East Africa is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Each island features its own unique beauty including the islands of Mauritius, Seychelles to Madagascar.
Let’s take a look at the lesser-known islands, which are as amazing as the popular ones – they will definitely blow your mind. Forget your honeymoon brochure or the travel agent’s pamphlet, and get to know some of the lesser-known, gorgeous and interesting islands in East Africa. They are heavenly and they are ours!
This is the best time to start planning that relaxing holiday – just close your eyes and see yourself swinging in a hammock on a gorgeous East African island.
Chale Island
Photo Source: Thesandsatchaleisland.com
Chale is an isolated but magical Island with a stretch of powdery sand beach and mangrove forest surrounded by the beautiful turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The island is located about 10 km from Diani in Mombasa. It is home to only one luxury beach resort, which offers modern comfort and pure relaxation. A perfect tropical paradise for a romantic getaway, personal escape or fun-filled family adventure! The luxury resort – The Sands at Chale Island boasts a restaurant and bar with a variety of culinary options for your preference. You can enjoy a wide range of activities such as boat trips, nature walks, snorkelling, and swimming in the pools or in the ocean. For a delightful evening, the resort offers an array of entertainment options such as Maasai dancers, coastal snake tamers, and acrobats.
Mnemba Island
Photo Source: www.andbeyond.com
Mnemba Island is a secluded island located just 3 km off the northeast coast of Zanzibar Island. The tropical island is somewhat triangular in shape, enclosed by an oval reef. It boasts a variety of private and luxurious beachside bandas, which overlook the scuba diving haven – Mnemba Atoll. The island features a wide range of water activities such as snorkelling, kayaking, swimming as well as soothing massages on the beach. There are restaurants and bar areas offering panoramic views of the beach and Zanzibar. You can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner with your partner while the waves lap gently on your feet. Newlyweds or romantic couples can also enjoy a private beach picnic during their holidays.
Manda Island
Photo Source: Mandabay.com
Manda Island is an unspoilt island of the Lamu Archipelago, located a short distance from Lamu town. The Island is home to several luxury boutique resorts, lodges, and homes. It’s separated from Lamu mainland by a narrow Mkanda channel and it’s accessible via a boat ride. The island features pristine beach, the old ruined town of Takwa, which is a favourite spot to start your dhow trips. Spend a relaxing holiday on Manda Island while you explore the island and indulge in a range of activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, water skiing, deep-sea fishing, snorkelling, fly-fishing, and kite surfing. It’s an ideal escape for honeymooners, couples, and families. You can stay at Manda Bay for a beach and bush experience. The lodge is surrounded by coconut palms and soft yellow, and the bush behind it features lush plantations. You will find a variety of water birds as well as unique wildlife species around such as Nocturnal animals – bushbuck, dik-dik, porcupine, mongoose, civet cat and buffalo.
Mafia Island
Mafia Island is a lesser-known island located in the wonderful southern circuit of Zanzibar and Tanzania. It is rich in culture and features stunning attractions and unique adventures. The island is known as an incredible diving destination with rich reefs. You can explore its diverse terrestrial and marine ecosystem, spend some time on the white sandy beach with clear waters or indulge in some water activities. There are two major lodges – Kinasi Lodge and Lua Cheia – with all the comfort of a home offering a complete Mafia experience.
Have you visited any of these islands? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.
