Holidays to the Seychelles

Seychelles travel guide

• Seychelles attractions

  With qualities that could be used to describe nirvana, the Seychelles have a reputation as one of the most beautiful places on earth. Even though rest and relaxation may be your number one priority, take off the sunglasses and take a look around.
  
  With white sand beaches, clear waters, hills and mountains covered in tropical plants, where majestic wildlife roams free, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to a utopian world. So get up close and experience the marvels that these stunning islands have to offer.

  Scenery

  The Seychelles has some of the most beautiful scenery known to man, everywhere you look there’s something to take your breath away. Whether that’s pristine white sands, bright and colourful flowers or the greenest trees you’ve ever seen. To truly capture the beauty of the islands, tourists should visit the National Parks scattered throughout.
  
  St Anne National Marine Park comprises of six islands just off the Mahé coast. The first national park in the in the Indian Ocean, it comes with more than just a history, but also snorkelling, scuba diving and glass bottom boat excursions, where you can observe the colourful coral below. Keep an eye out for hawksbill turtles whilst you’re here, and take a number of delightful nature walks.
  
  Pay a visit to other parks of interest such as Vallée de Mai National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the prehistoric forest that resides there. The forest itself contains around 4,000 prehistoric examples, including the giant coco de mer fruit palm, vanilla orchids, palmiste, latanier, and Chinese fans. This area is perfect for nature lovers and takes between 45 minutes to two hours to hike around; depending on the route. The Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest national park in the Seychelles, covering over 20% of Mahé. In amongst its lush greenery, the main attraction of this park is its mountain chain, named Morne Seychellois, reaching a peak of 905 metres. The trails here are perfect for hikers, providing unparalleled views over the capital.
  
  Other areas of outstanding beauty include the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens. One of the oldest national monuments here, it sits in Mont Fleuri just outside of Victoria, and encompasses 5 acres of beautifully maintained tropical gardens. Walk around and bask in the variety of palms, spices and fruit trees, which can only be seen here, and observe the majestic giant tortoises that wander around.

  Beaches

  The biggest feature of the Seychelles landscape are the long stretches of soft white beaches, framed by the turquoise seas. With so many spread throughout the various islands it’s hard to choose just one beach, but some stand out a little more than the others.
  
  If you head to the North Shore of the Praslin Island you’ll find one of the most picturesque beaches around; Anse Lazio. Surrounded in granite boulders that give a sense of privacy, you can dip your toes in blue waters, which provide excellent swimming opportunities to the east side amongst the coral reefs.
  
  However Mahé provides some of the most spectacular beaches you’ll find, not only in the Seychelles, but the world. This is true of the small and secluded crescent known as Anse Intendance. Situated on the South Coast, the palm framed beach is excellent for relaxing, and perfect for surfing due to frequent big waves. On the North Coast you’ll find the charming Beau Vallon beach, a popular spot for both tourists and locals. With a view of the mountainous Silhouette Island, this beach is perfect for everyone. Enjoy yourself as you lie on the soft sands, or make the most of the calm waters and indulge in some water sports like jet skiing.

  Wildlife

  In amongst the beautiful scenery, visitors will find a wealth of tropical wildlife spread throughout the Seychelles.
  
  Areas such as the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aldabra, the largest raised coral atoll in the world plays home to thousands of tropical birds, such as the flightless white-throated Aldabran rail. But more interestingly it houses around 200,000 giant tortoises, which is more than the Galapagos Islands. But if its birds that peak your interest, the tiny paradise of Bird Island, perched on the edge of the Seychelles continental shelf, is only a short 30 minute flight from Mahé. With over 170 acres of land to observe, feel at one with nature as you observe not only the abundance of birds, but the tropical marine life too.
  
  If you pay a visit to Curieuse Island you’ll find that there are plenty more giant tortoises to go round. This island is now used for a giant tortoise breeding program, allowing these gentle animals to roam freely around the sandy coves. You can access this unique paradise of sandy beaches and towering trees by boat from Praslin Island.
  
  There are a number of nature reserves situated throughout the Seychelles, providing excellent opportunities to see some rare and exciting animals. One of these, Cousin Island, lies just two hours from Mahé via boat. Here you’ll find a reserve with an abundance of 1.2 million rare and wonderful birds. The Aride Island Nature Reserve is another breeding ground for a plethora of birds including frigate birds, red-tailed tropicbirds, and houses the world's largest colony of lesser noddy and roseate terns. Here you’ll also find the largest density of lizards anywhere on earth and several endemic species of flower.

  Other things to see

  Of course, whilst visiting the Seychelles it’s important to get a taste of the history alongside the beauty.
  
  You can experience this at the Seychelles Natural History Museum. Here you’ll find exhibitions that give you a taste of the flora, fauna and geological history of this stunning holiday destination. Alongside this, the museum aims to enlighten its visitors on environmental concerns surrounding the Seychelles natural heritage. There are also exhibitions within the museum containing a wealth of material for you to observe.
  
  The Praslin Museum is also a great place to visit, as it showcases the traditions and culture of the Seychelles. Here you can partake in coconut husking, grilling fruit bread, visit a garden of endemic and medicinal plants, feed fruit bats and enjoy the delights of the local fruit tea. This is an excellent way to help immerse yourself in the culture.

• Top 5 things to do in the Seychelles

  Curieuse Island

  Visit Curieuse Island where Giant Tortoises live and roam freely.

  Diving

  Take a trip on one of the island’s many dive sites, where you can spot everything from dolphins to octopus and even small sharks.

  Museums

  Explore the vast and diverse history of the Seychelles by visiting one of their museums; popular favourites include Praslin Museum and the Seychelles Natural History Museum.

  Beaches

  Chill out on one of the many spectacular beaches that have made this place what it is; favourites include Petit Anse and Anse Lazio, which has a cove perfect for snorkelling.

  Top sights

  With so many landmarks to visit it can be hard to choose; top choices include Mission Lodge Lookout, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and Victoria Market.

• Seychelles food and drink

  The food and drink of the Seychelles share a blend of different world influences from French and Indian to more orient flavours. Due to the closeness to the water, fish and other seafood like octopus and lobster are a staple within many dishes, alongside vegetables such as aubergines, papaya and avocados. Chicken, beef and pork are also used in a number of dishes too.

  Some of the island’s more popular dishes include chicken curry and coconut milk, grilled fish or octopus with crushed chillies, ginger and garlic, shark chutney and ladob; a dish consisting of ripe plantain and sweet potatoes. Fresh fruits are also consumed regularly here, such as mango, pineapple, limes and melon.

  In terms of drinks, fresh juices are often consumed. When it comes to alcohol a local favourite is palm wine; fermented sap tapped from coconut palm fronds.

• Seychelles shopping

  Shopping in the Seychelles is a unique experience in itself, with many places selling traditional island crafts such as pottery, paintings and jewellery. However, Victoria plays home to the Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, which provides amazing shopping opportunities. Pick up an array of souvenirs, spices, crafts and ornaments, alongside many other wonderful and interesting things. The market is at its busiest on Saturday mornings, it is closed on Saturday afternoons and Sundays.

• Seychelles nightlife

  Although not renowned for its nightlife, there are a few great places to check out whilst on holiday. Club Lovenut in Victoria is popular with many of the island’s younger generation and hosts many international DJs, whereas Mahé plays home to the popular Tequila Boom, which has frequent theme nights. When in Praslin make sure you check out The Jungle and The Dome, and the island’s only casino on the Cote d’Or; Casino des Iles.

• Seychelles lifestyle and culture

  A laid back, matriarchal society, the Seychelles is a colourful melting pot of traditions and cultures. Influenced throughout history by African, European and Asian customs, this can be seen through the art, music, dance, architecture, food, drink and festivities held throughout the year.

  Religion

  Religion is a big part of Seychellois culture, which can be seen in the various festivals throughout the year. Although the main religion here is Roman Catholicism, there are many other Christian denominations such as Anglicans, Baptists, Pentecostals, Seventh-day Adventists, Orthodox Catholics and Jehovah's Witnesses. Alongside this there are a number of other religions present, including Hinduism and Islam.

  Although religious beliefs are extremely strong in the Seychelles, most still believe in witchcraft. Due to this, Shaman are regularly consulted when it comes to supernatural guidance for everyday problems.

  Art and architecture

  The importance of art and architecture can be felt throughout the Seychelles, and are heavily influenced by the cultures that have passed through this part of the world.

  With many painters, sculptors, writers, poets, musicians and dancers in this relatively small country, the art scene is surprisingly large. Whilst roaming the streets the type of art you’ll see will encompass everything from oils and acrylics to aluminium, charcoal, recycled materials and sculptures on wood, bronze and stone. The various poems and short stories give travellers further insight into the way of local life.

  It’s also not uncommon to hear local music play throughout the Seychelles. African, European and Malagasy influences are evident through the use of string instruments and drums like the tam-tam and the tambour, and more recently the violin and guitar.

  The architecture across every island of the Seychelles has a distinctive style and practicality to its design. With clear influences from the colonial past, these sit next to steep roofs and wide verandas, to help locals make the most of the beautiful climate.

• Seychelles sports

  Sport is quite popular in the Seychelles, with both male and female volleyball being a particular favourite, with many professional players taking part at an international level. Football is another popular activity on the islands, so you don’t have to worry about missing it on your holiday.

• Seychelles events - what's on when?

  In a place where different races and cultures have mixed for generations, many traditions have formed to become popular aspects of the Seychelles’ calendar.

  Cultural Bazars, a unique shopping experience filled with local food and differing items, happen every month. This is a great way to sample the island’s style of living whilst being serenaded by Creole music. Aside from these, there’s always something happening in the Seychelles for you to get involved with.

  January - New Year’s Eve

  This is celebrated across the island, with locals partaking in various family orientated parties, alongside midnight fireworks displays.

  February – Seychelles Eco-Friendly Marathon

  What began as a modest event back in 2008 has now grown to include hundreds of participants, including an estimated 500 from overseas. Covering Northern and Eastern areas of the Mahe Island and the capital, the event accommodates everyone’s fitness, allowing you to take part in a 5km course or the marathon; which takes you 42.195km around the island. The idea is to get people to compete but also appreciate the beauty of the island’s surroundings.

  March - Holy Week

  With a wholly religious landscape, Easter Celebrations are some of the most important in the Seychelles. Many will attend services at church, and a number of other services are held throughout the island to commemorate Jesus’ sacrifices. Aside from this you’ll also witness a number of lively street parades and parties, where feasts offering up delicious local cuisine will be on offer.

  April - Carnaval International de Victoria

  Held over a three day period, this carnival celebrates the fact that the Seychelles has always been a melting pot for all corners of the globe. With representatives of various world carnivals descending on the Seychelles, there are many dedicated activities and fun to be had by all. This well-known crowd pleaser is also widely covered by the world media.

  May - FetAfrik

  Experience the vibrant and colourful African and Kreol cultures at this multi-artistic festival, which celebrates Africa Day on the 25th every year. Running for over decade, the festival features various forms of artistic expression from music to dance, and is the perfect way to learn about important island culture.

  June - Independence Day

  This national holiday is celebrated by the whole island, with everyone converging to show their national pride. The day usually sees fun filled family activities in the parks throughout the daytime, before turning into an all-out extravaganza at night, when the sky becomes illuminated by fireworks.

  August - La Digue Festival/Assumption Day

  Starting around August the 10th, those living in the Seychelles begin preparing for the annual Assumption Day. With beach parties and sporting events taking place across the islands, alongside a number of other fun filled activities, you can really immerse yourself in the island’s culture. The 15th is when Assumption Day takes place, remembering the assumption of the Virgin Mary into Heaven.

  September - World Tourism Day

  This event is held every year to help create awareness of the Seychelles’ tourism industry. With various sporting and cultural activities occurring on the day and in the lead up, you can experience everything this paradise has to offer in one fell swoop.

  October – Creole Festival

  Taking place at the end of October, sometimes running into November, this is a six day cultural extravaganza. Through the art of dance, music, craft, cuisine, arts and local customs, the whole island comes together to celebrate Creole culture. Highlights include various fashion shows and the Dimans Kreol Bor Lanmer event, held on Sunday at the beach.

  November – All Saints Day

  With religion being extremely important in the Seychelles, the month of November welcomes more religious tradition. On the first day of every November this religious festival is held to remember the dead. Show your respects as candles are lit and placed on graves, and church services are held throughout the island.

  December - SUBIOS Festival

  A film and photography festival with a twist; it’s held at sea. The festival centres on celebrating the rich and diverse marine life that surrounds the Seychelles. The weeklong festival is perfect for experiencing the vast underwater nature in a unique way.