Adorable or not, the Seychelles islands are as close to heaven as it gets: beach vacations will never be the same after you’ve felt the sand under your toes and paddled in the pristine waters.
The Seychelles archipelago, which consists of 115 topical islands, is a place where you can find pristine white sand beaches that resemble driven snow, frothy turquoise waters that are home to vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of marine life, and hidden coves where you can have your very own Robinson Crusoe moment alone with only birds and tortoises.
Even though Mahé is the largest and busiest island, it nevertheless contains a good number of quiet bays that can only be reached by foot, speedboat, or yacht. Along with its sisters Praslin and La Digue, it draws tourists in droves.
On the other side, more daring tourists might want to take a flying boat to farther-flung islands like Fregate or Bird Island, where they can enjoy exclusive beaches. Because of the variety of wildlife on these islands, birdwatchers and environment enthusiasts find them particularly appealing.
This Indian Ocean archipelago has seen a flourishing of uncommon plant species due to the lack of human habitation on many of the islands. The clear waters of this place make for unforgettable adventures such as scuba diving and snorkeling, which are the greatest ways to witness the abundant tropical life beneath the waves.
However, Seychelles is more than just a protected area in nature. The nation is home to people descended from immigration from Europe, Asia, and Africa who carried their traditions and practices with them to the islands, making it a true melting pot of cultures. Thanks to the delicious fusion cuisine of the archipelago, this intense combination is very gratifying to the taste buds.
Assuming your finances can support it, the incredibly seductive Seychelles will definitely make you want to go again.
Things to See and Do in the Seychelles
- Relax on the beach
There are no buildings, no crowds, just pristine beaches here. They are paradise on the beach. It’s an excellent area to swim or snorkel because the water is warm and transparent. The beaches at Beau Vallon, Anse Lazio, and Anse Source d’Argent are not to be missed.
- Explore Vallee de Mai
On Praslin, this area is both a national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to an astounding variety of flora and animals, such as the uncommon sea coconut, or coco de Mer, which is found in just two locations worldwide. Additionally, a variety of screw pine and latanier palms are visible.
- Climb Morne Blanc
This enjoyable and strenuous climb, which is part of the Morne Seychellois National Park, leads you past tea plantations and to a vantage point with sweeping views of the island. Come by early in the morning to avoid the clouds. Climbing takes somewhat less than an hour.
- Visit Aldabra Atoll
This UNESCO Site, which consists of four coral islands with a shallow lagoon in the center and a coral reef surrounding it, is one of the biggest elevated coral atolls in the world. With 125,000 of them living here, it’s also thought to have been the giant land tortoise’s original home.
- Enjoy the food
You can gorge on a variety of major staples, including as curries, seafood, and coconut. Locals refer to Coco Rogue as a “secret spot” since it has some of the best meals in the area. Bonbon Plume is a well-liked destination for enjoying delectable regional cuisine.
Other Things to See and Do in Seychelles
- Get active
After relaxing on the beach, take some time to partake in the recreational offerings of the island. Activities including golf, squash, snorkeling, kayaking, badminton, paddle-boarding, tennis, and hiking are easily accessible and reasonably priced; in fact, most hotels provide them. Snorkeling trips cost approximately 400 SCR per day, whereas kayak and SUP adventures start at 640 SCR. If you want to save money, bring your own snorkeling equipment (trips and rentals add up quickly).
- Explore Cousin Island
Cousin Island, a protected nature reserve with approximately 300,000 native birds, is located just over a mile southwest of Praslin. Established in 1968 with the express purpose of protecting the avian populations, this place allows you to stroll through a dense forest and observe a wide variety of bird species. Seychelles Magpie Robins are endangered, so keep a watch out for them. Each participant must pay 600 SCR to enter.
- Hike Nid d’Aigle
Hiking to La Digue’s highest point is a great way to spend a day. The expansive vistas of La Digue and the surrounding islands are breathtaking. The trip is 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long and rises to an elevation of 333 meters (1,092 feet). Most hikers finish in 1.5 to 2 hours. Don’t forget to bring lots of water, sunscreen, and snacks. Try to go on a hike early in the day before it becomes too hot.
- Visit L’Union Estate Farm
This was the hub of production when La Digue’s primary industry was coconut growing. Located just south of La Passe, the estate is currently managed as a non-official museum/theme park and is recognized as a national heritage monument. You can visit the boatyard, the colonial-era graveyard, and the Old Plantation House. There are also some demonstrations of how the coconuts were picked. Giant tortoises are even kept in a pen. Each participant must pay 100 SCR to enter.
- Search for the Veuve Bird
The Veuve Nature Reserve, which was established especially to conserve the Veuve (the black paradise flycatcher), is located in La Digue. This little black-and-purple bird is highly endangered and native to the island. Less than 300 remain in the Seychelles due to habitat destruction that has devastated the island nation’s native ecology. It is possible to schedule guided tours that will undoubtedly locate the bird. 150 SCR gets you in, 200 SCR gets you in with a guide.
- Check out the Natural History Museum
If the weather isn’t ideal, visit Victoria’s Natural History Museum (on Mahé) instead of the beaches. It’s modest, but well worth a visit if you want to know more about the geology and animals of the island. In addition to featuring exhibits on the island’s militia and military, the museum showcases all of the island’s flora and fauna. The museum also focuses on natural disasters and environmental challenges that pose a threat to the future of the country.
- Wander the Botanical Gardens
The notorious coco de mer palms are just one of the features of the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, which is located in Victoria and provides a closer look at the native flora and animals. The gardens, which cover 14 acres and date back more than a century, are home to gigantic tortoises and fruit bats, some of which are over 150 years old. Don’t miss the stunning orchid house! It costs 100 SCR to enter.
- Go diving
In the Seychelles, there are several amazing diving sites, including as Marianne Island, Shark Bank, Dredger Wreck, Ennerdale Wreck, and Fisherman’s Cove Reef. Whale sharks can be seen if you go between May and September, which is the monsoon season. All year long, there are also lots of manta rays and sharks in this area. Costs for a single-tank dive start at 785 SCR.
- Learn to surf
Although good waves are available here year-round, April to September is when the best waves occur. Depending on skill level, group surf lessons cost between 2,000 and 3,000 SCR per person and last for three to four hours. Approximately 3,900 SCR is spent on an individual lesson. For those with more experience, Anse Bougainville, North East Point, Misfit Baya, and Anse Royale are strong possibilities; Carana Beach is a suitable choice for novice surfers.
- Wander around one of the bazaars
Taking a leisurely stroll through a bazaar is an excellent opportunity to experience the local atmosphere and engage with the local population. Showcasing native Creole food, drink, and music, the market Victoria is located on the way to the New Port and features stalls offering jewelry, t-shirts, and souvenirs. Sundays at Roche Copra in Baie Lazare are dedicated to Bazaar Oven, which provides a taste of the Seychellois Creole way of life through food, drink, snacks, and music. One of the most well-liked bazaars in the Seychelles for both locals and visitors is the Labrin bazaar at Beau Vallon beach. Every Wednesday starting in the afternoon, there are merchants selling a wide variety of handmade goods and local products. In addition, they perform the customary “moutia” dance close to the fire. Bazaar Au Cap, which is only accessible during national holidays, is another well-liked event where you may sample “Kalou,” a palm wine produced in the area.
- Eat street food
The cuisine of the Seychelles is based on the rich Creole heritage of the region. For main courses, they serve some great fish and curries (including fruit bat curry for the more daring!). For snacks, they have breadfruit, cassava, and banana chips; for desserts, they have papaya salads and banana and coconut cake. Takeout food establishments can be found in the towns and along several of the busier beaches. It’s essential to eat at Bazaar Labrin on Beau Vallon beach and take in the sunset.
Accommodation – Budget tourists must locate inexpensive guesthouses because the Seychelles lacks hostels. The most affordable guesthouses often have nightly rates of about 1,000 SCR. Free Wi-Fi and self-catering accommodations are common features.
On the islands, Airbnb offers private rooms for as little as 1,400 SCR if you reserve in advance; however, 2,500 SCR is more typical. Prices for a whole house or apartment start at 1,615 SCR per night, although they usually approach 3,000 SCR.
As of right now, there are no campgrounds on the islands, and wild camping is forbidden.
There are many high-end resorts and international chain hotels here that start at 4,500 SCR per night if you’re willing to splurge.
Food – Fish and shellfish are, not unexpectedly, a major part of Seychellois cuisine. Another ubiquitous cuisine is rice, which is particularly well-liked in the area for its seafood curries. Fresh fruits, particularly mangoes, and coconuts are widely accessible. Some popular foods are lentil dhal, spinach soup, and ladob, a sweet plantain/sweet potato dessert.
Dining out is expensive; a main course of traditional cuisine costs about 290 SCR. For a three-course supper at a mid-range restaurant, figure on spending double that amount.
Meals cost between 50 and 90 SCR if you limit yourself to traditional cuisine served in tiny restaurants and beach shacks. Other than pizzerias, there aren’t many fast food establishments in this area. A pizza should cost about 130 SCR. Indian cuisine is also available throughout the islands, with a main course priced at approximately 175 SCR.
Beer and cappuccinos/lattes come in the range of 70-85 SCR. Water in bottles has 24 SCR.
Should you choose to prepare your own meals, budget approximately 1,000 SCR for groceries each week. The majority of food must be imported, however staples like rice, chicken, veggies, and fruit are reasonably priced.
If you are preparing your own food, make sure to visit the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market or the Anise Royal Market. Every day, there are farmers’ markets with fresh, reasonably priced local produce.
Seychelles Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips
It’s hard to save money in Seychelles. It’s not a cheap tourist destination, and most visitors don’t come here looking to cut costs. After all, it’s a place for luxury! Here are some suggestions to help you save money in the Seychelles, though there are a few things you can do:
- Locate inexpensive airfares Be resourceful and use discount travel websites such as Holiday Pirates, Scott’s Cheap Flights, and The Flight Deal to save money on your next trip. They frequently offer fantastic package and last-minute offers to the islands.
- Choose low-cost guesthouses with breakfast; Booking.com and Airbnb both provide a selection of reasonably priced accommodations. Seek out accommodations with kitchens or breakfast included to assist reduce the cost of food.
- Utilize hotel points: You can utilize hotel points to receive free lodging because this area is home to several multinational chains. This will significantly reduce your expenses.
- Eat takeout: Since dining in restaurants is more expensive, if you want to eat out, just get takeout.
- Steer clear of taxis—they are very pricey here. Walk, rent a bike, or take the bus. You’ll get huge savings.
- Go slowly: Ferries and flights between islands are not inexpensive. To spread out your expenses, go slowly or stay on one island. Frequent flights and ferries will dash whatever hopes you had of staying inside your budget.
- Bring a reusable water bottle. Since the local tap water is highly chlorinated, using a filter in your bottle will ensure that your water is pure, safe, and tastes good. Reusable bottles from LifeStraw guarantee that your water is always safe and clean.
How to Get Around Seychelles
- Bus: Mahé and Praslin, the two biggest islands, have public buses available. Bus travel covers most of the islands; however, you might have to transfer to get to your destination. The fare range is 5–10 SCR.
- Ferry: As there is only one ferry company operating on the principal routes connecting the three main islands, you are forced to pay the ticket prices set by Cat Cocos (between Mahé and Praslin) and Cat Rose (between Praslin and La Digue).
- The cost of ferries is approximately 800 SCR from Mahé to Praslin and 250 SCR from Praslin to La Digue.
- Air: It costs a lot to fly between the islands. The majority of domestic one-way tickets start at SCR 2,500. Avoid flying if you’re on a tight budget. The ferries will cost a lot less.
- Vehicle Rental: For multi-day rentals, the daily rate for a vehicle starts at 650 SCR. As long as your license is valid, you do not require an International Driving Permit (IDP) at this location. A driver must be at least twenty-three years old.
- Hitchhiking: Because most individuals are amiable and willing to lend a hand, hitchhiking is not too difficult in this area. In the more rural areas, you will have to wait longer, so be sure you don’t need to rush.
When to Go to Seychelles
Traveling to the Seychelles is most enjoyable between April–May and September–October. This is the best time of year to enjoy water sports and beach relaxing on the islands because there is less wind. All year long, the average temperature is around 30°C (86°F), however there are frequently breezes to keep the humidity at bay.
Because the island is affected by different trade winds at different periods of the year, the performance of certain islands varies with the direction of the winds. The west side of the islands experiences less wind from May to November, whereas the eastern shore experiences less wind throughout the rest of the year.
Additionally, visitors may see the hatching of newborn turtles and their journey out to sea from January to March. In October, when they begin to nest and deposit eggs, it’s a popular time to visit.
How to Stay Safe in Seychelles
- The Seychelles is a reasonably safe destination, so visitors shouldn’t be concerned about crime. Your biggest concern will be petty theft, although even that is extremely uncommon. Always keep your valuables safe and out of reach as a general precaution. Avoid leaving your belongings unsupervised at the beach or while dining out.
- Though the usual cautions apply (don’t leave your drink alone at the bar, don’t go home alone at night intoxicated, etc.), solo female tourists should feel comfortable here.
- Be mindful that many roads are twisty and narrow while hiring a car. Drive carefully because there are frequently no obstacles on coastal roads. Additionally, never leave any valuables in a rented car over night. Though they don’t happen often, it’s best to be safe than sorry.
- To prevent riptides when swimming, assess the water’s conditions before entering the pool. When the waves are strong, there is a risk of dangerous rips off the Beau Vallon beach, among other places.
- In case of an emergency, please contact 112 for assistance.
- Never doubt your instincts. At night, stay away from remote regions and always be mindful of your surroundings. Before you depart on your trip, make copies of all of your personal documents, such as your ID and passport.
- Do not do anything in the Seychelles that you wouldn’t do at home!
- Getting quality travel insurance is the most crucial advise I can give. You are covered against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations with travel insurance. It offers complete protection in the event that something goes wrong. Since I’ve needed to use it so much in the past, I never travel without it.
Social Conventions in Seychelles
The residents on the islands have straightforward, uncomplicated lives, and tourism is strictly regulated to preserve the islands’ natural beauty. The islands were inaccessible by land before the international airport opened in 1971, and because of their remote location, few people visited, allowing the natives to establish their own distinct language and culture.
In the Seychelles, shaking hands is the traditional way to meet someone. The people of Seychelles extend a warm welcome to visitors at their residences. Giving a present to someone you visit at their house is appropriate. There is a combination of metric and imperial systems in use. For instance, half-pint portions of draught beer are sold in pubs, yet liters of gasoline are dispensed. It’s customary to dress casually, but if you’re attending a church service, dress more formal. You should only wear swimwear on the beach.
Language in Seychelles
The three official languages are Creole, English and French.
Required clothing
Your best bet for the warm weather that lasts all year is light, cotton clothes; for the rainy season, breathable waterproofs are recommended. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and sun caps are necessities throughout the year.
Geography
Situated around 1,824 km (1,133 miles) northeast of Madagascar, the Seychelles Archipelago encompasses 400,000 square kilometers (154,400 square miles) of the Indian Ocean in the southern hemisphere. There are 115 granite and coral islands and atolls in the archipelago, the majority of which are populated.
The 43 islands that make up the Inner Islands are grouped together around Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. They serve as the center of the Seychelles’ politics, culture, and economy. It should come as no surprise that 99% of people reside on the Inner Islands.
Approximately half of the Seychelles’ landmass is conserved as national parks and reserves, offering a haven for some of the world’s rarest plant and animal species. Look for the Aldabra giant tortoise, Coco-de-mer, paradise flycatcher, Seychelles warbler, and jellyfish tree, to mention a few.
Shopping in Seychelles
Mahé offers the greatest alternatives for shopping. For fresh fruit and traditional items, Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market is the greatest place to shop on the island. Mon thru Sat, 0700 to 1700.
Beyond the market, Cooperative des Artisans (near to the National History Museum) and Camion Hall are the best locations for regional crafts. Kanna Mall and Eden Plaza are both worthwhile side trips. The Seychelles Island Foundation is the finest location to get Coco De Mer seeds since they sell authentic seeds that have a holographic sticker.
Nightlife in Seychelles
Although Mahé has a few casinos and nightclubs, Seychelles is not recognized for having a vibrant nightlife. The majority of sizable hotels and resorts offer entertainment during the evenings.
Travel Documents
For nationals listed in the above chart, a passport valid for the whole duration of your stay is required in order to enter Seychelles.
Visas
Since Seychelles does not require a visa for tourists, anyone is allowed to travel there. If you have arranged lodging for the duration of your trip, proof of sufficient cash, and an onward or return ticket, you are permitted to stay for a maximum of 30 days.
Transit
In-transit passengers are required to have tickets with seats allocated for their subsequent trip.
Sufficient cash: A minimum of US$150 per day is regarded to be sufficient cash for each traveler, and documentation of this should be provided.
Prolongation of stay
Your visitor’s permit can be extended for a maximum of 12 months, starting from the date it was issued and lasting up to three months at a time in subsequent periods. Each three-month extension costs Rs5,000 (the first three months are free). A minimum of one week before to the expiration of your present permit, you must apply at the Department of Immigration.
Entry with pets
It is not possible to bring your pet with you to the Seychelles if you are visiting for a shorter time than six months, as animals are only allowed to be imported for a minimum of six months. You need to get an import permit if you intend to remain longer. Both a veterinary health certificate and a valid rabies vaccination certificate are required for your pet. Your pet may also need to spend two weeks to six months in quarantine, depending on where they are from.
Please be aware that no bird species may be imported into the Seychelles.