Do you believe that safaris and deserts are Africa’s main attractions? Think again. The continent is home to numerous stunning islands that are not yet widely known by travelers. These hidden gems are where ancient cultures live side by side with turquoise oceans and untamed ecosystems thrive without guests.
These ten islands should be at the top of your travel bucket list, regardless of your preferences for barefoot luxury, rough and tumble adventure, or genuine interaction with local people.
1. BijagĆ³s Islands, GuineaāBissau
This vast archipelago of 88 islands was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996. Only roughly 20 islands are populated, leaving the remainder untouched: dense mangrove labyrinths, palm-draped beaches, freshwater lagoons, and coastal savannahs. The islands are home to exceptional fauna such as saltwater hippos, manatees, sea turtles, monkeys, and over 370 bird species.
More Reasons to Visit
Cultural richness: The BijagĆ³s are one of the few matriarchal societies in Africa. Their animist rituals protect sacred islands like PoilĆ£o, which sees 7,000ā40,000 nesting green sea turtles annually
Island highlights
Bubaque: Main hub with 6,400 residents, an ethnographic museum, markets, plus boat transport to nearby isles.
Orango: Saltwater hippo territory and historical site of Queen Okinka Pampa, a national heroine.
PoilĆ£o: Uninhabited ritual island and major turtle nesting beach; access is restricted to protect its sanctity and biodiversity.
Adventure & conservation: Paddle through mangroves, spot sacred wildlife, meet mask-making artisans, and stay at eco-lodges like Orango Parque Hotel, which supports local health and education programs
2. Pemba Island, Tanzania
Nestled a short hop from Zanzibar, Pemba is an emerald-hued, hilly eco-paradise. Far quieter than its famous neighbor, it offers world-class diving, lush spice farms, and the historic Ras Kigomasha lighthouse (built in 1904) with unforgettable panoramic views.
3. Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique
The Quirimbas is a dreamy chain of 32 coral islands stretching along Mozambiqueās northern coast. Known for crystal-clear waters, marine biodiversity, and timeless dhow culture, it remains largely untouched by mass tourism.
Why It Stands Out:
- Marine magic: The coral reefs here are teeming with lifeāsea turtles, reef sharks, dolphins, and seasonal humpback whales.
- Island-hopping: Visit lesser-known islands like Medjumbe, Matemo, and Quirimba for secluded beaches and vibrant reef diving.
- Cultural encounters: Local Makonde communities preserve woodcarving, storytelling, and Swahili traditions.
š More on Quirimbas
4. Ibo Island, Mozambique
Ibo Island is the cultural and historical heart of the Quirimbas chain. Once a bustling Portuguese colonial port, it now exudes eerie charm with stone mansions, abandoned forts, and artisan silversmiths.
What to Expect:
- Living history: Explore Forte de SĆ£o JoĆ£o, walk coral streets, and hear stories from descendants of the slave trade era.
- Craftsmanship: Iboās silversmiths create intricate jewelry from melted-down coinsāperfect as unique souvenirs.
- Slow living: With no paved roads or cars, life moves at the pace of the tides.
š Learn about Ibo
5. AnnobĆ³n Island, Equatorial Guinea
One of the most remote places in Africa, AnnobĆ³n is a volcanic island covered in misty forest, rimmed by steep cliffs, and surrounded by rich marine life. The population is fewer than 5,000, and Creole Portuguese is commonly spoken.
Uniquely AnnobĆ³n:
- Birdwatching haven: Endemic species like the AnnobĆ³n paradise flycatcher and rare petrels inhabit its cloud forest.
- Crater lake: Lago A Pot, a crater lake in the islandās center, is a surreal highlight for hikers.
- Complete seclusion: Youāll likely be one of the few travelers to ever reach its shores.
š More on AnnobĆ³n
6. SĆ£o TomĆ© & PrĆncipe
Africaās second-smallest country, these twin islands are tropical masterpieces full of lush rainforests, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. A former Portuguese colony, they are now rising as an eco-travel hotspot.
What Makes Them Magical:
- Chocolate history: Once the worldās largest cocoa producer. Visit working plantations like Claudio Corallo for tastings.
- Biodiversity galore: With over 800 plant species and 143 birds (many endemic), itās a biologistās dream.
- Hidden hikes: Trek through Obo National Park to volcanic peaks and warm-water waterfalls.
š Explore SĆ£o TomĆ©
7. Chumbe Island, Tanzania
A true eco-paradise, Chumbe is a privately managed marine reserve off Zanzibar. Entry is restricted, with just a handful of visitors allowed at a timeāmaking it both intimate and impactful.
What Youāll Love:
- Reef sanctuary: Over 400 species of coral and 500 species of fish live here.
- Eco-accommodation: Solar energy, rainwater harvesting, composting toilets, and zero plastic.
- Rare animals: Spot endangered coconut crabs and Aderās duikers in the forest.
8. Funzi Island, Kenya
Located south of Mombasa near the Tanzanian border, Funzi Island is part of a larger mangrove ecosystem. Itās a sanctuary for sea turtles and home to the indigenous Shirazi people.
Funzi in Focus:
- Turtle nesting grounds: Green turtles return each year to lay eggs on secluded beaches.
- River safaris: Glide along the Ramisi River to see crocodiles, kingfishers, and monitor lizards.
- Cultural immersion: Visit Funzi Village to experience traditional coastal Swahili life.
9. Wasini Island, Kenya
Just across from the famed Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park, Wasini is rich in coral rock and marine biodiversity. No roads, no cars, just narrow footpaths winding through coral gardens.
Why Youāll Love Wasini:
- Dolphin safaris: Humpbacks and dolphins abound during migration season.
- Tide pools and reef walks: At low tide, explore exposed coral gardens full of starfish and sea urchins.
- Cultural connection: Visit the village of Mkwiro or enjoy Swahili seafood at the locally run Wasini Island Restaurant.
10. Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Part of the protected Bazaruto Archipelago, Benguerra offers postcard-perfect beaches and untouched marine sanctuaries. Think barefoot luxury, dugong spotting, and snorkel-ready coral gardens.
Benguerra Highlights:
- Whale watching: Humpbacks migrate through between July and October.
- Rare species: One of the few places on earth to see dugongs (marine mammals similar to manatees).
- Luxury meets nature: Stay at eco-conscious resorts like andBeyond Benguerra Island or Azura Benguerra, with open-air beachfront villas and marine conservation programs.
