Indian Ocean Safaris

Making up roughly 20% of the water on the Earth’s surface, the Indian Ocean is the world’s third largest ocean. Flanked by Africa to the west, Australia to the east and Asia to the North, its crystalline waters are home to some of the most exotic islands and beautiful coasts; white sandy beaches, coral reefs and turquoise bays that conjures images of tranquillity and calm. The vast expanse of waters naturally brings an extraordinary variety and quantity of marine life and coral reefs.

The Maldives are a cluster of small flat coral islands with stunning beaches, a haven for snorkelling and diving. Imagine palm trees-lined beaches, secluded islands that house exclusive resorts that hover on stilts over azure waters creating the most romantic and serene of island settings. The Seychelles combines pristine white sandy beaches with charming tropical scenery due to its unique granite foundations. Lush vegetation carpets rocky granite peaks that pierce crystalline blue waters making this archipelago of islands a truly remarkable destination. Mix it up by combining wildlife and beach; our favourite combinations include Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Botswana and Mauritius, and Kenya and the Seychelles, or even the lemurs of Madagascar combined with swimming with humpbacks in Reunion Island.

Why Natural World Safaris for your Indian Ocean Safari?

Here at Natural World Safaris, our team of specialists can create tailor-made itineraries that are designed to meet your specific needs and interests. Whether you want to go on a wildlife safari, explore the country's culture, or simply relax on the beach, we can create an itinerary that is perfect for you. We are committed to responsible travel and sustainable tourism. Working closely with local communities and conservation organisations, we ensure that our trips have a positive impact on the environment and local people of the Indian Ocean. Unlike other safari operators, we can offer you exclusive experiences that you might not be able to find elsewhere. We can tailor-make a stunning beach escape just for you, combining a thrilling safari adventure with a relaxing break on pristine sands. Our exclusive network on the ground links us to all the best lodges in the region and we are often able to add that little NWS twist, transforming any safari into something really special and unique to you.

How much does the Indian Ocean cost?

For a 8-day safari in the Maldives, staying onboard traditional dhows, we recommend a starting price of $6000 per person. This will generally include transfers and private guides. If you are looking to stay in some of the Seychelle’s most iconic and best loved lodges as well as a the opportunity to engage in conservation efforts, you’ll need to increase the budget to $15500 per person including direct charter flights, passionate guides and other incredible excursions.

Everybody loves an action-packed safari, but early starts and constantly being on the move can sometimes leave you wanting to just put your feet up. What better way to end your safari than finding some silky white sands, turquoise waters, a sun lounger and an ice cold cocktail; the Indian Ocean is calling you! Our destination specialists have an intimate knowledge of the natural world, but know how to perfectly compliment your safari with a stunning beach retreat. The Indian Ocean islands combined with Africa or the Indian Subcontinent pave the way for some truly breath-taking and exotic trips.

Below are some of our favourite combinations all of which may be refined to best suit your needs:

• Beautiful Beaches - the beaches are a highlight here; sands are white and soft, and water is warm. Lounge on the sand, snorkel, dive, kite-surf and or enjoy a tropical sundowner.
• Tropical Marine Life - snorkel and swim with exotic fish such as parrot and angelfish.
• Humpback Whales - swim besides these giant creatures in crystal clear waters
• Zip Lining - Experience the exhilaration of zip lining the forests in southern Mauritius.
• Conservation - Take the opportunity to engage in conservation experiences such as turtle tracking and reef surveying.

Where to Stay in the Indian Ocean?

When you think of the Indian Ocean, it conjures up images of island paradises where cobalt waters splash silky white sands, coconut palms give shade from the glare of the blazing sun. Well, the reality isn’t very different; the Seychelles, Maldives and Mauritius have consistently raised the bar when it comes to luxury resort island accommodation. Here are some of our favourite resorts on the islands of Seychelles, Maldives and Mauritius. Whether looking for a romantic retreat on a private island, a selection of water based activities for a family getaway, or some simple post safari beach time, then look no further than an exotic island in the Indian Ocean.

When to go to the Indian Ocean?

The best time to visit the Indian Ocean is completely dependent on your particular interest in visiting. Blessed with warm tropical climates throughout the year it is always a good time to visit, however when you decide to visit may vary depending on your particular interest or whether you wish to combine one of these idyllic island destinations with another stop off along the way! The tropical, sun-soaked isles, blessed with warm tropical climates, are great to visit throughout most of the year depending on your particular interest but perhaps avoid the months of January and February when there is more wind and a little rain.