When you think about a holiday to the African continent, inevitably the first images that come to mind are romantic safari lodges, early-morning game drives and sightings of giraffes, zebras and lions. Some might imagine vast plains, empty deserts, gushing waterfalls and tropical rainforests but, for some reason, rarely beaches.
A truly off-the-beaten-track destination, the island nation of São Tomé and Príncipe is the epitome of undiscovered wilderness. With its striking volcanic peaks, coral reefs, biodiverse jungle preserve, picture-perfect beaches and unique island culture, there is so much on offer to the intrepid traveller.
Famous the world over, but not often associated with the African continent, The Seychelles provides a classic Robinson Crusoe experience. Much more than simply golden sand and turquoise sea, the country is made up of inner (granitic) and outer (corals) islands. The former are home to iconic granite boulders and all offer spectacular biodiversity; some islands even have their own unique species.
Located in Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago is made up of five idyllic islands. A national park since 1971, and now managed by African Parks, the region’s pristine azure waters are brimming with wildlife including whale sharks, manta rays, leatherback turtles, humpback whales and the very rare dugong. An ever-increasing range of accommodation options is slowly putting this destination on the map.
Part of Tanzania‘s Zanzibar Archipelago, Pemba Island is the much less explored sister island of Unguja (often referred to as simply Zanzibar). Its remoteness only adds to the charm of this untouched Indian Ocean paradise.
The place for perfect white-sand beaches, crystal-clear seas and protected coral reefs, remote Miavana Private Island also makes a fantastic hub from which to explore Madagascar. Expect unique wildlife (lemurs and chameleons) and scenic vanilla plantations.
Cape Town’s Clifton has be one of the most photographed coastlines in Africa. Part of the Atlantic Sea Board, referred to as the South African riviera, Clifton beach is made up of four joint, and incredibly pretty, beaches. There are few places better to visit between December and March.
If you’re looking for more information on a beach holiday – or some time at a beach destination as part of a wider itinerary – get in touch with our team. Email us at [email protected] or give us a call on
+41 (79) 731 00 06.