Africa's 5 best islands just waiting to be explored by tourists

When people think of an their minds likely jump to safaris, savannahs or bustling cities. But the continent of knows no boundaries and its range of holiday types is as diverse as its people and cultures.

Unknown to many is the vast array of islands, dotted around the continent that offer visitors the chance to see in a completely different way. With a host of islands filled with stunning, sandy beaches and spectacular wildlife and exquisite cuisine, there is plenty to be seen across the continent's islands. As European islands and authorities introduce , perhaps Africa could prove to be the perfect alternative.

Madagascar

To some, Madagascar is an animated children's film but to others, it is the epitome of an idyllic beach destination.

Located in the Indian Ocean, off of the coast of Mozambique, the island is full of rare wildlife, untouched beaches and dense rainforests.

A sanctuary around 400 animal species and 900 plant varieties, few places on earth can compete with the beauty of the exotic island.

Lamu, Kenya

With just 25,000 residents, the small island off of the coast of Kenya feels to many like stepping back in time.

One of the oldest Swahili settlements in East Africa, the island has very few cars and is well known for its historic architecture inspired by Swahili traditions.

The relaxation of the sandy beaches is mirrored by the vibrancy of the islands markets and the richness of its history which is all encompassing for guests.

Mauritius

Mark Twain once wrote that 'Mauritius was made first and then heaven, heaven being copied after Mauritius'.

Twain's view was no doubt shaped from its replication of common views of paradise, where bright sunshine, met turquoise water and sandy beaches. In the modern day, very little has changed.

One of the jewels of the Indian ocean, the island is a melting pot of culture owing to its history as colony of both France and Britain.

Away from its beaches, the island's rugged mountains provide visitors ample opportunities to reward physical exertion with sublime views, whilst the island is one of the best places in Africa for those looking for water sports such as windsurfing or kitesurfing.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous province of Tanzania and consists of the island of Zanzibar or Unjuga, Pemba among several smaller islands.

A former cornerstone of the spice and slave trade, the island is infused with a variety of cultures.

The markets in Stone Town offer the best of everything the island has to offer from a culinary perspective while the tropical beaches boast turquoise water filled with a variety of colourful fish and sealife.

Bazaruto Archipelago

For those looking for a unique, off the beaten track getaway, the five dune islands of Bazaruto Archipelago offer just that and more.

Located just off of the Mozambique coast, the archipelago, boasts sublime coral that provides the perfect setting for scuba divers and snorkellers.

Declared a National Park in 1971, the islands are home to a handful of small villages tucked away within beneath orange and cashew nut trees in habited by samango monkeys, providing travellers the opportunity to experience Africa in a way that nowhere else can.