SEYCHELLES

Sitting off the coast of Madagascar just below the equator, the Seychelles is a string of 115 islands surrounded by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Those seeking a beach paradise will be spoilt for choice with endless stretches of the whitest sand interspersed with characteristic granite boulders and green tropical palms. It is an untouched piece of heaven where peace and quiet away from bustling crowds is a sure thing.

Slip into the crystal-clear waters and you will be rewarded with an abundance of colourful sea life flitting around the shallow coral reefs. It is a sought-after destination for divers and snorkelers alike.  But if you prefer to stay above the water, the many boating options will also give you access to the glorious aquatic paradise below you.  Wonderfully luxurious accommodation and exotic cuisine then provides the finishing touch to possibly one of the most romantic holiday destinations you will find.

  • Mahe Island is the largest of the islands and is the gateway into the archipelago. It is home to most of the Seychelles population and offers the most diversity. Inland it has a backbone of granite mountains covered in lush green forests where hiking is possible.  And of course, there are many beautiful beaches, with Beau Vallon in the north the longest and most popular. It is also the tourist centre offering much in the way of shopping and restaurants.
  • Praslin Island, a short ferry trip from Mahe, is less crowded with the main attraction being Vallée de Mai. It is a World Heritage site protecting an ancient palm jungle where you will find rare birds and plants, as well as the unusual Coco de Mer palm growing in its natural state
  • La Digue Island is possibly one of the most beautiful of the Seychelles Islands, and will appeal to those who are looking for a less touristy option. There are very few cars and life is a little slower, with anywhere on the island accessible by foot or by bicycle in no time at all. Visit Anse Source d’Argent for a glimpse of one of the most photographed beaches in the world, or find your own unspoilt little cove paradise – there are many options!

Time: GMT + 4hrs

Language: Creole, English and French are the official languages, English is well understood

Health: It is malaria free and no specific shots are required

Visa: Visas are not required. Although note that visa requirements change regularly and its best to check with your embassy when planning your trip

When to go: It is a year-round destination with November to March being warmer, less windy and better for diving and snorkelling, whilst May to October is drier but expect stronger winds

HIGHLIGHTS
  • Mahe Island is the largest of the islands and is the gateway into the archipelago. It is home to most of the Seychelles population and offers the most diversity. Inland it has a backbone of granite mountains covered in lush green forests where hiking is possible.  And of course, there are many beautiful beaches, with Beau Vallon in the north the longest and most popular. It is also the tourist centre offering much in the way of shopping and restaurants.
  • Praslin Island, a short ferry trip from Mahe, is less crowded with the main attraction being Vallée de Mai. It is a World Heritage site protecting an ancient palm jungle where you will find rare birds and plants, as well as the unusual Coco de Mer palm growing in its natural state
  • La Digue Island is possibly one of the most beautiful of the Seychelles Islands, and will appeal to those who are looking for a less touristy option. There are very few cars and life is a little slower, with anywhere on the island accessible by foot or by bicycle in no time at all. Visit Anse Source d’Argent for a glimpse of one of the most photographed beaches in the world, or find your own unspoilt little cove paradise – there are many options!
USEFUL INFORMATION

Time: GMT + 4hrs

Language: Creole, English and French are the official languages, English is well understood

Health: It is malaria free and no specific shots are required

Visa: Visas are not required. Although note that visa requirements change regularly and its best to check with your embassy when planning your trip

When to go: It is a year-round destination with November to March being warmer, less windy and better for diving and snorkelling, whilst May to October is drier but expect stronger winds

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