Seychelles offers so much and is undoubtedly the most gorgeous island in the world, whether you arrive for a romantic, indulgent honeymoon or a more active trip.
It is a haven for animal lovers. The islands are home to ancient tortoises that predate humans, a wide variety of vibrant marine life, lizards, geckos who want to share your breakfast, and around 190 bird species.
Before you board that plane, consider the following advice and suggestions.
Why Should You Visit?
The natural wonder of these islands resembles a cliche from a travel guide: Everybody should visit a place like this once in their lifetime. Smooth granite boulders hem, the white beaches, and the crystal-clear sea, along with the rich vegetation and the teeming fauna, is something everyone should experience. There are many activities, especially water sports, to keep you entertained if you need a break from lounging on the sun lounge, and the native cuisine is spicy and fresh. The local culture is also fascinating.
Best Time To Visit
With monthly highs of 80 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature stays mostly the same throughout the year. However, while the winter is considerably colder, the southern hemisphere summer, which lasts from November to January, typically has the most precipitation and humidity. Therefore, visit in the spring or fall, roughly between October and November, or between April and May, for the most pleasant weather and the least rain.
Best Things To Do
- The Vallee De Mai, Praslin Island
One of two Seychelles World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO, the Vallee de Mai is well-known for its clusters of 4,000 coco-de-mer trees and five other rare palm tree species. The best thing to experience it is to hike one of the three trails—the Cedar Trail, Central Trail, or Circular Trail—either independently or with a local guide who can be employed from the tourist center. It is also a haven for birds like the rare Seychelles bulbul.
- Victoria, Mahe
One of the smallest world capitals, tiny Victoria is home to 26,000 people, more than 25% of Seychelles’ under 100,000 total population. The nation’s capital has a botanical garden and numerous colorful colonial homes. Its only notable object is a diminutive clocktower at a crossroads that is well worth a visit. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, the island’s primary market and a daily feast for the senses (closed on Sundays), is also located in Victoria.
- The Aldabra Atoll
One of the world’s largest raised coral atolls, this second UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises four islands. The largest population of giant tortoises may be found there, and if you go underwater, you can see turtles, the equivalent of land mammals. Unfortunately, the atoll lies 750 miles southwest of the main island, which explains some of its natural beauty and the difficulty of visiting. If you want to come, you must do so on a local cruise, sleeping aboard the boat, as there is no hotel, mooring for boats, airstrip, or helipad.
- St Anne Marine National Park (From Mahe)
In this marine park, you can snorkel among the vibrant reef fish, look for turtles, relax on a boat or one of the many sandbanks, and take in the scenery. Mahe offers daily excursions that make for a fantastic day out.
- Copolia Trail, Mahe
This easy walk on the main island rises steadily but manageably to 760 feet above the capital, offering 360-degree views of the entire island and surroundings. Birds and vegetation are all around you, but not many people. A former school for slave children’s ruins, the Mission Lodge, and the gazebo where Queen Elizabeth II enjoyed tea during her visit to Seychelles in 1972 are all close by.
