African Tropical Destinations
Besides the South Pacific, one of the best places in the world to visit undeveloped, picture perfect tropical islands is in Africa. Most are undeveloped and aren’t very touristy, they are often very rugged, the water is crystal clear, the sea life abundant, and their beaches a piercing white. If there were any places that looked like post cards, these places would be it.
Zanzibar is an island that is part of Tanzania. Once its own state, Zanzibar has a rich history of spice trading with Arab cultures. The capital of Zanzibar is Zanzibar City. The old section of Stone Town is a World Heritage Site. The beaches on the island are undeveloped, and the area around the island has an amazing amount of fish, as evident by the piles at the fish markets. It is still sometimes called the Spice Island due to its production of cloves.
Madagascar is an island nation in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa. The island is the fourth-largest island in the world and is home to 5% of the world’s plant and animal species, of which more than 80% are endemic to Madagascar. The eastern side of the island is home to tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts and xeric shrublands. For those looking for rugged jungle trekking, cool streams, and lovely waterfalls, then Madagascar is a place for you.
Lastly, there are the islands of the Seychelles. Located off the east coast of Africa, these islands are pure paradise. If anywhere in the world would get someone give it all up and live in beach hut, the Seychelles would be it. The Seychelles have perfect beaches, perfect water, tons of islands to choose from, and all the seclusion you want. This group of 115 islands offers everything a beach lover could ask for. However, the downside to this paradise is that it is expensive to get to and caters to a rich clientele, making them also expensive to stay in.
An island of true contrasts, Reunion is relatively unknown to many of the world’s travelers. This unique island in the middle of the Indian Ocean is simply one of the most intriguing spots on earth. With an active volcano on its south coast, 17 miles of warm, welcoming beaches in the west, and lots of mountains and forests in between, Reunion offers a little bit of everything to its travelers. Like Mauritius, it is also part of France.
Africa may be known to most people for its safaris, jungles, and animals but it also offers great tropical destinations for travelers who like beaches. With so many beautiful tropical places, think about vacation to these islands when you are plan a jaunt to a tropical island.