Seychelles

Seychelles: general info for travelers

Seychelles is a beautiful archipelago in the Indian Ocean, made up of 115 islands located off the east coast of Africa. It's known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique wildlife, including giant tortoises and a variety of exotic birds. The islands have a tropical climate and are a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sea, and sand. The country's economy is largely based on tourism and fishing, and it has a multicultural population, with influences from African, Asian, and European cultures. The official languages are Creole, English, and French, and the currency is the Seychellois rupee. Seychelles is one of the world's smallest countries, but it is also one of the most beautiful.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Seychelles, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Seychelles: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the main places to visit in Seychelles along with a brief description of each: 1. Mahe Island - The largest and most populated island of Seychelles, Mahe is home to the capital city of Victoria, beautiful beaches, dramatic mountain vistas, and vibrant Creole culture.
2. Praslin Island - Known for its stunning beaches, Praslin Island is a popular destination for those seeking a tropical paradise. One of the best-known beaches here is Anse Lazio, which is regularly ranked among the world’s best beaches.
3. La Digue Island - La Digue is a tiny island that’s best explored by bicycle or on foot. The island is home to some of Seychelles’ most picturesque beaches, including Anse Source d’Argent, with its striking granite formations and turquoise waters.
4. Aldabra Atoll - This remote island chain is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including giant Aldabra tortoises and nesting green turtles. The atoll is only accessible by guided tour, but it’s well worth the effort to visit this unique and biodiverse ecosystem.
5. Aride Island - Aride Island is one of Seychelles’ most important nature reserves, covering just over 1 square mile. Visitors to the island can observe a wide range of unique plant and animal species, including the endangered Seychelles warbler and scops owl.
Overall, Seychelles is a spectacular destination with plenty to offer travelers seeking natural beauty, unique wildlife, and a laid-back island vibe.
There is more to see and do in Seychelles: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Seychelles: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Seychelles, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Seychelles has a warm and tropical climate throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C. However, the weather can be divided into two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season.
The dry season in Seychelles runs from May to October with low humidity and little rainfall. The months of June to September are the coolest, making it an ideal time for holidaymakers who want to avoid the heat.
The wet season in Seychelles runs from November to April. During this season, the weather is hot and humid with a greater chance of rainfall. The months of December to February are usually the wettest, with occasional short bursts of heavy rain.
The best time to visit Seychelles is during the dry season from May to October, when the weather is milder, humidity is lower and there is little rainfall. However, even during the wet season, Seychelles is still an excellent destination for vacationers, as rainfall is usually short and intermittent, and there is still plenty of sunshine.

Seychelles: activities and what to do

Seychelles is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and offers a wide range of water-based activities and sports for travelers. Here are some popular activities and sports to do on holiday in Seychelles: 1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: Seychelles is known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkeling and scuba diving are must-do activities for travelers who want to witness the underwater world.
2. Surfing: The beaches of Seychelles are ideal for surfing, especially during the southwest monsoon season from May to September.
3. Fishing: Whether you want to go deep-sea fishing or fly-fishing, Seychelles offers various fishing experiences for travelers.
4. Kayaking: Renting a kayak is a popular way to explore the coastlines of Seychelles and take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding areas.
5. Windsurfing: Seychelles is known for its consistent trade winds, which make it an ideal place for windsurfing.
6. Parasailing: Parasailing is a thrilling activity that lets you see the beautiful islands of Seychelles from a unique viewpoint.
7. Hiking and Trekking: There are many trails and paths that take you through the lush forests and hills of Seychelles, and hiking and trekking are great ways to explore the natural beauty of the islands.
These are just a few of the many activities and sports that Seychelles has to offer. Whatever your interests, there is something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Seychelles: few words on history and culture

The Seychelles is a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa. The islands were first discovered by Arab traders in the 9th century and were later colonized by the French in the late 18th century. The British took control of the islands in the early 19th century and they gained independence in 1976.
The Seychelles is a multicultural country and has a diverse population, with influences from African, Indian, Chinese, and European cultures. The Creole culture is predominant in Seychelles, which has a unique blend of French, African, and Asian elements. The country also has a rich history of art, music, and literature, which reflects the mix of cultures and influences.
One of the main attractions of Seychelles is its natural beauty, with stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green forests. The country also has a varied cuisine, which includes seafood, Creole dishes, and international cuisine. The Seychelles is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Vallée de Mai, which is home to the Coco de Mer palm tree and is believed to be the original Garden of Eden.

Seychelles: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transport to reach and visit Seychelles are by air and by sea. You can reach Seychelles by flying into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) which is located on the island of Mahe. There are many major airlines that operate flights to Seychelles from different parts of the world. Once you are in Seychelles, you can use inter-island flights, ferry services, or small boats to travel between the different islands.
For inter-island flights, there are several airlines such as Air Seychelles, Zil Air, and Island Development Company that operate regular flights between the different islands. The ferry services are managed by Inter-Island Ferry Seychelles and Cat Cocos. These ferry services operate between Mahe, Praslin, La Digue, and some of the other smaller islands.
If you are looking for a more personalized experience, you can hire small boats, yachts, or catamarans to visit the different islands of Seychelles. This is a great way to explore the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Seychelles. To hire a car to visit Seychelles, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Seychelles: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Seychelles with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the main typical foods of Seychelles: 1. Fish Curry - This is a popular dish in Seychelles and usually consists of fish marinated in a mixture of spices, including ginger, turmeric, garlic, and chili. It is cooked with coconut milk, onions, and tomatoes and served with rice and lentil soup.
2. Octopus Curry - Another popular seafood curry in Seychelles is made with octopus. The curry is flavored with ginger, garlic, turmeric, and coriander, and is usually served with rice or breadfruit.
3. Ladob - This is a sweet dessert made from ripe plantains cooked in coconut milk, sugar, and flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg. Sometimes, sweet potato and cassava are also added to the dish.
4. Rougaille - This is a tomato-based sauce that can be used as a dip or served with meat or fish. It is made with fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili and is often seasoned with herbs like thyme and parsley.
5. Fruit Bat Curry - Though not for the faint-hearted, fruit bat curry is a delicacy in Seychelles. The bat is cooked in a curry sauce made with spices, garlic, ginger, and chili and is served with rice.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods in Seychelles. The cuisine there is a delicious mix of African, Indian, and European influences.

Seychelles: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Yes, Seychelles is generally considered as an expensive country for tourists compared to other destinations in the region. The cost of food, accommodation, and transportation are significantly higher than in many other countries due to the limited economy and high prices for imports. However, there are ways to save money such as choosing budget accommodation options, eating at local restaurants, and participating in free or low-cost activities like hiking or visiting public beaches. It's also worth noting that the stunning natural beauty and unique experiences of Seychelles can be worth the expense for many travelers.

Seychelles: where to find accodation

There are several ways to look for accommodation in Seychelles. 1. Online booking websites: Sites like Booking.com, Agoda, and Airbnb offer a range of options for all budgets. You can browse through different types of accommodations and check for availability, compare prices, and read reviews from previous guests.
2. Contacting hotels directly: You can visit the website of a particular hotel or resort and check availability and rates directly through their booking system. Most of the hotels in Seychelles also offer airport transfers and other services for their guests.
3. Local travel agencies or tour operators: You can contact a local travel agent or tour operator in Seychelles, who can help you find the best accommodation as per your requirements. They can also arrange transportation, tours, and other activities during your stay.
It is recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year, to ensure availability and avoid last-minute hassles.
You can check hotel prices in Seychelles here:
Booking.com

Seychelles: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
Seychelles receives around 350,000 tourists annually. The peak tourist season in Seychelles is generally from December to January and again from July to August. During these periods it can be fairly crowded, and it's important to book accommodation and transportation well in advance to avoid any issues. The shoulder seasons from April to May and October to November can be a good time to visit, as the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are smaller. However, it's important to note that with the current ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, travel restrictions and tourist numbers may vary.
Yes, Seychelles is generally considered to be a safe country for tourists. However, it is always recommended to take the necessary precautions as you would in any foreign country. Crime rates are low, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded tourist areas.
There are no specific areas to be avoided in Seychelles, but it is advisable to exercise caution and avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas. It is always a good idea to stay informed about the local news and follow the advice of local authorities to stay safe during your trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Seychelles on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Seychelles: events for tourists

Seychelles offers many interesting events for tourists throughout the year. Here are some of the most popular ones: 1. Seychelles Carnival (April/May) - a vibrant and colorful procession with live music and traditional dance performances.
2. SUBIOS (October) - a popular underwater photography and film festival showcasing the beauty of the Seychelles’ marine life.
3. Festival Kreol (October) - a celebration of the Creole culture with traditional music, dance, and cuisine.
4. La Digue Island's Feast (August) - a traditional feast celebrated on La Digue island with food, music, and sports events.
5. Seychelles Ocean Festival (November) - a celebration of the Seychelles’ connection to the ocean with activities such as snorkeling and paddling races.
These events offer great opportunities to experience the culture and natural beauty of Seychelles along with its friendly people.

Seychelles: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Seychelles, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a suggested two-week itinerary for a typical tourist in Seychelles: Day 1-3: Mahe Island - Explore the capital city of Victoria - Visit the Botanical Garden - Relax on Beau Vallon Beach - Hike or drive around Mahe Island to see stunning views Day 4-6: Praslin Island - See the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vallée de Mai nature reserve - Relax on Anse Lazio or Anse Georgette beaches - Visit La Digue Island for a day trip Day 7-10: La Digue Island - Take a bike tour around the island to see the stunning granite rocks - Visit Anse Source d’ Argent, one of the world's most beautiful beaches - Go snorkeling and see the amazing marine life Day 11-14: Silhouette Island - Go scuba diving or snorkeling to explore coral reefs - Hike in the national park to reach the summit of Mount Dauban - Relax on the secluded beaches of the island This itinerary is just a suggestion, and you can always modify it according to your preferences. I hope you enjoy your trip to Seychelles!

Seychelles: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Seychelles described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Anse Boileau is a coastal village located on the southwestern coast of the island of Mahé in the Seychelles. It is a popular destination for its beautiful beaches and stunning natural scenery. The vil... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Boileau
- Anse Etoile is a district located on the north eastern coast of the island of Mahe in Seychelles. It is home to the Anse Etoile Primary School, one of the oldest and largest schools on the island. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Etoile
- Anse Intendance is a secluded beach located in the south of Mahe Island, Seychelles. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand and dramatic landscape with massive granite boulders. It is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Intendance
- Anse La Farine is a secluded and serene beach located on the southeastern coast of Praslin Island, Seychelles. This beach is nestled between lush vegetation and granite boulders, giving it a unique wi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse La Farine
- Anse Possession is a beautiful beach located on the northwestern coast of Praslin Island in the Seychelles. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning scenery, it's a popular spot for swimming, snork... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Possession
- Anse Royale is a beautiful coastal village located on the southeastern coast of Mahe, the largest and most populous island in Seychelles. It is known for its scenic beaches with turquoise waters, palm... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Royale
- Anse Volbert is a white sandy beach located on the northeastern coast of Praslin island in Seychelles. The beach spans over a kilometer and is known for its calm turquoise waters, making it an ideal s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Anse Volbert
- Baie Lazare is a district located on the southern coast of the main island of Mahe in the Seychelles. It is named after the 18th-century French explorer Lazare Picault, who is credited to have discove... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baie Lazare
- Beau Vallon is a coastal village located on the northwest coast of Mahé island, which is the largest island of Seychelles. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in Seychelles due to its beautifu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Beau Vallon
- Glacis is a district located on the northwest coast of Mahé Island in Seychelles. It is about 10 kilometers away from the capital city, Victoria. The area is known for its stunning beaches, including ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Glacis
- La Digue is a small island located in the Seychelles archipelago, situated Northeast of Mahe and Praslin islands. It is known for its pristine beaches, crystal clear waters, and scenic landscapes. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to La Digue
- Mahé is the largest and most populated island in Seychelles, an archipelago nation located in the Indian Ocean. The island spans an area of approximately 157 square kilometers, and has a population of... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mahé
- Praslin is the second-largest island in Seychelles, located in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. Praslin is home to the Vallee de... CONTINUE here for a trip to Praslin
- Takamaka is a district located on the southwestern coast of the island of Mahé in Seychelles. The district takes its name from the Takamaka tree, which is commonly found in the area. It is a popular t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Takamaka
- Victoria is the capital city of Seychelles and is located on the island of Mahé. It is the smallest capital city in the world with a population of approximately 25,000 people. The city is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Victoria


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