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A couple of African islands have been on the radar for a while to avoid world travelers. Mauritius and the Seychelles are bucket-list honeymoon destinations, whereas the Canary Islands and Tunisia’s Djerba Island rank as two of the most popular holiday destinations in Africa. Get to discover some new locations, avoid the crowds, and explore some of the almost famous islands with awesome beaches, unique wildlife, and amazing outdoor adventures.
First is the Nosy Be in Madagascar, which means big island in the Malagasy language. This is ironic since it’s tiny when compared to neighboring Madagascar. However, the paradise island does boast when it comes to nature. On the island’s south side is an ancient rainforest with creatures that find refuge in it. From the Madagascar owl to various lemur species, including the endangered black lemur and tiny mouse lemurs,.
Also, the warm tropical offshore waters offer a marine park and twenty other dive sites, plus a chance to swim with the whale sharks that migrate through the area in October and November. Almost all the restaurants in Nosy Be lie along the white sand strands of the west coast, including the family-friendly Andilana Beach Resort and the rustically romantic Le Grand Bleu.
Another hidden paradise is the Bazaruto in Mozambique, which is known for its wild and beautiful beaches and upscale resorts. It’s the largest island in a five-island tropical archipelago of the same name along Mozambique’s Indian Ocean coast. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, from the crocodiles and wading birds that frequent freshwater lagoons in the coastal dunes to five types of sea turtles and rare marine species.
Bazaruto Island Resort is there to help you explore and experience the island in every way, as they can arrange scuba diving and snorkeling, sailing on traditional dhow boats, guided 4×4 safaris, and other outdoor adventures.
Also, there is another fascinating town where Swahili culture survives and thrives: Lamu in Kenya. The island is off Kenya’s north coast. Lamu town resonates with the sounds of craftsmen building new wooden boats. A small but interesting museum and an ancient fort are the town's main attractions, but visitors can go on boat rides and explore the coast. The accommodations there are nice, as you can stay at Lamu House,a hotel in town, or Kizingo Eco Lodge on your way to the coast.
Africa is full of natural wonders and hidden paradise islands, more like Pemba in Tanzania, Bissagos Islands in Guinea-Bissau, Elephantine in Egypt, and many others, which await exploration and offer experiences beyond expectations.
Ig @mannu mwendwa.
