What is the first thing that comes to your mind when you hear the word, Africa? Game drives? Wildlife? Unending forests ?…….Have you ever imagined Africa with long white sand beaches and small Islands? If not, this blog is written for you! Africa has some of the world’s spectacular beaches, gorgeous islands, and incredible marine life. For a beach lover, it’s paradise. You will find endangered flora and fauna, historical places, cold and warm waters, and varieties of birds, including penguins here. Many of the African islands are self-governing sovereign states. Following are Africa’s best 15 islands you shouldn’t miss this year.
15 Top African Islands
Without further ado, here is your guide to the most exotic African islands that you must visit in 2023.
- Cape Verde Islands
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Moheli
- Nosy Be
- Mauritius
- Praslin
- Tunisia Island
- Seal Island
- Zanzibar Island
- Lamu Island
- Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
- Reunion
- St Croix Island
- Manda Island
- Funzi Island
15 Best Islands Of Africa 2023
Cape Verde Islands
Cape Verde is a vital island on the western coast, serving as a gateway to other African Islands. Sal, a part of cape Verde, is one of Africa’s 10 most beautiful islands. Santa Maria, the famous town, is situated in Sal. Whatever season you visit, Cape Verde turtles are ready to welcome you. In Cape Verde, visitors have the opportunity to adopt a baby sea turtle and receive a certificate. The best time to visit cape Verde is between November to June. There are many places to see here, like Praia de Santa Maria, Praia de Chaves, Cidade Velha, and São Vicente. In Cape Verde, you could engage in activities like hiking, water sports, horse riding, surfing, and diving.
Country – Portugal
Capital – Praia
How to reach – Cape Verde has international airports on Sal, Santiago, Boa Vista, and São Vicente islands. The Island is connected with Europe, Asia, and America via air.
Accommodation : Many accommodation options are available in Cape Verde, including Hotel Morabeza in Sal, Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort in Sal and Iberostar Club Boa Vista in Boa Vista, etc.
Sao Tome and Principe
Sao Tome and Principe is the second smallest country in the African continent and the most beautiful island of Africa. It is situated off the west coast of Central Africa. Because Sao Tome and Principe offer options for adventurous activities, tourists find this Island well-liked. The islands were formed by volcanic activity. The Island is covered with bio-diverse rainforests and the best greenery. People in Sao Tome and Principe generally speak Portuguese. The Island is a favorite spot for sports lovers. On the Island, you can go snorkeling, fishing, bird watching, etc. The best time to visit Sao Tome and Principe is between February, August, and December. Popular attractions in the country are Obo National Park, The South Eastern Beaches, and Pico de Sao Tome. Sao Tome and Principe will give you a chance to do activities like Plantation visits, nature watching, cultural adventures, and water sports. Another exciting activity you can engage in is going to chocolate factories and tasting the world’s best coffee.
Country – Central Africa
Capital – Sao Tome
How to reach – Sao Tome International Airport is the only international airport in the country.
Accommodation – Various options for staying are available, including Sundy Praia Principe Island, Pestana Sao Tome, and Omali Sao Tome
Moheli
Moheli, often called Mwali, is the smallest of the three African islands constituting the country of Comoros. Moheli Marine Park is the only national park in Comoros and is situated on the Island of Moheli. This park is rich with marine resources such as Sea turtles, dolphins, and whales. Moheli expands to an area of 290 square kilometers and has a population of 38,000. The best time to visit moheli is between April to November. There are many eye-catching places to visit in Moheli, including Nioumachoua Beach, Chissioua Ouénéfou, and Miringoni Beach. Fishing, snorkeling, whale watching, boating, and sailing are some activities you could do in Moheli.
Country – Comoros
Capital – Moroni
How to reach – Mohéli Bandar Es Eslam Airport in Fomboni has flights connecting to other archipelagos. You can also take a boat from different parts of Comoros to get to Moheli.
Accommodations – The accommodation options inside the Island include Moheli Laka Lodge, Vanilla Lodge Moheli and Le Relais de Singani.
Nosy Be
The small Island in Madagascar is a dream destination for people who love premier natural beauty. The place is known for its win points for peace, the presence of turquoise water, and the quality of the sand-side seafood eateries. Madagascar, also regarded as the fourth-largest Island in the world, has a wide variety of flora and fauna. On the Island of Nosy Be by the Indian Ocean, there are luxury restaurants, accommodation options, and retail stores. The best time to visit nosy be in Madagascar is from May to October. Significant places to visit in nosy be include Andilana, Nosy Iramja, Lemuria Land, and Mont Passot. You can engage in many activities in Nosy be like Scuba diving, sunset from Mont Passot, kayaking, Nosy Be Jazz Festival, and horse-riding with Ambaro Ranch.
Country – Madagascar
Capital – Antananarivo
How to reach – Air Madagascar provides daily service to Nosy Be from Antananarivo, the country’s capital, and many direct flights from Reunion Island.
Accommodations – The accommodation options near Nosy Be include Hotel Ambatoloaka, Anjiamarango Beach Resort, and Royal Beach Hotel.
Read more: Ten Best Places To See Gorillas in Africa
Mauritius
The cultural melting pot of Africa, Mauritius, is the perfect beach vacation for you! Mauritius is known for its multicultural nature and long white beaches. In the east of Mauritius, you will find Madagascar and southeast Seychelles. The long-extinct Dodo bird is found in Mauritius. Mauritius will offer you more than just beaches. For example, the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden has more than 650 varieties of plant species. The variety in its biodiversity makes Mauritius the most opted destination in South Africa. Important destinations you can’t miss in Mauritius are Port Louis, Rodrigues Island, The East Coast Island of Mauritius, The Inland and the centers, The south, the southeast, and the west and southwest. There are two best seasons to visit Mauritius:- April to June or the second season from September to December. Mauritius’s top activities include the Walk with Lions at Casela Park, Sea Kayaking in Albion Caves, Zip Lining at Tamarin Waterfall, Hiking to Black River Peak, and Sea Kart Ride in Black River. The top activities in Mauritius are hiking, Beach sports, gliding, water skiing, scuba diving, kite surfing, sea karting, etc. Mauritius is one of the exotic African islands.
Country – East African country
Capital – Port Lious
How to reach – Direct flights are available from various parts of the world to Mauritius.
Accommodations: Mauritius will give you various options, including budget to luxury. Some of them are Blue Beryl Guest House, Heritage Le Telfair Golf & Wellness Resort, LUX Grand Gaube Resort & Villas.
Praslin
Praslin is the second largest Island in Seychelles. Once, Praslin served as a haven for Arab traders and even pirates, but today it is a popular vacation spot with several hotels and beach resorts. In Praslin, you will find numerous substantial areas of tropical forests where indigenous species like the Seychelles bulbul and Seychelles black parrot can be found. Praslin Island combines a small population, a Nature wonderland, and a perfect vacation spot. It is located further from the busy Mahe and towards the quiet La Digue. Also, Praslin Island might be a great choice as a starting point for trips to St. Pierre, Curieuse, or the neighboring Cousine Island. Baie St. Anne, Grand Anse, and Cote D’Or are the three largest settlements in Praslin. The best time to visit Praslin Island is from May to October. Important attractions of Praslin island include Anse Volbert, Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve,Vallée de Mai. Popular activities of Praslin are sightseeing, Nightlife, sunbath etc.
Country – Seychelles
How to reach – There is air and seaway to get Praslin from Mahe, Seychelles.
Accommodations: There are various options like beach side resorts like Acajou, honeymoon suites like Constance Lemuria, and Self Catering like Treasure Island retreats.
Read more: 23 Safest Places to Visit in Africa
Tunisia Island
There are around 30 Islands in Tunisia. The most famous Island in Tunisia is Djerba. This is the largest Island in North Africa and is situated off the coast of southern Tunisia. Beber language is spoken in Djerba. Visitors can learn about Tunisian and Arab-Islamic history at the Lalla Hadhria Museum. In this museum, there are 15 galleries that contain more than 1000 pieces of artwork. Since the terrorist attack of 2015, the tourism sector has been affected badly. Now, we can see a revival in that. With its sandy beaches, beach sports opportunities, and excellent dining places, Djerba is well-liked by tourists. The summer season, which is from May to October, is considered the best time to visit the Tunisia islands. The Amphitheater of El Jem, Ribat of Sousse, Djerba Explore Park, etc., will be the most popular attractions you could find in Tunisia. Tunisia is an African island country.
Country – Tunisia
Capital – Tunis
How to reach – Taking a flight to Tunisia is the best way of getting to the Islands.
Accommodations -JAZ Tour Khalef Thalasso & Spa, Iberostar Selection Royal El Mansour, Iberostar Mehari Djerba.
Seal Island
Seal Island came from the thousands of cape fur seals in the landscape. The Island is situated 3.5 miles away from the false bay. No life is possible on the seal island because of the granite presence in the soil. Several seal colonies all around the southern African islands’ coastlines offer an endless array of chances to take seal expeditions. You will encounter a lot of seals on your way, and be prepared with your cameras. The best time to visit Seal Island is between the months of July to November. There are so many places on seal island, like the cape of good hope, boulders penguin beach, and Muizenberg Beach. You can also engage in activities like penguin watching, sightseeing at the cape of good hope, diving, and shark watching.
Country – Disputed land
How to reach – You can fly to cape town. After that, to see the Island, drive to Hout Bay and board a boat or jetty.
Accommodations – Hotel Verde Cape Town, Steenberg Hotel & Spa, aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel.
Zanzibar Island
Zanzibar, also known as Unguja, is the largest island off the coast of Tanzania. Zanzibar island is an east african island. The island is an important diplomatic spot for trade between India and Arabia. The stunning white sand beaches that the turquoise sea laps up add beauty to this island. Spice farming is a significant contributor to Zanzibar’s economy after tourism. The place is also referred to as a spice island because of the cultivation of cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper. The best time to visit Zanzibar island is from July to September. The main attractions of this island include Fuerte Viejo de Zanzíbar, Stone Town, and Forodhani Park, etc. Activities you can participate in on Zanzibar island include sightseeing, fishing, sunbathing, cruise safari, and butterfly watching.
Country – United Republic of Tanzania
Capital – Zanzibar City
How to reach – There are two ways to reach Zanzibar island: getting a plane or ferry. There are direct flights from all major cities of the world.
Accommodation – The accommodation option available in Zanzibar city include Tembo House Hotel,Amaan Beach Bungalows,,Nungwi, Kendwa Rocks Hotel and Kendwa.
Lamu Island
Lamu island is one of East Africa’s oldest Islands and contain people from Swahili communities. There are fewer vehicles on the island because there is no roads, only alleyways and trails ar existing.The town’s distinctive architecture includes inside courtyards and ornately carved wooden doors. The Lamu Museum is a part of the National Museums of Kenya, which promotes the island’s cultural legacy. The Lamu Island has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2001. The island has been a center of Islamic culture for over 700 years. Its hotels have earned a reputation for providing an excellent “barefoot luxury” experience. The best time to visit the island are during dry seasons: July to October. Also, consider, January and February. Noteworthy attractions of Lamu island are Lamu Museum, Shela Beach, and Halal Safaris they poffer. There are different activities in on Lamu island, such as sailing a Dhow, visiting Shela Village, Enjoying the Cuisine, Visiting Manda Island, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Country – Kenya
Capital – Lamu town
How to reach – The nearest airport to Lamu island is Manda Airport.
Accommodations – The accommodation options include Shiban House, Sea Shells Inn, Andavelo House
Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
If you are looking for an idyllic vacation spot covered with diversified flora and fauna, your eyes will fall on Bazaruto. This place is home to more than 2000 fish species, including whales and dolphins. The Bazaruto Archipelago, which lies off the coast of the mainland between Vilanculos and Inhassoro, comprises 6 islands.Benguerra, Margaruque, Santa Carolina (Paradise Island), Banque, and Pansy Shell Island are them. Among these, Bazaruto is the largest one. The best time to visit Bazaruto is during the dry seasons, from May to November. Places you could stay on the Island are Sunset Dhow Safari, Moz Islands & Safaris, and Machilla Magic. Activities of bazaruto are scuba diving, fishing, and snorkeling.
Country – Mozambique
How to reach – You can get to the Bazaruto archipelago by boat or plane from the mainland of Mozambique.
Accommodations – Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort, Villas do Indico, Bahia Mar Boutique Hotel.
Reunion
Reunion is an island that resides between Madagascar and Mauritius. This is a French overseas territory. The French colonized the island in 1665. This Indian Ocean island is home to one of the most active volcanoes in the world, Piton de la Fournaise. The best time to visit reunion island is from May to September. Top attractions of the reunion include the seafront park of La Barachois in Saint-Denis, Cascade de Grand Galet, and Plage de l’Hermitage, etc. The activities reunion offers you include hiking, parasailing, scuba diving, and nature and wildlife tours.
Country – French territory.
Capital – Saint-Denis
How to reach – There is a flight service to the reunion from many parts of the world.
Accommodations – The accommodation options near the reunion include Dina Morgabine Hotel, Dina Morgabine Saint-Denis, and Hotel Le Recif.
St Croix Island
St. Croix is well-known for its sugar plantations, white sand beaches, and the nearby coral reef, which is well-liked by scuba divers and snorkelers. Its two main towns, Christiansted and Frederiksted, have a colonial appearance with arched, shaded arcades and sorbet-colored houses—St—Croix is now a sanctuary to hundreds of African penguin colonies that breed there. Tourists are transported to the collection of islands via boat charters, although landing restrictions only permit the boats to approach. The best time to visit the island is April, May, September, and October. The attractions of this island include Buck Island Reef National Monument, Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, and Point Udall. The activities St Croix offers include Horseback Riding Experience, A Morning Cultural Experience Through Food Cooking Class at St. Croix, and Snorkeling Gear Rental.
Country – US
Capital – Christiansted
How to reach – Flying is the easiest way to get to St. Croix. Multiple daily flights and connections exist from the east coast in Miami and Puerto Rico.
Accommodations – The accommodation options include Sand Castle on the Beach, The Fred, Carambola Beach Resort St. Croix, US Virgin Islands.
Manda Island
Manda island is one of the many islands in the Lamu archipelago. Manda Island is well known for Takwa and Manda town, two thriving ports from the ninth century. In the first half of the 19th century, Manda and Takwa were abandoned because of the absence of water on the island. There is no best time to visit Manda island; you can visit it all year. The popular attractions of Manda island include Rhythms at Rainbow Beach, Buck Island Reef National Monument, and Machilla Magi. Camel safaris, sight viewing, Windsurfing, Motorboat excursions, Banana boat, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Water skiing, Wake boarding, and Dhow sailing cruises.
Country – Kenya
How to reach – There are flights available to Manda Island.
Accommodations: The accommodation options include Manda Bay Lodge, Diamond beach Village, and Peponi hotel.
Funzi Island
Funzi Island is situated off the south coast of Kenya with a rich biodiversity. You can find untouched coastal wetlands, sandy beaches, and mangrove forests here. As you arrive by plane, you see blue oceans, dots of white sand, and a lot of tropical foliage. Dhows float on the water; nothing but the wilderness is present for kilometers in every direction. The best time to visit Funzi Island is from June to December. Attractions of the island include the old town, Pilli Pipa Dhow Safari, and Wasini Island. You can participate in activities like the Funzi Island Village Tour, Boat Riding, Creek Fishing, Bird Watching, Kayaking, and Beach Funfare.
Country – Kenya
Capital – Kwale
How to reach – Moi International Airport is the closest international airport. There are some airstrips also available.
Accommodations: The accommodation options available include Mikoko Cave Ecolodge, The Sands at Chale Island, and Diani Sea Lodge.
Frequently asked questions regarding Islands in Africa – FAQs
Q 1. What is the largest island in Africa?
Madagascar is the largest island in Africa and the fourth largest in the world.
Q 2. What is the difference between an Island and an archipelago?
An island is a small piece of land that is encircled by water on all sides where archipelago is a group of islands.
Q 3. How many Islands are there in Africa?
There are 6 islands. They are Comoros, Cape Verde, Sao Tome and Principe, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar.
Q 4. How many islands are there nearby Africa?
Together with other smaller isles, South Africa contains 12 significant islands. Due to the threatened flora and fauna, most of these are protected by the government.
Q5. Which is the nearest island to Cape Town?
Prince Edward Island is the nearest island you can find from Cape town.
Q6. Which is the smallest island in Africa?
The smallest island nations in Africa include 1. Seychelles 2. Sao Tome & Principe 3. Mauritius 4. Comoros 5. Cape Verde
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