Top 10 breathtaking islands in Africa

At a Glance

• Africa’s islands merge luxury with biodiversity, attracting eco-conscious travellers and investors seeking serene, high-value destinations across the Indian Ocean and Atlantic coasts.
• Nations like Seychelles, Mauritius, and Tanzania harness their island allure to fuel tourism revenues, build soft power, and promote environmental sustainability.
• Underrated gems like Bonny and Giftun Island offer untapped tourism potential near strategic economic zones, diversifying local economies beyond traditional industries.

Africa’s islands are more than sun-kissed escapes—they are vital engines of tourism, culture, and soft power. From the cerulean coves of Praslin and Île aux Cerfs to the untouched wilds of Mohéli and Nosy Be, each destination merges ecological wonder with economic potential.

Seychelles, Mauritius, and Zanzibar headline Africa’s luxury island circuit, luring affluent travellers with refined hospitality and cultural depth. In Madagascar and Comoros, biodiversity becomes capital—fueling eco-tourism and niche exploration.

Mozambique’s Bazaruto and São Tomé’s Ilhéu das Rolas blend conservation with exclusivity, offering ultra-private retreats that attract global investment. Meanwhile, Giftun and Bonny Islands underscore untapped opportunity—positioned near key energy corridors yet ripe for tourism diversification.

Together, these ten islands are not only aesthetic marvels but rising pillars in Africa’s tourism economy—generating revenue, preserving heritage, and shaping a new narrative of destination-led development.

Shore.Africa has chronicled the top 10 most beautiful islands in Africa, celebrated for their natural beauty, unique culture, and luxurious experiences:

1. Praslin Island

Country: Seychelles
Highlights: Powder-white beaches, Vallée de Mai UNESCO site, Constance Lemuria resort, Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette.
Expectation: For postcard-perfect beaches, biodiversity, and refined eco-luxury.

2. Île aux Cerfs

Country: Mauritius
Highlights: Crystal-clear lagoons, water sports, golf course, white-sand shores.
Expectation: A tropical playground ideal for adventure, relaxation, and luxury.

3. Nosy Be

Country: Madagascar
Highlights: Fragrant ylang-ylang trees, diving with whale sharks, lemur sanctuaries.
Expectation: For wildlife, exotic beaches, and island culture untouched by mass tourism.

4. Zanzibar (Unguja)

Country: Tanzania
Highlights: Stone Town, spice farms, turquoise waters, historic heritage.
Expectation: A cultural and beach haven with deep Swahili-Arab influences.

5. Bazaruto Archipelago

Country: Mozambique
Highlights: Marine reserves, luxury lodges, snorkeling, dugongs.
Expectation: For serene beauty, untouched coral reefs, and intimate island escapes.

6. Ilhéu das Rolas

Country: São Tomé and Príncipe
Highlights: Equator line crossing, volcanic rock formations, rainforests.
Expectation: A hidden gem offering eco-adventures and geographical wonder.

7. Giftun Island

Country: Egypt
Highlights: Red Sea coral reefs, snorkeling, white beaches, day cruises.
Expectation: For vibrant marine life and turquoise waters near Hurghada.

8. Sal Island

Country: Cape Verde
Highlights: Surfing, salt mines, vibrant Creole culture, relaxed beaches.
Expectation: A sunny, offbeat escape in the Atlantic with rich music and culture.

9. Mohéli Island

Country: Comoros
Highlights: Protected marine park, humpback whale sightings, secluded beaches.
Expectation: For raw natural beauty and eco-tourism away from the crowd.

10. Bonny Island

Country: Nigeria
Highlights: Historical relics, oil-rich region, pristine beaches, mangrove forests.
Expectation: A culturally rich, lesser-known island destination with potential.