Coral Reefs

Aerial panorama of Nosy Iranja’s sandbar and reef system in Madagascar’s emerald Indian Ocean

Africa’s Indian Ocean islands are fringed with coral reefs among the richest on Earth. At Benguerra Island in Mozambique, parrotfish weave through rainbow gardens. Mnemba Island in Zanzibar offers warm shallows and endless reef walls, while Madagascar’s Tsara Komba and Miavana open gateways to pristine marine sanctuaries teeming with turtles and rays.

Plan Your Journey

Vibrant coral garden teeming with reef fish off Miavana, Madagascar – Indian Ocean snorkelling and diving paradise

Beneath a Kaleidoscope Sea

From Mnemba Island, step into clear waters where dolphins play and green turtles glide. At Tsara Komba, a short boat ride delivers you to untouched coral gardens alive with swirling schools of fish. On Miavana’s reef edge, manta rays sweep across the seabed, shimmering against the endless turquoise horizon.

QUICK FACTS
Pristine reefs
Year-round diving
Marine encounters
Turtle nesting
Snorkel & diving

Aerial view of Miavana’s white-sand beach and turquoise lagoon with palms and kayaks on Nosy Ankao, Madagascar

Shallow coral reef with swarming chromis and damselfish near Miavana island, Madagascar

Scuba diver exploring a narrow coral canyon at Miavana, Madagascar – adventure diving in crystal-clear waters

Experiences & Highlights

Reef time pairs perfectly with safari, bringing warm water, bright fish and slow island days. On Mozambique’s Benguerra Island, guided snorkelling and diving explore protected reefs with turtles, reef sharks and clouds of anthias, while simple dhow cruises and sandbank picnics slow the pace. Off Zanzibar, Mnemba Island offers calm lagoons and accessible drop offs with frequent turtle sightings, making it ideal for mixed experience levels and confident swimmers.

Madagascar’s Tsara Komba adds colourful coral gardens and gentle sea conditions around Nosy Be and Nosy Komba, with options to head out by boat for wider exploration. Beach teams organise equipment, safety briefings and relaxed instruction, while marine guides point out species and help with simple identification. Between outings, villas and beach salas provide shade and privacy, and spa treatments ease sun-tired shoulders. Many guests pair the coast with the Serengeti, the Masai Mara or a Kruger private reserve, creating a balanced journey of wildlife and water that feels both active and restorative.