LONDON (10 August 2023) — The 100-page Indian Ocean guide, included free of charge with the September issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK), is out now.

The special proves that it pays to explore when it comes to this beguiling region. There are big-hitting features on an idyllic small-ship cruise to the reefs and residential islands of the Maldives, tackling Réunion’s volcanic heart on two wheels, Sri Lanka’s newest long-distance hiking trail through the leafy highlands and the unique fusion cuisine of Mauritius, showcased by local people and seen through the camera lens of an award-winning photographer.

Georgia Stephens, editor of the Indian Ocean supplement, said: “Just uttering the words ‘Indian Ocean’ feels like an invitation for muscles to relax and for lungs to exhale; they conjure visions of white sands lapped by warm seas. But to limit the region to this wouldn’t do it justice – it’s all true, of course, but there’s much to discover.”

“Island-hopping around the Seychelles leads not just to sea and sand but to craft boutiques and Creole culture. And in the Maldives, just beyond those tempting overwater villas lie residential islands offering a taste of local life. Yes, you could approach the Indian Ocean in the same way that a snorkeller might, floating on the surface admiring the extraordinary view, but dive a little deeper and you never know what you may find.”

ALSO INSIDE THIS SUPPLEMENT:

• Seychelles: A two-week island-hopping adventure around the archipelago.
• Mozambique: Join marine scientists predicting the future in the Bazaruto Archipelago.
• Active Maldives: How to sail, cook with locals or conquer the waves surrounding the coral atolls.
• Real desert islands: Remote trips to get away from it all, from surf breaks to hippy escapes.
• Rum: A closer look at the Indian Ocean’s inventive producers and distilleries.
• Family: Getaways for all ages, from a southern Indian cruise to a trip for budding scientists.
• Report: How tourism can help turn the tide on climate change, in the region that’s worst affected by it.
• Just launched: The most exciting new tours, resorts and experiences to look out for in the region.
• Festivals & events: A month-by-month guide to where to go when.

Read a sample of the Indian Ocean supplement here.