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INTRODUCTION
INDIAN OCEAN
see & do
ZANZIBAR This unspoilt, rustic getaway has a strong Arab influence. The British also impacted in the 19th century and many expeditions into Africa started from this exotic island. Stonetown is the capital and we recommend taking a day to explore this enchanting town, which lies on a small peninsula. Narrow, winding and cobbled streets cosset artistic teak doors, studded with brass and aged elaborate carvings, colours and embellishments from former palatial houses. The harbour area is a hive of activity and was where the spices were traded. You will see traditional dhow (boats indigenous to these areas) sail past and fishmarkets. There are also ruins to be visited in Zanzibar, from the caves for hiding slaves in the north to the ancient walled town of Kizimkazi in the south. Most spectacular of all though, are the sugar white beaches, particularly on the east coast, where evian waters meet the island. The smaller islands of Mafia and Pemba are breathtaking for their rustic Robinson Crusoe fairytale atmosphere and unspoilt beauty.
SEYCHELLES Droplets of verdant green, punctured by grey and pink granite boulders and framed by white sand beaches exude sweet smells of frangipani, boast spectacular orange sunsets, tropical bird and aquatic life as well as giant land tortoises. Mahe is the main island of this archipelago and one of the few granite ones, many are coral islands. Though the largest, the island is only 90 square miles. Within this area you will find 70 literally breathtaking beaches, hilly forests, the capital, Victoria and many art and craft boutiques. In the north, Beau Vallon Bay is perhaps the most famous beach on this island, spread over one mile of absolutely talcum powder sands and crystal waters. There are also a range of dive sites within the bay, including two wrecks. The West coast is less developed and more rugged in appearance. Silhouette island is just 12 miles from Mahe and is protected by a reef, thus offering beaches ideal for swimming, snorkelling or lazing on! For a little activity, take a walk to the top of Mont Pot à Eau to see the bizarre carnivorous pitcher plant and coco de mer palms.
MAURITIUS This island is best known for its well established and luxurious hotels on beautiful beaches and inland the central plateau rises up to 20.000 feet marked by extinct volcanic craters, crisscrossed by sugar cane plantations, rivers, streams and waterfalls. While you are here be sure to try some of the delicious local creole cuisine. Port Louis is the small but bustling capital and features a smart shopping area as well as local stalls. As you drive you will pass by sugar plantations and notice the colonial influence in the architecture. MADAGASCAR The world's fourth largest island is one of amazing contrasts in both landscapes and cultures and home to a diverse mix of African, Arabic, Indian and European influences. Stunning landscapes of forests, lakes, rice terraces and national parks are home to many endemic species including the ring tailed lemur. Accommodation is generally fairly basic on the tours but the wealth of experiences is unforgettable.
1 Relax in Mauritius! 2 Indigo Bay, Mozambique 3 A Dhow in Zanzibar 4 Seychelles beaches 5 Friendly Zanzibar 6 Beautiful beaches of Mauritius
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INDIAN OCEAN REGIONAL MAP
Kilimanjaro Pemba Island Zanzibar Mafia Island Seychelles
INFORMATION Capitals: Stonetown in Zanzibar, Port Louis in Mauritius, Victoria in Seychelles, Antananarivo in Madagascar. Population: 81,000 in Seychelles, 1.2 million in Mauritius, 17 million in Madagascar. Languages: Kiswahili, Arabic and English in Zanzibar; Creole/French/English in Seychelles, Mauritius; Malagasy in Madagascar. Time differences: GMT +2 hours in Mozambique, +3 hours in Zanzibar and Madagascar; +4 hours in Seychelles/ Mauritius. Flight times: Zanzibar approx 11 hours via Nairobi; Mauritius approx 12 hours; Seychelles approx 11 hours; Madagascar approx 15 hours via Johannesburg. Currency: Tanzania shilling in Zanzibar; Ariary in Madagascar; Seychelles Rupee; Mauritian Rupee. Souvenirs: Artwork from Seychelles. Spices from Zanzibar, boat carvings and silks from Mauritius and crafts from Madagascar. 179
Tanzania
Quirimbas Archipelago Pemba
Aldabra Island Farquahar Island Nosy Be
INDIAN OCEAN
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Mozambique
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Antananarivo
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Réunion
Mauritius
call 01306 743000 I www.kuoni.co.uk I see your travel agent
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