Laura French charts the little-known Indian Ocean islands ideal for a tropical getaway
Whether it’s the Maldives, Mauritius, the Seychelles or Sri Lanka, the Indian Ocean isn’t short on swoon-worthy islands that seem to have been plucked straight from paradise.
From private island resorts to rustic beach retreats, escorted tours to small-ship cruises, there’s no shortage of options for clients wanting to visit these big-hitters.
But covering more than 27 million square miles – accounting for 20% of the Earth’s ocean area – this sprawling sea offers more than its bestsellers. From the Andaman Islands to Malaysia’s Langkawi Islands, Indonesia’s Gili Islands to the rarely visited Lakshadweep Islands off the coast of Kerala, there’s a plethora of jaw‑droppingly beautiful The Beach-esque archipelagos.
While some are more set up for tourism than others, anyone overlooking these Indian Ocean jewels is missing a beat. Bright jade waters, talcum-white sand and emerald palms are ten-a-penny across many of them, and with a fascinating fusion of cultures to boot, there’s plenty to draw those looking to go off the beaten track.
Of course, some are more accessible than others, so which should you be recommending to clients? We’ve spoken to three operators to find out, and picked some of the best accommodation options and activities from each.
Like Mauritius?
With lush peaks, turquoise beaches, tumbling waterfalls and misty rainforests, Mauritius is a mecca for nature enthusiasts as well as fly-and-floppers. And it’s not only about the scenery.
With excellent food that’s a blend of Indian, French and African influences, historic architecture and lively capital Port Louis, Mauritius is an excellent bet for cultural exploration too.
Try… La Réunion
Why go? If Mauritius’s natural charms lured clients the first time around, French-speaking La Réunion might just be the ticket for a second-time visit. The diverse terrain of this volcanic isle makes it a hotspot for outdoor adventures, while remote villages, lively festivals and colourful architecture add appeal for culture vultures.
What to do: La Réunion is a wildlife lover’s paradise, with more than 800 endemic species. At the heart of the island is Réunion National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site that’s home to 500 miles of hiking trails as well as the legendary Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano that climbers can summit.
Elsewhere there’s mountain biking, whale watching, diving and more, with white-sand beaches on hand for sunbathers.
Book it: For a five-star stay sandwiched between beach and forest, Kuoni points to Lux Saint Gilles, set on the west coast amid tropical gardens with whitewashed Creole-style villas, three restaurants, watersports and a kids’ club among the draws.
Five nights in a Superior Room with breakfast costs from £1,549, flying from Heathrow in June.
kuoni.co.uk
Like the Maldives?
For sand the colour of snow, water the colour of curaçao and islands that appear to have been Photoshopped on a screen, the Maldives knows how to do romance.
But with an ever-growing number of resorts catering to families as well as couples – combined with diving, snorkelling and some of the world’s best surfing – this sprawling archipelago isn’t just for honeymooners.
Try… Zanzibar
Why go? It’s not only in the Maldives that you’ll find palm-covered isles studding cerulean seas. For an equally idyllic escape that doesn’t always get the limelight, look to Zanzibar, made up of four main islands and a smattering of smaller ones.
What to do: Diving, kite-surfing, sailing, windsurfing and other watersports are all available on the namesake main island. Plus there’s Unesco-listed capital Stone Town, which lures with its winding streets and mix of Persian, Arabic, Indian and European influence.
Highlights include the 17th-century Old Fort and a museum dedicated to Zanzibar-born Freddie Mercury. But if your clients prefer to immerse themselves in nature, Pemba Island boasts lush hills, deserted beaches and striking coral reefs that are perfect for exploring on a dive, while Chumbe Island is a hotspot for ecotourism with a handful of rustic beach bungalows.
Book it: For a peaceful beach retreat in Zanzibar, Abercrombie & Kent recommends Baraza Resort & Spa, home to 30 villas with private plunge pools as well as a watersports centre and spa. One week’s all-inclusive in a one-bedroom villa costs from £4,165, including flights.
abercrombiekent.co.uk
Like Sri Lanka?
Whether it’s the nature, the beaches or the cultural sites, Sri Lanka is full of charm. Leopards, elephants, langur monkeys and sloth bears can all be spotted in its national parks, while blue whales and turtles are often seen at sea.
Add in welcoming people, diverse cuisine and a plethora of Unesco sites, and it’s not hard to see why demand for this island has boomed in recent years.
Try… Madagascar
Why go? Just as generous on the wildlife front is Madagascar, home of the silky sifaka (the ‘angel of the forest’), the ring-tailed lemur and the cat-like fossa. Around 90% of the country’s mammals and flora are endemic, making the island a dream for nature lovers.
The Unesco-listed Ambohimanga Royal Hill, which dates back to the Kingdom of Imerina, brings history into the mix too.
What to do: Andasibe National Park is the place to spot the renowned indri, the island’s biggest lemur, while Ranomafana National Park is home to the rare golden bamboo lemur.
Other highlights include Isalo National Park (pictured), where colourful pools glow out from deep canyons, and the island of Nosy Be, home to red-and-white seabirds and calm, deserted beaches.
Book it: For clients wanting to string the standouts together in one trip, an escorted tour is an excellent option. Exodus Travels offers a 16-day Highlight of Madagascar trip combining the above with Anja National Park, Tsimanampetsotsa National Park and beyond, with prices from £3,199 including flights, B&B accommodation, transport and a tour leader.
exodus.co.uk
PICTURES: Shutterstock/Myroslava Bozhko, Balate Dorin, Michelle McQuinn; dennisvdw.
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