IMAGES: FLAVIO SALGADO; GETTY


For surfer cool


LOVE BALI? WHY NOT TRY MENTAWAI, INDONESIA


Bali may have helped put surfing on the map, but those craving the laid- back atmosphere that first made the island famous should set their sights on the Mentawai Islands. Around 90 miles west of Sumatra,


this remote Indonesian archipelago is made up of around 70 islands. They’re best known for their long, reef-break waves, but inland the islands offer a different kind of draw: Indigenous Mentawai communities, many of whom still practise traditional tattooing and live off the rainforest much as their ancestors did. Consistent swells and warm


tropical waters have made the Mentawais one of the world’s most celebrated surf destinations, attracting everyone from seasoned professionals to adventurous intermediates. Yet despite its reputation, the islands retain a


wonderfully remote feel. Direct charter flights from Kuala Lumpur are expected to launch in 2027, but for now, a journey of around 10 hours including a flight to Padang followed by a ferry, helps to keep visitor numbers low. Days are spent chasing legendary


reef breaks such as Lance’s Right, snorkelling coral reefs or exploring jungle-fringed shores, before gathering for sunset drinks and fire- cooked seafood with fellow surfers. The Mentawais remain largely


low-key. Accommodation is centred around relaxed surf camps and intimate beachfront resorts rather than large-scale developments, preserving the easygoing spirit that has long defined the islands. HOW TO DO IT: Stays at Hollow Tree’s Resort start from $275 (£206) per night, with a minimum four- night stay. htsresort.com


For wildlife


LOVE MADAGASCAR? WHY NOT TRY COMOROS


Madagascar is rightly celebrated for its wildlife, but neighbouring Comoros offers remarkable biodiversity in a far more intimate setting. Set between Madagascar and mainland Africa, the volcanic archipelago is one of the Indian Ocean’s least-visited destinations, and its pristine reefs, lush forests and marine reserves shelter an impressive array of wildlife. A guided tour is the best way to


explore responsibly. Highlights include the Mwali Unesco Biosphere Reserve, where humpback whales, spinner dolphins, manta rays and tropical fish thrive alongside one of the world’s most important green turtle nesting beaches. Inland, forests shelter Livingstone’s fruit bats and mongoose lemurs. HOW TO DO IT: Intrepid has a nine-day Comoros trip from £2,880 per person. intrepidtravel.com


From left: The Mentawai Islands are home to more than 70 named surf breaks; many of the Mentawai Islands’ beaches remain completely undeveloped


NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER – INDIAN OCEAN COLLECTION 7


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