It is no surprise that Daniel Defoe's Robinson Crusoe is one of the most widely published books in history. Island life has occupied the daydreams of young and old since it was first released in 1719... and the remote locations of the Indian Ocean are the perfect antidote to this island fantasy. What better destination for a year-end escape?
Zanzibar; Even the name rings the romance of Africa's spice island. Cloves and coconuts are still the major export; though increasing numbers of tourists are returning each year to soak in balmy blue waters, miles of coral sand and underwater wonderlands begging to be explored. Stone Town is an ancient sultanate, a mystifying maze of alleyways, colourful bazaars, tropical aromas and traditional dhows moored in the bay. The Island of Zanzibar, off the coast of Tanzania, is also the birthplace of Freddie Mercury!
Seychelles; A fantasy archipelago of over 100 islands lying 1,500 kilometres off the East Coast of Africa. Most of the islands are idyllic private paradise settings with impossibly turquoise waters washing some of the earth's most beautiful settings. This is one unspoiled island paradise not to miss, particularly since the threat of sea-level rise could spell the end of most of these wondrous (but low lying) locations one day.
Mauritius; This fertile island offers every attraction for the perfect island getaway. Capital, Port Lois is the commercial hub and bustling port to this island community of just over 1 million inhabitants: a glorious mix of African, Indian, Chinese and European cultures. Apart from luxurious holiday resorts on breathtakingly beautiful beaches promising superb water sports, there are plenty of other distractions, from day trips into the lush interior and duty-free shopping, to an enchanting mix of cuisines to sample.
Speak to our Uyaphi consultants for an unforgettable Island break on one of these idyllic locations.\
Castaway: African Island Escapes by Uyaphi.com
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
The Park Hyatt Zanzibar brings that touch of luxury and class that Stone Town has been missing for so long. One of the island's top hotels and lodge options for honeymooners and romantics alike.
The Park Hyatt offers a superb position from which to explore all that is a UNESCO World Heritage site - Stone Town.
Siwandu Camp
Siwandu Camp in the Selous Game Reserve is spread along the lake shore, and is designed to blend in with the spectacular natural Selous scenery in what is one of the most photogenic areas, each of the nine safari tents sits atop its own raised timber platform.
Perfectly positioned close to the Rufiji River system for spectacular wildlife and game drive options when on safari in the Selous.
Bluebay Beach Resort
Bluebay Resort is situated on the finest wide, white, sandy beach on the island of Zanzibar, located on the East Coast in an area known as Kiwengwa, the resort is only 35 minutes drive from the town and the airport on a tarmac road.
A lodge resort that offers Wi-Fi, a laundry service, room service, and is perfect for families and romantics alike.
Tarangire Simba Lodge
Tarangire Simba Lodge located within Tanzania's amazing Tarangire National Park is an attractive option for those interested in experiencing all that this region has to offer.
Tarangire Simba Lodge is ideal for small groups, couples and families.
Diamonds Mapenzi Beach Club
On the East Coast in a secluded tropical setting, the Mapenzi Beach Club is set above a powdery white sand beach about 50 minutes from Stonetown and about one hour from the airport, comfortable accommodation refined in every detail.
The perfect beach lodge with white sand beaches and an exceptional beach bar. One of Zanzibar's best.Singita Sasakwa Lodge
Singita Sasakwa Lodge is situated on top of Sasakwa Hill with panoramic views of the vast Plains below; this Serengeti National Park lodge is built in the style of an East African ranch house.
If it's solitude you seek, then Grumeti Reserves is the place to be, game drive safaris near the Grumeti River are fantastic year round.
Sand Rivers Selous
Sand Rivers Selous on the banks of the Rufiji River in one of Africa's largest reserves offers a blend of classic safari elegance and that rugged bush adventure feel.
A small and intimate Selous camp with just eight rooms and suites and more activities that one can shake a stick at.
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge
andBeyond Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge, with ten tented suites on the banks of the Grumeti River, offers seasonal sightings of the Great Wildebeest Migration, including river crossings.
Located in an area of the Serengeti famed for its high densities of cheetahs, numerous prides of lions and solitary leopards.