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Holidays in the Seychelles
Striking rock formations and giant tortoises
The island archipelago of the Seychelles is spread over a vast area of the Indian Ocean. It’s a long way from anywhere – around 1,000 miles from Madagascar, and the same again from Kenya, in fact. But the remote location is all part of its charm. The largest island, Mahé, is the entry point for most travellers, and the inhabited inner islands of Praslin, La Digue and Silhouette are all accessible by inter-island ferry. Praslin can also be reached with a short, 20-minute flight from Mahé
In terms of scenery, you can expect all the tropical island stereotypes. Snow-white beaches, glossy palms, rainbow reefs, and luxury beachfront resorts are all present and correct. But the Seychelles’ signature rock formations – some of the oldest on the planet – give the destination an almost other-worldly feel.
The islands – there are 115 in total – sing to seclusion-seekers and adventurers. They provide the perfect environment for snorkelling, kayaking, and SUP boarding, as well as exploring spice-laden markets and villages packed with colonial architecture.
Nature lovers, too, will be in their element. Discover botanical gardens, charter a boat and look for dolphins and turtles, or search for Giant Aldabara tortoises by bicycle. The birdwatching is also exceptional here. The aptly named, Bird Island, and the nature reserves of Vallée de Mai and Morne Seychellois National Park are home to the likes of sooty terns, black parrots, blue pigeons and paradise-flycatchers.
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Mahé
Situated in the north of the archipelago, Mahé is the largest island in the Seychelles. It’s where you’ll find Seychelles International Airport and the Inter-Island Quay – where you can catch the ferry to Praslin.
Mahé is also where you’ll find the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, which is well known for its lively Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, the National Botanical Garden, and the Victoria Cathedral and gardens.
Explore inland and the forest-covered mountains of Morne Seychelles National Park provide a wealth of nature walks and hiking trails – lots of which lead to magnificent vista points overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Praslin
To the northeast of Mahé – 75 minutes by ferry or just a 20-minute flight – is the idyllic island of Praslin. Here, the palm-fringed white sands of Anse Georgette and Anse Lazio sit sandwiched between giant granite boulders on the north coast. They’re among the world’s most beautiful beaches and ideal for snorkelling over nearby coral reefs.
Situated in the centre of Praslin, Vallée de Mai National Park is like stepping into a land that time forgot. Old-growth Coco de Mer palms tower above the ground as stepped trails and rainforest paths lead to waterfalls, tree frogs, and blue pigeons.
La Digue and Silhouette
Just a 15-minute ferry ride east of Praslin, the small island of La Digue awaits – an ideal destination for day trippers or for a relaxing three- or four-night stay. Blissfully peaceful and completely car-free, its locals get around by bike or on the back of ox carts. The beaches here are straight out of a travel magazine – Anse Source d'Argent, Anse Patates, and Petite Anse are among the best loved.
Silhouette Island, meanwhile, is 40 minutes by private ferry from Mahé. Home to the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa – the only property on the island – it’s made up of rainforest, mountain trails, and untouched sweeps of sand.
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How long is the flight time to the Seychelles?
Flights to the Seychelles from the UK typically take between 10 and 14 hours, with connections available via Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Qatar, Istanbul, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Johannesburg and elsewhere.
What currency is used in the Seychelles?
The national currency in the Seychelles is the Seychelles rupee (SCR), although Euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
What language do they speak in the Seychelles?
The Seychelles’ national language is Seychellois Creole, a French-based creole language. About 95% of the population speaks Seychellois Creole, although French and English are also widely spoken.
How many islands are in the Seychelles?
There are 115 islands in the Seychelles, although only some of these are inhabited.
When is the best time to visit Seychelles?
The Seychelles’ tropical climate makes it a great place to visit year-round. That said, the best times are typically from April to May and October to November, when the weather is more temperate and there are fewer tourists.
What is the capital of the Seychelles?
The capital city of the Seychelles is Victoria, which is located on the island of Mahé.
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