Previously major trading stops in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles, Mauritius, Rodrigues and Reunion are some of the most culturally diverse islands on the planet, with a heritage shaped by centuries of trading and colonisation.
When imagining the Indian Ocean, one thinks of clear waters, sandy beaches and blue skies, but there is so much more to this region than meets the eye. Our trips here are designed to show you the true identities of each territory, from their colonial past to their creole traditions, as well as landscapes that exemplify the idea of paradise.
While exploring these four different islands, we uncover remote villages with traditions dating back the era of slave trading, we snorkel in crystal clear waters and uncover the authentic side of these countries, away from tourist resorts. Each island is different – Reunion is a French overseas territory, while Mauritius was a British colony until 1965, and different customs, traditions and identities combine to create a kaleidoscope of culture, set against a backdrop of landscapes that take your breath away.
Top Highlights on Indian Ocean Islands Holidays and Tours
- Visit one of the worlds most active volcanoes, Piton de la Fournaise
- Look for pods of dolphins off the coast of Mauritius
- Explore the laid-back Rodrigues Island
- Visit the picture perfect Anse Source D'Argent beach of Seychelles
Culture
All of the Indian Ocean islands were previously subject to European colonisation. This has left strong influences, most notably in Reunion which is still a French overseas territory, and the most European of all of these islands. As well as this, it blends African, Malagasy, Indian and Chinese cultures which make a unique, and rather unlikely, mix. Reunion is often compared to Hawaii thanks to its volcanic nature and spectacular scenery.
Mauritius was uninhabited before European settlers came to farm and continue the slave trade. Many Indian workers were brought to Mauritius, and along with them came their customs and religion, which form a strong part of Mauritian identity today.
Seychelles is a collection of 115 islands, with the main ones being Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, home to the majority of the population of Creole, African, European and Asian inhabitants. Roman Catholicism is the leading religion here, followed by the Anglican Church, Islam, Hinduism and others. Despite its tiny size, Seychelles is ranked as one of Africa’s highest income per capita nations, mostly thanks to tourism and fishing.
When to go on holiday to the Indian Ocean islands
The best time of year to visit the Indian Ocean islands is between April and October, which avoids . the monsoon season and enjoys warm temperatures.
Start planning your Indian Ocean islands holiday
Check out our small group tour to the Indian Ocean Islands. Although many of our trips are small group adventures with set departures, as a bespoke operator, we can design and create trips to suit any traveller, from solos to larger groups. If you would like to find out more about tailor-made holidays to the Indian Ocean Islands or our group tours, call us on 01473 328546 or email us via our contact page. We’d love to hear from you.
