Stunning and unspoiled, the islands of Seychelles are some of the perfect holiday destinations to discover a brand new world within our reach. Beautiful boulder-strewn stretches of beaches, thriving coral reefs, virgin jungles, and World Heritage Sites, are just a few of the dozen attractions that you can visit on a trip to this exotic destination. Hence, follow this brief Seychelles islands guide to explore the best sites of this tropical island, and enjoy a surreal vacation amidst the wildlife, pristine beaches, and delicious local food. See what all there is to experience and explore in these heavenly islands off the African coast so that you can plan your holiday in a well-informed manner.
Best Time To Visit Seychelles Islands
Seychelles islands are blessed with a year-long warm, tropical climate. While you can visit the islands any time of the year, November through March is pleasant and ideal for wildlife watching, sunbathing, and scuba diving. Whereas April, May, October, and November are hot and humid in Seychelles. Seychelles experiences heavy footfall during the months of December, January, July, and August. Those who love sailing may also plan a trip in January when the Seychelles Sailing Cup takes place. The International fishing competition takes place in November every year. The suitable time to visit Seychelles is majorly determined by the climatic conditions which depend a lot on the Seychelles island location.
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Top Places To Visit In Seychelles Islands
If you want to have the best of your trip, then these places on the Seychelles Island should be on your itinerary if you have not already added them. Whether you’re tripping with family, exploring the Seychelles islands with your friends, or relaxing here with your partner, these places will have something in store for all.
1. Mahe
No trip to Seychelles is complete without a trip to Mahe, one of the largest inhabited islands in Seychelles. Mahe Island, Seychelles has over 60 beaches and countryside covered in jungles and rainforests. Travelers can relax on the beach, discover bays and small waterfalls, or set out to explore caves and coves. The adrenaline junkies can indulge in adventurous activities like hiking. Whereas the island also offers a pristine view of marine life by snorkeling and Kayaking. The small towns and villages in Mahe complete the visit as the travelers can witness the unmistakable Creole influence.
Best time to visit April, May, October, November
2. Seychelles’ Outer Islands
There is so much to do and see in Seychelles, that a week is simply not enough. While most tourists and even your hotel may recommend a trip to Eden island Seychelles, there are other places that are equally stunning. On a trip to Seychelles, plan an excursion to the outer islands. Each of these islands is unique in its own way. Apart from its stunning views, the Bird island is the perfect place to capture birds hatching eggs and spot rare and extinct species of birds, especially during summer in Seychelles. It is home to over 1.25 million birds that call this island home during April and May. There are a number of organized tours, that will give you the chance to spot fairy terns, brush warblers, and the Seychelles toc-toc too!
Best time to visit: April, May, October, November
Must Read: 9 Spots Famous For Scuba Diving In Seychelles
3. Aldabra Atoll
Aldabra Atoll is one of the largest atolls that is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This atoll is home to over 150,000 tortoises in all. It comprises 12 islands that together make up for about one-third of the island’s land mass. The atoll’s islands encompass a vast array of unique and rare flora and fauna. The atoll is ideal for snorkeling and is every diver’s true paradise.
Best time to visit: October, November
Suggested Read: Honeymoon In Seychelles: An Affair To Remember
4. Desroches
If you are traveling with kids, be sure to plan a visit to the aquarium area, Desroches. PasseTambi and Madam Zabre are the ideal spots to see stingrays, turtles, and colorful reef fish. There are close to 14 classified sites and mysterious labyrinths of unique caves, that make way for a great diving experience.
Suggested Read: 5 Water Sports In Seychelles That’ll Let You Dive In The Azure Ocean!
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Things To Do On Seychelles Islands
Listed below are a few fun things you can do when you aren’t at the beach or under the waters, snorkeling in the reefs. Make sure you add all of them to your itinerary before visiting the Seychelles islands.
1. Food
While roaming in the streets of Seychelles, you are better off eating at local restaurants than trying to fix yourself a meal. Seychelles has numerous creole takeaways and eateries that offer fantastic food at a great value. The food served is simply out of the world especially the seafood! Eden Plaza and Marina is the rodeo drive you must head out to if you are on the lookout for high-end cafes and eateries. Many hotels and resorts in Seychelles also have popular restaurants and cafes where you can eat.
Suggested Read: Top 10 Villas In Seychelles: Plan Your Dream Vacay At Your Private Slice Of Paradise!
2. Shopping
For the shopaholics, Market Street and Victoria will be a paradise. Mahe is the best place for shopping in Seychelles. This quaint market has it all. The island has small shops and street markets selling locally-made and hand-made products. You will get great bargains on just about anything in this market, right from candles, beach coverups, bohemian dresses, tea, perfumes and even mementos to take back home. The two major markets in Seychelles are Kenwyn House and Sir Selwen Clarke Market. Kenwyn House is built in an elegant French colonial architecture and showcases jewelry collection of six kinds. The Sir Selwen Clarke Market has shops selling food items like vegetables, spices, fruits and fish. There are also little gift shops.
Kenwyn House Address: Francis Rachel Street, Victoria, Mahe
Kenwyn House Timings: Weekdays – 9 AM – 5 PM / Saturday – 9 AM – 1 PM (Sundays closed)
Suggested Read: A Guide To Seychelles In March: For An Ultimate And Enjoyable Exploration
3. Bus Tour
Buses are common in Seychelles and cost just a few rupees. The buses out of Victoria are a great way to not just watch people, but also engage in interesting conversations. So, set out to explore the Seychelles islands on a bus whilst seeking tips from some of the friendliest co-passengers on your bus!
Suggested Read: 12 Best Beaches In Seychelles For An Euphoric Holiday Experience!
4. Golfing
Formerly known as Le Reef Golf Hotel and Golf Club, the Seychelles Golf Club, is the only golf course on the island. Built in 1980, on an old coconut plantation is bordered by coconut palms, casuarina trees, takamaka, and a mangrove marsh. The park is also surrounded by green – hills. This award-winning golf club has a challenging course that is over 4,992 yards and has nine holes at par 68. The golf club has a clubhouse too, that features a bar with DSTV, a pool table, tennis courts, a cafeteria restaurant, and a swimming pool.
Address: Seychelles Golf Club, PO Box 2095, Anse Aux Pins, Mahe, Seychelles, Seychelles
Suggested Read: Curieuse Marine National Park: A Tiny Granitic Island In The Seychelles
5. Helicopter Ride
There is no better way to take in the scenic beauty of the Seychelles islands, than from high up in the sky. Though this may cost you a bag full of Seychellois rupees, it is a great way to top off a couple of weeks at the island. Boarding a helicopter is as easy as taking a flight. There are a number of tour operators that organize helicopter rides during high season.
Suggested Read: 6 Ways To Enjoy The Best Of Nightlife In Seychelles
6. Secret Waterfall
Not many travelers or guides will let you onto this secret. Praslin Waterfall is less than a kilometer from the famous Vallée De Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best national parks in Seychelles. This waterfall is spectacular and well worth a visit and what’s more? You are guaranteed to have the whole place to yourself! This little waterfall is an underrated gem among all the beaches on this destination. You won’t need much time to explore this place one’s you are here, but simply spending half an hour at Praslin Waterfall is a calming experience.
Suggested Read: Seychelles Food: From Shark Chutney To Bat Curry, Try The Bizarre Cuisine On The Island
Where To Stay In Seychelles Islands
Budget lodging isn’t very common in Seychelles, so be prepared to splurge on luxury accommodation. Listed below are a few of the best hotels to stay at during your island vacation.
1. Banyan Tree
Banyan Tree is luxury redefined in every sense. This high-end beachfront resort offers its guests, Creo-style Villas, 3 restaurants, 2 bars, and even an infinity pool and is just the place to stay at if you are planning a trip to Seychelles islands for honeymoon. The villas also have plunge pools, private patios, sunken tubs and open-air living areas that add a regal touch to your vacation.
Address: Anse Intendance, Mahe, Republic of Seychelles
Phone: (248) 438 35 00
Rate: Starting from $1343 per night
Suggested Read: 15 Best Hotels In Seychelles For A Perfect Island Vacation
2. Cerf Island Marine Park Resort
With a lush-green hill in the background and an azure blue sea in the front, Cerf Island Marine Park Resort is a collection of 24 gorgeous villas, each resting in the lap of nature. Each villa flaunts the Seychellois architecture with infinity edge pools, lounges and bar. A laid back island resort that offers guests an infinity pool, beachfront restaurant, and water sports among many other luxury amenities. Surrounded by the marine park water, the island is a dreamland for divers.
Address: P.O box 1071, Mahe, Seychelles
Phone: (248) 4294 500
Rate: Starting from $513 per night
3. Bird Island Lodge
Situated on a private island sanctuary, the Bird Island Lodge, has untouched beaches. This 3-star eco-lodge nestled among coconut palms on Bird Island. The resort features individual chalets with solar heated showers. A stay at this lodge is a great way to reconnect with nature as there are no televisions on board. The island brings to you a chance to witness the Giant Land Tortoise, spot rare birds of various species, and explore marine life through scuba diving.
Address: Bird Island Lodge, P.O. Box 1419, Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles.
Phone: (248) 422 49 25
Rate: Starting from $400 per night
Suggested Read: Silhouette Island: A Pristine & Stunning Isle Of Seychelles
How To Reach Seychelles Island
The best way to reach Seychelles is by plane. There are a number of direct flights from most parts of the world which connects to Seychelles Island airport. Tourists can also board connecting flights from Dubai, Doha, and Nairobi. Travel between the smaller islands can be done on smaller planes or helicopters. Tour operators also run ferries between the main islands of Mahe, La Digue Islands, and Praslin Island. Once you are here, you can either use a Seychelles islands map or your phone’s navigation to find your way to explore the island.
Further Read: Destination Of The Month: Why A Trip To Seychelles In December Is A Fab Idea To End The Year
Seychelles islands have so much to offer for a memorable experience. Be it nature, adventure, or peace, they have something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Plan your holiday in Seychelles Island, with your family or friends and have a fabulous time on this tropical island that is synonymous with bliss and tranquility. Happy holiday!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Seychelles Islands
What is Seychelles famous for?
Seychelles is famous for crystal clear deep blue waters as well as white sandy beaches. In fact, Seychelles has some of the most bizarre and picture-perfect beaches in the world. It also boasts of exotic sea life and vivid flora on the mainland that has turned it into a famous honeymoon destination.
Do I need a visa for Seychelles?
No, you do require a visa to enter Seychelles. However, visitors do need to carry a valid passport and other important travel documents recognized by the government of Seychelles with them in order to enter the county.
Is Seychelles better than Maldives?
It is not possible to compare two beautiful island destinations. Both of these island nations have in fact similar attributes that makes the comparison all the more difficult. They both boast white beaches and clear blue water.
They both have secluded beaches with high-end resorts perfect for honeymoon. They both have exotic sea creatures and offer water sports like diving and snorkeling to explore them.
Is it expensive to eat out in the Seychelles?
Yes, it can be quite expensive to eat in the restaurants and cafes in Seychelles. The average cost of a meal can be as high as INR 2,700/- (35 euros) depending on your choice of restaurant.
What country owns the Seychelles?
Seychelles is a country in itself and is not “owned” by any other country. It is, however, a part of the African continent and located off the East African coast.
Is Seychelles a safe country?
Yes, Seychelles is more or less a safe country to visit. However, you take basic safety precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings at all times and avoiding dimly lit and deserted alleys at night.
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A mass-media graduate, Priyanka is a passionate writer and an avid traveler. Whether it’s about capturing the sunsets or hogging up some delicious food from different places, she never leaves a second to decide. Her mantra of keep going is “work, save, travel, repeat” which she lives by heart.
