Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Good Islands To Visit in Africa

By Matthew Kepnes

A good way to find undeveloped, rugged tropical islands is in Africa. Most are free of lots of package tours, most have great jungles, the water is crystal clear, the fish abundant, and their beaches are made of beautiful white sand. If there were any islands in the world that are picture perfect, the following islands would the places you should see.

Zanzibar is an island in the country of Tanzania and is famous for its spices, fish, and historic Stone Town. The island is incredible and during the day the fishermen are out catching the dinner and everyone is swimming in the beautiful ocean. At night everyone comes to Stone Town to eat and shop. There is a great Arab influence here that also makes this island unique.

Madagascar is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean of the coast of Africa. The nation is one of the biggest islands in the world and is home to 5% of all the world's species, of which more than 80% are endemic to Madagascar. The eastern side of the island is home to many tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which are in the shadow of the highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts. For travelers desiring rugged jungle trekking, refreshing streams, and cascading waterfalls, a trip to Madagascar should be on your travel list.

Mauritius is off the coast of Africa in the southwest Indian Ocean and is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the French island of Reunion to the southwest and the island of Rodrigues to the northeast. Mauritius has great palm lined beaches and crystal warm water, as well as nice people. Its out of the way location makes it a great place to go to get away from the crowds.

Reunion is off the tourist trail to many of the world's travelers. This diverse location in the middle of the Indian Ocean is simply one of the most intriguing spots in the world. Like Mauritius, this island also part of France. With an active volcano, 17 miles of perfect beaches in the west, and lots of mountains and forests in between, Reunion offers a little bit of everything to every type of island traveler.

Africa may be known to most people for its safaris, jungles, and animals but it also offers great tropical destinations for travelers who like beaches. With so many beautiful tropical places, think about vacation to these islands when you are plan a jaunt to a tropical island. - 15784

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