What to do in the Seychelles? The 15 essentials to see and visit
The Seychelles is certainly one of the most idyllic seaside destinations on Earth. Scattered in the Indian Ocean, its islands enjoy incredible landscapes where the beaches are hemmed with crystal clear water and lined with lush vegetation. Nearly 50% of the territory of the archipelago is protected in nature reserves, thus allowing the observation of multicolored fish, amazing birds, giant turtles and impressive whale sharks. To this, add an exceptional endemic flora such as the emblematic coco-buttocks with generous shapes...
1. Mahe Island
With its 25 km long and 6 km wide, the island of Mahé is the largest island of the Seychelles, the most populated and the best equipped. That said, this small natural paradise has remained wild and offers a great diversity of landscapes: from Mount le Morne Seychellois which overlooks the Indian Ocean to tropical forests, passing by sublime beaches with crystal clear waters. The island has more than a hundred, mostly framed by granite rocks that contrast with the golden color of the fine sand. Due to its many natural treasures, Mahé was once called "the island of plenty".
Do you want to discover the history of the island of Mahé? We advise you to book this guided tour of the island which will take you to see some of the most popular sights and tourist attractions.
2. Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles
Located on the island of Mahé, Victoria is the capital of the Seychelles, its colonial heritage and its streets colored by many Creole houses give it an unparalleled cachet. We stroll with pleasure in this timeless setting where we discover the Bazaar (its large market with stalls stocked with fish, fruits, peppers, flowers, etc.) as well as the Clock Tower, an emblematic monument of the Seychelles. Its botanical garden is also of great beauty and in terms of culture, several museums in the city, two of which are absolutely fascinating: the National History Museum and the Natural History Museum. This guided tour of Mahé will introduce you to the main sites of the Seychelles, such asthe highlights of its capital, Victoria and its beautiful scenic beaches.
3. What to do in the Seychelles? Discover Praslin
Located 45 km northeast of Mahé, Praslin is the second largest island in the archipelago: it is here that you will find the most beautiful tourist complexes. The northeast and west coasts of the island are protected by large coral reefs and hemmed with heavenly beaches, including the famous Anse Lazio. Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it is adorned with translucent water and backed by gigantic rocks and lush vegetation of palm trees and takamatas. The second great attraction of the island is the Vallée de Mai, which alone deserves an article.
4. The Valley of May
In the heart of Praslin, the Vallée de Mai is a forest, partly primary, composed mainly of palm trees endemic to the archipelago: the coco-buttocks, with a comically evocative shape. The forest covers 19 hectares, forming the largest plantation of the species on earth, and is home to specimens that can reach several meters in height with leaves 6 meters wide by 14 long. Listed as a UNESCO heritage site, the park offers five trails to explore, each of which bears witness to the evolution of vegetation through the ages.
Want to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site? This guided hike in the tropical forest will make you discover the spectacular treasures of the Valley, as well as its local tales and legends. And if you're lucky, you might hear the cry of one of the world's rarest birds, the Seychelles black parrot.
5. What to do in the Seychelles? Sunbathe on Beau Vallon beach
The large Beau Vallon beach is the most famous on the island of Mahé. It must be said that its 3.5 km of fine sand bordered by clear water are quite an argument! But it is not the only one, as it has a diving center and a nautical center, the only one allowing motorized water sports on the archipelago. Sea scooters, diving, water skiing, paragliding, parasailing... There is no shortage of activities on this beach, which is as popular with tourists as it is with Seychellois. In the evening, the atmosphere becomes magical and partygoers have every opportunity to dance until the end of the night!
6. La Digue Island
Small in size – 5 km long and 3 km wide – the island of La Digue nevertheless concentrates a wide range of the natural beauties of the archipelago. Beaches surrounded by granite rocks, wooded hills of coconut palms, lataniers and takamakas, small roads where bicycles and ox carts pass: it has, so to speak, preserved all its authenticity. Enthusiasts can practice deep-sea fishing or opt for a nature safari, in one of its two major sites: Nid d'Aigle, which culminates at 333 m, and the Black Widow reserve, which is home to colonies of birds that bear his name.
See the best of La Digue Island on this catamaran cruise that takes you through the Vallée de Mai and then onto Anse Source d'Argent beach, one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
7. What to do in the Seychelles? Getting to Bird Island
The island of Bird, of the Birds, did not usurp its name: more than three million birds come to find refuge in this magnificent sanctuary. Terns, martins, swallows, straw-tails, noddis, white cygis… Thirty different species have been identified, some of which come from Alaska or Siberia. The island is a private reserve, and welcomes sea turtles which come to lay their eggs there, between October and February. It is also here that lives Esmeralda, the heaviest free-roaming tortoise in the world with its 304 kilos and certainly the oldest: the legends of the island attribute it to be up to 200 years old!
8. Turtles on Curieuse Island
Curieuse Island is a national park in the Seychelles which encompasses the entire island as well as part of its maritime perimeter. It mainly participates in the protection of giant land turtles and sea turtles that come to lay their eggs on its beaches. The most common are the Aldabra tortoises, of which there are almost 300 that live here in complete freedom. Not very shy, they let themselves be easily approached when they do not come to meet you themselves, especially at lunchtime!
We recommend this day cruise which will take you to two of the beautiful islands of the Seychelles, the island of Curieuse and its unique biodiversity, and the island of Saint Pierre and its raised reefs.
9. What to do in the Seychelles? Swim with whale sharks
The Seychelles are very involved in the protection of whale sharks, which are particularly present in its waters in September and October. Rest assured, despite their colossal sizes, they are totally harmless, and even quite playful when it comes to fooling around with you during an organized dive. They are mostly found near the west coast and the north coast of Mahé where there are many centers authorized to accompany you in this extraordinary adventure.
10. Denis Island
Denis Island is a small lush coral island of only 1.3 km² which is mainly dedicated to tourism thanks to the rental of charming wooden cottages. It is one of the best places to explore the Seychelles from the coast, especially for snorkelers. This island is fringed by coral reefs, providing a suitable habitat for a multitude of aquatic species, including sea turtles, rays, small harmless sharks, as well as butterfly and surgeon fish, among others. Whether on land or underwater, Denis Island offers a dazzling spectacle for the eyes!
A little historical anecdote: this island was discovered in 1773 by the commander of the royal flute L'Étoile , when he ventured off Praslin. In his logbook, Denis de Trobiant praised the generosity of this land, noting that the coast was very fertile in coral of a beautiful red and also very rich in fish.
11. Madame Zabre and Passe de Tambi natural aquariums on Desroches Island
Desroches Island is home to two magnificent natural aquariums, the Madame Zabre aquarium and the Passe Tambi, where you can swim and discover incredible marine fauna. If you dream of swimming alongside rays or turtles, these sites are a must. Thanks to its crystal clear waters, Desroches Island offers a unique diving experience , allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the underwater world. This is where the magic happens and you will be dazzled by these exceptional natural aquariums and extraordinary seabed!
12. What to do in the Seychelles? Go to Morne Seychellois National Park
The Morne Seychellois National Park occupies 20% of the island of Mahé and extends over 3,045 hectares. Here you will find hiking trails through lush rainforest, where a variety of wildlife can be observed. Don't be afraid to venture out for a while and gain altitude to explore the beauty of these places in an atmosphere worthy of the sets of Lost or Jurassic Park . The park offers nearly a dozen different routes, but some excursion trails are truly unforgettable. To make the most of your hike, we advise you to book a guide right here who will take you to the heart of naturefor you to admire exceptional views. Once at the top, don't forget to bring your camera to capture those memorable moments!
13. Frigate Island
Located 56 kilometers from the island of Mahé, the island of Frégate is a tiny jewel of verdant paradise of only 3 km 2 which will undoubtedly awaken the soul of Robinson Crusoe which lies dormant in all of us. This place is perfect for relaxing in harmony with nature, thanks in particular to the luxurious spa on the island, the Fregate Island Private. For fishing enthusiasts, the waters bordering the island of Frégate offer a perfect setting . Little frequented, they are full of fish and their seabed is absolutely fabulous! The rolling hills, dense forest and beaches of Frégate Island also live up to the Seychelles' reputation for natural beauty.
14. What to do in the Seychelles? Visit Union Estate Park
Located in the south of La Digue Island, Union Estate Park offers a fascinating dive into the iconic agricultural traditions of the Seychelles, while taking you back in time. This area was once an important colonial plantation, mainly dedicated to the cultivation of coconut trees for the production of copra. You will be able to observe a vast coconut grove as well as plantations of vanilla and saffron.
At the entrance to the park is the oldest colonial cemetery on the island, testifying to the historical past of the place. Nearby, a small copra factory will reveal its production process to you. You can observe workers perched on a pile of coconuts shelling them. Not far from there, at the foot of a huge rock known as "The Giant Rock" , considered the largest in the archipelago, you can admire about fifteen giant tortoises peacefully graze in their enclosure. A unique and memorable experience in the heart of a site steeped in history and biodiversity!
15. Bring souvenirs back to the Domaine de Val des Prés
It is an ideal place to find a nice souvenir of the Seychelles. At the Domaine de Val des Prés, enthusiasts of Seychellois craftsmanship share their know-how with visitors curious to learn more about local traditions. Nestled at the foot of the mountain, the estate is home to an old colonial house dating from around 1870 that you can visit for free. On this site, a dozen workshops and shops installed in small colorful boxes present different facets of Seychellois craftsmanship. Among them, the oldest and one of the most attractive is the Couleurs des Îlesrun by Joël Banane. In the others you can buy various local handicrafts such as pottery, paintings on silk, painted wooden fish, pareos and T-shirts, not to mention the remarkable models of La Marine boats, made by the employees of Jean-Louis Marchesseau, a Frenchman recognized for his miniature replicas of vessels from the Ancien Régime. It should be noted, however, that the opening hours are subject to variations, so do not hesitate to inform yourself beforehand.
If you are tempted, we advise you to book this private tour of the island of Mahé which will make you discover, according to your desires and preferences, the most popular places including the Domaine de Val des Prés.
?When is the best time to travel to the Seychelles
The Seychelles enjoy pleasant temperatures throughout the year, fluctuating between 24 and 32°C, which makes them attractive for travelers whatever the season. From October to March, the weather is warm, with temperatures between 30 and 32°C, and the humidity is high, while the sea remains generally calm. From May to September, the climate becomes cooler, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 29°C, and it is drier, but the sea can be rough. October and April are considered the ideal times to visit the Seychelles. During these months, the climate is mild and pleasant, offering optimal travel conditions.
?What is the most beautiful place in the Seychelles
Going to explore the Seychelles archipelago in La Digue is to treat yourself to a trip out of time. Considered one of the most idyllic islands of this group, La Digue particularly appeals to travelers in search of superb beaches. This island reveals a unique atmosphere, imbued with exoticism and serenity, thus transporting its visitors to a true preserved paradise.
?How long does it take to visit the Seychelles
The ideal length of time to visit the Seychelles depends on individual preferences, budget, and the number of islands you wish to explore. The Seychelles offers a variety of activities, beautiful beaches, national parks and tourist sites, which means you can spend a few days or several weeks here. To get a general overview and enjoy the main attractions, many travelers opt for a week-long stay. This allows you to visit some main islands such as Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, to relax on the paradisiacal beaches, and to enjoy the natural beauty of the archipelago. If you have more time, you can extend your stay to two weeks or more, which will allow you to discover less traveled islands, go scuba diving, join boat tours, hike in national parks and explore more local culture and traditions.
?How to get from island to island in the Seychelles
Inter-island connections in the Seychelles offer two travel options: boat or plane. Each of these possibilities has its unique advantages and is an enriching experience to discover the Seychelles from different angles.
Tempted by a holiday in the Seychelles? Remember to book travel insurance here to leave with peace of mind!
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