15/09/2026
We’re heading into the Indian Ocean for our NEW TOUR, taking in four extraordinary islands: Reunion, Mauritius, Rodrigues and the Seychelles.
At first glance, they might seem to belong to the same tropical postcard - turquoise water, white-sand beaches and lush volcanic landscapes. But travel between them and the differences quickly emerge. Each island has its own character, history, culture and rhythm of life.
Our tour starts in Reunion, where France meets the tropics. Officially part of France and the European Union, the island has a fascinating Creole identity shaped by African, Indian, European and Chinese influences. Its dramatic volcanic landscape is equally captivating, with rugged mountains and active volcanoes creating some truly spectacular scenery. We’ll experience the island’s Creole culture, food and traditions, including the opportunity to discover one of the world’s most active volcanoes, Piton de la Fournaise.
From Reunion, we head to Mauritius, part of the Mascarene Archipelago, with a history shaped by French and British rule and generations of African, Indian, European and Chinese migration. The result is a culture that is wonderfully diverse, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the food. From world-class restaurants to bustling roadside stalls, Mauritian cuisine is a delicious blend of influences.
We see some of the island’s most impressive landscapes, including Black River Gorges and enjoy a catamaran trip along the west coast, with the possible chance of spotting dolphins. We also visit colourful temples, colonial houses, sugar plantations and tea estates, each reflecting different parts of the island’s history. Its rum and w**e traditions add a more indulgent element to the journey......
Next, we travel to Rodrigues, where the atmosphere changes almost immediately. Although part of Mauritius, Rodrigues feels much more intimate and untouched, with a strong African influence and a wonderfully laid-back way of life. Tourism here is still relatively limited, making it a rare opportunity to experience an island where everyday life remains at the heart of the experience. We'll explore the local market, visit a fishing village and see Saint Gabriel Cathedral, said to be the largest church in the Indian Ocean.
And finally, we continue on to the Seychelles, often described as Mother Nature perfected. These islands, sculpted from granite or formed from coral, are fringed with white‑sand beaches and palm trees heavy with exotic fruit. During the tour, we visit the world‑famous beach of Anse Source d’Argent, known for its striking granite boulders and turquoise shallows.
We also visit the main granitic islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, each known for their natural scenery and individual character. Across these islands, the tour provides opportunities to observe the region’s unique geology, endemic plant species, and varied coastal landscapes, while also gaining insight into daily life and conservation efforts within the Seychelles.
This is still Africa, technically, but certainly not as you know it....
To read the full itinerary for our new ‘Indian Ocean Explorer’ tour, please see our website here: https://nativeeyetravel.com/itineraries/indian-ocean-islands/
