Seychelles holidays are so picture-perfect they’re almost cliche. But this is the real deal. It’s one of the world's last true natural sanctuaries, where half of the landmass is a protected reserve. It’s the tranquil and secluded paradise you’ve always dreamed of.
Instantly recognisable for its Jurassic-like boulders on talc-white sands, it feels like a lost world, where giant tortoises roam wild, black parrots fly amongst the extraordinary coco de mer and the world's smallest frog croaks deep in the jungle.
And as you can imagine, this pristine ecological paradise teems with aquatic life. With regular sightings of the endangered Hawksbill Turtle and whale sharks. It’s also an idyllic spot for dolphin and whale watching.
The weather is just as heavenly. Hovering around a toasty 24°C-30°C, you can expect warm waters, ideal for diving and snorkelling.
Layered on top of all this pre-historic beauty is a rich Creole culture. Blending African, European and Asian influences. Where the freshest tropical foods, rhythmic sega music and slow-paced village living will make it hard to leave.
Things to do
These 115 islands make up one of the smallest countries in the world, with a population of only 100,000 people. And while it feels secluded and sleepy, there are plenty of things to do on holidays to the Seychelles. When you’re not unwinding on the dazzling shoreline, there are UNESCO-listed nature reserves, coral reefs and hypnotic forests to explore.
The best beaches
Seychelles' beaches are a sight to behold, with their gleaming white sands and azure waters. But what really makes them stand out? Those colossal granite boulders. Take Anse Lazio on Praslin Island, just a short boat ride from Mahe and inhabited by blue pigeons and endangered black parrots.
Anse Source D’Argent in La Digue is also a must. It's one of the most photographed spots on the planet. It's easy to get to, paddle-friendly for families, and the water is so clear it looks like it's been poured from a bottle.
Another beauty, but back on Mahe, is Grand Anse, the longest on the west coast, backed by the stunning Morne Seychellois mountain backdrop. And if you like to hike, it’s worth it to see Anse Major, a hidden sandy gem that will leave you speechless.
Snorkelling & diving
The Seychelles is an underwater treasure trove of exotic fish, pretty much wherever you choose to swim. You can always just wander down to the shoreline from your hotel.
But our favourite spots include Ansr Source d’argent, on La Digue Island, as seen in films like Castaway. Anse Lazio, on Praslin Island for its seclusion. Anse Badamier, hidden down rocky paths on the uninhabited bio-reserve, Curieuse Island. And if you want some of the purest sightings of the rarest green turtles, go further out to Bird Island.
Your chances of spotting some incredible creatures are pretty high no matter what season you visit. But if you book your Seychelles holiday around April, October and November, the trade winds lull and the conditions are the calmest. It’s also worth remembering that whale sharks migrate from August to November.
Colour-popping markets
In the capital of Victoria, Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke’s bazaar is a must-see. Wander through intoxicating sights and smells, with local spices, fresh fish and souvenir stalls. If you can, take home your own Coco De Mer, the voluptuous and giant buttocks-shaped nut, an emblematic icon of the islands. Just make sure it’s from a licensed gift shop, with a certificate, as these babies are very sought after.
For couples
If you’re looking for romance, it doesn’t get more idyllic than the Seychelles. Honeymooners flock here all year long. Even William and Kate jetted here after tying the knot. You could dine under the stars with a candlelit dinner on the beach. Sample some rum at Takamaka. Take in the mountain-top views of Mahé at SeyFe Tea Factory. Explore the scenery with a bike ride in LaDigue. Set off on a sunset cruise. Or unwind with some soothing spa treatments at a rejuvenating retreat. Check out the North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort.
For families
Most of the beaches in the Seychelles are paddle-friendly. With shallow waters, soft sand and palm trees for shade. For an exciting day out, hop over to Curieuse Island to feed giant tortoises, spot black parrots in Vallée de Mai, take a canoe out on the water, and see tiny Gardiner Frogs and rare terrapins.
Best places to stay
Where to holiday in the Seychelles? Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is all about preserving its natural habitats. So even the busiest islands aren’t dominated by its luxury lodgings. Instead, these world-class hotels blend into its irresistible landscapes. Wherever you choose to stay you’ll be met with paradise on your Seychelles holiday.
Mahé
The largest island, Mahé, is ideal for first-time visitors, boasting Victoria, the capital, famed for its market, and hosting 90% of Seychelles' population. Just a 30-minute drive from Victoria lies Port Launay Beach, famed for Takamaka tree shade and snorkelling along its reefs. Look out for whale sharks feasting on plankton.
Avid hikers can hike through the towering mountains, mangroves and dense jungles of Morne Seychellois National Park, while snorkelers and divers will love Baie Ternay Marine Park's secluded beaches and diverse marine life.
You're also just a short boat ride away from the Islands, Praslin and La Digue.
Praslin
Praslin hosts Vallée de Mai, dubbed the true ‘Garden of Eden’, Seychelles' most visited UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting the country’s largest intact forest of coco de mer palms. Spot the unique Black Parrot and hike the Glacis Noire Trail for breathtaking views of nearby islands. Curieuse Island, a 20-minute boat ride away, offers Coco de Mer souvenirs and Giant Tortoise encounters, with a nursery nurturing them for release into the wild.
La Digue
The laid-back, sleepier cousin of Mahé and Praslin, La Digue is the place to be for that island life like nowhere else. It’s almost completely free of cars and can only be reached by boat, 20 minutes from Praslin. Here you can explore the tiny villages of La Prasse and La Reunion, with its handful of seafood restaurants. Then wander through the La Digue Vevie Reserve to spot the rare paradise flycatcher. All before exploring the island’s most famous site of all, the Anse Source d’Agent.
A quick 10-minute boat ride transports you to Ile Cocos. Made up of three small islets, it’s a without doubt Seychelles' most premier snorkelling destination.
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