History and Culture
The history and culture of the sovereign states and dependent territories making up the Indian Ocean are diverse and deeply rooted in tribal heritages and traditions, with influences from foreign settlers and colonists. Most of the archipelagos, islands, and atolls on the Indian Ocean were uninhabited until the colonial period, unlike the Pacific Ocean where even the most remote areas were reached by the civilisation. With such history, the region remains exceptionally untouched through and through. Experience the rich culture of the cosmopolitan region by immersing yourself in these activities and experiences:
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Visit the royal hill of Ambohimanga, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising an imperial city and graveyard in Antananarivo, Madagascar, where cultural and spiritual heritage are thriving.
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Retrace the beginning of the indentured labour diaspora in Port Louis, Mauritius, where you can find Aapravasi Ghat – a former immigration depot that shaped one of the global bonded labour systems and witnessed one of the greatest human migrations in history.
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Learn about the local lifestyle and native customs in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a traditional Maasai village in Tanzania that gives insight into African culture – watch the warriors’ demonstration of making fire and spear throwing and observe how women craft beaded jewellery.
