Think you’ve seen it all when it comes to island getaways? Think again. While destinations like Bali and the Maldives dominate Instagram feeds, Africa’s islands are quietly rewriting the rules of tropical travel. From the Indian Ocean to the Gulf of Guinea and even the heart of Lake Victoria, Africa is home to some of the most diverse, exotic, and soul-stirring islands on the planet.
This isn’t just about beaches—though there are plenty of those. It’s about culture, biodiversity, spice-laden history, and adventures you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you’re looking for luxury resorts, off-the-grid retreats, volcanic landscapes, or coral-ringed escapes, Africa’s islands deliver a heady mix of authenticity and paradise.
Let’s explore the hottest island destinations that belong on every traveler’s radar.
Zanzibar, Tanzania – The Spice-Scented Jewel of the Swahili Coast
Zanzibar is not just a beach holiday—it’s a fully immersive journey into Swahili culture, centuries of maritime trade, and oceanic beauty. This semi-autonomous archipelago off Tanzania’s coast has long captured the imagination of traders, explorers, and now, modern travelers.
Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of coral-stone alleyways, intricately carved doors, and the lingering aroma of clove and cardamom. On the northern coast, Nungwi and Kendwa offer some of East Africa’s best beaches—powdery white sands, calm turquoise waters, and fiery sunsets. To the southeast, Jambiani and Paje serve up laid-back vibes and some of the best kitesurfing in Africa.
Offshore, Mnemba Atoll is a diver’s dream, while spice farms in the interior offer a sensorial education in Zanzibar’s aromatic legacy. From dolphin tours in Kizimkazi to rooftop cocktails above Stone Town’s crumbling skyline, Zanzibar blends history and hedonism like nowhere else.
Best for: Culture lovers, honeymooners, digital nomads, water sports enthusiasts
Mauritius – The Tropical Playground for All Seasons
Mauritius is what happens when you mix French elegance, Indian flavors, African warmth, and Chinese enterprise—all on one island ringed by coral reefs and turquoise lagoons. Located in the southwest Indian Ocean, this volcanic island boasts dramatic mountains, sugarcane fields, and some of the most luxurious resorts in Africa.
Grand Baie is the island’s social hub, known for its nightlife, shopping, and sailing. For nature lovers, the Black River Gorges National Park offers lush trails through rainforest valleys and waterfalls. History buffs can explore the Aapravasi Ghat, a UNESCO site that tells the story of indentured laborers who shaped Mauritian identity.
The east coast’s Île aux Cerfs is postcard-perfect, ideal for water sports and beach picnics. And Le Morne Brabant, a dramatic basaltic peak and cultural landmark, tells a powerful story of resistance among escaped slaves.
The food scene is equally rich—Creole curries, dholl puri flatbreads, and fresh seafood served with a splash of spiced rum. With English, French, and Creole widely spoken, and excellent infrastructure, Mauritius is both easy to navigate and endlessly rewarding.
Best for: Luxury travelers, foodies, nature lovers, families
Bonus tip: Don’t overlook Réunion. This nearby French overseas department is technically part of the EU but geographically all African island. With an active volcano, rainforest trails, and a unique blend of French and Creole culture, it’s a wild and dramatic complement to Mauritius’ polished charm.
Seychelles – Barefoot Luxury and Biodiversity
Seychelles is the stuff of travel dreams. An archipelago of 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, it’s famous for granite boulders rising from powder-soft beaches and waters that shimmer in every shade of blue. But Seychelles is also a biodiversity treasure trove and one of the most conservation-focused countries on earth.
Mahé, the largest island, is home to the capital Victoria, several stunning beaches like Beau Vallon, and mountainous rainforests perfect for hiking. Praslin offers access to Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed palm forest where the rare coco de mer nut grows. La Digue, often explored by bicycle, is impossibly charming, with ox carts and iconic beaches like Anse Source d’Argent.
Marine life flourishes in protected areas like Sainte Anne Marine Park, where snorkelers can drift through clouds of reef fish. Thanks to strict environmental protections, over 50% of Seychelles is under conservation.
Seychelles isn’t cheap—but it’s not exclusively five-star either. Charming guesthouses and self-catering chalets make it accessible to budget-conscious travelers who value nature and tranquility over glitz.
Best for: Honeymooners, eco-tourists, photographers, wellness travelers
São Tomé and Príncipe – Africa’s Hidden Eden
Remote, rain-soaked, and impossibly green, São Tomé and Príncipe feels like the lost Eden every eco-traveler dreams about. Located in the Gulf of Guinea off the coast of Gabon, this two-island nation is the second-smallest country in Africa—but it packs an unforgettable punch, especially for those seeking a mix of untouched nature, rich heritage, and secluded beach escapes.
São Tomé, the larger of the two, is home to Obo National Park, where misty mountains hide rare orchids, ancient trees, and vibrant birds found nowhere else on earth. Colonial-era roças (plantation estates) like Roça Sundy and Roça Agua Izé offer glimpses into the island’s cocoa and coffee legacy, with some now reborn as heritage hotels or chocolate cooperatives where visitors can taste farm-to-bar goodness.
The beaches here are secluded and often completely empty—Praia Banana and Praia Jalé are as pristine as they come, framed by volcanic cliffs and swaying palms. On Príncipe, the vibe is even more untouched. Fewer people, more jungle, and a slower pace that invites deep connection with nature, from hiking cloud forests to watching sea turtles nest under the stars.
Best for: Eco-tourists, chocolate lovers, off-grid adventurers, birdwatchers, secluded beach seekers
Comoros – The Perfumed Islands Nobody Talks About
Located between Mozambique and Madagascar, Comoros is a volcanic archipelago with a mystique that belies its relative obscurity. Known as “The Perfume Islands” for their ylang-ylang, vanilla, and clove plantations, these islands are home to dreamy coastlines, coral reefs, and a cultural tapestry of African, Arab, and French influences.
Grande Comore is crowned by Mount Karthala, one of the world’s largest active volcanoes. The trek to its crater is a surreal, lunar-like journey through clouds and lava fields. Meanwhile, Moheli Marine Park is arguably the Indian Ocean’s most underrated snorkeling and diving destination—sea turtles, humpback whales, and intact coral ecosystems abound.
In Moroni, the island capital, Swahili-style alleyways twist through markets perfumed with spices and incense. Women in shimmery salouvas balance baskets on their heads, while the call to prayer echoes from coral stone mosques.
Best for: Adventurers, scuba divers, solitude seekers, Francophone travelers
Bonus tip: Just next door is Mayotte, a French overseas department that officially broke away from Comoros after independence. Though politically European, it’s still geographically African—and stunning. Mayotte offers a more developed experience with better roads, healthcare, and accommodations. Its lagoon is one of the largest in the world, ideal for kayaking, snorkeling, and dolphin-watching. If you want Comorian culture with a French twist and smoother travel logistics, Mayotte is your sweet spot.
Madagascar – The Island of the Unexpected
Madagascar isn’t just an island—it’s a microcontinent. Over 90% of its wildlife exists nowhere else on Earth. Lemurs leap through ancient forests, baobabs stand like sentinels on otherworldly plains, and chameleons in colors you didn’t know existed lurk in leaf litter just waiting to surprise you.
Nosy Be, just off the northwest coast, is Madagascar’s top beach destination. Think palm-fringed sands, laid-back beach bars, and world-class diving among whale sharks and manta rays. For something more romantic, head to Île Sainte-Marie, an island once ruled by pirates, now famous for humpback whale migrations and coral-ringed shores.
Inland, the landscape shifts dramatically. Visit the Avenue of the Baobabs for sunset shots that belong in a National Geographic spread. Or head to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park to hear the eerie, whale-like song of the indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur.
It’s true—traveling around Madagascar can be a bit of a logistical challenge. Roads are rough, and distances are long. But for travelers with time, patience, and a love for the weird and wonderful, Madagascar is pure magic.
Best for: Wildlife lovers, nature photographers, curious explorers, naturalists
Djerba, Tunisia – The Mediterranean’s African Soul
Situated off Tunisia’s southeastern coast in the Gulf of Gabès, Djerba is a Mediterranean island unlike any other. It blends North African traditions with Berber, Arab, and Jewish cultural influences—wrapped in a warm, beachy ambiance that has charmed travelers for centuries.
Houmt Souk, the island’s main town, is a lively maze of markets, whitewashed domes, and crumbling fortresses. Visit the El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest in the world, or shop for ceramics in Guellala village, where potters have practiced their craft for generations. Djerba’s beaches are long and golden, perfect for camel rides at sunset or days spent lounging with mint tea in hand.
Despite its popularity among domestic tourists, Djerba still feels refreshingly authentic. Traditional menzel homes, olive groves, and fishing boats dominate the scenery, while islanders continue life at an unhurried pace. And thanks to Tunisia’s affordability, Djerba offers great value for money—whether you’re after a spa hotel or a simple guesthouse near the beach.
Best for: History buffs, Mediterranean beach lovers, culture seekers, sun-chasing Europeans
Lamu, Kenya – Swahili Serenity by the Sea
Lamu isn’t just an island—it’s a state of mind. Located off the northern coast of Kenya, this UNESCO-listed archipelago is one of East Africa’s oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlements. With no cars, a soundtrack of donkeys braying, and centuries-old coral stone buildings draped in bougainvillea, Lamu is both a step back in time and a sensual feast.
Lamu Old Town is a living museum of Swahili architecture and culture. Wander through narrow alleys past carved wooden doors, bustling mosques, and waterfront teahouses. A dhow ride around the archipelago reveals empty beaches, mangrove forests, and nearby Takwa Ruins on Manda Island.
Shela Beach, just a 20-minute walk from Lamu Town, is serene and windswept—popular with writers, creatives, and barefoot luxury travelers seeking peace and sea air. During the annual Lamu Cultural Festival or the Maulidi Festival, the island comes alive with music, dhow races, poetry, and food.
Lamu isn’t for tourists in a hurry. It’s for travelers who want to disconnect, listen to the sea, and feel history in the air.
Best for: Cultural travelers, romantic getaways, creative retreats, slow travel aficionados
Bioko Island, Equatorial Guinea – Volcanic Drama and Colonial Charm
Just off the coast of Cameroon lies Bioko Island, a rugged volcanic gem belonging to Equatorial Guinea. It’s one of the least-visited islands on this list, and that’s part of its charm. Bioko offers an unusual mix of steamy rainforest hikes, black sand beaches, and fading Spanish colonial architecture in the capital, Malabo.
Towering over the island is Pico Basilé, the highest mountain in Equatorial Guinea. Hiking its cloud-draped slopes reveals hidden villages, wild orchids, and breathtaking views across the Bight of Bonny. The southern part of the island is even more remote, where conservation projects protect nesting sea turtles and rare primates.
Malabo itself is a study in contrasts. Cathedral spires rise above rusting balconies, with tapas bars and palm trees lining the streets. It’s quirky, atmospheric, and very un-touristy—perfect for travelers who enjoy destinations that haven’t been polished for Instagram.
Best for: Volcano lovers, offbeat travelers, Spanish-speaking Africa enthusiasts, nature seekers
Lake Victoria Islands – Freshwater Escapes with African Flavor
Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, is dotted with islands that offer a different kind of island escape—lush, green, and steeped in local life. While they lack the ocean breeze, they more than make up for it in authenticity, affordability, and natural beauty.
On the Ugandan side, the Ssese Islands are a backpacker favorite. These 84 islands range from party-friendly Buggala Island to sleepy, forested hideaways perfect for hammock days and birdwatching. Fishing, canoeing, cycling, and community tours are among the low-key pleasures here.
Kenya’s Rusinga and Mfangano Islands are cultural and historical gems. Visit ancient rock art sites, explore the traditions of the Luo and Suba people, or stay in rustic lodges that offer lake-to-plate dining and guided treks through tropical hills.
Though often overlooked, these islands are ideal for travelers who want a slice of African island life without the tourist gloss.
Best for: Budget travelers, community-based tourism fans, lake lovers, cyclists
Honorable Mentions – Hidden Treasures and Offbeat Gems
Pemba, Tanzania – The Quiet Sister of Zanzibar
Just north of the main Zanzibar island of Unguja lies Pemba, an island that feels a world apart. Lush, hilly, and heavily forested, Pemba is where nature still writes the rules. While Zanzibar has grown into a bustling tourist favorite with vibrant resorts and global foot traffic, Pemba has quietly preserved its soul—untamed, authentic, and rooted in tradition.
The island is ringed with mangroves, coral reefs, and hidden coves. Its marine life is exceptional, making it one of East Africa’s top diving spots, with flourishing coral gardens and frequent sightings of reef sharks, turtles, and schools of colorful fish. On land, clove plantations perfume the air, red earth paths wind through dense greenery, and remote beaches stretch untouched—often with no one else in sight but the occasional fisherman pulling in a net by hand.
The town of Chake Chake is sleepy but charming, a low-key hub where you can stroll the market, chat with locals, and get a feel for island life without a single tout in sight. Pemba is perfect for travelers who want to experience the Swahili coast as it once was—wild, slow, and full of soul. Think candlelit eco-lodges, friendly villagers, and starry skies unspoiled by light pollution, all just a short flight from Zanzibar.
Best for: Diving enthusiasts, nature lovers, serenity seekers, off-the-beaten-path beach travelers
Sal & Boa Vista, Cape Verde – Windswept Atlantic Escapes
West of mainland Africa lies Cape Verde, an island chain with a vibe all its own—somewhere between Portuguese, West African, and tropical desert. This unique blend of influences is reflected in its music, food, and laid-back lifestyle. Among its ten islands, Sal and Boa Vista stand out as sun-drenched beach destinations perfect for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and wind-chasers.
Sal offers smooth infrastructure and easy resort living in Santa Maria, where wide golden beaches and shimmering salt flats create a dramatic desert-meets-ocean aesthetic. Kite surfers and windsurfers flock here from around the world for the consistent winds and welcoming atmosphere, while beachgoers bask under a near-perpetual sun.
Boa Vista is more remote and peaceful, with sweeping sand dunes, quiet villages, turtle nesting beaches, and excellent whale-watching opportunities between March and May. Both islands offer excellent conditions year-round thanks to the dry, stable climate and steady Atlantic winds, making them ideal for a winter escape or an alternative beach vacation.
Best for: Windsurfers, winter sun seekers, Portuguese-speaking travelers, off-the-beaten-path beachgoers
Ilha de Moçambique, Mozambique – Colonial Ghosts and Ocean Dreams
A former capital of Portuguese East Africa, Ilha de Moçambique is a tiny coral island steeped in history. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where centuries-old churches, mosques, and colonial forts stand shoulder-to-shoulder along narrow, sandy streets.
Despite its architectural grandeur, the island remains underdeveloped—power cuts are common, and luxury is minimal. But the charm? It’s overwhelming. Children play football beside 500-year-old ruins, dhows drift past faded mansions, and locals greet you with warmth and curiosity.
Beyond its historical core, the nearby mainland coast and uninhabited islands offer fantastic beaches, diving, and sailing. Ilha is a deeply atmospheric place for travelers who value character over convenience.
Best for: History buffs, heritage travelers, lovers of raw beauty
St. Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha – The Remote British Outposts of the South Atlantic
Far from the tourist trails and major shipping lanes lie three of the world’s most isolated inhabited islands. Though technically part of the British Overseas Territory of Saint Helena, Ascension, and Tristan da Cunha, each of these South Atlantic outposts has its own rhythm, landscape, and character.
St. Helena is best known as the place of Napoleon’s final exile, but it’s also a dramatic volcanic island where steep green cliffs drop into the Atlantic and hiking trails zigzag through fern forests and arid lunar valleys. Jamestown, the capital, is a quaint little town wedged between rocky hills, its Georgian architecture a time capsule of colonial history. Thanks to the opening of a commercial airport in 2017, St. Helena is no longer accessible only by ship—though it still feels wonderfully far away.
Ascension Island, located halfway between Africa and South America, is a former military outpost turned nature reserve and communications hub. It’s dotted with volcanic craters and is home to one of the world’s largest green turtle nesting sites. The island’s artificial cloud forest, Green Mountain, was planted by the British in the 19th century in one of the earliest human reforestation experiments.
Tristan da Cunha is the most remote inhabited island on Earth. Only accessible by boat after a weeklong voyage from South Africa, this rugged, self-sufficient island is home to under 300 residents. The single village, Edinburgh of the Seven Seas, sits in the shadow of a volcano. There are no hotels—visits must be arranged through the island council—and the isolation is absolute. But for those who make it, the reward is a truly singular human experience.
Best for: Extreme travelers, history enthusiasts, lovers of true remoteness, off-the-grid dreamers
Essential Travel Tips for African Island Adventures
Best time to visit:
- East African islands (Zanzibar, Lamu, Comoros, Pemba): June to October and December to February
- Indian Ocean islands (Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar): May to December
- Gulf of Guinea islands (São Tomé, Bioko): June to September
- Lake Victoria islands: Dry seasons—December to February and June to August
- North African and Atlantic islands (Djerba, Cape Verde): Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
Visas and entry:
Visa requirements vary widely. East African Community visas can simplify travel between Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Some islands like Mayotte and Réunion require Schengen visas as they are French territories. Always check entry requirements before travel.
Languages:
Expect French in Réunion, Mayotte, Comoros, and Madagascar; Portuguese in São Tomé, Mozambique, and Cape Verde; Arabic and French in Djerba; Swahili and English in East Africa; and English in Seychelles and Mauritius. Learning a few local words goes a long way.
Money matters:
Some islands like Seychelles and Mauritius accept major credit cards widely. Others, especially the less-touristed destinations like Bioko or the Lake Victoria islands, are cash-only economies. Local currencies vary—carry some hard currency (USD or EUR) as backup.
Connectivity and infrastructure:
Expect strong connectivity and polished infrastructure in Mauritius, Seychelles, and Réunion. Zanzibar, Lamu, and Nosy Be offer decent facilities for tourists. In contrast, São Tomé, Comoros, and Bioko are rustic and less developed—pack patience and a power bank.
Responsible travel:
Respect local customs—many islands have conservative communities. Avoid over-tourism by supporting local businesses and eco-lodges. Say no to dolphin chasing and coral collecting. These islands are beautiful—and fragile.
Africa’s Islands, Your Next Great Escape
The myth that island paradise exists only in the Pacific or Caribbean is long overdue for revision. Africa’s islands are dazzling, diverse, and still underappreciated. From the iconic beaches of Zanzibar to the volcanic peaks of Bioko, from the spiritual calm of Lamu to the romantic mystery of São Tomé, these destinations offer far more than just sun and sand.
They offer stories. They offer silence. They offer the kind of travel that lingers long after you’ve shaken the sand from your shoes.
So whether you’re chasing coral reefs or creole flavors, rainforests or ruins, consider this your invitation to explore Africa’s most alluring islands. They’re hot, they’re soulful, and they’re waiting.
Karibu. Bienvenue. Bem-vindo. Welcome.
