Africa is famed for its countless natural wonders filled with an abundance of wildlife. However, not many people are aware that our continent also offers the best island holidays. Some of the most isolated, Robinson Crusoe-esque escapes on earth can be found in the Indian Ocean off the African continent and are conveniently accessible from all the major safari destinations. From the lemur-filled island of Madagascar to the white sandy beaches of the Maldives and Mauritius, volcanic Réunion to the archipelagos of Zanzibar and Seychelles, the island life is a sun-filled paradise and, without a doubt, the perfect pairing to any safari holiday. Need more convincing? Here are four reasons an island and safari holiday is a must.
An island and safari holiday is the best kind of getaway
1. You're Getting The Best of Both Worlds
One minute, you’re trundling through some of the continent’s most untouched wildlife conservation areas on an open-sided 4X4 vehicle admiring Africa’s Big 5, and the next, you’ve got your sand in the toes on a remote island in the Maldives sipping on a cocktail. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Trust us, it is!
End your safari on a relaxing note, Image Credit: Ishan Seefromthesk
2. Island Time is The Best Way to Unwind
An island holiday is especially relaxing after all the excitement of the bush! Going on safari will be one of the most thrilling experiences of your life, but make no mistake – it can be tiring.
You’re up before the sun, and in bed long after it has set, and while it’s true that you’ll spend a lot of your day consuming tasty treats and exploring landscapes on game drives, your sleeping patterns are bound to be a bit out of whack by the time your safari has come to an end. All the more reason to jet off to an island afterwards!
Day or night, game drives will delight, Image Credit: Time + Tide
3. An Island Holiday is All About Romance
Watching the setting sun on a sandy white beach with your special someone next to you is the epitome of romance. And what better way to do that than in your bathing suit, on a deserted island, under gently swaying palm trees with a piña colada in hand?
Keep those cocktails coming
4. Logistics Are a Breeze
With flight routes from private airstrips direct to nearby islands, such as those between the Serengeti and the Zanzibar Archipelago, hopping from bush to beach has never been easier.
This is why you'll find several of our Rhino Africa tour ideas include just that! Just remember that each and every tour we plan is tailor-made and personalised to you and your fellow travellers. We don't copy and paste, so these are simply samples to get your ideas going.
Now that you know why we love to include an island retreat at the end of a safari holiday, here are some of our most popular bush and beach holidays.
Seamless luxury safaris is what we specialise in at Rhino Africa
Our Favourite Bush and Beach Breaks
Now that you're convinced you need to book your island and safari holiday, here are some popular combinations for some ideas.
Wandering Wildebeest to African Archipelagos
On this East African tour, you'll encounter every spectacular side of Tanzania, from coffee plantations and the Big 5 in the Serengeti to flamingoes and tropical fish surrounding Zanzibar Island.
Millions of wildebeest, followed by gazelle and zebra make their way through the Serengeti, Image Credit: Serengeti Bushtops Camp
Luxurious Safari and Beach Honeymoon Tour
On this romantic tour, explore the vibrant Mother City before a memorable safari adventure in the wildlife-rich Sabi Sand. From here, escape to Mauritius's ivory beaches and azure waters.
Honeymoon dreams come true in Mauritius, Image Credit: LUX* Resort and Hotels
Alongside Lemurs and White Sandy Beaches
More a lemur safari than a Big 5 safari, animal viewing still abounds on this Malagasy tour. Explore vibrant Antananarivo and lush, lemur-filled rainforests before ending off this Madagascan extravaganza on the pristine and luxurious beaches of Nosy Be island.
Swim in crystal clear waters in Madagascar
Romantic Bush and Beach Honeymoon Tour
A romantic African escape awaits you on this honeymoon adventure. Travel from the spectacular sunsets in Cape Town to the sensational Sabi Sand before ending the trip on the blissful beaches of Mozambique.
Mozambique is such a romantic setting, Image Credit: Azura Benguerra Island
The Ultimate East African Bush and Beach Break
Paradise awaits in two idyllic and contrasting destinations. Safari in style in Kenya, followed by a tropical island holiday in Zanzibar Archipelago made to soothe the soul.
Under canvas opulence in East Africa, Image Credit: Nomad Tanzania
A Superb Bush and Beach Break
Explore the Sabi Sand Game Reserve and enjoy all the South African wild has to offer before heading to the idyllic beaches of Mauritius on this delightful tour.
Mauritius is equal parts adventure and relaxation
Let's Make Your Island and Safari Holiday Dreams a Reality
Are you on the edge of your seat and waiting to hit that island beat?
Contact one of our Travel Experts to start planning your tailor-made bush and beach break. We'll recommend the best combinations for your unique needs and wants. Let's start planning!
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