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Located in the Indian Ocean just off the east coast of Kenya, this tropical island is quiet and peaceful with a laid-back atmosphere. Established in the 14th century, the largest town is Lamu Town, described by the World Heritage List as "the oldest and best-preserved Swahili settlement in East Africa". Here travelers will find distinguishing architecture, carved doors, narrow streets, several mosques and bui bui clad women. Automobiles are not allowed on the island, so expect to travel the old-fashioned way - on foot. Donkeys can also be hired for transportation, but dhows are the most commo...

Like Seychelles, its neighbor to the northwest, Mauritius enters the 21st century as an exotic alternative to more traditional sun-and-fun beach destinations. This Indian Ocean crossroads has seen its share of cultural collisions – Dutch, French, British, Indian, and Creole – and today those influences flavor the island's colorful mix of religious festivals, as well as its spicy cuisine. French colonial buildings line the streets of the capital, Port Louis (where the Natural History Museum exhibits include a replica of the ill-fated, extinct dodo bird), and hikers can explore a world o...

Zanzibar is an archipelago made up of Zanzibar and Pemba Islands, and several islets. It is located in the Indian Ocean, about 25 miles from the Tanzanian coast, and 6° south of the equator. Zanzibar Island (known locally as Unguja, but as Zanzibar internationally) is 60 miles long and 20 miles wide, occupying a total area of approximately 650 square miles. It is characterised by beautiful sandy beaches with fringing coral reefs, and the magic of historic Stone Town - said to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa. Wildlife There are no large wild animals in Zanzibar, and fo...