Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian Ocean. The archipelago consists of approximately 115 islands to the east of Tanzania. It is famous for its rich exotic vegetation, white sandy beaches with granite rocks. Rest on paradise shores will be the main feature of the trip. A unique place of relaxation and exoticism with excellent tourist infrastructure and plenty of entertainment.
Features of the Seychelles
The smallest population in Africa is less than 100,000 people. The Portuguese were the first to discover the islands in the early 16th century. The British declared the Seychelles their colony in 1903. The country gained independence in 1976. The main language is Creole, but English and French are widely spoken.
Note! The Seychelles islands are one of the top exotic destinations where tourism hasn’t changed it. This is mainly due to its inhabitants, who protect the natural beauty of their country in every way. Aldabra Atoll and the Valle de Me palm forest, known as the “Garden of Eden”, are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Beaches are a landmark of the country. Sailing, diving, fishing and recreation are the main attractions for visitors to this Indian Ocean archipelago. The coral reefs of some of the islands create a unique backdrop of underwater beauty. Reefs, exotic fish, sea turtles and various wrecks attract divers.
Capital of the Seychelles
The country’s capital, Victoria, is located on the island of Mahe. The capital has a European influence due to colonialism, which harmonizes perfectly with the local culture. The sights of the city include the Historical Museum, the Clock Tower, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, the Roman Catholic Mission, the National Library.
The most popular place in the city is the Clock Tower. It was built in 1903 in just nine days and is reminiscent of the country’s colonial past. It is worth visiting the Hindu temple in the city center.
With many restaurants, cafes, bars and casinos, the tiny capital of Victoria is filled. Its central market provides an opportunity to experience the local way of life. Fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, fish, and of course, there is no shortage of souvenirs.
Directions
The most popular islands are Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.
Mahe is the largest island in the Seychelles and is home to more than 90% of the country’s population. Here is the airport of the Seychelles, where all international flights land.
In the center of the island are majestic dense forests with a variety of flora and fauna, creating numerous hiking trails of the island. Mahe Seychelles boasts 65 silvery beaches. The best beaches are located in the west of the island.
To enjoy the tropical sunsets of the Seychelles, you can go to Takamaka Beach. Other beaches are Baie Lazare and Anse Royale, with impressive granite cliffs. There are several restaurants along the beach. The famous Beau Vallon beach is home to luxurious complexes with a variety of water activities such as windsurfing, kayaking and diving.
Praslin Island is the second largest island in the Seychelles, located 40 km northeast of Mahe. You can drive around it in less than an hour. The main attraction of the island is the Valle de Mai. The untouched palm forest of the Valle de May known as the “Garden of Eden”. It is considered a pristine place that has remained unchanged since prehistoric times and is now under the protection of UNESCO.
Here you can find rare species of birds and a wide variety of trees, mostly palms. Among them are the famous coconut palms, which produce the largest fruits in the world (weighing about) 25 kg. You can also see or hear a unique black parrot.
The beach of Anse Lazio is recognized every year as one of the most beautiful in the world. A characteristic feature of the beach is its large area, white sand with turquoise water, rich vegetation and granite rocks.
Another beautiful beach is Anse Georgette. Fresh exotic fruits and coconuts are sold on the beach. There are other good beaches on the island, but they cannot be compared to these two.
Additional Information! Boat trips to nearby islands are organized from Praslin, including snorkeling, diving, and meals. It is even possible to meet giant sea turtles.
La Digue is the smallest inhabited island in the Seychelles and the most beautiful. There are no cars on it, and trips are made by bicycles. It can be walked around in less than an hour.
The most famous beach of the island is Anse Source D’Argent. Granite rocks and lush vegetation create a heavenly landscape. On the beach there are several traditional hut-bars serving coconuts and exotic fruits. You can also rent transparent kayaks and explore the long beach. Due to low tides, when the sea level drops, the water is knee-deep.
Since it is part of the La Digue National Park, you will have to pay 5 euros. This is the only paid beach in the Seychelles. The park also has giant tortoises if you haven’t taken the turtle island tour from Praslin.
Also beautiful are the 3 beaches to the east of the island: Grand Anse, Petite Anse and Coco Beach, which are located on the same coastline. The route to Coco Beach goes through the jungle.
Where to stay?
Since the tourism industry is very developed, there are accommodation options for every taste – from expensive 5-star resorts to affordable accommodation that can satisfy the needs of all travelers.
How to get around the islands?
The only way to get around the islands of Mahe and Praslin is by car. On La Digue, the main means of transport for locals and tourists are bicycles, since the island is very small. Of course, there are cars, but they are few.
Note! Is the country safe? This is a very safe country. The residents are kind and willing to help if help is needed. There are no wild animals in the country. In the Seychelles, in addition to beautiful fish, there are also sharks and rays, but they rarely enter shallow water.
Travel with small children
Seychelles is a place to relax with children and they will love the sea. It is necessary to apply a lot of sunscreen on them, because the sun in the Seychelles is no joke.
Cuisine in the Seychelles
Seychellois cuisine is less spicy and lean, as it is dominated by fish and seafood. The country has amazing food, as it has excellent raw materials for cooking. Fresh fish, local fruits, tangy curry flavors, sweet fried plantains and local delicacies to suit all tastes.
Seychelles weather
The Seychelles are a year-round destination. The climate on the islands is tropical, but mild, with temperatures of 25-30 degrees all year round. The high season starts from the end of March and lasts until the end of October. The rest of the year is not cold, but the weather is changeable with rain and wind.
Seychelles is undoubtedly one of the best exotic destinations. The islands are an expensive destination, but with good research and the right plan, you won’t be spending a fortune.
