The Indian Ocean – an attractive year-round destination
From the granite boulders of the Seychelles to the coral atolls of the Maldives and the lush mountains of Mauritius, the natural beauty of the Indian Ocean is captivating year-round. In this blog, we highlight why the southwest trade winds of the Indian Ocean make it an ideal destination for some thrilling water sports action.
The Indian Ocean trade winds are distinct from other ocean basins because they undergo a dramatic seasonal reversal known as the monsoon system. This unique pattern has shaped trade, warfare, and cultural exchange throughout history.
North Island, the Seychelles
Historical Significance
These predictable wind patterns enabled the development of extensive trade networks across the Indian Ocean for thousands of years with Arab, Persian, Indian, Chinese, and European sailors creating scheduled trading circuits spanning much of the globe. The predictability of seasonal reversals allowed merchants to plan voyages that would take them to foreign ports with the certainty that they could return home when the winds shifted.
The monsoon trade winds also influenced the spread of Islam, Buddhism, and other practices throughout the Indian Ocean basin, creating one of history’s most significant cultural exchange networks.
Maldives
The consistent swells generated by storms in the Indian Ocean make the Maldives an increasingly popular destination for surfers of all levels. You’ll find a range of reef breaks, offering everything from mellow, long waves perfect for beginners and longboarders to fast, barrelling waves for more experienced surfers. The SixSenses Laamu offers some excellent surfing opportunities and Snorkellers can enjoy excellent diving on the house reef and scuba divers will find pristine coral gardens and an extraordinary range of marine life close by.
We recommend visiting Makunudu Island. With 25 fantastic dive sites nearby, including the shark and ray hotspot of Madi Gaa (suitable for all) and the thrilling Shark Point for advanced divers, underwater adventures are endless. The island’s 5-star eco dive centre is deeply committed to conservation, actively maintaining coral nurseries and engaging guests in their efforts. Robyn, one of our sales experts, was blown away by the marine life when she visited last December and has crafted this 8 day holiday as inspiration.
Makunudu Private Island, Mauritius
Madagascar
Adventure awaits with superb kitesurfing, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding. Anglers will be drawn to Miavana’s prime saltwater fly fishing on the sprawling flats and seasonal whale, dolphin and manta ray watching. For a unique perspective, scenic helicopter excursions over the shimmering ocean or the dramatic mainland can be organised. Escape to your own piece of paradise – this 9 day adventure will give you a taste of what this spectacular island can offer.
Fly fishing, Miavana, Madagascar
Kenya
For watersport enthusiasts, we recommend staying at The Cabanas . A wealth of activities awaits, including swimming, water skiing, wakeboarding, snorkelling, dhow sailing, and fishing. Find your inner peace in The Zen Den, a dedicated sanctuary for yoga, meditation, massage, and healing therapies.
Dhow sailing, The Cabanas
The Seychelles
Mahe and La Digue are ideal surfing spots with plenty of options for the beginner and more advanced surfer. There is so much more that this tropical island has to offer – secluded beaches, forests alive with birds, and even whale shark sightings. This 7 day blue safari to Denis Private Island in the Seychelles offers the perfect mix of beach bliss and underwater exploration.
The Wall – Astove diving, the Seychelles
Mauritius
The Le Morne peninsula in the southwest, famous for the “One Eye” reef break, is ideal for expert kitesurfers and surfers and the coast around Tamarin Bay when the swells are best from June to August. Paradise Beachcomber Golf Resort and Spa is the perfect base, with onsite water sports and a dive centre.
Paradis Beachcomber Hotel and Golf Club, Mauritius
The climate at this time of year in Mauritius is perfect for hiking. We recommend spending a few days away from the beach to get a sense of the variety the island nation has to offer. A trip to Black Gorges National Park will enthral – catch a glimpse of their flying fox, giant tortoise, Rusa deer, or crab-eating macaques. Think lush mountains, wonderful birdlife, incredible views and stunning waterfalls. Add this to the Chamarel 7 Coloured Earth Geopark, a hike to the top of Black Rivers Peak – the highest mountain in Mauritius – and you have a good few days of exploring. Lakaz Chamarel is the perfect base. Surrounded by tropical gardens, with lush foliage, beautiful flowers, and a variety of birdlife, it’s the ideal place to relax and reflect after an active day in the mountains.
Black River Gorge National Park, Mauritius
Whether you’re looking to catch some sunshine in the European winter to enjoy a bit of R&R at the beach, or are looking for a more active escape, the Indian Ocean’s tropical islands have something to suit all travel aspirations.
What next?
Get inspired and sign up to our free Insiders Guide to Africa. We would be delighted to help with planning your perfect safari or beach holiday, whenever you want to travel. Our team of experts has travelled widely throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean and can offer expert advice. Do get in touch – chatting to people by phone or email is what we do best. We listen, we explain, we answer all sorts of questions even those you didn’t know to ask, and finally we make suggestions. If this is your first time to Africa or your twenty first, we have a team standing by to help make the planning easy and the journey the best ever. Please get in touch whatever stage you’re at.
Camel safari, Kenya, Laikipia, 
Luxury safari accommodation Waterberg, South Africa, 
Hippos on a walking safari, South Luangwa, Zambia, 
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