About Seychelles
The Seychelles, a group of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean, is officially known as the Republic of Seychelles. Its capital, Victoria, is the only city in the archipelago and the location of the country’s only international airport and port. Tourism is the primary source of foreign currency. The Botanical Garden in Victoria is home to giant tortoises endemic to the islands. The Seychellois ethnic group is predominant, with Catholicism as the main religion. Seychelles has beautiful beaches and excellent diving conditions. The country’s tropical climate ranges between 25 and 30°C annually, with heavy rainfall from November to May. Seychelles has the second-highest HDI in Africa, but faces various social problems.
The most popular places to visit
Mahé Island – in Seychelles is a must-visit destination with verdant forests, high mountains, and over 65 beaches featuring diverse flora and fauna. Tourists can enjoy pink sands and beautiful granite boulders by the azure waters. Victoria City, one of the world’s smallest capital cities, offers additional tourist attractions. It’s a perfect getaway for solo or partner travelers seeking a memorable experience.
Praslin Island, also known as Isle de Palme, is home to the Vallée de Mai UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts two of the world’s most beautiful beaches: Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. The island can be reached in just 50 minutes by Indian Ocean. Visitors can stay in beachfront hotels and enjoy spotting rare black parrots in Praslin National Park, which is home to around 200 of these endangered species. Don’t miss the chance to see the biggest coral reefs and Coco de Mer, which is home to the world’s largest coconuts at Vallée de Mai.
La Digue Island is renowned for its stunning beaches, including the world-famous Anse Source D’Argent, and the granite boulders that adorn them. Visitors can experience the authentic island-style accommodation and traditional modes of transport like ox-carts and bicycles.
Anse Georgette is a secluded and tranquil beach in Praslin that offers privacy and relaxation. Only accessible through the private Constance Lemuria resort, this beach is perfect for couples seeking intimacy. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and a sandy shore free from rocks and coral, Anse Georgette is an unspoiled gem in Seychelles.
Beau Vallon Beach- This popular tourist attraction is known for its watersports such as jet skiing and water skiing and offers fantastic views of Silhouette Island. The beach is a commercial hub with many great hotels and restaurants.
The Seychelles Natural History Museum in Victoria city is a must-visit for those interested in the archipelago’s natural history. Visitors can learn about the flora, fauna, and geological history of Seychelles, as well as environmental challenges threatening the natural heritage. The museum also promotes conservation efforts.
The Vallée de Mai National Park on Praslin island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving a prehistoric forest with various endemic species like the giant coco de mer fruit palm, vanilla orchids, and unique bird species. Visitors can explore the marked trails on foot and enjoy the lush scenery and wildlife.
Fregate Island- This tropical paradise is thickly forested and a fantastic destination for watersports such as scuba diving, snorkelling, and yachting. Anse Victorin, also known as the World’s Best Beach, is situated on this island. The island is named after frigate birds, and it is a private island with excellent privacy and Wi-Fi connectivity.
Moyenne Island – Moyenne Island is renowned for the giant tortoises that roam freely, old ruins, and pirate graves. Located near the north coast of Mahe Island, this island was abandoned until a Yorkshire editor purchased it in the late 1960s and was the only person to inhabit the island until his death in 2012. Today, the island remains a nature reserve and is a part of many organized tours.
Anse Intendance- This small crescent of sand fringed with palm trees is ideal for surfing, sunbathing, and photography. The beach is not safe for swimming, but its powdery-white sand and crystal clear waters make it an excellent spot for relaxation and contemplation.
The best restaurants to eat
The best restaurants are
La Grande Maison Bravo Restaurant
Anchor Cafe & Restaurant
Del Place restaurant
Traders Vic’s Seychelles
La Perle Noire Restaurant
Seyshima
Eden La Scala Restaurant
Windsong Beach Restaurant
What to do in Seychells?
Seychelles offers a safe and pristine environment for a once-in-a-lifetime family holiday, with diverse opportunities for water activities, such as diving, sailing, and fishing. Beau Vallon beach offers various water sports and games. Seychelles also boasts rare flora and fauna, with nature sanctuaries offering unique experiences, such as snorkeling with sea turtles and bird watching. Seychelles is a melting pot of traditions, with national heritage monuments, museums, and cultural activities. The nightlife on the three main islands offers magical nights out, and the spas and golf courses provide relaxation and picturesque scenery. Seychelles has something for everyone.
Seychelles is a breeding ground for natural trails in the Indian Ocean, offering various walks and hikes to explore the lush nature and exceptional biodiversity of the islands. These trails serve to raise environmental awareness and develop green tourism, providing physical and mental growth opportunities for locals and tourists alike. Visitors can appreciate the ecologically preserved trails and Seychelles’ interior riches..
Events
Seychelles hosts a range of exciting events throughout the year, from eco-friendly marathons to fishing tournaments and art festivals. These events raise the destination’s profile internationally and offer attractions for visitors. Christian holidays form a large part of the national holiday calendar due to the majority population practicing Roman Catholicism. However, the locals also embrace a festive culture year-round with beach barbeques, campfires, and picnics on weekends.
