Glorioso Islands Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Glorioso Islands with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, things to do, local culture, and travel tips.


Introduction to Glorioso Islands

Glorioso Islands, located in the Indian Ocean, is an archipelago consisting of two islands and several small islets situated northeast of Madagascar. These pristine, uninhabited islands are protected territories of France and are known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Glorioso Islands.

List of Places to Visit in Glorioso Islands

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Although the islands have a limited number of museums and historical sites, they still offer plenty of cultural attractions that visitors can explore. Some of the significant cultural attractions include:

  • The Chapel of Notre-Dame-des-Glorieuses
  • The old lighthouse
  • The weather station
  • The abandoned coconut plantations

Natural Attractions of Glorioso Islands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Glorioso Islands boasts a stunning variety of natural attractions and outdoor activities, from snorkeling and diving to hiking and wildlife watching. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions on the islands:

  • Plage du Lagon: Glorioso Islands’ famous beach is a beautiful sweep of powdery white sand lapped by crystal-clear water, making it an ideal place to swim or relax.
  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling Sites: Glorioso Islands’ healthy coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, including blacktip sharks, turtles, and moray eels, making it the perfect spot for diving and snorkeling.
  • Grande Glorieuse: This island is home to a rich diversity of birdlife, rare sea turtles, and giant coconut crabs.
  • The Lighthouse: The lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and the vast ocean beyond.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Glorioso Islands

Glorioso Islands is one of the best-kept secrets for hikers and bikers due to its natural terrain and incredible landscapes. Some of the popular hiking and biking trails on the island include:

  • The 25 km Grand camp nature trail explores the Grande Glorieuse island’s dense forest and wild landscapes
  • The Leapers climb: The iconic high site is an exciting climb and offers breathtaking views of Grande Glorieuse island and the sea.
  • The beachside trek along the Plage du Lagon which offers gentle walks.

Best Things to Do in Glorioso Islands: Activities and Tours

Apart from natural attractions, Glorioso Islands offers a range of activities and tours. Some of the popular activities include:

  • Fishing tours: Local fishermen offer half-day and full-day fishing trips as one of the most popular activities on the islands.
  • Scuba diving and snorkeling: Glorioso Islands’ healthy coral reefs are home to a diverse array of marine life, making for a fantastic experience for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
  • Bird Watching: Grande Glorieuse Island is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and visitors can spot several species of seabirds, waders, and migrants in their natural habitats.
  • Kayaking and Canoeing: Visitors can enjoy kayaking or canoeing amidst the calm waters of the lagoon surrounding the islands.
  • Night Safaris: Visitors can embark on a night safari to spot rare sea turtles and coconut crabs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Glorioso Islands

For a perfect week-long itinerary for Glorioso Islands, consider the following plan:

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatization. Day 2: Explore the natural attractions of Plage du Lagon and Grande Glorieuse. Day 3: Discover the rich culture of Glorioso Islands through its historical sites, such as the old lighthouse. Day 4: Hike/bike to the Lighthouse for breathtaking views of the islands and the Indian Ocean. Day 5: Embark on a fishing tour or take part in activities like scuba, snorkeling, or kayaking. Day 6: Go on a night safari to spot sea turtles, coconut crabs, and other nocturnal animals. Day 7: Relax and unwind on the beach or explore other nearby excursions.

Food and Drink Scene of Glorioso Islands

Must-Try Dishes

Glorioso Islands is known for its mouth-watering seafood dishes, influenced by French and African flavors. Some of the must-try dishes on the islands include:

  • Grouper in coconut milk
  • Curry with octopus
  • Sautéed shrimp
  • Grilled fish with papaya

Local Beverages

Visitors to Glorioso Islands can enjoy the local beer, Cuvée Glorieuse, and the sweet cocktail, Coco Ti’punch, a popular rum-based cocktail made with coconut.

Where to Stay in Glorioso Islands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

As an uninhabited archipelago, there are no hotels, hostels, or guesthouses on Glorioso Islands. Visitors can, however, enjoy the experience of staying in the French Army’s comfortable accommodations on the island. The Government accommodation is accessible through pre-booking with the mandatory authorization.

What to Buy in Glorioso Islands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors looking to take home a piece of Glorioso Islands should consider buying the following items:

  • Handcrafted jewelry and accessories made with pearls and shells
  • Local spices and condiments like vanilla and cinnamon
  • Souvenir T-shirts and hats
  • Carvings and sculptures made of coconut leaf stalks and pods

Local Culture and Customs of Glorioso Islands

Glorioso Islands’ culture is a melting pot of African, Malagasy, and French influences. Visitors to the islands should expect a warm welcome and are advised to respect the locals’ customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Glorioso Islands

The best time to visit Glorioso Islands is between May and November when the weather is dry and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Glorioso Islands

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages
  • Take part in outdoor activities and tours
  • Carry appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter the beaches and the environment.
  • Swim in restricted areas or approach wildlife too closely.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Glorioso Islands

Glorioso Islands is a safe destination for visitors. Still, they are advised to take precautions like avoiding restricted areas, not venturing too far from the beaches without a guide, and checking the weather before embarking on outdoor activities.

Health in Glorioso Islands

Visitors to Glorioso Islands are advised to take appropriate measures to protect themselves from mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and chikungunya. You must carry the necessary medication and consult your doctor before traveling to the islands.

Getting to Glorioso Islands: Transportation Options and Logistics

Glorioso Islands are remote and not easily accessible. The best ways to reach the islands are:

Airports Near Glorioso Islands

The closest international airports are in Antananarivo, Madagascar, and Réunion Island. Connecting flights from the international airports can be made to Dzaoudzi Pamandza airport in Mayotte, with only one flight per week to Glorioso Islands.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Glorioso Islands by sea through chartered boats or private yachts.

How to Get Around in Glorioso Islands

Glorioso Islands are tiny and undeveloped, and visitors can explore the islands on foot or by bicycle. Visitors will need the required authorisation to come to Glorioso Islands.

Where to Go Next from Glorioso Islands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After a trip to Glorioso Islands, visitors can explore other nearby destinations like Mayotte, Madagascar, and Réunion Island, which offer plenty of attractions like national parks, beaches, and cultural sites.

Conclusion

Glorioso Islands is a hidden gem and the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The islands’ natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly locals offer a unique travel experience that visitors will always cherish. Plan your trip to Glorioso Islands with the help of our comprehensive travel guide, and explore everything that the islands have to offer.