The Indian Ocean island of Réunion is home to an intoxicating cultural mix of French, African and Asian influences. The lush landscape of spectacular lakes and rugged mountains has been shaped by volcanic activity, and the smouldering Piton de la Fournaise is one of the world’s most active volcanoes.

Tuléar (also known as Toliara) is located on Madagascar’s southwest coast, with some great snorkelling and diving just offshore. The small Renala Private Reserve, just to the north of the town, preserves part of Madagascar’s spiny forest, a unique ecosystem that supports rare wildlife including grey mouse lemurs and spider tortoises.

The port city of Majunga (also known as Mahajanga) is woven from diverse cultural influences, with historic links to both India and the African mainland. It’s a two-hour drive to Ankarafantsika National Park, one of the largest remaining areas of deciduous forest in Madagascar, home to numerous species of lemur and chameleon.

The protected marine reserve of Nosy Tanikely is a fantastic spot for snorkelling, with amazingly clear waters and colourful marine life including parrot fish, angelfish, rays, dolphins and sea turtles. You can also hike up to the lighthouse at the island’s summit for wonderful sea views.

The small, turtle-shaped island of Nosy Komba has some lovely beaches and calm waters, sheltered by the volcanic rocks that surround it. Take a stroll around the village of Ampangoriana, meet the friendly locals and visit the fantastic Black Lemur Sanctuary.

Lovely little La Digue is every inch the desert island idyll, and with less tourist development than Mahé or Praslin to impinge on your Robinson Crusoe fantasies. This is a place where many locals still get around by ox cart, and the beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Seychelles.