Seychelles is a gorgeous destination, with its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and unique wildlife. Snorkel around Sainte Anne Marine National Park, hike in Morne Seychellois National Park, or spot rare birds on Cousin Island. Discover what makes the Seychelles special in our travel guides.

Seychelles is an island nation, located in the Indian Ocean close to the east of Africa. It is known for its breathtaking beauty. Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands, 45 of which are granitic islands, while 74 are coralline islands. Its capital and largest city is Victoria. Popular as the island of love, Seychelles’ surreal beauty makes it a popular luxurious honeymoon destination. The most visited islands of Seychelles are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.

The best time to visit the Seychelles is between April and May, or October and November, as these are the calmer periods between the two trade winds which hit the island each year. The temperature in Seychelles remains around 30 degrees Celcius throughout the year with plenty of sunshine, cool breeze and tropical showers. These months are ideal for wildlife spotting, diving and snorkelling. Seychelles also sees a busy tourist season from mid-December till January on New Year and the holiday season across the world.

Staple foods in Seychelles include fish and seafood often eaten with rice. Fish-based dishes are prepared in different ways such as grilled, steamed, smoked, and wrapped in banana leaves. Curry dishes are served with rice. Among other popular dishes in Seychelles cuisine are fish curry, saffron rice, fresh tropical fruit like mangoes and coconut, and shark chutney. Coconut water, palm wine, and fresh juices are some of the common drinks. As the Seychellois cuisine is inspired from Indian cuisine, Indian travellers will find many curry based dishes and chutneys in the country.

Seychelles is home to some of the world’s best souvenirs, and the markets are a site to discover. Mahe offers the best shopping experience with its laid back markets and small shopping outlets. Sir Selwyn Clarke Market is a must-visit if you plan on bringing loads of souvenir back home such as traditional handicrafts, aromas, spices, teas and jewellery made from seashells. The classic souvenir in Seychelles is ‘Coco de Mer’ which requires a special export license.

The official languages of the island nation of Seychelles are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. However, Seychellois Creole is the most widely spoken language in the country, and the vast majority of Seychelles residents identify as native Seychellois Creole speakers.

1. MAHÉ ISLAND

Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles, and home to the country’s capital city, Victoria. Part of the Granitic Islands, a group of 45 islands made up of some of the world’s oldest granite rock, Mahé is renowned for its dense tropical forests, its white sand beaches and its mountain peaks. The tallest mountain in the Seychelles archipelago, Morne Seychellois, is located on this island. Hiking through some of the island’s national parks is a must. Climbing to the summit of Morne Blanc takes about 45 minutes and offers some of the best views of the Indian Ocean. Also popular is a visit to Sainte Anne Marine National Park, the largest marine park in the Seychelles. If you visit Mahé, be sure to visit the capital city to get a taste of Seychellois culture—including its unique blend of cuisine.

2. BIRD ISLAND

Bird Island is one of the many granitic islands in Seychelles that together form the inner island group. It is approximately 105 kilometres from Mahe and is known to be one of the most beautiful well kept natural islands. Bird’s nature and habitat is kept intact through all these years and is one that Seychelles can gladly boast about. True to its name, the island is known for being a safe haven for various kinds of birds who live here.

Bird Island was previously called the Ile aux Vaches which translates to the Island of the Manatees. The reason for this name was indeed the Manatees that were found in large amounts in the surrounding waters of Bird. Today, the island is a renowned spot that promotes ecotourism and has played a huge role in keeping the island green.

3. PRASLIN ISLAND

Praslin, or the Isle de Palme, is most popular for the Vallée de Mai UNESCO World Heritage Site and the coco de mer that grows here in abundance. Home to Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette that are coveted as two of the most beautiful beaches of the world, the island is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Seychelles.

This island is one of the most noteworthy one island on earth and it’s on the Indian ocean. It will take only 50 minutes to arrive at this beautiful place, and you can book a hotel in here as well, which is near the beach. You can soak up in the sun and do not forget to carry a binocular to experience the beautiful black parrots. These are very rare species of parrots and they are found in this place and in the Praslin national park as well, where you will get 200 of them. Also, try not to miss the Vallée de Mai for the biggest coral riffs in here. If you are here in Praslin Island, then do visit Coco de mer as well, and see the world’s biggest coconuts.

4. LA DIGUE ISLAND

The boutique island is known for the granite boulders that adorn the stunning beaches, such as Anse Source D’Argent. The island offers authentic island-style accommodations and traditional modes of transport, such as ox-carts and bicycles.

5. MOYENNE ISLAND

The island is most popular for the Giant Tortoises that roam here freely, the old ruins, and the pirate graves. Located towards the north coast of Mahe island, this island was abandoned until a Yorkshire editor purchased it in late 1960s and was the only person to inhabit the island until his death in 2012. As of now, this place remains a nature reserve and is visited by many tourists from all across the world as part of some organized trips.

This island is filled with 16,000 plants and trees like mahogany, mango, palm and several other. You will get to see the tortoise in here, and if you want, on permission you can feed them too. There is a church of saints in the island and you can buy small things from here like old doll’s haed and other old artifacts. There are some paranormal stories about this island as well, and you can hear about them from your guides or in the guidebook as well.

6. MEET GIANT ALDABRA TORTOISES ON CURIEUSE ISLAND

The fifth-largest island, Curieuse is a perfect place for people who love wildlife and also for wildlife photographers. It is famous for its red earth and is a bio reserve. Hawksbill, Aldabra tortoises, takamaka trees, etc. make this place a unique island. Almost 500 giant tortoises can be seen here.

7. SNORKELING

Snorkeling is one of the top water sports in Seychelles. With crystal clear turquoise water, the marine life of Seychelles is a delight to spot. Also, since the water around the islands is protected, the coral and sea life of Seychelles is well-developed. In Seychelles, you can snorkel directly from the beach or during an excursion to a snorkelling site. Some amazing sea life that you can see while snorkelling in Seychelles includes corals, manta rays, turtles, Butterflyfish, surgeonfish, pufferfish, parrotfish and angelfish. It is best to bring your own mask, snorkel and flippers. However, snorkelling equipment can also be rented from diving centres and resorts in Seychelles.

8. SCUBA DIVING

Diving in Seychelles is one of the most popular things to do. With more than 70 dive sites throughout the expanse and a climate that favours diving throughout the year, you are guaranteed the best scuba diving adventure in Seychelles. The underwater terrain formed by rocks, caves, wrecked ships, and coral reefs paints the best landscape while the visibility exceeds up to 30 meters. There are dive sites of all depths in Seychelles, beginning from a shallow 8 m and ending at the deepest 30 m. There are private yachts leading you to unspoiled locations. And there are professional courses to guarantee your safety.

Browse Seychelles Tour Packages