Africa Beaches & The Indian Ocean

How much does it cost to stay on African beaches and islands?

It is very difficult even to give a rough estimate here as there are so many different options off the coast of Africa. Generally though, accommodation options can range from as little as $140 per person per night, all the way up to $2,000 per person per night. Total costs also depend on where you choose to go… Generally, from mainland Africa and the international airports which come with it, an East Africa beach holiday is the closest and therefore most cost effective option. This is because the islands off Tanzania are extremely accessible and Zanzibar, for instance, is only a $93 flight from Dar es Salaam. However, there may be no need to even enter mainland Africa if you are not considering a short safari add on…There really are too many factors to consider, so for more information please give us a ring to discuss your options.

When to go to the beach in Africa?

As previously mentioned, a trip to the beaches of Africa is fantastic in British summer time – June to October. There are other times to go too, so the best thing to do is to give us a call and pick our brains about when is the best time to go where!

Top 5 Africa beach holiday tips

1.     Go whale shark diving off the islands of Tanzania… swimming with the biggest fish in the sea seems an irresistible option for those seeking an underwater marine safari!  
2.     Go all out and choose a private island experience. In our opinion there is nothing more luxurious than having a bit of private beach all to yourself… Not to mention the amazing service, facilities and accommodation that Indian Ocean private islands are so fantastic for.
3.     Go deep-sea fishing! The Indian Ocean is teeming with colourful marine life, and even if you are not a super keen fisherman this is a great activity to give variety to your beach holiday.
4.     Choose more intimate lodges, rather than big and soulless hotels. By doing this you will have a much more special and memorable experience – you will also get a more personalised service, which we think can only ever be a good thing…
5.     Consider combining the beach with safari – especially from East Africa this is so easy, and it would be a shame not to explore the African wilderness when you have travelled all the way there!
 

What activities are on offer on an African beach holiday?

Activities on offer vary from place to place, but generally from most beaches you can enjoy snorkelling, diving, water sports, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and boat cruises as well as indulging in a bit of relaxation and spa time… For really keen specialised activity lovers such as whale shark divers and deep sea fishers we recommend getting in touch to chat about the best options for you! 

What types of accommodation can I expect from an African beach holiday?

Beach accommodation style may be small and simple, chic and exclusive or all-inclusive five star luxury, depending on your preference.

Mnemba Island is probably one of the most luxurious Africa beach holiday options. As a private island off the coast of Tanzania you can enjoy unbridled exclusivity and complete Indian Ocean tranquillity with a stay at Mnemba Island lodge. Our absolute favourite, if you don’t mind forking out quite a bit of cash…

Ras Kutani is located on the Tanzanian Indian Ocean Mainland coast. It is our favourite option for a stay on these beaches as the service is truly excellent, and it maintains a safari-esque type of personalised service which many beach lodges and hotels lack. Its owner ran feel, combined with the beautiful surroundings, amazing value for money accommodation and fantastic privacy makes it our favourite East African beach lodge.

Xanadu is located also off East Africa, on the vibrant and colourful island of Zanzibar. The beauty of Xanadu, apart from its quirky décor and leafy surroundings, lays within the food. It is truly exceptional, and so if should be if their resident chef used to be Michelin star level.

Azura Benguerra is what so many lodges should be. It has been heralded by Mozambican authorities as a model lodge for
sustainable tourism. The ethical value of this lodge is not the only reason to stay here though, as the pristine environment makes for an excellent beach getaway, not to mention it has all the luxuries and mod cons you could need for an Indian Ocean beach getaway.

Tsarabanjina is complete Indian Ocean isolation. Off Madagascar, be enchanted by the beautiful shores and glistening seas of the island. It is hard to believe places like this exist, but Tsarabanjina really encapsulates the beach getaway ideal.

North Island is another remote spot, hundreds of miles away from anything else, this is an island of luxury and complete privacy. It is part of the Seychelles, and definitely our pick of the bunch – from here you will experience a beach holiday like no other.