Asians, Middle Easterners, and Europeans have all migrated to the islands of the Indian Ocean and influenced the culture of each. Early peoples of the Arab nations are thought to be some of the first explorers of the islands, although outrigger canoes from Borneo reached Madagascar very early along the historical timeline as well.

The Dutch, French, and British have all laid claim to various islands in the region, and the Portuguese explored the region as early as 1505, too. Modern day Zanzibar is still known for the spices that flow through its port and Madagascar is home to animal species found nowhere else on Earth. The Wildlife of Madagascar Ring-tailed lemur in Madagascar. As an island off the east coast of the continent of Africa, Madagascar, the fourth largest island in the world, sits fully in the Indian Ocean. Considered the most bio-diverse place on the planet, 90% of the species that call the island home live nowhere else on Earth. People first visited Madagascar as early as 2000 B.C. However, the island wasn’t inhabited (by humans, at least) for almost 1700 more years. The original settlers were from Borneo and were later joined by people from the African mainland also. There are a good number of parks where you can visit and see some of the 70 species of lemurs.

They are just one of the animals unique to Madagascar and some parks to consider seeing them in are Berenty, Andasibe-Mantadia, Ankarana Montagne d’Ambre, Kirindy, Ranomafana, and Masoala. The lemurs are just one of five different families of primates that can be found nowhere else, too. Other Places to Visit on the Island Nation Typical of many islands, but still should not go unsaid, are the amazing beaches that ring Madagascar. Some of the best are along typical tourist routes and some are still yet to be discovered except by locals. No matter where you stay, there will be a beach that is sure to take your breath away, keep Diego, Anakao, the areas surrounding Morondava, and the islands of Nosy Be and Sainte Marie in mind. If one of your goals is to take amazing pictures during your trip, be sure to get some of the unique (there are a lot of unique things in Madagascar) baobab trees. The thick trunks rise hundreds of feet into the air and only split off into branches at the very top.

If you travel outside of Morondava, you’ll come across a stand of them that will make for an excellent backdrop for sunrise and sunset photos. The trees are centuries old and continue to stand the test of time. Madagascar offers reefs, beaches, and rainforests as some of its many attractions. If you have ventured to this one of a kind destination, speak up in the comments and let us know what you thought. Indian Ocean Islands - Tours to Madagascar, Comoros, Mayotte, Mauritius, Rodrigues, Reunion & Seychelles | Bestway Tours & Safaris INDIAN OCEAN ISLANDS Cultural tour of Madagascar, Comoros, Mayotte, Mauritius, Rodrigues, Reunion & Seychelles The Indian Ocean is home to a large variety of fascinating islands featuring Creole, African, Indian, Chinese and French heritage. On this journey we visit five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, starting in Madagascar, often referred to as the Eighth Continent, due to the island’s legendary unique flora & fauna. We explore Mauritius and Rodrigues, islands containing white beaches, quiet fishing villages, fabulous botanical gardens and a fascinating colonial past.

We continue to the island of Reunion, which features one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes, emerald forests, tumbling waterfalls and awesome mountainous landscapes. Our journey concludes in the Seychelles, an archipelago offering stunning beaches, marine parks and natural reserves filled with endemic species that are easy to approach. UNESCO World Heritage Sites covered in this tour 1. Rainforests of the Atsinanana, Madagascar 2. Le Morne Cultural Landscape, Mauritius 4. Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island, Reunion 5.

Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, Seychelles Overview Day 01: Arrive Antananarivo (Madagascar) Day 02: Antananarivo/Andasibe/Mantadia National Park (B, D) Day 03: Andasibe/Matadia National Park (B, D) Day 04: Antananarivo-Nosy Be (Madagascar)(Flight) (B, D) Day 06: Nosy Be/Plaisance (Mauritius) (B, D) Day 08: Mauritius/Rodrigues Island (Flight) (B, D) Day 10: Rodrigues/Victoria, Mahe’ Island, Seychelles (B) Day 11: Mahe Island/Praslin (Flight) (B) Day 13: Praslin/Mahe Island/Reunion Island (B, D) B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner Day 01: Arrive Antananarivo (Madagascar) Antananarivo, the capital of the large island of Madagascar, is ideally connected with many cities including Nairobi, Johannesburg, Paris, Seychelles, Mauritius

, etc.

Upon arrival at Antananarivo, we are met and transferred to our hotel. Overnight: Palissandre Hotel, Antananarivo (1 night) Day 02: Antananarivo/Andasibe/Mantadia National Park We tour Antananarivo, the capital, driving to the upper town to see the Queen's palace. In the Malagasy "Rova" is the symbol of the Merina Kingdom. Sitting on the top of the tallest hill of Antananarivo, it offers a spectacular view of the administrative quarter and its surroundings. We then drive down to the Independence Avenue and the Anosy Lake. Here we get a good picture of the diverse ethnic communities, before we take a scenic drive to Marozevo. We visit the famous exotic farming centre of Mr.Pereyras where we see almost all the chameleon species of Madagascar including butterflies, lizards, snakes, bats and other interesting animals. Then we proceed to Mantadia National Park, part of the Rainforests of the Atsinanana* - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight: Hotel Vakôna forest Lodge (1nights) (B, D) Day 03: Andasibe/Matadia National Park Today we visit the two areas of the National Park. These relict forests are critically important for maintaining ongoing ecological processes necessary for the survival of Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, which reflects the island’s geological history. Having completed its separation from all other land masses more than 60 million years ago, Madagascar’s plant and animal life evolved in isolation. We look out for the Indri, the biggest lemur species in the world, which communicates though calls that can be heard as far away as 4 kms. Later we drive back to Antananarivo. Overnight: Palissandre Hotel, Antananarivo (1 night) (B, D) Day 04: Antananarivo-Nosy Be (Madagascar) (Flight) Another short flight from Antananarivo and we arrive in a completely different world, Nosy Be in the northern tip of Madagascar. Upon arrival at this small airport we are met and transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free to loiter around the town or enjoy beach – Madagascar’s most popular beach.

Overnight: Nosy Be Hotel, Nosy Be (2 nights) (B, D) Day 05: Nosy Be The Nosy Be area is famous for its natural beauty and today is spent exploring the sites. An interesting day ahead as we start with a day excursion of Lokobe, a typical fishing village situated in the middle of an Ylang-Ylang Plantation in the south east part of the town. From here, we take a short boat trip by a Pirogue crossing to the Beach of Lokobe (only reachable by boat). Here we take an easy-guided walking tour in the tropical forest to discover the fascinating fauna and flora, while searching for lemurians, chameleons, boas and much more. A nearby fishing village gives us an opportunity to meet the local folks. (B, D) Day 06: Nosy Be/Plaisance (Mauritius) Our next island destination is the well-known island of Mauritius. The flight from Nosy Be will take us first to Antananarivo to connect with the international flight to Plaisance International Airport in the island of Mauritius. Upon arrival, we are cordially welcomed and transferred to our beach hotel.

Balance of the time is free. Overnight: Preskil Beach, Mahe (2 nights) (B, D) Day 07: Mauritius With several stops to see local life as well as scenic views, we will cover the island of Mauritius in our exploration today. We learn about the history of Mauritius, the variety of people and their origins, their mixed culture and languages, visiting the buildings of Aapravasi Ghat* in the district of Port Louis, among the earliest explicit manifestations of what was to become a global economic system and one of the greatest migrations in history starting in 1834. We also explore the Le Morne Cultural Landscape*, a rugged mountain that juts into the Indian Ocean in the southwest of Mauritius. Protected by the isolated, wooded and almost inaccessible cliffs, escaped slaves formed small settlements in the caves and on the summit of Le Morne. (B, D) Day 08: Mauritius/Rodrigues Island (Flight) A short flight gets us to Rodrigues Island where we are met and transferred to our hotel. After time for independent exploring, we are in for a treat, as we join the locals for a sumptuous dinner.

Overnight: Cotton Bayhotel, Rodrigues (2 nights) (B, D) Day 09: Rodrigues Island We tour the island and discover the unique lifestyle of the island, a charming combination of simplicity, friendliness and hospitality. Rodrigues is home to several species of endemic tropical flora and fauna. (B, D) Day 10: Rodrigues/Victoria, Mahe’ Island, Seychelles An easy day as we take a flight from Rodrigues via Mauritus to Mahe Island, in the Seychelles. Upon arrival at Mahe Island we are warmly received and transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free. Overnight: Savoy Hotel (1 night) (B) Day 11: Mahe Island/Praslin (Flight) An early morning flights gets us to Praslin. We are warmly received and taken on tour of Praslin, a very popular island. We visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve*, which has the vestiges of a natural palm forest preserved in almost its original state. The famous coco de mer, from a palm-tree once believed to grow in the depths of the sea, is the largest seed in the plant kingdom.

After the tour we are transferred to our hotel. Overnight: Indian Ocean Lodge, Praslin Island (2nights) (B) Day 12: La Digue/Praslin We board a traditional schooner for a brief journey to La Digue Island. The fourth largest island features spectacular formations of granite boulders. An ox-cart ride on La Digue takes us to L’Union Estate to visit copra sheds, a giant land tortoise pen and an old colonial house. Marvel at the sight of the most beautiful beach of Seychelles, Anse Source d’Argent, over a typical Creole lunch and enjoy some time to spend sunbathing or swimming before our return to Praslin. (B, L) Day 13: Praslin/Mahe Island/Reunion Island Depending on the flight time we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Reunion Island via Mahe Island. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel. Balance of the day is free.

Overnight: Boucan Cabot Hotel (2 nights) (B, D) Day 14: Reunion Island We explore the Pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island*, the core of La Réunion National Park. Dominated by two towering volcanic peaks, massive walls and three cliff-rimmed cirques, the property includes a great variety of rugged terrain and impressive escarpments, forested gorges and basins creating a visually striking landscape. It is the natural habitat for a wide diversity of plants, presenting a high level of endemism. We start off with a day excursion to Cilaos, a well-known mountain resort featuring a hot spring spa. We drive via a picturesque road awed by impressive landscapes. A short walk to La Roche Merveilleuse takes us to a lookout point where we see the whole valley. We also visit with the native people make famous embroideries, typical wine, and grow lentils. In the afternoon we return to Saint Gilles les bains, Reunion Island's little "Saint Tropez" then head back to our hotel.

(B) Day 15: Reunion Island/Mayotte Bidding farewell to Reunion, we are transferred to the airport for our flight to Dzaoudzi Mayotte. Upon arrival we are met and transferred to our hotel, situated in the south of the island, right on beautiful N'Gouja Beach. Here we can enjoy Mayotte’s beautiful flora of 18 hectares of tropical garden, as well see huge baobab trees by the beach. We can also swim amongst the turtles, play with the green monkeys and take time to enjoy the serene sea. Overnight: Jardin Maore Hotel, (2 nights) (B) Day 16: Mayotte Our explorartion of Mayotte starts with a visit to the Plage Musical to see the largest Baobab tree on the Island. We will also discover the dense tropical forest in the heart of the Island, visit an Ylang-Ylang Plantation and the "Jardin Maore", where we can watch a friendly colony of lemurs living in the garden of the hotel and get another opportunity to swim with turtles.

(B) Day 17: Mayotte/Moroni (Comoros) A short flight gets us to Moroni on Grand Comoro Island where we are met and transferred to our hotel. The remainder of the day is free for us to enjoy the town, featuring the history of many settlers who came to inhabit the island, including Malagasy tribes, Malay-Polynesians, Arabs, Persians and Europeans. Overnight: Retaj Moroni Hotel (2 nights) (B) Day 18: Moroni A whole different world as we tour the Grand Comoro Island. The local culture reflects the ethnic diversity, history, politics, music, dance, food, drink, arts, sports and international influences in the region. The Grand Comore island is the largest island in the Comoros nation having a population of 316,000 with an area as large as or as small as 1,148 Sq Kms. The island reflects an laid back Arab town. (B) Day 19: Depart Moroni After an exciting visit of the Indian Ocean Islands we are transferred to the airport for our departure flight.

Bestway Tours & Safaris can also arrange visits to island on the East African coast, visiting Zanzibar Island in Tanzania and Pemba and Lamu islands in Kenya. (B) Optional Extension: Desroches Island, Amirante Islands We can also organize an extension to Desroches Island from Mahe, with a private air transfer. Along with the remaining Amirante Islands, Desroches had been a part of the Seychelles since it became a separate colony in 1909. On November 8, 1965, the United Kingdom split Desroches from the Seychelles to become part of the newly created British Indian Ocean Territory together with Farquhar, Aldabra and the Chagos Archipelago, but returned it to the Seychelles with the first two. The purpose was to allow the construction of military facilities for the mutual benefit of the United Kingdom and the United States. On June 23, 1976, Desroches was returned to Seychelles. Please call us for details, as prices vary according to season. Day 01: Mahe/Desroches Island, Amirantes We take a private flight to Desroches Island.

Upon arrival we are met and transferred to the resort our hotel. Desroches Island is an idyllic, independently owned, coral island surrounded by white sandy beaches and a protective reef. It is the ultimate island destination, with luxurious accommodation in a heavenly setting of un-spoilt beaches and lush, green forests. Conservation is paramount on Desroches, every care has been taken in the design to protect the area’s natural history and ecology. Guests at Desroches enjoy first-class accommodation, fine cuisine, world class diving and snorkeling, luxurious spa facilities and striking scenery in total privacy and opulent style. It is the ultimate, indulgent holiday experience. Overnight: Desroches Island Resort (2 nights) (B, L, D) Day 02: Desroches Island We have a luxurious day to ourselves to enjoy quiet picnics on secluded beaches, sunset cruises with loved ones, mesmerizing encounters with captivating marine life and blissful pampering treatments in all the natural wonders and five-star luxury the island has to offer. Our experience can be as exhilarating or relaxing as we wish.

(B, L, D) Day 03: Desroches Island/Mahe Zanzibar Archipelago - Tanzania Destinations | Rhino Africa Zanzibar Archipelago Lazy adult male lion gazes at tourists on safari in Namibia SHARE: Lazy adult male lion gazes at tourists on safari in Namibia SHARE: Lazy adult male lion gazes at tourists on safari in Namibia SHARE: Lazy adult male lion gazes at tourists on safari in Namibia SHARE: Lazy adult male lion gazes at tourists on safari in Namibia SHARE: Zanzibar Archipelago : A chain of island paradises The Zanzibar Archipelago is made up of a chain of islands in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Tanzania . Centuries ago, the island was an important area for the spice trade, first with the Arab world since the eleventh century, before falling under the rule of Arab sultans who reigned over the islands for a number of years, integrating with the local Swahili. Unguja Island is the largest of all islands in the archipelago and more commonly known as Zanzibar. Stone Town , littered with Indo-Arabian architecture, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

When not languidly lounging on the islands impeccable beachfront, visitors can wander the narrow labyrinth of streets that make up the town, venture to the Forodhani Gardens’ night market on the waterfront across from the House of Wonders, and taste the local street food. While Zanzibar is known for being flat and sand-strewn, its neighbouring island, Pemba, is the land of cloves and mangoes, with terrain composed of hillocks that are fertile and lush with fruit and spice trees. Traditional dhows lie scattered across most of the coastline with fishing being a large part of Pemba’s culture. Highlights The Zanzibar Archipelago offers superb beaches, warm, tranquil waters and the ultimate Indian ocean island getaway The different islands that are part of the archipelago offer an array of different attractions unique to each island Stone Town is recognised as a UNESO World Heritage Site Get lost in labyrinth streets, night markets, and local food vendors The island is easily reached from the mainland and is a convenient add-on to a safari trip Facts and Information Zanzibar Island is known as Unguja by the locals and has only become a popular tourist destination in recent years. It has quite a troubled and tumultuous history.

It was settled by the Arabs as early as the 9th century and by 1045 the locals had been converted to Islam. They were joined by the Persians some 400 years later though both were ousted by the Portuguese in 1500. The Omani Arabs reclaimed the country by 1700 and they were instrumental in the expansion of the slave trade to work on the clove plantations. The British opposed slavery vigorously and by 1873 it had been abolished in Zanzibar. The British exerted more influence and Zanzibar became their protectorate in 1890. Despite the mainland being controlled by the Germans, they ruled peacefully for over 70 years and Zanzibar was largely unaffected by both World Wars. Tanganyika did become independent in 1961 and Zanzibar followed suit in 1963. A few months later a union between Tanganyika and Zanzibar was formed in 1964, leading to modern-day Tanzania. Welcome to Tanzania! - Karibu Tanzania! Do you speak English? - Unasema Kiingereza? Hello - Jambo!

No problem - Hakuna matata! Thank you very much - Asante Sana Elephant - Tembo Cheetah - Duma Lion - Simba Currency: The Tanzanian shilling is freely exchangeable. Most major facilities accept major credit cards; Visa and Master Card are the most widely accepted. Religion: Mainly Muslim, also Christian, Hindu and traditional beliefs. Climate: Zanzibar has a tropical climate and can get pretty hot and humid during the summer though thunderstorms can cool things down. It experiences its rains from mid March to June. A short rainy season also occur from Sept to Nov. Language: KiSwahili is the official language, although English is widely spoken. The terms Swahili and Kiswahili are used interchangeably, though the term Swahili normally refers to the people while Kiswahili refers to the language. Useful Phrases Welcome to Tanzania! - Karibu Tanzania! Do you speak English? - Unasema Kiingereza? Hello - Jambo! Thank you very much - Asante Sana Elephant - Tembo Which of East Africa's Indian Ocean islands is for you? - Lonely Planet Which of East Africa's Indian Ocean islands is for you?

Tips & articles Lonely Planet Writer Marketing brochures seem to just scream about luxury resorts on palm-fringed beaches, but East Africa’s Indian Ocean islands are as diverse as the islanders, spice merchants and explorers that have shaped them. Whether you’re looking for giant coconuts or giant tortoises; lush rainforests, cool highlands or lambent coral reefs; or crossroads cuisine and curious wildlife, there’s an island to suit every taste and budget. The sculpted rocks and beach of Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue Island, Seychelles. Image by Cornelia Doerr / Getty Images Best for barefoot luxury and diving Quirimbas, Bazaruto and Seychelles Divers and high-spending beach aficionados love Mozambique ’s Quirimbas and Bazaruto archipelagos not only for their flawless, flour-white beaches, but for the thrill of seeing giant manta rays floating over thriving coral reefs, whale sharks cruising underwater canyons and Africa ’s largest population of dugongs grazing in the long seagrass.

East Africa ’s five turtle species are all found here, nesting along miles of unspoilt beaches, while out to sea 2000 species of fish nibble at vibrant coral gardens. There’s no doubt, the 32 islands are expensive to reach, although new flights from Tanzania have improved access. The upside of this is the ecological integrity of the marine environment and some seriously sexy beach accommodation such as Vamizi ( vamizi.com ), Guludo ( guludo.com ), Azura Benguerra ( azura-retreats.com ) and Bazaruto lodges. Only the Seychelles comes close in terms of water clarity and island exclusivity, with superb diving opportunities off private island getaways such as Desroches , Fregate and North , and a unique Whale Shark monitoring programme ( mcss.sc ) based in Mahe . When to go: Bazaruto and Quirimbas (May-June), Seychelles (April-September) Cost of travel per day: Bazaruto and Quirimbas US$250+; Seychelles US$175-250 Zanzibar man and his bicycle, Stone Town, Zanzibar, Tanzania.

Image by Steve Outram / Getty Images Best for culture Zanzibar, Mauritius and Lamu For over a thousand years East Africa’s islands provided strategic bases along trade routes linking the Arabian Peninsula , Europe and the Indian Subcontinent . Portuguese sailors, Omani traders, Gujarati merchants, and colonials from Netherlands, France and Britain gravitated here to farm spices and sugar cane, and to trade in gold, ivory and slaves. The result of this complicated history is a rich layering of cultures, particularly evident in Lamu’s 15th-century Swahili ruins, Zanzibar ’s Shirazi heritage and the historic plantation homes and Creole cuisine of Mauritius . Lamu town is the oldest inhabited settlement in Kenya and shares much in common with Zanzibar’s Stone Town . Both take the form of a classical Arabian medina maze, with multi-storied, balconied townhouses shading narrow lanes filled with souks selling artisanal crafts in wood, silver, leather and ukili (date palm leaves). It’s these centuries-old, living traditions that independent travellers find most rewarding.

In January Lamu celebrates the Maulid Festival with poetry, music and the historic Zefe procession, while Zanzibari families gather each evening to snack on sweet mandazi (Swahili donuts) and promenade in the Forodhani Gardens . Although not directly affected by the problems related to nearby Somalia, Lamu's proximity to them has led it to often be included in travel advisories by Western governments. A much-loved Mauritian tradition is the table d’hote, a ‘hosted’ meal of Creole delicacies such as honey lamb with cinnamon, often served with a soulful dose of Séga (a style of music brought to the island by African slaves). When to go: Lamu (December-March), Zanzibar (June-September), Mauritius (October-April) Cost of travel per day: Lamu and Zanzibar US$80-150, Mauritius US$100-200 Lava flows from on Piton de la Fournaise, Réunion.

Image by Philippe Bourseiller / Getty Images Best for natural wonders Madagascar and Réunion Even for the most jaded visitors of national parks, Madagascar’s primordial forests, dramatic peaks, extinct volcanoes and stony deserts are an otherworldly experience. Cut adrift like Noah’s ark 160 million years ago, Madagascar followed a maverick evolutionary path: 70% of the fauna and 90% of the flora are endemic to the island. A chain of mountains runs down the eastern seaboard, fostering the tropical climate that nurtures the island’s six rainforests, while it’s 450km coral reef is the fifth largest in the world. All this makes it a biodiversity hotspot and one of the world’s great ecotourism destinations. Just east of Madagascar, the French island of Réunion offers a more accessible slice of the same scenery with better wine (the island produces it’s own) and infrastructure to boot. Here you can hike up the smouldering caldera of the Piton de la Fournaise and canyon amid the smoking waterfalls of the Cirque de Cilaos and afterwards retire to a comfortable guesthouse in Saint Paul or laze on the Saline les Bains beach.

When to go: Madagascar (September-October), Réunion (May-July) Cost of travel per day: Madagascar US$70-160, Réunion US$100-200 Aerial view of the eroded limestone pinnacles in Bemaraha National Park, Madagascar. Image by Frans Lanting / Mint Images / Getty Images Best for offbeat adventures Madagascar, Comoros and Pemba Nowhere else on Africa’s east coast can touch Madagascar for its Jurassic Park-style wilderness. Rutted roads (the RN5 is the most notorious), makeshift bridges and pole rafts across running rivers make getting around an adventure in itself. But the rewards are worth it. Hiking the trails in the Parc National d’Andringitra is like having Yosemite all to yourself, while scaling the via ferrata (fixed-cable routes) along the limestone pinnacles of the Tsingy de Bemaraha will test the nerves and fitness of any adventurer. And, it’s not just the landscapes that push boundaries, but unusual rituals such as the famadihana, when families exhume and ‘turn’ the bones of their relatives.

A similar reverence for the ancestors is evident on the Tanzanian island of Pemba , where colonies of flying foxes find refuge in protected burial sites such as Kidike . Finding them along with the island’s rare red colobus monkeys is a highlight on this quiet, rural island. Least touristed of all are the Comoros Islands , where Islamic traditions remain strong among an island population descended from African, Malay and Arab immigrants. Grande Comore is also the location of one of East Africa’s largest active volcanoes, which last erupted in 2005 creating a stunning dark, desert landscape offset by impossibly white beaches and turquoise seas. Despite Mohéli island being one of East Africa’s major turtle nesting sites, where you’re virtually guaranteed to see turtles nesting or simply gliding past you as you snorkel, it is incredibly little visited.

When to go: Madagascar (September-October), Comoros (May-October), Pemba (July-October) Cost of travel per day: Madagascar US$100-200, Comoros US$50-80, Pemba US$60-120 Madagascar, Seychelles & Zanzibar – ExpeditionTrips.com Arrive in Dar es Salaam and embark Silver Discoverer, settle in and attend a mandatory safety drill before leaving port. During the afternoon you will be introduced to some of the important crewmembers and your Expedition Team. At sail-away bid farewell to mainland Africa. Day 2 Zanzibar, Tanzania Today, visit your first UNESCO World Heritage Site of your voyage: Stone Town — a fine example of a Swahili coastal trading town. At the City Market you can see and smell the tropical fruits that are on offer and can see the freshly ground spices. Within walking distance is the Anglican Church, built over the old Great Slave Market. A solemn reminder of the site's history during the East Africa slave trade. Your next stop will be a spice farm in the countryside. To get there you will drive past the Old Arab Fort.

At the spice farm, you will have a guided tour and can taste some of the exotic spices and fruits grown here. The different plants are grown for food flavoring, for cosmetics, as dyes and for traditional medicine. The visit to the spice farm will be followed by lunch at a beach resort and free time at the beach for swimming, beach-combing or relaxation. Alternatively, you might want to go swimming and snorkeling at Sandbank. To get there you will be taken by traditional dhow sailing vessels. The crystal clear waters invite you to explore the underwater world, looking for coral and fishes. Day 3 At Sea While sailing the Indian Ocean the members of your Wellness Team will introduce themselves to you and present their various ‘healthy’ options available during the voyage. The lecturers on the other hand will provide several talks and seminars to prepare you for the UNESCO World Heritage Site Aldabra. The atoll of Aldabra is one of the best-researched atoll ecosystems in the world as a scientific research station was established there when the UK government passed the island’s lease to the Royal Society in 1967.

Research has gone on and is going on, and our Marine Biologist, Botanist and Ornithologist will all want to explain what makes the island and its inhabitants so special. Day 4 – 6 Aldabra, Seychelles During the morning, clear into the Seychelles at Assumption before continuing another 30 nautical miles to reach Aldabra. Part of the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, Aldabra is reputedly the world’s second-largest atoll based on its landmass and has been described as “one of nature’s treasures”, a “sanctuary”, and it will truly be a privilege to be able to visit this World Heritage Site. Aldabra is a raised atoll (known as a “Makatea”). Because of its extreme isolation, Aldabra is virtually untouched by humans. Its distinctive island fauna includes the Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea). There are different estimates as to how many Aldabra giant tortoises exist, but about two thirds of the world’s giant tortoises (some 100,000 out of a reported 150,000) are thought to live on Aldabra.

As Aldabra lacks freshwater and is difficult to access, Aldabra has not been developed for tourism. No airport has been built, and only a handful of smaller ships (with special permits) are allowed to call at this unique atoll. Silver Discoverer will anchor off Aldabra for two days. Enjoy exhilarating drift snorkels as the incoming tide whisks us into a lagoon populated with eagle rays, turtles, and coral gardens teeming with marine life. Time and tides permitting, cruise via Zodiac through narrow channels between fossilized coral islands, and we cruise between mangrove-covered islands to observe large colonies of nesting boobies and Great Frigatebirds soaring overhead. As the tides pump water in and out of the lagoon, massive numbers of fish come and go through channels to feed. We can snorkel in these same channels, allowing the current to carry us along a magical scene. We will go ashore to visit the small scientific research station on Picard Island and photograph the tortoises living on this isolated island that few travellers have the privilege to see. Day 7 Mamoudzou, Mayotte Arrive in Mayotte, a French Overseas Department.

Disembark Silver Discoverer early in the morning for a visit to the town and surrounding areas of Mamoudzou, the capital and largest town in Mayotte. Although Mayotte is part of France politically –and as such part of the European Union- geographically it remains part of the Comoros group. It is the most populous of the four Comoros Islands in the Indian Ocean off Mozambique in Africa. Mayotte chose to remain a French dependency rather than join the other Comoros Islands when they declared independence in 1975. The economy is largely fishing and agricultural, exporting perfume oils, vanilla, copra, coconuts, coffee, and cinnamon. After strolling through the markets and town, take a scenic drive to the countryside stopping at Ylang-Ylang and Vanilla Plantations. Sleepy fishing villages adorn both golden and black sandy beaches backed by swaying bamboo groves in the tranquil setting that the islanders describe as “au bout du monde” — at the end of the world. During the afternoon Silver Discoverer will head towards the east, in direction of Madagascar.

Day 8 Hell-Ville, Nosy Be / Ampangorina, Nosy Komba, Madagascar Local authorities will clear the ship into Madagascar at Hell-Ville, on the small island of Nosy Be. After breakfast, head out to Lokobe Strict Reserve, located on the southern side of Nosy Be. The reserve’s humid medium altitude evergreen forests are the natural habitat for the endangered black lemur -which only occurs in this part of Madagascar and is the most representative species of the reserve. Although only few are left, these lemurs are real beauties. While the males are (as the name implies) black, the females are a beautifully reddish brown. Apart from the back lemur, there are other nocturnal species such as the gray-backed sportive lemur and some mouse lemurs. The Lokobe Strict Reserve is also home to some endemic birds like the Madagascar Pygmy Kingfisher or the Madagascar Long-eared Owl. Apart from birds the spectacular panther-chameleons, local endemic frogs and several snakes and other reptiles make this reserve their home.

Apart from hiking in the western part of the reserve, looking for black lemurs and panther chameleons we will pay a visit to one of the ylang-ylang distilleries. The flowers are a basic ingredient for expensive perfumes and are steam-processed to extract the oil for perfume production as well as natural health products. There are so many pleasant fragrances enveloping the island, including ylang-ylang, cocoa, vanilla, coffee, coconut, and cinnamon, that Nosy Be’s potpourri of nature’s scents will give yet another dimension to your visit. During lunch Silver Discoverer will reposition to Ampangorina on Nosy Komba’s north coast. Nosy Komba is a beautiful and small volcanic island between Nosy Be, the island of perfumes, and the mainland of Madagascar. The island has easily accessible, clean and private beaches that offer great snorkeling.

Covered by a magnificent primal forest home to all kinds of trees, plants and flowers, lemurs are one of the main attractions.The dense tropical forest, surrounded by clear waters, is home to a multitude of animals: makis macacos, chameleons, lizards, snakes, spiders, and 19 species of birds. Sea turtles, rays, and dolphins frequent the waters in front of Nosy Komba Day 9 Nosy Hara, Madagascar The Nosy Hara archipelago off the northern tip of Madagascar is made up of about 12 small islands surrounded by coral reefs. The island is a popular site for swimming and snorkeling. The beaches show evidence of marine turtle nesting activity, and tagged turtles regularly come up to nest. In the Nosy Hara region these are mostly hawksbill turtles. The Nosy Hara archipelago and the Radama Islands are characterized by the unique rock formations of eroded limestone known as tsingy. On some, forest grows through and on the cliff faces. Endemic birds and reptiles inhabit the forest –among them a pair of the endemic and endangered Madagascar Fish Eagle, one of the rarest birds of prey in the world, and the world’s smallest chameleon.

Day 10 At Sea Navigating around Madagascar’s north coast your Wellness Team is again ready to help you with yoga- and stretching exercises, and will have a seminar on healthy food choices, while the Executive Chef and the Galley Team will tempt you with local specialties. Be out on deck, scan the horizon for marine mammals and seabirds, visit the gym or Spa, or simply relax and prepare yourself for the next stop in Madagascar. Day 11 Nosy Mangabe / Masoala National Park, Madagascar Anchor in front of tiny Nosy Mangabe, part of the larger Masoala National Park complex. Formerly a Dutch basis for the slave trade, the island is protected since 1965. The Nosy Mangabe Special Reserve is a tropical rainforest preserve and once again your forays ashore will be to see lemur species in the dense and hilly forests. Spot mouse lemur, gray mouse lemur, Eastern woolly lemur, white-fronted brown lemur, and black-and-white ruffed lemur. There are also several birds and a good number of reptiles and amphibians: leaf-tailed geckos, frogs, small snakes and even an endemic boa.

Birders will be on the lookout for Madagascar Buzzard, kingfisher and Paradise Flycatchers. After lunch, visit the Masoala National Park, located to the east of Nosy Mangabe. Madagascar’s largest protected area encompasses 2,300 square kilometers of rainforest and 100 square kilometers of marine parks. The park was established in 1997 to preserve the unique ecosystem comprising coastal rainforest, flooded forests, marsh and mangroves. Botanists will be interested to find that the region also supports one of the most diverse groups of palm species in the world. The forests, filled with rare, endemic species, reach down to a pristine, unspoiled shore with unexplored golden beaches. Swiss scientists from the Zürich Zoo and Madagascan scientists have worked in the National Park and found chameleons, geckos, frogs as well as several species of butterflies and fish, which were new to science. Masoala is home to the Madagascar Serpent Eagle, the rarest bird of prey.

Ten species of lemurs are found within the National Park and during your time ashore you might glimpse the red-fronted brown lemur, red-ruffed lemur, or perhaps if possible during nighttime walk, the rare aye-aye. Other wildlife include the brightly colored Mantella frogs, the greater hedgehog tenrec and the ring-tailed mongoose and all manner of extraordinary chameleons. Explore Antogil Bay in the southern part of the park. Day 12 At Sea Lecturers will be presenting on La Reunion and its UNESCO World Heritage site which is your stop for tomorrow. During the afternoon, the Photographer/Videographer will present the Voyage-DVD, and in the evening the Captain would like to invite you to the Captain’s Farewell cocktail party. The Executive Chef and Restaurant Manager in turn invite you to the Farewell Dinner in The Restaurant. Day 13 La Possession, Reunion Two national parks have been created to preserve the island and UNESCO has given World Heritage status to the pitons, cirques and remparts of Reunion Island.

La Roche Ecrite Nature Reserve will be of prime interest as it was created on the slopes of the 2,276 meter Roche Ecrite next to La Possession and protects the endemic and endangered Reunion Cuckooshrike. Visit the central highlands where spectacular rugged peaks of dormant or extinct volcanoes cradle huge amphitheaters known as cirques, where mountains tower to over 10,000 feet and beautiful waterfalls plummet steep descents. Visit the active volcano La Fournaise. A road, followed by a good trail, leads up to Bellecombe Pass situated over the caldera rim cliffs and offers a good point of view over the northeast part of the caldera. From there, a stairway path descends from the pass to the caldera floor. A number of footpaths ascending the lava shield inside the caldera are marked, but access depends on the volcanic activity. This afternoon enjoy a typical creole lunch ashore before exploring further in the afternoon with some free time In St. Denis, a charming town with a wonderfully French atmosphere. In the evening we return to Silver Discoverer and will set sail for Mauritius.

Day 14 Islands of SE Asia Luxury Expedition Ship Silver Discoverer I thank you for your outstanding assistance with planning my expeditions for almost 20 years. Your attention to detail and expertise of planning expeditions for me made this trip perfect. Payment Policy Deposit: 25% per person to confirm reservation within seven days of booking. Final Payment: Due 120 days prior to departure. Reservations made within 120 days of sailing require full payment within seven days of booking or sooner, as specified by the vendor. Payment Methods: Credit cards are accepted for both deposit and final payments (VISA, MC, AMEX, Discover, Diners Club). Payment Policy is subject to change without notice. Cancellation Policy Cancellations must be received in writing. Cancellation penalties are based on the number of days prior to departure that the cancellation was received and are subject to change without notice. We strongly suggest you obtain trip cancellation insurance. Failure to secure a valid passport, visa, or air arrangements does not waive this policy. Cancellation requests received will be subject to the following charges, regardless of suite resale.

Cancellation Penalties: 121 days or more: $200 non-refundable administrative fee per booking 120-91 days: 15% of the total fare 90-61 days: 50% of the total fare 60-31 days: 75% of the total fare 30-0 days, or non-appearance at the time of sailing: 100% of the total fare Guests who downgrade suite categories within 120 days of the initial sailing date will incur cancellation penalties on the difference in cruise fare between the two suites. Airfare Package & Charter Air Cancellation Penalties*: 90-61 days: $100 per person processing fee 60-0 days: $100 per person processing fee + 100% of the fare paid. *May only be cancelled upon complete cancellation of cruise reservations. Please note that a Medical Form signed by your doctor may be required for participation in certain trips. Luxury Yacht Charter Rentals Africa Mozambique Sailing Holiday All charters are on a fully crewed basis! There are NO bareboat charters available anywhere in East Africa waters!

__________________________________________________________________ Sailing Yachts and Motor Yachts.... Mozambique Yacht Charters is the leading provider of luxury yacht charter rentals, yacht charter holidays and sailing holidays in Mozambique, Zanzibar and Madagascar in east Africa. Mozambique Yacht Charters operate yacht charters among the 32 islands of the Quirimbas and Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique. We also provide yacht charters to the 70 or more islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, Mafia, Kilwa and Songa off the coast of Tanzania as well as the islands of Madagascar. Mozambique Yacht Charters offers diving and fishing yacht charters, as well as general island cruising yacht charters and sailing holidays. This entire region of the Indian Ocean offers some of the best, most undiscovered yacht charter destinations on the planet and we at Oceans Islands & Safaris can help you experience them for yourself.

Question: The islands of Zanzibar and Madagascar are in which ocean?
Answer: Indian