Indian Ocean Tour

Tues Jun 9   Victoria Parking booked. Alicante  
   

Alc to Amsterdam on Vueling VY1375 at 10.20 - 13.15

Seats 8D & 8E

Arrive terminal 3, usually G or H

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Wed Jun 10  

Ams - Muscat 20.25 - 05.15 on WY 0172 seats 11J & 11K

Oman Air uses the oneworld Lounge at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for its business class passengers. It is located in the Non-Schengen departure area between D and E Gates on the 3rd floor. Passengers should look for lounge number 40.

Muscat to Zanzibar 09.15 - 13.30 on WY 0705 seats 2D & 2F. Arrive terminal 3

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  Hotel Matlai

manage account - asked for airport pick up, confirmed, driver at arrivals hall

 
Thurs Jun 11 Hotel Matlai address - Michamvi Pingwe - tel +255 777 300 012  
Fri Jun 12 Hotel Matlai    
Sat Jun 13 Hotel Matlai    
Sun Jun 14 Hotel Matlai    
Mon Jun 15 Zanzibar

Our journey begins on the island paradise of Zanzibar where we discover jaw-dropping scenery, magnificent beaches and the floating fragrances of spice markets, all oozing with insight into the region’s rich history. Upon arrival we will be transferred to our centrally located hotel in Stone Town, the island’s capital, and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Overnight Tembo House Hotel and Apartments or similar.

 
Tues Jun 16 Zanzibar

A full day tour of the island. We will learn about Zanzibari history as we visit some of Stone Town’s most historic buildings. Later we take a boat to Prison Island to see giant tortoises and do a bit of snorkeling (equipment provided) before making our way to a spice farm to see, smell, and taste freshly grown spices and fruits.

Overnight Tembo House Hotel and Apartments or similar. (B)

 
Wed Jun 17 Zanzibar

Enjoy a day at leisure and the opportunity to wonder around Stone Town, with museums to explore, tiny bazaars to browse and superb Zanzibari restaurants to sample. Or the morning market - here, hessian sacks overflowing with black pepper, turmeric, cinnamon, and vanilla jostle for space with piles of fresh ginger, chillies, and nutmeg.

Overnight Tembo House Hotel and Apartments or similar. (B)

 
Thurs Jun 18 Zanzibar to Comoros

After breakfast we are transferred back to the airport for a short flight to Dar es Salaam, with an onward connection to Moroni arriving late afternoon. Transfer to our hotel for a two night stay.

Comoros Islands . This tiny archipelago set in the azure waters off Africa’s east coast. Three contrasting volcanic islands, all with irresistible charm, provide an escape from the bustle of life to a place of endless sequestered beaches, turquoise shallows, reefs teeming with life, and deep indigo ocean views that are bewilderingly beautiful.

Golden Tulip Grande Comore Moroni Resort & Spa. (B)

 
Fri Jun 19 Comoros

A full-day tour of Grande Comore. Drive across the island from the foothills of Mount Karthala, an impressive active volcano, to the high plateau of Diboini to view other extinct craters. We then proceed to the agricultural cooperative in Mbeni where you can see another ylang ylang distillery and a vanilla pods warehouse. After a stop for lunch, we hope to encounter lemurs and tortoises as well as the odd and legendary cœlacanthe fish. We continue to a famous rock formation shaped as a Dragon and we stop by the Salt Lake, which water colour may vary from white to blue turquoise. On our way back to Moroni we stop at the beautiful white sand beaches of Galawa and Chomoni where we can enjoy a swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Golden Tulip Grande Comore Moroni Resort & Spa. (BL)

 
Sat Jun 20 Comores to Mayotte

After a leisurely morning, we are transferred back to the airport for an afternoon flight to the French island of Mayotte where we stay overnight. Upon arrival make our way on foot the short distance to our hotel.Mayotte is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. As an overseas department and region of France, it holds a unique status within the European Union. The island’s population is primarily of Comorian descent, with a blend of African, Malagasy, French, and Arab influences shaping its culture and society. French is the official language, but Shimaore, a dialect of the Comorian language, is widely spoken. The island is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity. Despite being part of France, Mayotte’s remote location and distinct cultural heritage gives it a character that sets it apart from its mainland counterpart.

Overnight Ibis Styles Mayotte Aeroport or similar. (B)

 
Sun Jun 21 Mayotte to Reunion

A morning tour taking in the Mayotte’s highlights. We will visit MUMA Musée de Mayotte. We continue with the tour taking in mangrove swamps, a volcanic lake, and mudflats. Later we make our way back to the back for an afternoon flight to Reunion. Upon arrival we are transferred to our hotel located in the heart of Saint-Denis, the island’s capital.

Reunion Island, an overseas department of France. While its beaches may not resemble those of neighbouring Mauritius, Reunion compensates with its unique volcanic black sand shores and vibrant coral reefs. The island’s interior has lush forests teeming with rare flora and fauna, complemented by cascading waterfalls and the formidable Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes. The diverse cultural heritage, comes from European colonisers, African slaves, Indian labourers, and Chinese merchants

Overnight Hotel Le Juliette Dodu or similar. (B)

 
Mon Jun 22 Reunion

A full day tour of the island. Stops include Cascade Niagara – a pretty waterfall that is well hidden at the bottom of a sugar cane plantation, Notre-Dame des Laves – a church that sits at the bottom of an active volcano, and miraculously spared of its lava, the spectacular Route des Laves that leads to the Piton de La Fournaise – one of the most active volcanoes in the world and Trou du Souffleur – an impressive kind of geyser caused by waves. Return to Saint-Denis and our hotel by late afternoon.

Overnight Hotel Le Juliette Dodu or similar. (B)

 
Tues Jun 23 Reunion

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore the island’s capital. Visit the historic Le Barachois waterfront, admire the colonial architecture of Rue de Paris, and visit the captivating Musée Léon Dierx art museum. The Jardin de l’État botanical garden offers tranquillity, while the bustling market at Le Grand Marché showcases local crafts and flavours.

Overnight Hotel Le Juliette Dodu or similar. (B)

 
Wed Jun 24 Reunion to Rodrigues

After a leisurely morning, we will be transferred back to the airport where will check-in for the weekly flight from Reunion direct to the Rodrigues Island, located some 600km north-east of Mauritius, and close to no other landform. Upon arrival we will be transferred to our hotel, in time for dinner. In the event that we are unable to fly direct, we will travel via Mauritius, with a change of plane, still arriving in Rodrigues Island on the same day.

Rodrigues Island is among the remotest places one can visit. A mountainous gem that barely feels connected to the wider world. This pristine island is well known for its authentic culture, people, and unspoilt places. With its rugged coastlines, crystalline lagoons, and verdant hills, it offers breathtaking vistas for nature lovers and adventurers, and is renowned for its marine biodiversity.

Overnight C Rodrigues Mourouk or similar. (BD)

 
Thurs Jun 25 Rodrigues

A full day tour of the island. We start with a stop in the main town, Port-Mathurin, where we will visit the local market, St Gabriel Church, and the Rodrigues Island Museum, which traces the history and culture of this island. Then we have a chance to discover the island’s heavenly beaches, such as Trou d’Argent beach, Gravier beach or Saint-François beach, all of which offer breathtaking landscapes and crystal clear water. We continue the tour with a visit to François Leguat Nature Reserve, where we see giant tortoises and endemic birds before returning to our hotel.

Overnight C Rodrigues Mourouk or similar. (BD)

 
Fri Jun 26 Rodrigues to Mauritius

A late morning flight to Mauritius where will stay for three nights giving us to explore and to unwind. Upon arrival we will be transferred to our located on the waterfront in the island’s capital Port Louis. After check-in, the remainder of the day will be free.

Mauritius has managed to maintain its tropical island appeal with warm shallow lagoons, spice filled trade winds and a wild untamed south coast. It would be a shame to miss out on Mauritius’ cultural diversity and vibrant spirit, with Port Louis, the capital, exemplifying both within its European architecture and historic Chinatown district. Head to the UNESCO site of Aapravasi Ghat to unearth the island’s colonial history and relationship with India following the abolition of slavery.

Overnight Le Suffren Hotel & Marina. (B)

 
Sat Jun 27 Mauritius

A full day of the southeast island. Explore the bright blue waters of Eau Bleu Waterfall – one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Island, see the natural bridge at ‘Pont Naturel, formed from volcanic rock millions of years ago, enjoy the amazing views at le Souffleur – on the magnificent untouched raw side of the island and stop at Tookay – a charming colourful temple hidden in the middle of the sugar cane fields. After a typical Mauritian lunch, we stop to admire the breathtaking views at Gris Gris beach before we discover the Rochester Falls, a spectacular 33-foot waterfall. We may find some daring locals jumping off the 10m cliff into the water but bear in mind that they are experts and know the waterfalls inside out. Return to Port Louis and our hotel in the later afternoon.

Overnight Le Suffren Hotel & Marina. (BL)

 
Sun Jun 28 Mauritius

Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore the island’s bustling capital known for its vibrant markets, colonial architecture, and multicultural atmosphere. Explore the historic Le Caudan Waterfront, delve into the vibrant Central Market, and visit landmarks like the Aapravasi Ghat, reflecting the island’s rich history and diverse heritage.

Overnight Le Suffren Hotel & Marina. (BL)

 
Mon Jun 29 Mauritius to Seychelles

Our final flight of the tour, to the Seychelles where we will stay on the main island, Mahé for three nights. We will be transferred to our resort style hotel located just a few miles outside of the capital, Victoria.

Mahé, its largest island, is home to rare flora and fauna. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Victoria, the island’s capital, where colonial architecture meets bustling markets. Experience authentic island life amidst stunning natural beauty and savour local cuisine.

Overnight Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. (B)

 
Tues Jun 30 Seychelles

A day of Mahé Island with various stops including Victoria’s botanical garden, heritage sites, a rum distiller, and a tea factory. We will also stop at one of the island’s fine beaches for a swim. Return to our island by late afternoon.

Overnight Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. (B)

 
Wed Jul 1 Seychelles

Our last full day of the tour has been set aside at leisure to relax, or if you prefer to explore more of the island and its capital, just a 15 minute taxi ride away, on your own.

Overnight Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. (B)

 
Thurs Jul 2 Seychelles Departure

Today the tour ends after check-out from the hotel. A transfer to the airport will be provided to coincide with your international departure. (B)

 
  Flight To Spain

Emirates EK708 23.55 - 04.20 to Dubai seat 19B & 19C

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Fri Jul 3   Emirates , 07.40 - 13.30 to Madrid seat 43B & 43C  
    Iberia IB1015 Madrid to Alicante 19.40 - 20.55 seats 11A & 11C MGRDB

 

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