The Seychelles may be famed for its powdery beaches and turquoise waters, but these enchanting islands offer so much more beyond the shoreline. Spread across 115 islands, this Indian Ocean archipelago is a world of discovery from island-hopping adventures and world-class diving to hiking trails through lush forest and encounters with rare wildlife found nowhere else on Earth. Promising something new every day, the Seychelles is not just a holiday but a journey into nature, adventure and island charm.
Comprising of 115 islands scattered across 1.4 million square kilometres of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is an archipelago as diverse as it is breathtaking. To truly embrace its spirit, visitors are encourage to experience more than one island as each proudly boasts its own personality shaped by landscape, size and community.
The 41 granitic ‘inner’ islands form the heart of the nation’s tourism industry and offer the widest range of services, resorts and activities. Most travellers begin their journey on Mahé, the largest island that also homes the international airport and majority of the population. The island provides a vibrant introduction to Seychellois culture and natural beauty while also serving as the gateway to further adventures. A short 15-minute flight brings guests to nearby Praslin. The second largest island is perfectly placed for exploring nearby treasures such as Chauve Souris, Cousin, Curieuse, St Pierre and the charming La Digue.
Beyond these lie the ‘outer’ islands. Remote, untouched sanctuaries where pristine beaches and kaleidoscopic reefs meet unparalleled seclusion. Among them, Desroches Island is located 230 kilometres southwest of Mahé and is fringe by 14 kilometres of powdery beach lined with coconut palms and casuarinas. Guests can cycle the island’s sandy paths or take to the waters for fly fishing, deep-sea excursions and unforgettable dives. Even further afield, Alphonse Island is the most remote island with a hotel. The enchanting triangular atoll, crystal lagoon and extraordinary underwater world is home to vibrant gorgonian corals, schools of pelagic fish and technicolour reef life.
A haven of world-class activities, Seychelles offers thrilling adventures both above and below the waves, promising a holiday that lingers long in memory. While its warm waters are a natural playground for diving, sailing and fishing, the islands also surprise visitors with an extraordinary range of land-based experiences.
Beneath the surface lies an underwater wonderland. Diving in the Seychelles is the experience of a lifetime with some dives reporting as many as 800 different species in a single trip. Unlike the crowds and strict scheduled often found elsewhere, the local dive scene is refreshingly intimate here with smaller operations creating personalised journeys through this living aquarium. Guests can opt to stay closer to the surface with several snorkelling trails offering a gentler but equally as enchanting method of admiration.
Exploration continues above the waves as guests discover the coastlines early explorers once did, by sailing. Choose between guided tours or chartering a private boat for an entirely bespoke escape. For those drawn to the thrill of the catch, the Seychelles is also a world-class fishing destination famed for its variety and all-year round weather. Whether a first timer or a professional, expect a truly unique haul of sailfish, yellowfin, tuna, blue marlin, dogtooth, barracuda and more.
On land, the islands reveal a different side of their natural beauty. An exciting network of hiking trails range from leisurely walks to challenging climbs. On Mahé, the Trois Frères Trail is an accessible 1.4 kilometre climb with views of the capital Victoria, while on Praslin the Glacis Noire Trail is a must. This hour long hike leads adventurers past sightings of the endangered Black Parrot, Seychelles Tiger Chameleon, Bronze Eyed Geckos and giant endemic snails before unveiling the legendary Coco de Mer palms and panoramic views of neighbouring islands.
Shaped by millennia of isolation, the Seychelles is a sanctuary of extraordinary biodiversity and homes species found nowhere else on Earth. This rare natural heritage is one of the archipelago’s greatest treasures.
On Praslin Island is Vallée de Mai, one of two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Seychelles. Once described as the ‘Garden of Eden’, this ancient palm forest shelters unique creatures such as the Seychelles Black Parrot and Bronze Gecko. Most famously, it is the largest remaining intact forest of the legendary Coco de Mer with towering palms that reach over 25 metres and produce the world’s largest and most unique shaped nut. The second site is the remote and mystical Aldabra Atoll, located more than 1,000 kilometres from Mahé. Aldabra remains virtually untouched by human development with no airstrip, harbour, jetty or helipad. Ot is accessible by only a handful of authorised operators meaning those who are fortunate enough to set foot here gain a rare glimpse of wilderness that few will ever or have ever experienced.
Conservation is at the heart of the Seychelles’ identity. On La Digue, the Veuve Special Reserve safeguards the island’s fragile habitats and endangered species, while nearby Cousin Island extends protection beyond its shored to preserve not only forest but also the surrounding reefs. These efforts have not only allowed biodiversity to flourish but this sanctuary has provided havens for endangered plants, reptiles and five of the Seychelles’ eleven endemic land birds.
A melting pot of traditions, the Seychelles is just as rich in culture as beauty. Shaped by centuries of migration and exchange, the islands are home to a unique blend of languages, customer and values that create a kaleidoscope of experiences to make any visit far more than a simple beach escape.
History is woven into the landscape with each island offering glimpses into the past. Ancient houses, crumbling walls and bustling markets reveal the story of a nation influence by diverse cultures. Colonial-style mansions stand out as highlights, showcasing impressive architectural styles from around the world. For a more guided exploration, tours to historical landmarks and heritage sites bring the past to life. The State House, official residence of the President, offers a fascinating look at national governance, while the Domaine de Val des Près recreated a traditional Creole village, inviting visitors to step into local heritage through crafts, culture and cuisine.
No cultural journey in the Seychelles would be complete without tasting its vibrant cuisine. At its heart lies the freshest of seafood, caught daily and considered among the finest in the world. Yet Seychellois flavours go far beyond the ocean. Influences from Africa, France, Britain, India and Chine have merged with traditional island recipes, creating a cuisine that is truly global in its inspiration and unmistakable local in its character. From Creole curries infused with spices to grilled fish bursting with flavour, every meal is a celebration of the islands’ diverse heritage.
Now that we’ve uncovered the Seychelles far beyond its beaches, it is clear this archipelago is more than just a destination but an experience. Let this be the place where your next unforgettable holiday begins.