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It’s hard to top a safari, but we recommend spending a few days relaxing in a serene locale after the staggering drama of days filled with game drives and meals in the bush. Africa has some of the most stunning beaches in the world, making the transition from wide-open plains to white-sand beaches quite easy. From the celebrity-adored hideaways in the Seychelles to the smaller but equally luxurious private island resorts that dot the Indian Ocean, the options for end-of-trip pampering are plentiful. But, selecting the best place to unwind is dependent both on where you are going on safari and the level of service you prefer. Here, we break down the key differences between seven of our favorite beach destinations in the region.
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The second largest island in Mozambique is a secluded haven on the Indian Ocean. Opened in 2020 and great for both couples and families, Kisawa Sanctuary is the latest option on the island with a focus on sustainability. Embodying a more romantic atmosphere is andBeyond Benguerra Island, which delivers a castaway vibe with its 13 beachside bungalows. Down the beach from andBeyond, Azura Benguerra Island is the best option for families and travelers on a budget seeking rooms with easy beach access.
Note: Mnemba is closed for renovations through September 2024
One of the most stunning private islands in the world, Mnemba has long been the destination of choice for sophisticated travelers looking to relax in unpretentious luxury. Here, rooms are stocked with a beach bag, straw hats and kikois and African sarongs (which make up the island's unofficial uniform).
A 115 island archipelago north of Madagascar, the Seychelles combine sandy beaches and coral reefs with dramatic mountainous landscapes—plus traditional Creole cuisine. The main island of Mahé is home to Anantara MAIA, with large private villas ideal for couples, as well as the Four Seasons Seychelles to satisfy families and loyal fans of the brand. Accessible by heli from Mahé is North Island, a private island channeling quintessential barefoot luxury, and a bit further away the wellness-focused Six Senses Zil Payson ideal for families and couples alike.
The private Thanda Island, a five-bedroom villa on its own 20-acre isle in the Indian Ocean, offers the most luxurious way for a large family or group of friends to begin or end an East African trip.
The island of Madagascar is one of the rarest, most diverse and critically endangered habitats in the world and home to the beautiful, 14-villa Miavana private island resort. Here, species that are nearly extinct coexist, forming a unique ecosystem that is truly exotic.
An easy hop from Kenya's famed safari regions, the Kenyan coast is a convenient, relaxing add-on at the end of a safari. For ultimate luxury and an almost James Bonde-esque setting, takeover-only Sirai Beach House is the top pick, while those seeking an idyllic setting, delicious Italian food and an ultra-private experience might prefer Alfajiri Villas.
The setting for many an "over-water bungalow dream," the Maldives has long lured travelers with its castaway charm, sandy beaches and excellent diving and surfing. For the sophisticated traveler (be it couples or families with teens), the private island resort Cheval Blanc Randheli is the top pick, while travelers seeking a buzzier scene with an emphasis on pampering and entertainment may be happiest at One&Only Reethi Rah. Of the two COMO properties (for fans of COMO Parrot Cay in the Caribbean), COMO Cocoa Island has a beach shack chic vibe that appeals to couples while the many villa options at COMO Maalifushi invites both couples and families. Plus, Four Seasons loyalists have the option of Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru with its abundance of active pursuits and location in a UNESCO Marine Biosphere. These are just a few of the Maldives many idyllic properties.
This content was reviewed and verified by Indagare Senior Director of African Safari, Rose Taylor.
Published onFebruary 20, 2024
We only feature hotels that we can vouch for first-hand. At many of them, Indagare members receive special amenities.
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