Seychelles

Seychelles is a paradise of natural wonders, with each island offering its own distinct charms. On Mahé, the largest island, visitors flock to Beau Vallon Beach, a wide stretch of soft sand fringed by calm waters, ideal for swimming and water sports. The island’s interior holds the lush trails of Morne Seychellois National Park, where treks through misty cloud forests lead to panoramic views over Victoria and the coastline. In the capital, Victoria, one of the world’s smallest cities, travelers can admire the Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, a vibrant place of color, spice, and fresh produce, or visit the Seychelles Natural History Museum to gain insight into the archipelago’s unique biodiversity. On Praslin Island, the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai is a prehistoric palm forest where the rare Coco de Mer grows — the world’s largest seed, resembling the shape of a double coconut. Close by, the powdery shores of Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette consistently rank among the most beautiful beaches in the world. La Digue, with its laid-back pace and ox-cart roads, is famous for Anse Source d’Argent, a surreal beach flanked by pink granite boulders and shallow turquoise waters. Meanwhile, the Aldabra Atoll, one of the world’s largest raised coral atolls and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to giant tortoises and thriving marine ecosystems, though access is highly restricted to protect its pristine condition. Island-hopping reveals untouched corners, coral reefs, Creole villages, and hidden bays that invite exploration far beyond the luxury resorts.

Seychellois cuisine, also known as Creole cuisine, is a flavorful fusion of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences, reflecting centuries of migration and maritime trade. Fresh seafood is the star of nearly every meal — dishes like grilled red snapper, octopus curry, and tekin (salted fish stew) are seasoned with garlic, ginger, chilies, and coconut milk to create vibrant, aromatic plates. Shark chutney, a dish made of finely mashed shark meat cooked with bilimbi (a tart fruit), lime, and spices, is a beloved local specialty, often served alongside ladob, a side dish of plantains or sweet potatoes simmered in coconut milk and sugar (or salt for savory versions). Curry goat and chicken daube (slow-braised chicken with cinnamon, cloves, and tomatoes) are hearty favorites, and rice accompanies almost every meal. Locals often snack on samosas, banana fritters, or breadfruit chips, which are sold in roadside stalls and markets. For dessert, try cassava pudding or coconut nougat, sweet treats that showcase the islands’ tropical produce. Beverages include calou (fermented coconut sap), buka (homemade rum), and Seybrew — the national beer. Fresh fruit juices made from passion fruit, mango, and starfruit are widely available and perfect for staying cool in the tropical heat.

Getting around Seychelles requires a mix of transportation methods due to its island geography. On Mahé and Praslin, public buses are inexpensive and cover most towns and tourist sites — though they can be slow and irregular. Rental cars are popular and offer flexibility, especially for exploring beaches, hiking trails, and hidden coves; just remember that driving is on the left side. Taxis are available but relatively expensive, and prices should be agreed upon in advance, as meters are not standard. Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport on La Digue, where cars are rare and everything is within a short ride. For inter-island travel, the Cat Cocos ferry connects Mahé and Praslin multiple times daily (about 1 hour), with onward service to La Digue. The ride can be rough, so seasickness medication is advisable. Alternatively, Air Seychelles operates frequent 15-minute domestic flights between Mahé and Praslin, which are more comfortable for those sensitive to choppy waters. Smaller, more remote islands are typically reached via chartered boats, scenic flights, or resort-arranged transfers. Plan logistics ahead if visiting multiple islands, as last-minute connections are not always reliable.

While Seychelles is often branded as a luxury destination, savvy travelers can explore it on a moderate budget with the right approach. Self-catering accommodations, such as guesthouses and apartments, are significantly cheaper than resorts and often include kitchenettes for cooking local produce. Dining at takeaway stalls, especially in towns like Beau Vallon or Anse Royale, offers hearty Creole meals for a fraction of restaurant prices. Items like grilled fish, rice, and lentils cost around $3–5 USD. Buses, though infrequent, are the cheapest way to get around Mahé and Praslin. Buy fresh fruit, snacks, and water from local markets instead of tourist shops. If island-hopping, try to limit inter-island transfers, as ferry or flight costs can add up. Travel during the shoulder seasons (May–June or September–November) for lower rates, fewer crowds, and ideal weather. Finally, bring snorkel gear and reef shoes from home to save on rental fees and enjoy the many free snorkeling opportunities right off the beach.

Seychelles is one of the safest destinations in Africa, with low crime rates and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Petty theft is rare but can occur — lock valuables in safes, don’t leave items unattended on beaches, and be cautious when walking alone late at night in isolated areas. The sun is intense, so sunburn and dehydration are real risks — wear sunscreen, a hat, and drink plenty of water. Mosquitoes are present, especially after rain, so bring repellent to guard against bites, though major diseases like malaria and yellow fever are not a threat. While coral reefs protect most beaches, strong currents and undertows can be present on some coasts, especially during monsoon transitions — always heed local swimming signs and ask hotel staff for advice. Avoid stepping on coral or touching marine life while snorkeling to protect the fragile ecosystem. Emergency services are available on Mahé and Praslin, but facilities on smaller islands are limited — comprehensive travel insurance is recommended.

Seychellois culture is laid-back and warm, with strong emphasis on politeness, hospitality, and respect for elders and nature. A friendly greeting, such as “Bonzour” (good morning) or “Allo,” is always appreciated when entering a shop or meeting locals. Dress modestly when visiting churches, markets, or villages — swimwear should be kept to the beach. Public nudity and topless sunbathing are illegal and frowned upon, even at private resorts. Remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Seychellois are multilingual and multicultural; religious tolerance is the norm, and Catholicism is the dominant faith. Friday and Sunday are often reserved for family gatherings or religious services, and businesses may close early. Always ask before photographing people, particularly in rural or fishing communities. Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated — 5–10% is suitable in restaurants or for guides.

Seychelles is ideal for romantic travelers, honeymooners, eco-conscious adventurers, and those seeking serene escapes from city life. It appeals to nature lovers, luxury travelers, slow travelers, and photographers drawn to its pristine beaches, rare wildlife, and dramatic seascapes. Whether you're swimming with sea turtles, sipping rum under coconut palms, or watching fruit bats soar overhead as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, Seychelles offers an experience as magical as it is memorable.

Budget travelers can find affordable guesthouses like La Rousette or Villa Authentique on Mahé and La Digue, offering comfortable rooms with kitchen access, free breakfast, and friendly hosts for under $100 USD per night. Mid-range travelers may enjoy boutique options like Le Relax Hotel and Restaurant, which features ocean-view rooms and local cuisine, or Colibri Guesthouse in Praslin, known for its cozy atmosphere and great snorkeling nearby. Luxury travelers can indulge at world-renowned resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, perched on a jungle hillside with private plunge pools, or the Six Senses Zil Pasyon on Félicité Island — a sustainable paradise with infinity pools and over-the-top service. North Island, often referred to as the world’s most exclusive resort, is where royalty and celebrities retreat in total privacy.

Many travelers mistakenly think Seychelles is all about Mahé and miss out on Praslin or La Digue, which offer even more stunning beaches and a slower pace of life. Another common mistake is underestimating the strength of the sun — even on cloudy days, UV rays are intense, and sunburn happens quickly. Assuming you don’t need cash is another oversight — while resorts take cards, smaller businesses and transport often don’t. Also, don’t assume you can snorkel or swim safely at every beach; always ask about currents. Lastly, visitors sometimes pack too much into short itineraries. The charm of Seychelles lies in slowing down, appreciating nature, and soaking in the island rhythms.

Use Google Maps or Maps.me (downloaded offline) to navigate Mahé’s winding roads and La Digue’s bike trails. Seychelles Ferry app or website helps book Cat Cocos tickets. XE Currency keeps conversion rates handy. WhatsApp is widely used for communicating with hosts, guides, or taxi drivers. Bring a universal plug adapter and consider downloading Creole phrase apps or audio guides for a richer cultural experience. Local SIM cards from Cable & Wireless or Airtel are easy to purchase and offer reliable 4G service.

A perfect 10-day itinerary could begin with 3 days on Mahé, exploring Victoria, hiking Morne Blanc, and snorkeling at Anse Soleil. Then take the ferry or flight to Praslin for 3 days to explore Vallée de Mai, relax at Anse Lazio, and take a boat to Curieuse Island. Spend the final 3–4 days on La Digue, cycling to Anse Source d’Argent, hiking Nid d’Aigle, and enjoying quiet beaches with barely another soul in sight. For longer trips, consider adding a day excursion to Cousin Island for birdwatching or booking a private sailing charter through the outer islands.

Seychelles is home to some of the rarest species on Earth, including the Aldabra giant tortoise, which can live over 100 years and roams freely on some islands. The country also has the highest concentration of endemic species per capita in the world. The iconic Coco de Mer palm grows only on two islands — Praslin and Curieuse — and produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom, which has inspired myth and reverence for centuries. Seychelles was completely uninhabited until the 18th century, making it one of the last places on Earth to be settled by humans. The country consists of 115 islands, but only a handful are inhabited. Many are protected nature reserves or private islands owned by eco-resorts and conservation trusts. Surprisingly, Creole music and dance, such as moutya and sega, are recognized by UNESCO and played with traditional instruments like the makalapo and zez.