The two busiest months of summer have come and gone, and the weather across much of Europe is already starting to turn. September often brings cooler temperatures and more rain, but it also marks the perfect time for those looking to escape somewhere warm, peaceful and less crowded.
There are still plenty of options for sunshine, especially if you’re open to going further afield. And for anyone dreaming of a tropical break without packed beaches, there are three stunning islands in Africa worth considering.
The Seychelles is made up of more than 100 islands in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar. It’s famous for white-sand beaches, granite rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
September falls within the dry and cool season, meaning there’s little rain, low humidity, and daytime temperatures averaging 27C. A light breeze comes from the southeast, keeping things fresh without disrupting beach days.
It’s a great time for swimming, hiking, and snorkelling, with excellent visibility in the water and fewer tourists.
Beaches like Anse Source d’Argent are picture-perfect, while the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin is home to rare Coco de Mer palms and giant tortoises.
Visitors can also hike through Morne National Park, explore the quiet streets of the capital city Victoria on Mahé island, or cycle around La Digue, one of the country’s smallest islands.
It’s worth noting that seaweed can sometimes wash up on some southern beaches, especially on Praslin, due to the southeast trade winds.
Located east of Madagascar, Mauritius is often called one of Africa’s most complete island destinations. It offers everything from diving and golf to hiking and beach resorts.
September is part of the island’s shoulder season, bringing pleasant daytime temperatures of 18-26C, very little rain, and smaller crowds.
There are good last-minute hotel deals, and the sea is warm enough for swimming and water sports, though conditions can be windier on the east coast.
Nature lovers can visit the Black River Gorges National Park or spot giant tortoises at La Vanille Nature Park.
The capital, Port Louis, has markets, museums, and colourful streets, while the coastline is dotted with beaches perfect for relaxing or sailing trips.
Evenings can feel cooler, especially in breezier areas, so it’s a good idea to pack a light jacket or jumper.
Located off the southern coast of Mozambique, the Bazaruto Archipelago is made up of six small islands known for their white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and abundant marine life.
September is one of the best months to visit, with clear skies, dry weather, and warm temperatures averaging around 27C. The calm seas offer excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling, and it’s also peak season for spotting humpback whales as they finish their migration.
Visitors can explore coral reefs, see dolphins and sea turtles, or even spot the rare dugong in the shallow waters. The islands are also popular for deep-sea fishing, with marlin and sailfish often active this time of year.
For something more relaxing, you can take a dhow cruise through the archipelago and watch flamingos and other birds feeding along the shoreline.
The only thing to keep in mind is that accommodation on the islands can be more limited and expensive compared to the mainland, so booking ahead is advised.