Mauritius, the Seychelles and the Maldives remain at the top of the list of the most popular Indian Ocean islands among South African travellers, and for good reason – they boast crystalline blue waters, beautiful beaches plucked from movie scenes and all-year-round sunshine. However, this is not all these islands have to offer.
Well-practised Indian Ocean island holidaymakers may seek a unique opportunity to move out of the mainstream and explore beyond simply relaxing, exploring the depths of the marine world and enjoying water-sports on the glistening ocean. Fortunately, there are many unconventional things to do and places to see on these exotic islands.
Mauritius
In Mauritius, Brenda Mitchell, Director of Sales of World Leisure Holidays, recommends a guided electric bike ride to clients who are fitness enthusiasts, seeking adventure or nature. “This sweet escape into the wild is the perfect opportunity to contemplate the flora and fauna of Mauritius. If you are lucky enough, you might see wild boars, deer or geese while leisurely riding your bike,” she says.
There are two rides available in the wilderness area of Domaine de Wolmar – the ‘family’ ride for beginners and the ‘intermediate’ ride for experienced bike-riders. “Throughout the ride, you will get to know the history of the Domaine de Wolmar and understand the importance of the java deer to Mauritius,” Mitchell adds.
Mitchell also suggests ‘Carlie Hiking’, which allows visitors to explore hidden facets of the island in a by 4x4. “Nature-lovers travel off the beaten tracks across the countryside and discover unmatched views,” she says, adding that travelling into the forests is also possible.
Adrenalin junkies visiting Mauritius should consider doing a tandem skydive, says Joanne Visagie, Sales and Marketing Director of Beachcomber Tours. “You will have the ultimate holiday story to tell afterwards!” After the 30- to 40-second freefall, you descend for another three to five minutes. Joanne also recommends zip lining at Casela Park. “There are various courses available. I have even done this myself – there is nothing like flying through the air and feeling so alive. Plus, the scenery is amazing!”
For cultural aficionados, Visagie suggests a visit to the Mauritius Photography Museum, China Town and Aapravasi Ghat, an immigration depot for indentured labourers from 1849 to 1923. Those who consider wine-tasting a cultural activity can sip wines from around the world in a 175sqm wine cellar at Constance Prince Maurice, adds Michele Abraham, Sales and Marketing of African Synergy. “The cellar boasts some 25 000 exclusive bottles of wine!”
The Seychelles
The Seychelles is a haven for nature lovers with its lush, vibrant beauty, says Abraham. “While the beaches are unspoiled and simply out of this world, there are also other activities and sites for those who enjoy a more dynamic break, such as rock climbing and zip lining,” she says, adding that you can take part in these activities at Constance Ephelia overlooking Port Launay Marine National Park, on the beautiful west coast of Mahé.
In between activities, visitors may want to grab a bite at Victoria Food Market, where they can also shop fresh fruit, spices and flowers, visit the giant tortoises on Moyenne Island or explore Launay Mangrove forest, says Lucinda Tyler of Club Travel.
The Maldives
The Maldives is an aquatic paradise, and snorkelling at the five-star Constance Moofushi hotel teaches guests all about the underwater wonderland, says Abraham. “Here, you get to snorkel with the resident marine biologist.”
Those who prefer to stay above water can experience the Maldives on a marine wildlife cruise on board a traditionally crafted Turkish gulet, says Sarah Robertson, owner of Earth Wanderer. “On this cruise, you get to snorkel breathtakingly beautiful areas that are abundant in marine life - think whale sharks; manta rays; greens, hawkbills and olive ridley turtles as well as bottlenose and spinner dolphins,” she says.
