When we think about African islandsWe usually imagine lost spots on a map, small areas surrounded by thousands of kilometers of water. But look out to the Indian and Atlantic Oceans to discover five unrelated island nations, offering experiences ranging from lemurs to volcanoes, from impossible beaches to forests that seem frozen in time. Here’s a basic guide to know what to do Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles, Sao Tome and Principe and Cape Verdefive entire worlds floating in the middle of the ocean.
1. Madagascar: harsh nature on a giant island
Talk about Madagascar Talking about biodiversity. 90% of its species are endemic, making the country a planet of its own. The island gives way to a mix of humid forests, baobab forests, red plateaus and tranquil beaches.
In the east, Andasibe-Mantadia Parks offers walks among the indri lemurs, the largest of them all. In the west, the famous Baobab Street – perhaps the most photographed place in the country – is a must-see, especially at sunset. In the south, Isalo’s dry landscape lends itself to paths between canyons, natural pools and rock formations that appear to have been designed by a patient sculptor.
Travel with it Madagascar It means accepting the slow ways, but also accepting that time works differently here. Maybe that’s part of the magic.
2. Mauritius: tranquil beaches and Creole culture
Although many people think of it as just a beach destination, Mauritius It is an amazing mix of Indian, African, French and Chinese influences. Something remarkable both in its gastronomy and in the atmosphere of its markets.
The north coast is ideal for those looking for calm waters and long days of rest, but the most interesting part of the trip is inland: Black River Gorges National Park, with stunning views, routes through tropical forests and hidden waterfalls.
For those who enjoy contrasts, Port Louis offers a different side: bustling markets, temples, mosques and a mestizo air not found elsewhere. African islands.
And yes, the beaches are as beautiful as they say, but… Mauritius It has a lot more depth than the brochures show.
3. Seychelles: An archipelago perfect for a breakaway
If there’s one place that seems designed to amaze even the most skeptical traveller, it’s this one. Seychelles. The archipelago combines idyllic beaches – white sand, granite boulders, clear waters – and natural parks where nature rules without negotiation.
In Mahe, Morne Seychelles National Park allows you to walk among dense vegetation and views that descend to the ocean. On Praslin, Mai Valley preserves prehistoric palm trees and the famous coconut trees. And La Digue is the postcard that everyone thinks of when they hear about it Seychelles.
Here you do not need to run: you rent a bike, move without haste, and understand the rhythm of these things African islandsHe is another.
4. Sao Tome and Principe: jungle, cocoa and slow life
One of the most unknown islands in Africa Sao Tome and Principe Perhaps the most surprising. Its beauty is not in the crowded beaches, but in the feeling that you are in a place frozen in time. Dense forests, quiet roads, cocoa plantations and wild beaches appear after impossible curves.
In Sao Tome, the climb up Pico Cao Grande – a volcanic mass that looks like a tusk pointing to the sky – is one of the country’s most iconic images. In Principe, hidden coves and roads through the forest allow you to discover almost intact biodiversity.
Travelers who choose Sao Tome and Principe They seek true detachment and direct contact with nature. And they found it.
5. Cape Verde: volcanoes, music and Atlantic landscape
Unlike the Indian Ocean archipelago, Cape Verde It has a dry, volcanic and deep Atlantic character. Its big attraction is the diversity between the islands: each island has its own personality.
Santo Antão is a hikers’ paradise, with green valleys that cascade down towards the sea. As for Fogo, it is pure fire: an active volcano whose crater can be climbed with local guides. In Sal and Boa Vista, the beach and wind rule, with dunes and seas that are a surfer’s and kitesurfer’s dream.
What’s more, Cape Verdean music – from funana to morna – accompanies any trip through the country Cape VerdeTransforming the archipelago into a vibrant and emotional place.