Best island getaway destinations in Africa

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Africa's island destinations range from the Indian Ocean archipelagos off the east coast and the volcanic Atlantic islands of the west to the large culturally distinct island nations that sit within the continent's geographic sphere. The Indian Ocean islands offer the most developed resort infrastructure, with coral reef marine environments, white sand coastlines and luxury accommodation that have established several destinations as among the most celebrated beach getaways in the world.

Beyond the headline resort destinations, the region's islands offer considerable cultural and ecological depth, with distinct languages, cuisines and biodiversity shaped by island isolation and the confluence of African, Arab and European influences. Smaller and less visited islands within the same ocean regions offer comparable natural quality with considerably less development and a more grounded experience of island life.

Cyclone seasons affect Indian Ocean destinations and require careful timing, with the most significant risk period running from November to April. Your money goes a long way across the Atlantic island destinations and some of the less developed Indian Ocean islands, though the most celebrated luxury resort destinations sit at the higher end of global island travel costs. Medical facilities on smaller islands are limited and comprehensive travel insurance is essential.