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The Ultimate Seychelles Itinerary & Travel Guide

May 7, 2020

Looking for a perfect Itinerary to plan your trip to Seychelles? So here’s The Ultimate Seychelles Itinerary & Travel Guide – 10 Days Itinerary.

Have you ever imagined, what are the ingredients of the magic potion for a perfect beach vacation? Throw in some breathtaking white powdery beaches into turquoise blue water teeming with marine life, punctuated with boulders, virgin forests brimming with diverse flora and fauna, fascinating tales of island life and add some warm and friendly locals. The outcome is a picture-postcard tropical vacation.

To say every corner of Seychelles is out of Pinterest or Instagram is not an overstatement . Known to be favorite among celebrities, honeymooners for the luxury escapade, this tropical paradise is bound to charm even the most skeptical traveler with ease.

Seychelles is one luxe destination that should be on your bucket list no matter what. Legend has it that the stolen treasure by French pirates is still hidden on the shores of Seychelles and people are still in search of the treasure. Treasure or no treasure, the islands of Seychelles are captivating.

We present to you our itinerary to plan your trip to this beautiful island nation . Obviously, you could spend a lot longer exploring different islands of the archipelago nation based on your preferences. Pick and choose what tickles your fancy and tailor the itinerary that suits your budget and time. Here’s our travel guide to help you plan your trip to Seychelles.

Ultimate Seychelles 10 Days Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Mahe.
Day 2: Explore the beaches of Mahe/ Sightseeing/ Relax at the resort
Day 3: Hop on a boat to La Digue
Day 4: Rent a bike and explore the island.
Day 5: Island Hopping Tour
Day 6: Hop on a ferry to Praslin
Day 7: Explore the island and beaches
Day 8: Take a flight or ferry back to Mahe
Day 9: Sightseeing in Mahe and Hiking Trails
Day 10: Fly back to your home country

Seychelles Itinerary for a week – 7 Days (Recommended)

Day 1: Arrival to Mahe and take a ferry/ flight to Praslin
Day 2: Rent a car and explore the beautiful beaches of Praslin
Day 5: Take a ferry back to Mahe
Day 6: Explore and do some sightseeing in Victoria
Day 7: Fly back to your home country

– Explore Mahé & Relax at a Beachfront Resort –

( day 1 & 2 ).

Fly into the capital of the Island nation. If you are short on time, we would recommend you, to either take a ferry/flight to Praslin or La Digue and return back to Mahe towards the end of your vacation.

A post shared by Swati & Sam (@thetalesofatraveler) on Jan 23, 2018 at 5:27am PST

Since we were there for 10 days, we stayed in Mahe for a few days and then took a ferry to La Digue.

We would suggest keeping a day or two to explore the island. If time is not a constraint, there are a plethora of activities that Mahé has to offer that can keep you going for weeks — hit the beaches , explore the vibrant local markets & art studios, hike the mountain trails, take in the views from the vantage points, go on a sailing trip, and last but not the least sample the delectable Creole cuisine.

A post shared by Swati & Sam (@thetalesofatraveler) on Feb 7, 2017 at 12:54pm PST

If you want a secluded honeymoon experience then stay in the south of the island at Kempinski Seychelles or Four Seasons, these resorts are an ideal choice for a secluded vacation. If you want to stay right next to the beach, market, restaurants, and water sports activities, Savoy Resort & Spa is a great choice or you could stay in any of the resorts in and around Beau Vallon Beach.

Paragliding, Snorkeling and diving trips are quite popular and there are numerous kiosks to book your choice of activities. Wednesday market at Beau Vallon Beach is also quite popular both with locals and tourists.

Victoria market is close to the pier so you can plan your itinerary accordingly.

Things To Do / Places To Visit In Mahe

Hiking Trails – Morne Blanc, Copolia Trail (Victoria)

Beaches – Beau Vallon Beach, Petite Anse, Anse Intendance, Anse Takamaka Beach, Baie Lazare Beach

Sightseeing at Victoria – Victoria Market, Clock Tower, Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

Moyenne Island

Moraine National Park

Port Glaud Waterfall

Takamaka Distillery

Day Trips from Mahé – Praslin (if you are short on time), La Digue (if you are short on time), Silhouette Island, Bird Island, Moyenne Island, Cerf Island, St Anne National Marine Park

A post shared by Swati & Sam (@thetalesofatraveler) on Jan 16, 2018 at 5:19pm PST

Getting Around: Renting a car is the wisest thing to do in Seychelles. Not just it gives you the luxury to explore places on your own but you can also save tons of money. Taxis are super expensive in Seychelles . You can rent a car from the airport itself or at the pier and drop location can also be at Pier or airport whichever is convenient for you.

( Read a detailed post on – Things To Do In Mahe )

– Explore La Digue –

( day 3, 4, 5 ).

La Digue is one of the prettiest islands we’ve ever visited. We highly recommend staying on this island rather than going for a day trip . We had booked our stay at Chalets D’Anse Reunion via Agoda, unfortunately, they canceled it at the last minute and we had to end up staying at another hotel.

The best thing about the island is there are very few cars. La Digue is a heaven for nature lovers and those seeking a glimpse of traditional island life. The beaches dotted just to the north are calmer as compared to the ones in the east. Beaches like Anse Severe , Anse Patates in the north are easy to reach and are a great spot for snorkeling and swimming.

Other stunning beaches you must visit are — Grand Anse , next to it is Petite Anse which is only accessible by foot and next to it is the most isolated beach — Anse Coco. La Digue is way too amazing to be just a day trip in your ultimate Seychelles itinerary.

For luxury seekers, La Domaine De L’Orangeri is one of the finest resorts on the island. You can check here and compare prices.

Things To Do In La Digue

Beaches – Anse Source D’Argent, Anse Cocos, Anse Union, Anse Banane & Anse Formis, Petite Anse, Grande Anse, Anse Severe, Anse Gaulettes & Anse Grosse Roche, Anse Patates Snorkeling & Diving Trips Island Hopping Trekking

Grande Anse , Anse Severe or any of the beaches on the east of the island may be taxing due to the steep hills. Anse Severe & Anse Source D’Argent are closer to town. L’Union Estate which is next to Anse Source D’Argent has numerous giant tortoises and farm animals.

Getting Around:

By Bike, electric golf buggy, or on foot. There are very few cars on the island. Bicycles are usually provided free by the hotel.

( Read a detailed post on – Things To Do In La Digue )

– beach hopping in praslin –.

( Day 6, 7 & 8 )

After having an amazing time at La Digue we headed to the neighboring island and the second largest island in Seychelles — Praslin. A short plane ride from the capital city of Mahe or a ferry ride will get you to this incredible island in no time. Praslin is known for its stunning beaches across the world.

Unfortunately, when we were there, it was cloudy and gloomy. We rented a car and had so much fun hopping from one beach to another in the rain. The drive is scenic.

In Praslin, you can while away your days lazing on the calm beaches or you can just strap your goggles and snorkel discovering the amazing marine world. Eat, swim, dive, and relax – these are the four major ways to pass the time here. Our Airbnb host was super sweet and cooked us a lavish dinner on our very first day. The beaches of Praslin are very pretty but the famous ones are a bit crowded.

If you’re planning to stay in Luxury – Raffles Praslin and Constance Lemuria are the best. But there are also plenty of budget options too. You can check Booking.com for more hotels and also compare the prices of hotels HERE.

We stayed at an Airbnb which was close to the beach near Constance Lemuria and also visited the gorgeous and the best beach in Praslin – Anse Georgette during our stay. The beach is stunning and is secluded most of the time.

Things To Do In Praslin

Visit Unesco-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

Hop over to Curieuse Island which is just a 20-minute boat ride and is famous for 500 Aldabra giant tortoises.

Day trip to Cousin Island and Aride Island

Stunning beaches – Anse Lazio Beach, Cote D’or Beach, Grand Anse

George Camille Art Gallery

If you love gaming, head to Casino des Iles

( Read a detailed post on – Things To Do In Praslin )

– Other Attractions –

For Private Island Experience

Silhouette Island ( Stay at Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa )
Denis Island ( Stay at Denis Private Island Seychelles )
Round Island ( Stay at Enchanted Island Resort )
Bird Island ( Stay at Bird Island Seychelles )
Cerf Island ( Stay at L’Habitation Hotel )

For Ultimate Luxury –

North Island ( Stay at North Island Resort )
Felicite Island ( Stay at Six Senses Zil Pasyon )

Official name : Seychelles

Capital : Victoria (sometimes called Port Victoria )

Official language : French, English, Seselwa

Currency : Seychelles Rupee (SCR)

International dialing code : +248

Credit Cards : Many vendors prefer cash. Most credit cards, especially Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted.

Climate : Seychelles has two seasons: the cool southeast monsoon (May–September), and the hot northwest monsoon (October–April). High season- August, and Christmas to New Year time.

Getting Around & Planning

The islands are interconnected via ferry.

Air Seychelles flies regularly connecting Praslin to Mahe and vice versa.

Air Zil chopper connects to most of the islands from Mahe. Check out their website for more info and details.

Sample Itinerary 1:

Fly to Mahe then take a ferry to La Digue stay for a couple of days and then take a 15-minute fast ferry to Praslin. From Praslin, you can either fly back to Mahe or take a ferry back.

La Digue -> Praslin -> Mahe

Sample Itinerary 2:

Fly to Mahe then take a ferry to Praslin stay for a couple of days and then take a 15-minute fast ferry to La Digue. And then from La Digue, take a ferry back to Mahe.

Praslin -> La Digue -> Mahe

What to Shop

Seychelles is not a shoppers paradise. There are small shops selling locally produced stuff like soap, perfumes, oils, and artifacts.

Since most of the products are imported, the prices are exorbitantly high. But don’t forget to bring back home a few souvenirs like Coco De Mer Jewellery , Fridge magnets, Coconut oil, soap, perfumes, and artifacts.

What to Pack

You can easily survive in Seychelles packing light, just pack a few bikinis and sarongs and you are done, as most of the time, you will be on the beach or in the water. But there are few essentials that you should pack that can make your life easy whilst your time in Seychelles.

Check out our detailed post on packing for Seychelles. We have tried to cover almost everything.

( Read: Packing for Seychelles )

– GETTING THERE –

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Air Seychelles has direct flights from all major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkatta, and New Delhi to Seychelles. And if booked well in advance you can easily get a bargain.

( Read: Tourist Visa Seychelles )

Handy Tips:

While planning your trip to Seychelles, try to keep Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue as a base to stay and explore all the tiny islands around these three islands. Plan at least 2 – 3 days on each island to explore in a more relaxed way, stopping by each and every beach.
Make sure you pack your snorkel gear and a good book to retire quietly to the beach, swim and get the perfect tan.
Pack plenty of food and water while exploring the islands. Keep yourself hydrated whilst exploring the island.
Island hopping tour starts at 9:00 am and can be booked easily at the pier or by the resort/homestays itself. Depending on the tours, pick up & drop can also be arranged from the hotel.
Renting a car is one of the best options in Mahe and Praslin.
Add Silhouette island, Dennis island, or North island to your ultimate Seychelles itinerary for more secluded and private escapades.
We would highly recommend renting a car from the airport/port itself as renting a taxi can create a dent in your wallet if you are on a budget. And moreover, driving has its own charm in this stunning country.
Last but not least all the beaches of Seychelles are open to the public, so enjoy, relax and discover your piece of paradise.

Packing for Seychelles

Kempinski Resort & Spa, Seychelles

Four Seasons Resort & Spa, Seychelles

20 Photos to Inspire you to visit Seychelles

Tourist Visa Seychelles

Seychelles on Budget

Special thanks to CSIA Mumbai and Air Seychelles for making this trip possible. We hope this post on Seychelles helps you in building your ultimate itinerary for your vacation in Seychelles.

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Home » Africa » Seychelles » Itinerary

EPIC SEYCHELLES Itinerary! (2024)

The Seychelles are possibly the ultimate island holiday destination. Palm trees, white-sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and giant tortoises await you on this idyllic group of 115 magical islands!

Located in the balmy Indian Ocean just off the east coast of Africa, the Seychelles are known for their timeless beauty and romantic tranquility.

The truth is, there is so much more to the Seychelles than the crystal clear waters and world-famous beaches that feature in all Seychelles pictures. Yep, there’s also an atmosphere of utopian serenity and friendly locals, with emerald green rainforests rolling down to picturesque powdery beaches lined with coconuts.

If it’s not already one of the exotic island destinations on your bucket list, this Seychelles itinerary may just convince you it should be!

If you are planning to visit Seychelles already, looking for a 2 day itinerary in Seychelles or even a 3 day itinerary in Seychelles, you’ve come to the right place!

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Best time to visit Seychelles

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Seychelles is blessed with a warm tropical climate all year round and is fortunate enough to be situated in a cyclone free zone, making it an ideal year-round destination.

There are, however, some months that make it a little more welcoming than others. The months between March and June boast the calmest waters for water-sports, with the hot weather just ideal for beach days and swimsuits.

Monsoon season hits the islands from about November to January, which is changing annually with global warming and rain is possible at any time of the year. Even in the dry season, you may get passing rain showers in the afternoon to cool you off after the midday heat.

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The Seychelles Islands’ location just south of the equator means that they don’t experience the typical four seasons that are known in the northern and southern hemispheres. Rather, they have two main seasons, the “North West” and the “South East” – referring to the wind directions.

The North West runs from November through to March, which brings with it heat and humidity. It’s also the wind that brings more rain, so you can expect a few more hasty showers.

The South East takes up the remainder of the year, with the driest part of the year occurring between June through to September. This is a stronger wind that typically brings more cool air to the islands and creates larger swells in the seas. This means the underwater visibility can be somewhat reduced and the waters can be choppy.

To give you a better idea on when to visit Seychelles, here is a monthly overview of the weather:

When planning a trip to Seychelles, there’s a multitude of options. When it comes to accommodation in the Seychelles Islands, most places land somewhere between midrange through to luxury options.

Camping is illegal on the islands, and there are no hostel-type accommodation options. Your choices fall somewhere between bungalows and medium to high-end luxury resorts so visiting the Seychelles is not exactly cheap.

Seychelles is made up of multiple islands, so there are a few options in choosing where to stay when visiting the Seychelles.

Mahe is the best place to stay in Seychelles . It’s the largest of the islands and is home to the largest congregation of people and tourist hubs. There are plenty of things to see and do on this island and it’s the main island we will focus on in this Seychelles itinerary. The other islands are an easy boat ride away.

On Mahe, Victoria is the capital and largest city in Seychelles and is also the central hub of activity. For this Seychelles trip itinerary, it’s the best place to stay in Seychelles, and is also perhaps the best place to stay when traveling with kids.

Five kilometers west of Victoria, on the northwest of the island, is where you’ll find another highly recommended area; Beau Vallon. This is Mahe’s second most popular destination and boasts incredible pristine beaches with crystal clear waters.

Praslin is the second largest island in Seychelles and is located 44 km northeast of Mahe. It’s an easy ferry or boat ride away and offers multiple accommodation types.

Lastly, La Digue is the third largest of the inhabited Seychelles islands, which is found just east of Praslin and can also be accessed easily by boat or ferry.

Best Guest House in Seychelles – Forest Lodge Guest House

This guest house on the main island of Mahe is a small tourism establishment with 5 rooms that are surrounded by lush green vegetation and is perfect for guests with ornithological interest.

This family-run guest house is the closest thing you’ll get to a hostel on the island and offers guests a personal and informative stay, within walking distance from the popular Beau Vallon Beach.

Best Airbnb in Seychelles – Beautiful maisonettes

Spacious house, fully furnished, 5-minute walk from town. There are two large air-conditioned bedrooms (1 double and 1 twin), 2 bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen with fridge and freezer. Washing machine and ironing available, large living and dining room, and a big sunny balcony. Breakfast and dinner can be provided for guests if preferred. You should request and pay for this service separately.

Best Budget Hotel in Seychelles – Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

With spectacular Indian ocean views and incredible hillside scenery, this affordable luxury resort offers the utmost comfort and ideal location on Mahe island. You’ll get to enjoy their stunning horizon pool, fitness center, beauty treatments, and delicious food at the restaurant! It’s the perfect place to unwind with unparalleled views surrounding you.

Best Luxury Hotel in Seychelles – Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Perfectly located less than 5 meters from one of the most famous beaches in Seychelles – Four Seasons offers luxury at its finest.

You’ll have access to an incredible spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and a water sports pavilion. Each air-conditioned villa has a private pool and a patio with outstanding jungle and ocean views.

With Seychelles being comprised of multiple islands, it’s important to know how to get to the Seychelles and how to travel around. There are many awesome places to visit in the Seychelles , so you’ll want to come up with a rough plan of what to explore.

Visitors coming to explore these paradisiacal islands will fly into Seychelles International Airport, which is located on the east coast of Mahe. This makes Mahe the best option when traveling with kids or using Mahe as your base to explore the other islands.

On Mahe, you’ll find taxis as well as buses to get around. The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation operates on both Mahe and Praslin, with bikes being the best mode of transport on the flat, small island of La Digue.

If you’re planning to travel between islands, the Seychelles ferry services are both convenient and reliable. You can also opt for a small aircraft that offers inter-island transportation if you have a bigger budget for your trip.

For this Seychelles trip itinerary, we suggest that you either hire a car on Mahe island, where there are numerous car rental agencies to choose from. Alternatively, the bus will be your best bet when navigating the island. Buses run daily from 5:30 am to 8:30 pm, and are convenient and mostly hassle-free.

You can also purchase a SMART card for the buses for approximately $4 USD, which means you won’t need to constantly carry small change with you. Again, if you’re visiting Seychelles with the intention of utmost luxury, you’re able to choose from a number of independently owned cabs.

Victoria | Copolia | Mission Lodge | Seychelles Tea Plantation | Beach

The first day of this 2 day itinerary in Seychelles will be spent exploring the best sights and attractions on the main island Mahe, as well as getting accustomed to the heavenly beaches and island lifestyle. Here’s how to spend one day in Seychelles:

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Victoria

Why it’s awesome: It’s the smallest capital in the world and is full of colorful market stalls and fascinating culture
Cost: Free to explore!
Food nearby: Try some of the delicious local produce and fresh food from the market

Victoria is the smallest capital in the world and is a great way to start off your Seychelles itinerary. Come here and get to know the local flair of the island.

Take a bus into the center of the city and explore the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, better known as the Victoria Market. It’s full of color and friendly locals and is truly the heart of the capital.

Discover everything there is to know about this magnificent market and get a taste for the cultural norms and atmosphere on the island. The market carries a lot of cultural significance and makes up a major part of how the locals live – sourcing their fresh fish and produce ever since 1840!

You can expect a large dash of color, with a wide range of stalls containing all kinds of souvenirs like sarongs, local artwork, and essential oils to take home with you.

If you’re after fresh fish – this is definitely the place to go! The smell can get quite overwhelming, but it’s also possible to steer clear of the fresh fish stalls and just meander through the other market stalls.

Insider Tip: It’s also a good idea to buy some drinks and snacks in Victoria before heading off through the Morne Seychelles National Park to enjoy along some of the stops on Sans-Souci Road before reaching the other side of the island.

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Copolia

Why it’s awesome: Get a different perspective of the island and enjoy some outdoor activity
Cost: Free!
Food nearby: Take a bottle of water and some fresh fruit from the market

Copolia is a moderate hiking trail that leads you to the top of Mount Copolia to experience some of the best panoramic views of the island!

From Victoria, head towards Sans-Souci road towards the east coast of the island, and park near the Copolia Lodge – the trailhead is just across the road from the hotel, near the bus stop.

The 1.6km trail should take less than 2 hours and spills out onto the wide expanse of scenic granite mountaintop offering 360-degree views from the 500 m summit.

It’s a great way to get active in your island vacation and get to witness the unique flora and fauna that are found in the intermediate altitudes of the Seychelles.

The forests and turquoise waters make the fairly strenuous hike to the top well worth it. This is not to mention the incredible panoramic views across the shades of blue waters and tiny islands, before gathering your breath for a hike back to the start.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Mission Lodge

Why it’s awesome: The fascinating site of a school for liberated African slaves on the islands
Cost: $2 USD for a guided tour!
Food nearby: There is no food for sale, but it’s a great place for a picnic if you’d like to bring along some food from Victoria or the market

The Mission Lodge is the most famous vantage point in all of the Seychelles and offers the most spectacular sea and mountain views!

The school was originally built in the 19th century in order to care for slave children who had been dumped on the island after the abolition of slavery.

It’s located close to the highest point you can reach on Mahe by Sans-Souci road and boasts some of the most spectacular views of central Mahe and the west coast. There are also some low lying ruins that are slowly overgrowing into their original forestry.

It’s a great place just to stop for its historical significance and take some photos from the viewpoint that offers some of the best sights on the island! You could also bring along some snacks and drinks to have a picnic with one of the best views around.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Seychelles Tea Plantation

Cost: $2 USD for a guided tour
Food nearby: None, but there are delicious fresh teas for sale

Established in 1962, the tea factory is responsible for growing and manufacturing tea in the Seychelles with splendid panoramic views of the western slopes of Mahe.

A 20-minute tour of the working tea factory in Seychelles takes you through the tea making process, from drying to packing.

In the cool mountain air of Morne Blanc, amidst the rolling terraces of tea plants, you’re able to discover first-hand how tea is made on the island. Then you get to sample and purchase some of the famous fragrant SeyTé and Citronelle.

You’ll also get the chance to sample the new six aromatic flavored teas! These include SeyTé Lemon Tea, SeyTé Mint Tea, SeyTé Strawberry Tea, SeyTé Vanilla Tea, SeyTé Black Tea, and SeyTé Cinnamon Tea. There is also the branded SeyTé “The Silver Tips” to give you the full overview of the teas made in Seychelles!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Explore the West Beaches

Why it’s awesome: Discover a number of beautiful beaches along the west coast
Food nearby: Creole Lunch at Del Place Restaurant

After a morning of exploring the sights and landmarks of the incredible Morne Seychelles National Park you will hav worked up quite the appetite. Just as well it’s time for a delicious seafood lunch with a view at Del Place Restaurant before hitting the beach!

Next to Grand Anse Beach, you’ll get to enjoy the simple pleasures of the Creole way of life as you dine on some mouthwatering Creole cuisine and delicious seafood dishes. All whilst looking over the aquamarine waters and golden shores of Seychelles western beaches.

Del Place restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere and a great local dining experience. Once this is done, spend the rest of the day lounging in the white sand of the idyllic beaches and swimming in the warm tropical waters.

Once you’ve satisfied your hunger, you can head straight down to Grand Anse Beach. Here you can make the most of the island lifestyle and spend the rest of the day relaxing, snorkeling and soaking up the sun before enjoying the magical sunset views.

If you feel like making the most of being on this side of the island, you could also do a bit of beach hopping, and get to experience the coves of magic along this side of the coast.

Some of the beaches we recommend seeing in 2 days in Seychelles besides Grand Anse are Port Launay and Baie Ternay, which offer incredible sunset views and stunning vistas of neighboring islands.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Seychelles National Botanical Gardens | Craft Village | Takamaka Rum Distillery | Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden | Beach

For your itinerary for Seychelles second day on Mahe island, we think you should explore the south of the island, which offers more world-class beaches and has many Seychelles attractions to explore!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Why it’s awesome: It’s one of Seychelles’ oldest National Monuments!
Cost: Around $7 USD
Food nearby: Le Bistro or La Dolce Vita

The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens is one of Seychelle’s oldest National Monuments located on the outskirts of Victoria in Mont Fleuri.

We recommend starting off your morning by exploring the wide collection of mature, exotic and endemic plants that are housed within five acres of beautifully maintained tropical gardens in Mahe.

The gardens are also home to a wide variety of spice and fruit trees that you won’t get the chance to experience anywhere else. This is as well as some of the famous Coco de Mer palms with their larger than life seeds!

An additional attraction at the Botanical Gardens is the population of giant tortoises from Aldabra, some of which are over 150 years old! You’ll get the chance to feed them for an extra cost, and get the perfect opportunity to snap some selfies with the biggest tortoise you’ll ever see!

Keep your eyes on the taller trees to spot some fruit bat colonies feeding or roosting overhead, and make sure you don’t miss out on the orchid house which holds an impressive collection of brightly colored orchids, including Seychelles’ own native orchids!

Stop for brunch at either Le Bistro or La Dolce Vita to fuel you for the next few stops and day of Mahe adventure ahead! There is also a convenient cafe which offers welcome refreshment amidst rainforest scenery within the Botanical Gardens.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Craft Village

Why it’s awesome: It’s a village where local craftspeople create all kinds of products for sale
Food nearby: Coconut products at the Coco house

Located on Domaine de Val des Près, in Au Cap on the east coast of Mahé – the Seychelles Craft Village is definitely worth adding to your Seychelles itinerary when visiting this beautiful island!

The craft village is not just a place for buying souvenirs, but also a place that is dedicated to preserving and sharing Seychelles’ culture, history and traditions.

You’ll get to see the craftsmen at work and have the opportunity to interact and talk to them about their knowledge of traditional craft, cooking and Creole culture .

There are 12 craft huts at Domain de Val des Près, with all sorts of items being made and sold, including paintings from local artists, handmade jewelry and batik clothing. There is also a house built of coconut products where there are all kinds of coconut items for sale!

If you’re looking for some nice souvenirs from the Seychelles – this is the best place to go to find them! Even better, the money will go straight into the hands of the local craftsmen and you’ll be supporting their livelihood and trade.

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Takamaka Rum Distillery

Why it’s awesome: Experience locally produced rum made with locally grown sugar cane!
Cost: Around $11 USD
Food nearby: Asian Fusion Restaurant & Lounge Bar

The word ‘Takamaka’ means “Made from the Seychelles”. That’s exactly what this rum is – one of the most popular Seychelles points of interest – made from the purest artesian waters and island-grown sugarcane, right through to the passion that’s infused by its Creole culture.

You’ll get to experience this first-hand as you tour the rum distillery. You can see exactly how the rum is made from their very own sugarcane and water collected from the Vallée de Mai, where the famous endemic Coco de Mer palm grows.

Tours are run twice daily, so make sure you find out what times these are running on the particular day. The tours include a tasting of all the varieties of rum as well as an informative tour of the rum-making process!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

Why it’s awesome: A lush spice garden perched on the hills above Anse Royale
Cost: Around $9 USD
Food nearby: The Garden’s cafe-restaurant

This lush spice garden is gloriously located above the hills of Anse Royale. It is one of the Seychelles landmarks with incredible views of the lush forests and down to the coast.

The gardens were inspired by a French spice entrepreneur to promote spice trading in the colonies. The garden offers visitors a day on a typical Seychelles plantation that grows spices and rare plants.

It’s a haven for botanists and nature lovers! You’re able to explore the planter’s house which contains a small museum. There’s also a self-guided walk around the 35-hectare orchard forest grounds to enjoy before heading to the cafe-restaurant for a nice meal with smashing views of the coast!

Insider Tip: Treat yourself to an à la carte meal served daily, or our special fixed menu “Plantation Lunch” available every Sunday. The drinks, ice creams and almost all of the food available are flavored with the plantation’s own spices.

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Explore the South Beaches

Why it’s awesome: Explore the stunning beaches in the south of the island where there are fewer people and you can have your own paradise to explore!
Food nearby: Surfers Cafe or Anchor Cafe

The further afield location means that the beaches are less frequented by tourists. That means you can live the dream of having your own private beach in paradise

Spend the afternoon beach-hopping or just choosing one beach to lounge about and enjoy the tropical waters and warm sunshine.

Some of the most magical beaches on this side of the island are Anse Bazarca, Anse Petit Police and Anse Grand Police. Just be careful when swimming in the ocean – if there are any warning signs as the currents can get strong and make swimming fairly dangerous.

When you get peckish after all the fun in the sun, some great restaurants to try out are either Surfer’s Cafe or Anchor Cafe. Both offer laid-back beach vibes and scrumptious food!

A little further along the west coast road, you’ll get to two more stunning beaches – Anse Soleil, and Petit Anse. The latter is now the location of the Seychelles Four Seasons but the beach is also open to non-guests in limited numbers.

The Four Seasons Resort is also the ideal location to have a sundowner while you watch the sunset, before heading back to the other side of the island!

Forest House Guest Lodge

Free Parking

Vallée de Mai | Anse Lazio | Curieuse Island | La Digue

If you’re lucky enough to be planning a 3-day itinerary in Seychelles or more, there’s so much to look forward to! We recommend expanding your horizons and doing a bit of island hopping to really experience all that Seychelles has to offer!

It’s easy to take the morning ferry from Mahe, which takes about an hour, and leaves you the whole day to explore your destination!

Vallée de Mai

An incredible National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin island.
Experience a nature reserve filled with extremely rare coco de Mer palms
Get to hold the largest and heaviest nuts in the world!

From the ferry dock, we highly recommend grabbing a rental car and heading to Vallée de Mai. It is a national park and UNESCO World Heritage site, and the major tourist attractions on Praslin island.

This is where the giant Coco de Mer palm grows, one of Seychelle’s most unique endemic plants. You’ll also get to see how the largest and heaviest seeds in the world are produced, as well as experience the unique flora and fauna like orchids and black parrots.

Spend your morning exploring the palm forest filled with more than 1400 Coco de Mer palms. Be sure to take some amazing photos of all the weird and wonderful things that are native to this small island and its geographic isolation.

The National Park is known as the “heart of Praslin”. It is often described as a “Garden of Eden” thanks to its secluded and mystical nature and unique plant and animal diversity originating from the supercontinent Gondwana.

You’ll get the chance to see the oldest specimen of the tree which is around 300 years old, and stands at 27 m high! Marvel at its perfectly straight trunk and huge, fan-shaped leaves. Next, wander along the Glacis Noire Trail which takes around 2 hours to explore and takes you through the 18-hectare site, past a number of interesting plant species!

Often voted as the most beautiful beach in the world!
The perfect paradise location for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing
Explore the massive granite formations and crystal clear waters

Whilst on Praslin Island, you can’t miss out on exploring one of the most beautiful beaches in the whole world! Anse Lazio is an absolute paradise with the perfect mixture of pristine golden sand, aquamarine water and amazing scenery in every direction!

This breathtaking beach is located at the end of the road on the northwest coast of Praslin. Amidst the lush jungle surroundings, you’ll find half a mile of perfect fine white sand and glassy water filled with colorful marine life.

Due to the beaches awe-striking beauty, it’s also very popular amongst tourists. It’s best to head here early in the morning before the crowds arrive, or late in the afternoon for the stunning sunset after the tour buses vacate the area.

There are lifeguards on the beach, so you are free to swim and snorkel as you please without too much concern. But the waves and currents on Anse Lazio can also be dangerous at certain times of the year so don’t be too brazen if the seas are looking rough.

At the end of the beach, you’ll find some small shops and a few restaurants if you’d like to enjoy some lunch or dinner with a view. There is also an interesting bar known as Honesty Bar, which operates without staff and faithfully relies on the honesty policy for payment! It overlooks a small cove, making it the perfect spot for a cold refreshing drink after a day of sand and sunshine!

Curieuse Island

Home to the Aldabra Giant Land Tortoise
The perfect place for fans of wildlife and bird lovers!
Renowned for its bare red earth intermingled with the unique Coco de Mer palms

Curieuse Island is a 3km² island, located northwest of Praslin island. It’s the only other place you’ll find the famous Coco de Mer palms and is home to a breeding program for the giant Aldabra tortoises.

These incredible animals grow to an excess of 600lb and up to 200 years in age! The tortoises roam freely on this small island, making it the perfect place to snap that once-in-a-lifetime selfie!

Curieuse is a bio-reserve that is managed by the marine parks and a great place to visit when touring Seychelles. Exploring this small island is an essential part of any trip to Seychelles, and as there are no hotels or restaurants on the small island. Food needs to be organized through a tour operator on the nearby island of Praslin.

Once on the island, you’ll have time to explore the many unique things. These include the Coco de Mer, mangrove forests, Aldabra tortoises, takamaka trees, hawksbill and green sea turtle breeding ground.

The first thing you’ll notice about Curieuse is the contrast between the green forest foliage and the red earth. After a 20-minute boat ride from Praslin, you’ll arrive at the Baie Laraie harbor. Here you’ll be welcomed by local giant hump-head parrotfish and giant tortoises relaxing around the park rangers offices.

You’ll get the chance to feed these incredible gentle giants before exploring what the marine National Park has to offer. There’s also a scenic trail that goes from the harbor to Anse St. Joseph on the other side of the island, with spectacular sights and birdlife along the way!

The smallest of the three most popular islands in the Seychelles
Rent a bike and explore the laid-back flat island
Explore the fourth-largest and highly popular island in the Seychelles

La Digue is located to the east of Praslin and just a 20-minute boat ride away. This idyllic island with incredible tropical scenery offers visitors perfect photo opportunities and is a magical island to spend your time cycling around.

The natural compositions of granite, sand, and picture-perfect palm trees will make you want to stay for as long as possible! If you have the time in Seychelles, it’s definitely worth booking yourself into one of the resorts or guest-houses to spend a few days really enjoying the laid-back island lifestyle.

La Digue is home to over 3000 people who live on its 10km² land. It’s one of the favorite places to visit in Seychelles. The main sources of income on the island are fishing, agriculture, and tourism. There’s no wonder it’s such a popular tourist destination either!

Once you arrive on the island, you’ll get to experience the incredible world-class beaches, and with the island being almost entirely surrounded by coral reef, it offers some of the best snorkeling you’ll find in Seychelles!

On the eastern half of the island, there stands the 333-meter peak, known as the Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest). The north-western part consists mostly of flat plains. It’s perfect for a Seychelles walking tour as you’re able to walk to most parts of the island within about an hour. It’s also the perfect island destination to rent a bike and meander around the island experiencing all of its beautiful beaches and clear-water coves.

As with any travel destination, there are some safety precautions and health hazards that you should be aware of when planning your Seychelles travel. We’re here to guide you on the best safety advice so you can rest assured that you have done everything in your power to make your 3 days in Seychelles vacation hassle-free!

The most dangerous natural hazard you’ll come across on the islands is the sun. It’s absolutely necessary to bring sun protection in the form of reef-friendly sunscreen and adequate clothing.

Another necessity to protect your health is insect repellant, as there are a few bugs that you won’t want ruining your beach time!

There are also a few other aspects that you need to protect yourself from, or at least be aware of when traveling to the Seychelles. There can be some sketchy drug or alcohol-related behaviors that happen on the islands during a weekend in Seychelles, and crimes against tourists are not unheard of.

But don’t worry, if you keep your wits about you, and don’t go down any dark alleyways or swim on remote beaches at night, you’ll be just fine. Most of the crimes are petty theft, so when you go out its best to just take what you need, and lock your hotel room to avoid losses through any break-ins.

Just remember, even problems exist in paradise! Basically, it’s safe to visit Seychelles – as long as you don’t create those opportunities for petty crime in the first place and don’t do any stupid things that leave you in jeopardized situations.

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Seychelles

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Still looking for more after your 3-day itinerary in Seychelles? With so much beauty surrounding these islands it’s well worth taking a day or two (or more!) to explore the surrounding islands and wonders of the vast ocean. These are our favorite day trips from Seychelles:

Island Hopping

Island-hopping is a must-do experience in the Seychelles and there’s no better way to do it than a full-day adventure! Hop on board at Praslin Island and head along the west coast towards Anse Kerlan Beach, Anse Georgette Beach and Lazio Beach – three of the most beautiful and scenic beaches in the Seychelles!

You’ll get the chance to swim and sunbathe along the journey and enjoy a delicious island-style Creole BBQ picnic lunch along with cold beverages on Curieuse Island. After lunch, snorkel off of St. Pierre Island and enjoy a 1.7-kilometer nature walk on Curieuse Island.

Big Game Fishing

One of the main and most popular attractions in Seychelles is fishing. The success rate for big game fishing is generally high – making it an exciting and adventurous way to spend a day in the Seychelles!

You’ll head out on a boat in the morning and spend the day catching tuna, sailfish, wahoo, bonito, dorado and more! The tour includes a light packed lunch and opportunities to swim around some of the nearby islands.

Baie Ternay Marine National Park

Discover some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Seychelles as you embark on a private boat tour around the north coast of Mahe. Marvel at the incredible scenery as you cruise through Baie Ternay Marine National Park and walk on the white sands of Anse Major, getting the chance to really relax in nature.

You’ll visit the island of Therese and get the chance to go snorkeling in the clear waters and experience the variety of marine life, including rays, turtles and even some baby sharks!

Mahe Island Full-Day Tour

Choose to go on a full-day tour of Mahe island and experience all that the island has to offer with the guidance of a knowledgeable tour facilitator. Tours will generally take you through the vibrant Victoria Market, followed by a drive around town to admire the various monuments and hear about the unique history of each one.

You’ll also get to see the fine craftwork produced by the locals and spend some time enjoying the stunning Beau Vallon Beach. The afternoon will take you to Mission Lodge, and along some of the most beautiful beaches that the south of the island has to offer! All followed by a trip to the Jardin du Roi spice garden and rum distillery for an unforgettable day on the island!

Praslin Fishing Tour

Starting early in the morning, the popular Praslin Fishing tour welcomes in the day with a beautiful sunrise as you head out on a fishing boat to really experience the sights of the island and the sounds of the waves!

The day will be spent out on the water experiencing the joy of fishing before heading back to Praslin by the afternoon with some souvenirs and perhaps some dinner!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Seychelles itinerary.

How many days do you need in Seychelles?

With so much to explore on multiple islands, we recommend spending one week in Seychelles.

What are the best things to include on a Seychelles travel itinerary?

Don’t miss out on these epic Seychelles highlights! – Victoria’ Markets – Hiking in Copolia – Mission Lodge – Seychelles Craft Village – The South Beaches

Where should you stay if you have a Seychelles 10 day itinerary?

Victoria is the best place to base yourself. Situated on Mahe, this vibrant city offers numerous accommodation options and easy access to other areas.

What is the best month to visit Seychelles?

Anytime between June-September! These months boast warm temperatures and the lowest chance of rain, making them ideal for exploring.

The Seychelles islands are the perfect place to go almost any time of the year for a sunshine-filled, tropical paradise vacation!

Boasting some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, and incredible lush jungle scenery all around. There are incredible coral reefs that make it a snorkeler’s dream, and the crystal-clear waters will lull you into a calm and serene state of island-mind.

With unique and fascinating flora and fauna, and so much more to discover on these small idyllic islands off the coast of East Africa, it’s without a doubt one of the best island holiday destinations.

If you are going to visit the islands and wondering what to do in Seychelles, this itinerary for Seychelles will have everything covered that you need to know to plan your Seychelles travel for the ultimate tropical vacation!

Lerato Bambo

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Visiting the Seychelles: The Ultimate 1 Week Seychelles Itinerary

Last updated: February 20, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - 102 Comments

The Seychelles are a small island nation around a thousand miles off the coast of Kenya in the Indian Ocean. For a long time, these islands were also my home, and I’m proud to be half Seychellois! I spent a lot of my youth in the islands, but hadn’t visited with Jess – something we changed on a recent trip.

On that trip, Jess and I spent some time exploring the islands. I was excited to show her all my favourite beaches, eat my favourite Seychelles dishes, and of course do a lot of sight-seeing. From this trip, and my previous experience living in the Seychelles, we’re going to be sharing a number of posts to help you plan your own visit to the Seychelles, starting off with our guide to how to spend 1 week in the Seychelles.

The Seychelles - a 1 week Seychelles itinerary

We think 1 week in the Seychelles is about the minimum amount of time to visit the islands for, as it will let you see a number of different islands, and see a fair few sights.

If you have time and budget, we’ll also be putting together a two week itinerary which will cover a bit more, and let you spend more time exploring the islands.

As well as a 1 week Seychelles itinerary, this post will also cover a number of practicalities, including when to visit the Seychelles, how to get around the Seychelles, tips for your time on the islands, and much more! Let’s get started.

1 Week in the Seychelles

In our opinion, 1 week will give you time to take in three of the main islands in the Seychelles – Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. These are all a bit different with unique offerings, and I always encourage first time visitors to the islands to try and visit a few islands to get a feel for the place.

First stop on your trip will be the island of Mahe, and our itinerary has you spending four nights on Mahe, two nights on Praslin and one night on La Digue. Of course, one of the main attractions of the islands are the spectacular beaches, and you are welcome to focus on visiting those on your trip if you prefer.

You’re also more than welcome to chill out by your hotel pool! But, for those of you looking to get a bit of local flavour, this itinerary includes some of the sights and activities that we think a visitor to the Seychelles will really enjoy. But don’t worry, there are plenty of beaches in here too – although we also recommend checking out our guide to the best Seychelles beaches for more inspiration.

This 1 week Seychelles itinerary assumes you have a rental car but you can also get around by taxi, public bus, or join a tour to see almost all these sites – see the section on transportation after the itinerary for more information on getting around, as well as the section on tours for specific tours we suggest.

Day 1 – Mahe

Mahe is the most populated island in the Seychelles, and also the largest granitic island in the Seychelles archipelago. The Seychelles islands are unique in that they are the only oceanic granitic islands in the world.

They were formed when the Seychelles plateau sank, so the islands that exist today are in fact 70 million year old mountain tops. In some places, the land sank just below the sea, and here coral islands have formed, which are totally flat.

Anyway, back to Mahe. As the largest and most populous island in the Seychelles, with around 80,000 Seychellois calling it home, Mahe is the island you will arrive on as all international flights to and from the Seychelles arrive here.

The island isn’t that big, at around 17 miles long, but we think that scheduling three nights / four days here at the start of your Seychelles trip will give you time to see a great many of the islands attractions and beautiful beaches.

For your first day, much will of course depend on your arrival time, but we think that you shouldn’t try and do too much as you’ll need to acclimate to the temperature and humidity.

So we’d suggest heading to your accommodation and relaxing a bit, picking up your hire car (if you booked one), and maybe heading to one of the island’s beaches to start your holiday in style.

Of course, which beach you head to will depend on where you are, but we’d recommend Anse Intendance or Anse Louis if you’re on the south end of the island, or Beau Vallon if you’re on the north end of the island. Beau Vallon is also a good location for sunset, and for swimming if you have kids, as the water is most calm.

Day 2 – Mahe

On your second day on Mahe we recommend you take a bit of your day to explore the capital of the Seychelles – Victoria. This is the smallest capital in the world, so it won’t take you too long to explore.

Highlights include the colourful central market and the clock tower in the centre of town. There’s also a small but very interesting natural history museum, if you want to learn a bit about how the islands formed and their unique flora and fauna.

From Victoria, we suggest taking the mountain road known as Sans Souci, which will give you a different perspective of the island. This road leads high up into the mountains, and there are a number of attractions along the way. Those of you who love hiking will appreciate the fairly strenuous hike known as Capolia, which takes 90 minutes to 2 hours, depending on your fitness.

This is a fairly steep hike up onto the giant granite boulders behind Victoria, which will reward you with spectacular views of the east coast of Mahe, as well as across the St. Anne Marine National Park. On a clear day you’ll also be able to see Praslin and the islands around Praslin.

Parking is available by the road side here, and the path is marked with a large sign at the start, although be sure not to leave any valuables in your car if you are driving yourself.

Further along the Sans Souci road you will come to the Mission Lodge, which was the site of a school for liberated African slaves on the islands. There is not a lot left to see of the school, but the scenery is beautiful as are the views.

From the Mission Lodge the road starts to wind down the other side of the hill, and you’ll pass through the Seychelles Tea Plantation. When we visited in 2018, this was undergoing renovation, however it is due to re-open to visitors soon. There is also a nearby hiking path if you want to explore some of the unique fauna of this area.

Once you’re done with the Sans Souci road, you will find yourself on the west coast, where no doubt it’ll be time for a swim and the beach. There are a number of beaches along this part of the coast that are worth visiting, including Grand Anse, Port Launay and Baie Ternay.

The latter does require a short 10 minute walk, although the drive to the beach also reveals a few quite secluded beach spots that you might have all to yourself!

Day 3 – Mahe

For your third day on Mahe, we think you should explore the south of the island, which is one of my favourite parts of Mahe. This part of the island, being a little further away from the capital, is a little less developed, but has many attractions to explore. In terms of geography, generally the south can be thought of as being anywhere south of the airport.

First stop on our tour is the “Craft Village”. This, found on a former plantation (you can still tour the plantation home for free), is a village where local craftspeople create all kinds of products for sale.

These are very reasonably priced, and you’ll find a range of items here from t-shirts to candles to hand carved fridge magnets. I’d suggest that this is an excellent place to go souvenir shopping, as you are pretty much guaranteed an authentic, locally made product, and that the money will go straight into the hands of the crafter.

This is also a good opportunity to chat with the local people about their lovely islands, and learn a bit more about what it’s like to actually live here.

From the Craft Village, the next stop is another former plantation, just two minutes drive away. Found at the “Plaine St. Andre” is the Takamaka Rum Distillery, which produces the islands famous rum product – Takamaka rum. By your third day in the Seychelles, we’re sure you will have seen plenty of advertising about this rum, and you’ve probably even tried some.

Well, now’s your chance to learn all about how it’s made! Takamaka rum is the only rum made on the island with locally grown sugar cane, and it comes in a variety of flavours.

Tours are run twice-daily (although the times seem to vary, so do call to check when these are running) and are relatively inexpensive, plus they include a tasting of all the varieties of rum!

You’ll also learn a bit about the history of the plantation as well as slavery in the Seychelles, making this, all in all, a worthwhile location for a visit. Naturally, you can also buy some rum to take with you as well.

From the Takamaka rum distillery it’s time to head even further south, and explore more of this wonderful part of Mahe. We highly recommend going right to the far south of the island, down the Grand Police road, past Anse Intendance, and exploring one or more of the three beaches down here – Anse Bazarca, Anse Petit Police and Anse Grand Police.

Their far flung location means they get very few visitors (except for locals on the weekends!), and here you can really live the dream of having your own white sand paradise beach location to yourself. Just heed the warning signs regarding the currents as it can be dangerous to swim here at certain times of the year.

You can also wind around the south of the island to some of the other beautiful beaches in the area, including Anse Soleil, and Petit Anse.

Petit Anse is now the location of the Seychelles Four Seasons, but the beach is open to non-guests of the hotel although they do limit the number of visitors. You just need to sign in at the security gate and then park and walk down from the parking area.

Other pretty beaches in this area include Anse Takamaka, Baie Lazare and Anse Louis. In terms of food in this part of the world, popular and recommended stops include Surfers Cafe and the Anchor Cafe.

Day 4 – Praslin

On the morning of your fourth day, we suggest you take the early morning ferry across to Praslin (the main ferry provider is Cat Cocos ) . This takes around an hour, and leaves from the Inter Island ferry port in Victoria.

There are also loads of other ways you could visit Praslin or divide your time. If you prefer, you could also take the afternoon ferry on Day 3 and spend an extra night on Praslin, it’s entirely up to you.

If you want to reach Praslin faster, you could take 15-minute flight from Mahe with Air Seychelles, or there’s also the option to charter a helicopter of course. And, if you’d prefer to do everything from Mahe, you can also visit Praslin as a day trip from Mahe as well.

With one full day on Praslin, our suggestion is to take in the fantastic Vallee de Mai , and visit one of the world’s best beaches. A hire car on Praslin will make getting around easier, but public transport also serves the major stops around the island. You can also take a day tour like this .

We’re going to start with the Vallee de Mai on Praslin. This is a UNESCO world heritage site, and the major tourist attraction on the island. Here, one of the Seychelles most unique endemic plants grows – the giant Coco de Mer palm.

These trees, which grow as either a male or a female, have the world’s largest nut. Inside the nut you can find the world’s largest seed – which takes up to seven years to germinate!

The name, which translates as Coconut of the Sea, came about because for many years these nuts would wash up on foreign shores. With no idea where they were coming from, they were given the name that suggested they came “from the sea”.

Of course, when the Seychelles islands were finally discovered, the source of the mysterious nuts was also found – but the name stuck.

Today, the majority of the world’s Coco de Mer palm trees grow in the Vallee du Mai, and a walk through this beautiful and peaceful valley of giant trees is a must for your visit to Praslin.

Note that the nuts are fully protected, so don’t try to take one home with you – this is possible, but you need to go through the official channels and paperwork! Whilst you’re here, keep an eye out for the Seychelles black parrot also, which is commonly found in the valley.

Once you are done with the Vallee du Mai, it’s time to visit some of Praslin’s spectacular beaches. One of the most famous of these is Anse Lazio, which regularly tops lists of the best beaches in the world.

To be honest, whilst Anse Lazio is indeed stunning and worth a visit, there are multiple gorgeous beaches in the Seychelles – many of which are a lot quieter as they are not so famous! But still, Anse Lazio is beautiful, and there is an excellent seafood restaurant here (Bonbon Plume) where you can have some lunch as well.

You can either stay here for the rest of the day, or work your way back around the island’s other beaches – it’s up to you.

Day 5 – Praslin / Curieuse Day Trip

For your fifth day in the Seychelles, we recommend taking a boat tour of some of the islands around Praslin (you can also do similar boat tours from Mahe as well). The Seychelles archipelago has over 100 islands, each of which is unique, so we think that exploring some of the smaller ones is an essential part of any trip to the Seychelles.

There are a number of boat tours that operate from Praslin which visit a number of the islands around Praslin. The itineraries vary slightly, as do the islands visited, but most of them are a full day trip, such as this one, that includes lunch, soft drinks and transfers from your hotel to the jetty at Baie St. Anne.

Generally, most boat excursions include 2 or 3 of the following islands: Curieuse, Cousin, Felicité, Coco, Sister, and/or the small island of St. Pierre – the latter of which is just a small granite outcrop that is good to snorkel around (you don’t actually land on it).

An appealing island for many visitors is Curieuse as this is the best place to meet the Aldabra Giant Land Tortoise. This is a massive tortoise species, endemic to the Seychelles, which can grow to an excess of 600lb and 200 years in age.

Curieuse is probably the best place to see them on this itinerary as they are not fenced in and can roam freely. Fans of wildlife, and in particular bird lovers, may also want to visit Cousine, as this is an excellent place to see a number of the birds of Seychelles, including the Seychelles Magpie Robin, Fairy terns, white tailed tropic birds, and more.

There are a number of tour options, including this option by glass bottom boat and this speedboat option .

Whichever operator you use, make sure to bring swimming clothes, sunscreen and plenty of insect repellant!

Day 6 – La Digue

For your sixth day in the Seychelles we suggest you take the morning ferry across to La Digue. This is a fifteen minute ride and there are two companies offering regular service – Cat Cocos , and the Inter Island Ferry .

La Digue has a very different vibe than the other islands you will have visited so far. There are very few cars, and most visitors get around by bike or on foot. The island isn’t very big, taking around 30 minutes to cycle from one end to the other, but it has a number of attractions that make it worth visiting.

First, and at the top of most visitors lists, is a visit to Anse Source D’Argent. This is a beach at the south end of the island, with out of this world granite rock formations surrounded by palm trees, turquoise waters and pale white sands.

It really has to be seen to be believed, and whilst it does get busy here as the day progresses, is very much worth visiting. It’s also an excellent spot for watching the sunset. Do be aware that you do have to pay to visit the beach as access is through the L’Union Estate, which is privately owned.

If you don’t mind a bit of a cycle, it’s worth taking the road to the east side of the island to visit Grand Anse, another spectacular beach. It can be a bit busy here, but you can escape the crowds by heading to Petit Anse instead, one cove along.

Alternatively, head around the north end of the island, there’s a road which leads past numerous beaches, one of which we’re sure will take your fancy.

Finally, while you’re on La Digue you should try to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher. This endemic bird is critically endangered and native to La Digue. The best place to spot one is in the Veuve Reserve, a tract of wilderness that is set aside for the protection of these beautiful birds.

Note that if you’d prefer to stay on Praslin, you can explore La Digue as a day trip too. You can either do this on your own, by taking the ferry over, or you can take a 1 day tour of La Digue from Praslin.

Day 7 – La Digue & return to Mahe

For Day 7, our suggestion is to return to Mahe – you can take the ferry directly from La Digue to the connecting Praslin service, with a total journey time of around an hour an a half.

Of course, it’s up to you if you leave in the morning or afternoon, and this will depend on things like how much you want to see on La Digue, if you choose to stay on Praslin, and of course your flight time.

Our suggestion though is to return to Mahe and stay the night, so whatever time your flight is you’ll have no trouble getting to the airport. Once back on Mahe you can spend your last day and night finishing off any souvenir shopping, visiting a favourite beach, exploring a museum or garden, or just lounging by the hotel pool!

1 Week Seychelles Itinerary Overview

Here’s an overview of our Seychelles itinerary broken down day by day:

Day 1: Mahe. Arrive, check-in, acclimatise and hit the beach
Day 2: Mahe. Explore Victoria, drive Sans Souci
Day 3: Mahe. Explore the south of the island
Day 4: Praslin. Ferry from Mahe to Praslin, visit the Vallee du Mai
Day 5: Praslin. Day trip to the islands around Praslin
Day 6: La Digue. Explore the island
Day 7: La Digue / Mahe. Return to Mahe, relax!

When is the Best Time to Visit Seychelles?

Traditionally, the best time to visit Seychelles for the hottest and driest weather has been around April, however, changing global climates mean that this is not as predictable as it used to be. Rain is possible at any time of year, especially on Mahe, where even in the dry season you might expect to get a passing rain shower in the afternoon. However it is unusual for rain to set in, and most rain will clear up fairly quickly.

The Seychelles islands are situated around 200 miles south of the equator, and as a result of this, they do not have the four seasons that more northern or southern countries experience. There are two main seasons in the Seychelles, the “North West” and the “South East”. These seasons refer to the directions that the wind is blowing from.

The North West runs from around the end of November through to March, and this time of year is particularly hot and humid. It’s also more likely to rain during this time, particular in the months of December through to February. This is the so-called “rainy season”.

The South East season runs for the rest of the year, with the driest part of the year typically from June through to September. The south east is a stronger wind, which means that it feels cooler on the islands, however this also means that the oceans are more disturbed, so the seas are a bit rougher, the water visibility for snorkelling and diving is reduced, and seaweed can wash up on the beaches as well.

Seaweed in the Seychelles

One of the most common questions I get from readers planning a trip to the Seychelles, is which beaches in the Seychelles get seaweed, and where to stay in the Seychelles to avoid seaweed.

For Mahe, the north side of the island tends to be more seaweed prone from November – March, which is during the “north-west” trade winds season. So if you visit during this time of year, you will want to stay on the south or east side of the island.

However, in general Mahe doesn’t get so affected by seaweed at this time of year, it’s Praslin that has more issues. If you are visiting Praslin between November and March, seaweed is common on the beaches on the north and west of the island. So head to the south and east coasts for a better experience.

The south east trade winds blow from around April through to October. At this time of year, beaches on the south and east of Mahe and Praslin are more likely to be affected by seaweed, so you will want to stay on the north and west side of the islands.

How to Get Around the Seychelles

There are two things to consider when visiting the Seychelles – how to get between the islands, and how to get around the islands. We’ll start with getting around each island first.

Getting around the islands

On the larger islands in this itinerary, like Mahe and Praslin, you will find your trip a lot easier if you hire a car. There are lots of car hire companies to choose from, with prices in the region of $50 – $80 USD a day.

A hire car will make getting to all the sights and attractions on the islands at your own pace much more pleasurable. Car hire can be booked in advance, at rental counters at the airport, or many hotels and guesthouses will also offer car hire.

On Mahe and Praslin, there is also a regular public bus service which runs all around the island and covers the majority of destinations. This costs around 7 rupees per journey and is definitely going to be the cheapest way to get around, although it will take longer, and you are at the mercy of the bus service timetable of course. More remote locations, such as those off the beaten path beaches, might be harder to get a bus to.

Of course, there are also taxis available, which can be picked up at taxi stands or booked through your accommodation. You can also hire a private driver to drive you around for a half day or day, which may be a good deal if are traveling as a family or group. These will usually be the most expensive way to get around, but if you want speed and convenience, and don’t want to drive yourself, this is a good option.

There are also a number of tours if you’d rather not drive yourself. For example:

This is a small group full day tour of Mahe
This full day Mahe tour focuses on some of the best beaches in the Seychelles
This is a fully customisable private tour of Mahe
This full day tour of Praslin includes the Vallee du Mai and Anse Lazio beach

On La Digue, there aren’t many cars, and most visitors opt to rent a bike to get around. These can be hired at the jetty on arrival, or your guesthouse / hotel will likely have bikes for hire.

Expect to pay around 100 rupees a day for bike hire. There are also some golf carts operated by hotels, which offer transfer services.

Getting between the Seychelles Islands

There are two main ways to get between the islands in the Seychelles – you can fly, or you can take a boat.

For the islands in this itinerary, there are regularly scheduled flights between Mahe and Praslin operated by Air Seychelles, with a flight time of around fifteen minutes.

There is also a helicopter charter service operating between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue by ZilAir, although this is of course more expensive.

The other option for travelling between the islands is to take a boat, with a fast ferry service (Cat Cocos) operating between Mahe and Praslin (about 1 hour journey time), and Praslin and La Digue (15 minute journey time).

This is the most cost effective way to travel between the islands on our itinerary, and unless you are in a particular rush, is the option we recommend.

You can see prices and book in advance online for the boat here , flights here , and helicopter here .

Practicalities for the Seychelles

Currency in the seychelles.

The currency in the Seychelles is the Seychelles rupee, which comes in note and coin form. Rupees can be widely withdrawn from ATM’s around the country, and most locations will also accept credit cards. In some locations, especially higher end hotels, prices may be listed in USD or Euros, and these establishments will also usually accept payment in these currencies as well.

Electricity in the Seychelles

Seychelles uses a 240v standard, like Europe. Plugs are the same three pin plug as you find in the UK, so travellers from continental Europe and the US, as well as other countries that don’t use the three pin system will need an adaptor such as this one .

Travellers from countries which use a 110v system, such as the USA, will need to check that their equipment is compatible with 240v. In our experience, electrical items like camera chargers and laptops are compatible, but higher power items like hair dryers, hair straighteners, and kettles are not.

Always check your appliance before plugging it in – supported voltages should be clearly marked on the plug or adaptor. You are looking for either 220-240v, or 110-240v.

Internet in the Seychelles

Internet in the Seychelles is a relatively expensive commodity. That said, all the properties that we stayed at in the Seychelles included free Wi-Fi, which varied in speed from relatively slow to quite fast.

It’s also possible to pick up a SIM card if you have an unlocked device, and get data through one of the providers in the Seychelles. For an up to date list of prices and packages, check out this page which lists the best data sim packages for the Seychelles.

Safety in the Seychelles

The Seychelles are a relatively safe destination to visit, with violent crime being uncommon. In recent years there has been a rise in petty thefts however, and visitors need to be mindful of their belongings.

This is especially the case when visiting beaches or leaving your car unattended. Don’t leave any valuables unattended on beaches, or visible in cars. If you are renting an apartment or house, be sure to keep doors and windows locked when you are out.

A number of popular beaches on Mahe in particular have police officers in attendance, and we were often advised not to leave bags alone on the beach when going for a swim. Our advice would be not to take valuables to the beach if you can help it – leave them in your accommodation. Many rooms include a safe where you can store valuables.

Drinking Water in the Seychelles

The tap water on the three islands in this itinerary, Mahe, La Digue and Praslin, is treated and safe to drink. On La Digue the water is quite hard and has quite a “hard” taste, however it is safe to drink.

We drank tap water during our whole stay on the islands and had no problem. If you don’t like the taste, bottled water is widely available.

Note that on many of the other islands, the water is not drinkable. Tour operators will generally provide you with drinking water and other soft drinks, or of course you can bring your own.

Vaccinations & Health in the Seychelles

Unlike many African nations, the Seychelles has no tropical diseases to worry about like Malaria or Yellow Fever. If you are visiting from a country which suffers from certain diseases, or have recently travelled through these nations, you might need to show proof of vaccinations. This is particularly the case with Yellow Fever.

The main risk facing most visitors is dehydration and sunburn – being near to the equator means that the sun is especially strong, and many visitors get a bit of sunburn. We advise drinking plenty of fluids during your visit to minimise the risk of dehydration, and reading up on the signs of dehydration so you can recognise it.

We also highly recommend travelling with a packet of oral rehydration tablets and taking one a day to keep your salt levels up as you lose a lot of salt through sweat.

To prevent sunburn, we suggest packing the most protective sunscreen you can find (high SPF rating) and applying it liberally before you go in the sun, and also to re-apply after swimming or exercise. We’d also recommend wearing a hat and advise trying to minimize your exposure to the sun during the hottest hours, between 11am and 2pm.

Food in the Seychelles

Food in the Seychelles is a detailed topic that deserves its own post, which is why I created a guide to the best food in the Seychelles to help you out – this also includes some restaurant recommendations.

In general though, food in the Seychelles is a mix of Creole and Indian flavours, and heavily features fresh seafood, as well as chicken and pork. Naturally ther are also lots of fruits and fresh fruit juices to try, with availability depending on the season you visit.

If you can, we definitely recommend trying the bananas, mangos and papayas if you can, as well as the fresh lime juice.

Driving in the Seychelles

Vehicles in the Seychelles drive on the left, and the majority of vehicles use a manual transmission, although automatic vehicles can be rented if you specify this. The speed limits are fairly slow, but distances are not too great, so it won’t take you too long to drive anywhere.

The exception to this rule is during rush hour, which tends to be from 7am – 9am in the mornings, and 3.30pm – 5.30pm in the evenings. This is mainly on Mahe, with traffic around Victoria and the airport often moving slowly as people travel to and from work.

Most of the roads are one lane each way with limited passing options, so the traffic during rush hour ends up going very slowly. We’d advise avoiding driving too much around Victoria and the airport at this time if you can!

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

There is a huge range of options when it comes to accommodation in the Seychelles, although this tends to fall into the midrange through to luxury category. Camping is illegal, and there are no hostel style accommodation options.

There are however lots of options, including various self catering options that are well priced in the budget to mid-range category, and there are some excellent high end properties on the islands.

Here are some options to consider for the three islands in this post, across a range of budgets.

Where to Stay on Mahe

Mahe is the largest island in the Seychelles, and there are a lot of options for accommodation around the island. These range from guesthouses through to mid-range and luxury hotels.

Some options we suggest you check out include the following. These are ordered approximately by price, from lowest to highest.

Calypha Guest House – this is a great value and well rated guesthouse in the north part of Mahe. Rooms are en-suite and there’s a restaurant on-site serving Creole food
Maison D’Aaryan – just a few minutes from the airport and 550 yards from Anse aux Pins beach, this well reviewed budget guesthouse offers en-suite family rooms and apartments
Ocean View Guesthouse – a highly rated and great value guesthouse option a few moments walk from Beau Vallon Bay beach
Villa Vanilla – a well rated and good value mid-range option near Port Glaud, just 650 yards from the beach. All rooms are en-suite, with some offering sea views
Coral Strand – a well reviewed mid-range option on the ever popular Beau Vallon Bay beach
Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove – found at the end of Beau Vallon Bay this is a good high end property with pool, spa, on-site restaurants and bars.
Constance Ephelia – a wonderful luxury property with two stunning beaches, a range of bars, pools and restaurants
Four Seasons – found on the south end of the island on one of my favourite beaches on the island, this is a wonderful luxury property.
MAIA Luxury Resort and Spa – if money is no object, check out this resort. Each all-inclusive room comes with its own butler, private infinity pool, gazebo and kitchenette. Definitely a stay you will not forget.

Where to Stay on Praslin

Praslin is the second largest of the islands in the Seychelles, but the population is much lower than Mahe – around 7,500 people, versus almost 80,000 on Mahe. As such, there are fewer hotels to choose from.

Here are some options to consider for accommodation on Praslin. Again, these are across a wide range of budgets, from least to most expensive.

Chez Muriel – five minutes walk from Cote D’or beach, this great value guesthouse offers self catering double rooms with shared bathroom facilities
Pirogue Lodge – found on Cote D’or beach, this property has superb reviews. Rooms have en-suite facilities and bathrooms, and there’s an on-site restaurant
Le Chevalier Bay Guesthouse – Found on Anse Lazio beach, one of the best beaches in the Seychelles, this is an excellent mid-range option with en-suite rooms and an on-site restaurant
Bliss Hotel – Found on Grand Anse beach, this is a popular mid-range option near the airport. Rooms have garden views and en-suite facilities
Acajou Beach Resort – A well rated four star resort on the Cote D’Or beach. Two on site bars and restaurants as well as a pool. Room are en-suite, apartments with kitchens are also available.
Raffles Seychelles – a five star luxury property on Praslin, just a short distance from Anse Lazio beach. Each villa comes with its own pool, and there’s a spa as well as 6 restaurants to choose from
Constance Lemuria – offering five star luxury and spectacular beaches, as well as its own golf course, spa, restaurants and pools, this is an excellent luxury option with a range of suites and villas.

Where to Stay on La Digue

Despite it’s relatively small size compared to Praslin and Mahe, La Digue is very popular as a holiday destination and as such as a great many accommodation options.

The majority of these are in the budget to mid-range category, with a lot of self-catering and guesthouse style accommodation on offer. However, there are also some mid and high end properties to choose from as well.

Here are some accommodation options on La Digue to consider, again sorted approximately from least to most expensive.

Villa Hortensia – Found in the hills, this is a popular hotel with good reviews. Rooms are air-conditioned with en-suite facilities.
Chez Marston – offering adults only accommodation, this is a well rated great value hotel with en-suite rooms
Patatran Village Hotel – found just moments from a stunning beach at the north end of La Digue, this is a well rated mid-range property with rooms offering sea-views and en-suite rooms. Breakfast is included and there’s a restaurant on site.
Hotel Chateau St Cloud – a well reviewed mid-range hotel in the foothills of the island, offering peaceful accommodations. Rooms are all en-suite and there’s a restaurant and pool on site.
La Digue Island Lodge – I remember going to this lodge when I visited La Digue in my teens – it’s a staple of the island. It has aged well though, and is still one of the better mid-range properties on the island. It’s a great option if you want to dive as it has its own diving center. It has an on-site restaurant, pool with swim up bar and a variety of accommodation options including chalets.
Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa – This four star hotel has two on-site restaurants, and spa as well as pool. It’s two minutes from Anse Severe beach, and all rooms are villa style with private bathrooms and balconies. One of the best higher end properties on the island.

Of course, there are lots of options when it comes to accommodation in the Seychelles. We usually advise looking on booking.com, as we find they have the best prices, most options, and they have everything from hotels through to apartments.

You can see all their Seychelles options here , which you can then filter depending on the style and budget of accommodation you are after.

Note that the government are clamping down on unlicensed vacation rental properties, and you’ll be asked for the address of your accommodation when you arrive at the airport. We were even asked for a phone number to verify where we were staying.

So do make sure when you book a property that it’s a licensed operator. You should be able to check this in the description or by messaging the property directly.

Where We Stayed in the Seychelles

We’ve stayed at a mix of hotels and self-catering properties during our visits to the Seychelles.

On our first trip to the Seychelles when Jess and I travelled together, we stayed at three different properties, one on Mahe, one on Praslin and one on La Digue.

On Mahe, we spent a week at Villa Kordia , which is a nice self catering property located at Pointe Au Sel, around ten minutes from the airport and fifty metres from the beach. They helped us to arrange our hire car, and they also offered meals, which is a fantastic way to sample the local Seychellois cuisine.

On Praslin, we stayed at the Palm Beach Hotel , right on the beach and with wonderful sunset views. This is only a five minute drive from the Vallee du Mai, the main visitor attraction on the island.

Finally, on La Digue, we stayed at Oceane Self Catering . This was five minutes walk from the jetty, and we had a lovely big room with self catering facilities. They also offered meals in the evening, and the Creole food on offer here was excellent value and very authentic.

If you’re looking for a bit of luxury, then you might consider the Four Seasons on Mahe, which is located on Petite Anse – one of my favourite beaches on the islands. Visitors to Praslin will likely want to consider the Raffles Hotel , whilst those heading to La Digue should consider Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort and Spa .

Tours in the Seychelles

Other than the day trip to the “other islands” such as Curieuse, all the activities in our itinerary can be planned and done on your own.

However, if you prefer to take a tour, and leave the hassle of driving and planning to someone else, then there are a few tours that we suggest that line up well with our itinerary. The ones we have chosen include hotel pickups and generally last a full day.

A full day boat tour of the islands around Praslin , usually including Curieuse and St. Pierre islands, including hotel pickup and lunch

Tours definitely need to be booked in advance.

There are 102 comments on this post

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Saurabh says

6th September 2023 at 9:53 am

very well explained! great detailing, my sincere compliments to you. we will be visiting from 28/10 till 3/11 this year for our 25th wedding anniversary. 2n in praslin at acajou hotel, 1 night at LA digue Island Lodge and 3 nights at savoy at Mahe and will try to cover as per your itinerary. in Praslin and Mahe we will take car on rent but wanted to check what is the best way to transfer at La digue ferry point to LA digue Island Lodge as we will be having luggage. further are credit cards acceptable at eateries or we need to have euro in cash. any other suggestion to make the trip more enjoyable will be helpful. thanks

Laurence Norah says

6th September 2023 at 3:11 pm

Hi Saurabh,

Thanks very much!

So La Digue Island Lodge should be able to provide luggage transport services, I would reach out to them to ask. There are golf carts and similar modes of transport which should be able to meet you at the ferry for sure.

For payment, it is definitely worth having some cash on you, but the majority of establishments should accept credit cards now. It’s only the smaller locations where credit cards might not be accepted.

Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions 🙂

Lidiya says

1st February 2023 at 10:01 am

Excellent write-up! I would like to know about wedding photograph idea if you know

9th February 2023 at 9:10 am

So this is not a personal area of expertise, but if it was me I’d pick one of the beaches. There are some stunning beaches in the Seychelles, (I list my favourite Seychelles beaches here ), so that would probably be a starting point personally.

Have a great time in the Seychelles!

2nd October 2022 at 2:10 am

I’m planning a trip for January for 7 nights leaving on the eighth day in the evening.. and your trip seems nearly perfect except people are mentioning different islands and I’m starting to get curious. My question is if I rented a car would I only rent it for the few days I am on Mahe? Is there a trip coordinator that you know that could drive me and coordinate all of these comings and going’s? I am alone. Thank you for any suggestions.

3rd October 2022 at 2:43 pm

Thanks for your comment! So obviously there are many islands in the Seychelles, although not all of them can be visited. With 7 or 8 days though our recommendation is not to spread the trip too thin as you will spend more time jumping between the islands rather than seeing them. So of course you could switch out some of the islands, but I think seeing more than 3 islands in a week might be stretching things a bit. For car rental, yes, you would need to do seperate rentals for the different islands. Only Mahe and Praslin really need a car though, most people get around La Digue by bicycle and the other islands like Denis are too small to need anything other than feet!

In terms of trip co-ordination, there are various tour operators that will likely be able to help, but honestly it is likely just going to be as easy to do it yourself if you are planning a custom itinerary.

Have a great time, let me know if you have any more questions!

27th September 2022 at 9:37 pm

hey thanks for the detailed information. just a quick question though , can you share any information regarding the new year celebration in seychelles. I happen to be visiting seychelles along with my wife during this year end , i understand from your write up that it might rain , however just wanted to know are there any parties etc that happen during new year

1st October 2022 at 5:40 pm

So New Years Eve is definitely celebrated in the Seychelles, there are a lot of parties to choose from. Most hotels will have some sort of party or event that you can go to and then there are also others to choose from. I don’t have a specific one to recommend but I am sure you will find something!

Shania says

2nd July 2022 at 2:42 pm

Hi Laurence,

Thank you for such a helpful article. We are booked to stay in Mahe for 6 nights in July. We have also booked flights to Praslin and back on the same day – do you think it will be too rushed to visit Praslin and La Digue on the same day and get back to Praslin airport for our 6.15pm flight back to Mahe?

Thanks for your help. Shania

2nd July 2022 at 3:31 pm

My pleasure! So I would say that yes, a day is going to be a bit rushed to see both Praslin and La Digue. You have to consider that to get from Praslin to La Digue you first have to drive from the airport on Praslin to the ferry terminal, which is a 20 – 30 minute drive. Then there’s a 15-20 minute ferry ride from Praslin to La Digue. So that’s over an hour of your time just transferring. I’d suggest focusing on Praslin, or considering an overnight stay on La Digue, rather than trying to fit it all in. Of course, it is possible, but you probably won’t see as much as you would like.

Have a great trip whatever you decide to do!

2nd July 2022 at 3:58 pm

Thank you for such a prompt reply Laurence! I’ll start looking for accommodation on Praslin or La Digue.

2nd July 2022 at 3:59 pm

My pleasure! Let me know if you have any more questions 🙂

Oliver Dollard says

18th November 2021 at 7:29 pm

Hi Laurence!

Superb work on all of your blogs I’ve learned so so much and you made it all very clear for us, a huge thank you! I am flying tonight to Mahe, my girlfriend and I are staying for one month in total, with a week on Silhouette island. Of course we plan to visit all the main islands and do the typical activities and beaches. But we are looking for a very chilled and remote stay, we are more interested in the small shack type bars or a man cooking fish on the side of the beach than the resorts or restaurants. Do you have any advice on spots or how to avoid busy areas? And a few other questions, sorry! I would like to do some fishing, but preferably not paying for a boat to take me out. Do you need a rod license? Can you just cast off on the rocks? Do you have any recommendations on who to use for scuba diving? Also, I would like to try and see a whale shark if possible, I read they are around for a couple more weeks. Can you share any more wisdom?

Any help at all would be brilliant. Thank you so much. Where do your two live now btw? Or do you just travel!?

Thanks again, can’t wait to get there and explore.

18th November 2021 at 10:16 pm

Thanks very much 😀 Sounds like you have an amazing trip planned! So to be honest, the Seychelles islands as you will quickly discover are not that huge, so the sort of setup you are describing is harder to find. That said, honestly the islands generally aren’t that busy anyway! So some of the beaches are definitely a bit busier than others, say Beau Vallon on Mahe is going to busier than some of the beaches around the south like Anse Intendance. And La Digue tends to be busier in general as it has more budget accommodation options. But it’s still possible to find quieter beaches, the key really is just to go a bit further than others are willing to go, and avoid the most popular options. But I think you’ll quickly see that even a “busy” beach in the Seychelles is quite a distance from a busy beach anywhere else in the world.

For fishing, as far as I know you don’t need a license for recreational fishing from the beach. So as long as you have a rod and some bait, you’re good to go!

For whale sharks, I’ll be honest, I’ve never seen one. I don’t dive, so it’s not really an area of expertise.

Sorry I couldn’t be of more specific help for some of your questions, but I hope you have an amazing month in the Seychelles and do let me know if you have any more questions! Enjoy!

7th August 2021 at 6:40 pm

What is the situation with the seaweed in August? We’re heading to Mahe in a week and we are staying near Anse Royal. Never heard of that issue for Seychelles. We had a really bad experience with the seaweeds in Mexico a few years ago. We plan to rent a car and browse most of the beaches you recommended here.

Also which are the best places to exchange money?

8th August 2021 at 12:29 pm

So the south east would be when the beaches on the south and east of the island are more affected by seaweed, which will include Anse Royale. Unfortunately I can’t tell you exactly how it will be, because it varies each year, but certainly there is a good chance that there will be some seaweed. However, if you have a car then it is a short drive to the other side of the island which should be seaweed free.

I’ve also reached out to my family members who live near Anse Royale for an up to date report, if they get back to me I’ll let you know!

8th August 2021 at 2:23 pm

Just to update my previous comment, my cousin drove past Anse Royale beach a few minutes ago and said there currently isn’t any seaweed. However, it’s worth being aware that with the wind on that side of the island the water will be a bit choppy.

Enjoy your holiday!

ETI BITON says

17th April 2021 at 8:22 am

HII Laurence, thank you so much for your great 1-week itenerary. It was very helpful to us in planning our week in the Seychelles. – I would like to consult with you. My husband and I plan to travel at the end of September for a week. And I would like to know which side of Mahe and La Digue better in terms of clean beaches without seaweed and calm water on the end of September. Thank you, Eti

17th April 2021 at 11:16 am

My pleasure. So September is the South-East, which means the wind blows from the south east, and beaches on the south east of the islands will be more affected. So on Mahe you would want to stay in the north west or west side. La Digue does not get too affected, and the hotels are mostly on the west anyway 🙂

I hope this helps – have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions!

18th April 2021 at 8:16 am

Hi Laurence, Thank you very much. It was very helpful to me. Eti.

23rd April 2021 at 5:07 pm

Hi Laurence, Asks for your opinion on the division of days based on your recommendation for one week in the Seychelles.

We land in Maha and from there fly straight to Praslin. Landing in Praslin at 19:00. We would like to get straight to La Digue that evening, but do not think there will be a ferry there at such an hour. Is it possible to find a cruise to La Digue from Praslin in the evening?

Option number one – to spend the first night in Praslin near the port and at the next morning to sail to La Digue for two days. Return to Praslin for another two days and on the third day morning we have a flight at 10:40 to Mahe. Disadvantage – 3 hotels in a short time – one night in Praslin + 2 nights in La Digue + and again Praslin for 2 nights.

Option number two – stay in Praslin after landing for another 2 days and then sail to La Digue for two days. On the third day early in the morning, sail from La Digue to Praslin, to get the fligh to Maha at 10:40. Disadvantage – afraid that we will not be able to get to the flight at 10:40 in the morning when we have to get there from La Digue.

In Maha we will be 3 days.

Which of the two options do you think is better? I would love to have your opinion. Thank’s, ETI

24th April 2021 at 1:09 pm

You are correct – the last ferry currently from Praslin to la Digue is at around 2.30pm. So getting straight to La Digue on your arrival day isn’t going to be possible. I’m not aware of any other transport options either, so you would be better off staying on Praslin and then going to La Digue. My suggestion would be to spend two nights on Praslin, then go to La Digue. You shouldn’t have a problem making the 10.40 flight from Praslin as you can get a ferry from La Digue at 7.30 which gets you to Praslin at 7.45, more than enough time to get across the island. My only query is that it would probably be easier and faster to just get the ferry from Praslin to Mahe. It only takes 75 minutes, and connects with the La Digue ferry.

Of course, if you already have the flight tickets booked and can’t cancel them that would still work. I’d definitely go with Option two though 🙂

4th December 2020 at 11:10 am

What about the other side of the Island—near Anse Royale? Given the season, would the sea be calmer and more clear on that side? Though I note there are not many hotels on that side. Thank you again!

4th December 2020 at 11:47 am

So there are two main types of beach in Seychelles – those behind a reef, and those that are clear water. The Anse Royale side of the island is mostly behind a large reef, which means the water can be very shallow and full of coral. It’s not good for swimming and this is why there aren’t many hotels on that side of the island. If you are looking for good swimming in clear water then I wouldn’t recommend it,

4th December 2020 at 7:54 am

Hi Laurence, Sorry to bother you again, but you are the most knowledgeable person I have found about this issue. You mentioned the seaweed issue, but what about strong currents in North of Mahe vs. South in January? Someone mentioned that in the north ( Northholme area) of the island it could be very strong currents and almost on swimmable. Is that accurate? Thank you for your help. And would it be the same in south west side?

Thank you again

4th December 2020 at 11:45 am

No worries. So some beaches in Seychelles can have currents. I’m not familiar with the Northholme beach – it’s very small and not one most people would visit unless staying in the hotel. However from there you are very close to the Beau Vallon beach which is regarded as one of the safest beaches for swimming. So maybe you might instead consider a hotel on Beau Vallon. Port Launay is also a safe beach for swimming 🙂

elan zivotofsky says

2nd December 2020 at 1:13 pm

Laurence, thank you so much for your great 1-week itenerary. I wanted to ask your views on a couple of things. Your answers will be most appreciated and helpful.

My wife and I are planning a 1 week trip in early January. I am aware it is the rainy season, but it is okay with us. We are considering doing the first 3 nights on Denis Island, which looks amazing. We are focused on outdoors (beaches, snorkeling, water sports, etc). But, that will limit the time we have for other islands. We would then only have 4 days left, which I was thinking of staying on Mahe, and maybe a 1-day quick trip to La Digue? Is this a mistake? Should I do La Digue instead of Denis? would love any thoughts you have.

Regarding Mahe-I was considering The Northolme Hilton which looks really nice and I have heard good things about. BUT, in January, would you suggest not staying up on that part of the island? Is Constance Ephelia a little better from that perspective. And, in the south, anywhere high end you would reccomend other then Four Seasons (which is pricey)? thank you So much for your help.

2nd December 2020 at 1:47 pm

It’s my pleasure and I am of course happy to help!

So in this itinerary as you’ll have noticed I didn’t include the islands like Bird or Denis, just for time reasons. However, they are definitely beautiful. I am a little biased as I lived on Bird Island for many years, but I believe the hotel is being renovated at the moment. It’s also quite a rustic experience, wheras I think Denis is a bit more up to date. That said, I’ve not actually visited Denis since the mid 90s, although my brother has been in the past few years and said it was lovely.

Personally I would pick Denis over La Digue. It’s going to be a much quieter and relaxing experience. La Digue is lovely, but it is quite a popular destination and also has many more budget accommodation options, so can become quite busy. Although that’s probably not the case at the moment.

I think your plan of Denis / Mahe + 1 day to La Digue is definitely do-able. For Mahe, the north side of the island tends to be more seaweed prone from November – March, which is during the “north-west” trade winds season. However Mahe doesn’t get so affected honestly at this time of year, it’s Praslin that has more issues. The seaweed on Mahe tends to be more in the South-East trade winds, and on the south side of the island. It is of course possible depending on the conditions that there will be some seaweed, but it shouldn’t be a lot. However, if you’d rather not risk it, then Constance Ephelia is nice. The beach there is also spectacular and great for snorkelling, and I also really love the drive over Sans Souci.

The Four Seasons is expensive but deservedly so, it’s on one of my favourite beaches and the resort is gorgeous. You might instead try the nearby Kempinski which I believe is more reasonably priced although the beach is not so spectacular in my opinion. I would probably go for the Constance if it was me. There was also the Banyan Tree on Anse Intendance, but it’s closed for a couple of years for renovations at the moment unfortuantely.

I hope this helps, happy to provide more information if required! Otherwise I hope you have a wonderful trip, I’d love to hear your experiences and thoughts when you return 🙂

2nd December 2020 at 2:01 pm

Laurence, Your answer is extremely helpful. I am considering the Four Seasons — just not sure I am ready to pay up that much. Constance Ephelia looks like a great location, but I am just a bit concerned as it is a very BIG resort with likely a lot of people as compared to the Northolme Hilton. Can you just compare those locations if you know the Hilton at all? thank you so much for your help!.

Also, I am happy to hear you think 1-day go and return to La Digue is doable. would likely fly over to Praslin and head to La Digue. Would be a long day, but sounds like you think it can be done. Elan

2nd December 2020 at 2:16 pm

So it depends a little on what you want from a hotel in terms of location. I’ve not stayed at or visited the Hilton, but I do know based on its location that there isn’t really a great beach on site. There is a small beach, but it’s quite a cosy affair. Constance has access to two beaches, one of which (Port Launay) is regarded by many as one of the best beaches on the island.

I’d also add that I haven’t stayed at either resort so I can’t comment specifically on staying at them.

For La Digue, as well as flying I’d recommend investigating taking the Cat Cocos boat. Whilst the flight time from Mahe -> Praslin is quicker, once you factor in waiting at the airport, and then having to get to the other side of the island to the port where the Praslin -> La Digue boat goes from, you might find it’s easier to take the Cat Cocos from Mahe – Praslin (1 hour) and then directly transfer to the Praslin -> La Digue boat (the schedules are usually well aligned to make this easy).

Either way, you’ll want to confirm the timetables to make sure it’s all possible in a day.

Harris says

16th December 2019 at 10:47 pm

It was an interesting and full of useful information blog, however, I’m confused with the stay on your 4th/5th/6th day. Did you stay at different island everyday? Could you please describe a little about the accommodation arrangement as well (booked online or can book once reach there)? Also, I’m travelling with my wife next month. Which part of Seychelles you will suggest us to stay?

Thanks in advance!

17th December 2019 at 9:19 pm

The itinerary has you spending three nights on Mahe, then two nights on Praslin and one or two on La Digue. So yes you have to change islands, and the instructions for how to do this are in the post. For the hotels, I generally recommend booking in advance so you know where you are going and can arrange transportation. We always book online in advance of our travels these days so we don’t have to worry about finding somewhere when we arrive, and also because places can book up in advance at busier times of year.

In terms of where to stay, the main concern visitors usually have is over the seaweed, which can affect different beaches at different times of year. January is the North West season, so the winds blows from the north west, meaning it’s best to avoid beaches and accommodation on the north west of the islands as they are more likely to have sea weed. So if you look at a map of the island, I’d suggest avoiding say Beau Vallon on the north west of Mahe, and instead heading to the south east.

Of course, this is just a suggestion, and the beaches are not always affected by seaweed 🙂

Have a great trip!

Rizwana says

3rd December 2019 at 6:24 am

Excellent blog – to the point and so many invaluable tips. We are a young family of 5 based in Abu Dhabi – Boys aged 7, 5 and our princess aged one year old. Just one thing – is halal food available easily especially at decent hotels – we are planning: 1) March 27 to 30 (3 nights as per your suggestion)- Le Méridien Fisherman’s Cove in Mahe – We have only taken breakfast option as I assume Mahe should have easy food options 2) March 30 to April 2 – (3 nights on half board – although having read your article maybe I need to reduce and no need to go half board): Constance Lemuria Hotel – I have been told its an excellent option although very expensive 3) April 2 to 4 – (2 nights as 1 night maybe too little with small kids) – Maybe stay at Oceane Self Catering – since the booking is non-refundable, just need to maybe wait a bit closer to date before booking it.

Many thanks again for your invaluable advice

3rd December 2019 at 6:08 pm

Hi Rizwana,

Thank you very much, I am delighted to have been able to help. It sounds like you have a wonderful plan.

I am often asked about hotels and where to stay in the Seychelles, so I have gone through and updated the accommodation section with some detailed recommendations.

In terms of your accommodation options I think you have made some great choices 🙂 For Mahe, you will definitely not have any problems finding places to eat, especially from the Fisherman’s Cove as Beau Vallon has quite a few options to choose from. Fun fact, my Dad actually used to be the assistant manager at the Fisherman’s Cove… but that was quite a long time ago!

Constance Lemuria is a fantastic property. We haven’t stayed there (we did just stay at a Constance property in Mauritius though which was lovely), but we have visited, and the beaches on the property are some of my favourite in the islands. I don’t think you will be disappointed. I will say that if you don’t plan on eating at the hotel you might want a hire car, as the hotel does not have a lot of restaurants nearby. So you might find half board an easier option.

We really enjoyed Oceane Self Catering, although it is obviously a bit more of a budget option that Lemuria! However the rooms were very nice and the staff were really friendly. This is a great place to try some local food. However, if you did want something a bit less budget focused, you might consider some of the other options I’ve added to the post. La Digue is very small and easy to get around, so you definitely don’t need full or half board here, and there are quite a few dining options.

Have an amazing trip!

shailesh jani says

23rd November 2019 at 6:09 am

We , friends are planning to visit Seychelles by January End or February start, Please guide how would be the weather there in this two months ? Looking forward your Reply on our mail id please.

23rd November 2019 at 6:36 am

Hi Shailesh,

It’s hard to give precise weather information as the weather in Seychelles is variable. January / February is at the end of the rainy season, but this just means that it is more likely it will rain from time to time rather than rain all day. Traditionally February is one of the hotter times in Seychelles, so you should have good weather and calm seas, and it should be good for snorkelling as well. On the larger islands, it will rain most days, but in isolated locations and only for short periods.

I hope this helps!

SHAILESH JANI says

23rd November 2019 at 11:23 am

Dear Laurence

Thank you so much for the guidance. It looks from your Reply instead of January we should visit in Mid February right, so weather is clean and sea is calm as well and we can enjoy Sunset and Sunrise and cruising and boating also in Feb.

Thanks so much once again dear for your prompt reply. I will be in touch with you now and even after arriving at your beautiful Island.

With Warm Regards Shailesh Jani

24th November 2019 at 9:17 am

My pleasure. Yes, I would say February would be an excellent month to visit 🙂 Have a wonderful trip!

Jagadish says

3rd November 2019 at 7:33 pm

Excellent write-up. Very useful. One stop solution capturing everything one needs to know before touring Seychelles!!!! Truly appreciate it.

5th November 2019 at 10:11 am

PRADEEP says

14th October 2019 at 11:48 am

Can you suggest me best boat tour service provider in praslin apart from the one you mentioned in this blog

14th October 2019 at 8:37 pm

Hi Pradeep,

There are a number of companies out there, however we haven’t used them personally, so any recommendation would just be based on my Googling reviews from other traveller, so would not be a genuine personal recommendation. I wouldn’t want to recommend something that we don’t know personally, so the best option might be to take a look at what is available, and see if there are recent reviews from other travellers that might let you know if it’s a good company or not,

3rd October 2019 at 12:54 am

Wonderful article. Are there opportunities to sail, either chartered with a captain, or rented for us to pilot ourselves. Powerboat rentals would be interesting as well.

4th October 2019 at 7:36 pm

It is absolutely possible to hire a yacht in the Seychelles, either with a skipper or without. However, I have to be honest and say that I have not done this myself, and so I would not be able to personally recommend a service as we haven’t tried one. However, it is definitely possible. I’m not sure about power boat rentals however,

22nd September 2019 at 2:24 pm

Hi! Thanks for great article, it is very helpful. I noted several questions regarding the weather, so i won’t nudge again about it, though I’d love to get your opinion on a visit at early March. I am though trying to understand the Trade wind issue. if I got it correct if affects the clear water and the algae. So, how is March? and if we plan to stay only in Mahe – is there optimal side/beaches that aren’t affected? Thanks so much in advance!

22nd September 2019 at 2:35 pm

No worries on the weather question, I’m happy to try and help. The only problem is that the Seychelles, like the rest of the world, is experiencing different weather patterns to that which it has traditionally had. So whilst I can comment on what it *should* do, this seems to not always match up to the reality!

You are correct generally – the trade winds affect the clarity of the water, and then the seaweed (not the algae). The south east trade winds tend to blow from May to September. These are stronger winds than the opposite North West season, which means the seas are more agitated, which moves the sand and other debris around in the sea more, resulting in less clear waters. That is also the season when there is more sea weed on the beaches, particularly on the south and west coasts of the islands, as it is blown ashore.

The good news is that March doesn’t really get these issues. It’s also traditionally one of the warmer and drier months, although, I can’t guarantee that 😉

Hopefully this helps!

Have a great trip, and do report back on your experience once you’ve visited, we love to hear how people’s adventures went!

T K Pradeep says

18th September 2019 at 4:17 pm

I am planning visit Seychelles this November 2nd week. Is it a best time to visit.

18th September 2019 at 5:47 pm

November can be more rainy than other times of year because it is the rainy season, however, in my experience in the last 30 years or so, the weather is not that reliable so it can rain or not! Just because it is the rainy season doesn’t mean it will be wet all the time. I’ve had weeks of rain in the dry season, and weeks of dry weather in the rainy season.

Even if it does rain, it is usually isolated to parts of the island and there will usually be periods of sun and rain.

The driest and hottest time is traditionally in April, but again, this isn’t guaranteed.

Have a great trip

16th September 2019 at 2:13 pm

Hi wat exactly this self catering hotels means

16th September 2019 at 2:16 pm

Self catering means that the property features a kitchen you can use yourself, so you can “self cater”. They usually also have a living area and feel more like a house or apartment than a traditional hotel. Some of them do include a restaurant or the option to order meals, but this varies.

I hope this helps 🙂

Vaibhav Kakkar says

17th July 2019 at 6:52 am

Thanks Laurence. This article is excellent in all forms and contains everything that a person needs. Kudos to you! I am planning a trip in December 19 for 7N/8D. I am thinking to spend 3 nights in Mahe, 2 nights in Praslin and 2 nights in La Digue. Now on the 8th Day, I have a early morning flight (5 AM) from Mahe. So, I am wondering if I can start my trip from La Digue (2 N) followed by Praslin (2 N) and then Mahe (3 N). This way I could easily roam around Mahe on the last day and leave for airport well in time. Would you recommend this?

17th July 2019 at 4:39 pm

Hi Vaibhav!

It certainly will work in a different order, I see no reason why not. You will just go from quieter islands to busier islands, but you might enjoy that more as you can relax at the start of the trip and then do a bit more exploring as you go on 🙂

Have a great time!

17th July 2019 at 5:28 am

Hello Laurence,

I am so glad to have come across this blog post; I have been trying to figure out where to start on planning a vacay to Seychelles. I am planning to visit Seychelles for my birthday, in January 2020. I have some questions that I hope you may be able to answer. I am a person that likes interactive activities so I would like to know if the islands have access to zoos, museums and other attractions besides beaches. Next, I am vegan so I would like to know if there are any traditional dishes of the Seychelles that just happen to be vegan or if some restaurants on the islands offer vegan options? Lastly, I will be traveling from the US and I will most likely be traveling alone; how much money would you suggest I bring along with me to fund a full 5-day vacation stay at Seychelles? P.S I will be using a combination of public transportation and drivers to navigate around the islands. I look forward to hearing back from you. Thank you!

17th July 2019 at 4:44 pm

There are some museums in the Seychelles, but they are quite small and will not take up much of your time. There are no zoos exactly, but there are plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. However, the Seychelles is definitely more geared towards relaxing on the beach rather than activities, so it might not be the best destination for you. In terms of vegan food, there are certainly vegan dishes like lentil curries, vegetable curries and banana dishes, however you would have to check with each restaurant you visit regarding their vegan options 🙂

For 5 days the cost will very much depend on your travel style, but I would budget $200 – $400 per day including meals accommodation and transport.

Have a great trip and let me know if you need anything else!

Misty Montgomery says

26th June 2019 at 7:44 pm

Hi, this is a wonderful article! We are planning our honeymoon for June of next year and had thought it was a good time due to the dry season. However, I’ve been watching the weather and it’s been raining with thunderstorms all month! Do you think this is an unusual weather pattern? I know you’re not a weather expert but am hoping you might be able to provide some insight with your experience in living there.

Thank you so much!

27th June 2019 at 7:39 pm

So the Seychelles weather is kind of hard to predict, but being an island nation most weather systems don’t tend to hang around very long. It’s quite common for it to have a bit of a thunderstorm on most afternoons, just as the heat builds up in the day it creates them. They don’t usually last very long and tend to be fairly localized. However, when you look at a forecast, they always pick the worst part of the weather to show. I would say that it shouldn’t be wet all the time – usually if it rains it would be for a short period and then clear again. Of course, you can always be unlucky, but it would be unlikely to have many days of rain set in, unless there’s a big weather system across the whole area.

I hope this helps – have a wonderful trip 😀

Rebecca says

20th June 2019 at 4:36 am

Hi. Thanks so much for the excellent article. My husband and I are planning a visit from the 20th of December for a week. I am a little concerned about the weather. Is the rain just for a few hours each day,, can we still do something each day? Will we be able to do walking and light hikes? Thanks

20th June 2019 at 1:26 pm

Hi Rebecca,

Usually it just rains for a brief period in the afternoons and is sunny the rest of the time. Of course, you can be unlucky, and the weather is hard to predict, but that is the normal pattern.

8th July 2019 at 4:21 am

Did you have the 2 week itinerary? I did not see a link.

9th July 2019 at 3:37 pm

No, it’s still on the to-do list! However, our advice if you have more time would be to add on another island, like Bird, Denis, Fregate, North or Cousine, depending on your budget.

4th June 2019 at 8:21 pm

Hi Laurence, Great post!

Me and my wife are planning to go for honeymoon in August for 6 days. So covering 3 islands isnt an option with hectic schedule.

I am in a switch on whether to leave Praslin or Mahe?

What would you suggest ?

Tentative itinerary for now is 3 days in Praslin , 1 day in Ladigue , 1 day in Mahe and return back from Mahe airport.

Awaiting your reply !

4th June 2019 at 9:07 pm

Well it depends on what you want to do 🙂 There is a lot more to do on Mahe in terms of beaches to choose from and restaurants and other sights to explore. Praslin has the Vallee du Mai and of course some nice beaches, but the island is a lot smaller. It’s also less busy and feel more laid back. So if you just want to relax on a beach and not stress about sight-seeing too much, Praslin is a great option.

I hope this helps – have a great trip 🙂

Hana Chundelova Sulcova says

19th May 2019 at 1:38 pm

Hi Laurence, Great article and very helpful as we fly there on the 1st of June for the first time. We have 14 nights in front of us with booked self-catering accommodation close to petite police beach. What beach would you recommend for snorkling this time of a year. Are there many mosquitos now? Based on your comments I’m just planning to spend 1 or 2 nights on La Dique. Many thanks. Best regards Hana

19th May 2019 at 2:45 pm

That is a beautiful part of the island, you will have a lovely time. I’d suggest for snorkelling that you consider either Anse Royale or any of the beaches on the west coast, inclduding Anse Takamaka or Baie Lazare. Petite Anse is also nice.

The time you are visiting is during the south east trade winds, so there is more of a breeze and there should be less mosquitoes. However, there are always likely to be mosquitoes, especially around dawn and dusk, so I’d advise taking precautions at those times at least.

Have a fabulous time – we’d love to hear your thoughts on your experiences when you return!

19th May 2019 at 4:44 pm

Thanks a lot! Good news with the breeze. I will definitely get back with our experiences. Our car is booked as we plan to hike to those less accessible beaches. Best regards Hana

Shuchita patni says

17th May 2019 at 6:20 pm

Thanks for the details. It is really helpful. I am planning to go to Seychelles in August 2019. Will there be water sports on during that time?

17th May 2019 at 6:25 pm

Hi Shuchita,

It depends which watersports you are interested in – but the main stretches of beach like Beau Vallon usually have a variety of watersports options available year round 🙂

Enjoy your trip!

shuchita patni says

21st May 2019 at 6:01 pm

Thanks Laurence. I want to do scuba diving or snorkeling.

Also pls let me know if Seychelles is safe for solo traveler as a woman.

Regards Shuchita

21st May 2019 at 6:13 pm

Hi Shuchita

Snorkelling and scuba diving will definitely both be possible 🙂

For the safety aspect, my general response is that yes, the Seychelles is safe for solo female travellers. However, I must of course add that this is not a personal area of expertise for me. Naturally I’d advise taking any precautions you normally would when travelling alone in a foreign country. That said, on the whole Seychelles is regarded as a safe country, violent crime is very low, and the main risks are petty theft of valuables (i.e. don’t leave any expensive items unattended on the beach whilst you go for a swim).

I hope this all helps,

rohit nigam says

10th May 2019 at 10:28 am

Hi Laurence, Thanks for very intuitive and detailed post. I am planning on honeymoon trip around Nov and December in 2019 for 6-7 days. As per your post I find La Digue and Mahe more attractive amongst 3. I don’t want to travel much and to travel all 3 island might be hectic. Can you please let me know travel plan for these 2 islands or any additional suggestions you might want ? Also please suggest some good hotels for honeymoon in both these places which might have private pool. and also some good budget hotels Kindly give your valuable input alongside.

11th May 2019 at 8:52 pm

My pleasure, and thanks for your comment! So I would likely spend 4-5 days on Mahe and 2-3 days on La Digue in that case. There is a lot to do and see on Mahe if you want to get out, and a wide choice of beaches to explore.

Many hotels feature private pools, such as the Banyan Tree on Intendenance Beach or some of the hotel hotels mentioned in this post, like the Four Seasons. Certainly, hotels with private pools are generally not in the budget category though. I will be updating this post in the coming days with some more hotel recommendations as I have been asked for this, so stay tuned for an update 🙂

Nunayon Ahisu says

9th May 2019 at 6:20 pm

Thank you so much for this education, i am travelling this may to Seychelles for 7days (surprise my wife), and will love to visit the three major islands, in the other you have advised, but i am confused about how to switch bookings on accomodation, so i could spend quality day & night on these Islands. 1). Considering the customs, and visa issues, i need to book online before arrival a). Should I book for the first 3 nights in Mahe, and the others when arrive b). Must I book all the seven days online before arrival c). Are there other things i need to do online before arrival d). I am actually at a loss on how to handle these bookings

Please advise.

11th May 2019 at 9:00 pm

Hi Nunayon,

My pleasure, it sounds like you have a great trip coming up. I will answer your questions to help you with your trip of course 🙂

a – You definitely need to book your first nights before you arrive. When you arrive in Seychelles, you will be asked by the immigration officer where you are staying, and so you need to have the address or name of your hotel available.

b – I would personally advise booking all your hotels in advance of your arrival, so you can enjoy your trip rather than trying to find somewhere to stay.

c – I do not know where you are travelling from. Most countries I believe have a visa on arrival into the Seychelles, but it is always worth checking. If you are travelling from a nation with Yellow fever or other diseases, you may also need proof of vaccination. These are things you would need to check on the Seychelles immigration website.

d – our preferred website for online booking is booking.com – you can see all the hotels I recommend have links so you can book directly. You can also use the map feature to find properties where you want to be, and filter them by price and all sorts of other features.

I hope this helps – have a lovely trip!

5th May 2019 at 2:21 pm

Thank you for this write up. You have virtually made it so easy. I’m going in August for my honeymoon. Surprising my wife with this trip and this has really helped! Although we are there for 2 weeks. Do you mind recommending more hotels in the locations you listed?

7th May 2019 at 5:32 pm

Our pleasure, and I hope you have a wonderful time! It’s hard to recommend hotels as there is so much variation in price, however I would suggest using the link in the post and refining by budget and location to help. I will also look to add some more suggestions to the post to help people out, across a range of budgets.

5th May 2019 at 9:30 am

Hi Lawrence. Excellent information.

I am planning a trip of 1 week to Seychelles in August 2019. Is August good time to visit?

Are there night clubs in plenty?

I had read somewhere about the transportation (especially bus) from the airport to the city which is not having frequent service. What about taxi service from airport? Is taxi negotiable or there is taxi mafia? Further is there any time limit for the ferries such as last ferry time in the eve so it will be easier to plan accordingly else I would be stuck on an island while my hotel would be on another island.

5th May 2019 at 9:35 am

August is a good month – it is the dry season so you are less likely to get rain, and there is usually a nice south east breeze meaning it won’t be too hot. The only downside is that there can be seaweed on some of the beaches, particularly Grand Anse on Praslin.

There are some nightclubs in the Seychelles, but I would not say plenty – it’s more of a beach destination than a party destination for sure.

There are plenty of buses and they are quite frequent. However, sometimes they won’t let you board with large bags. There are plenty of taxis and usually they are metered, however you can negotiate a fare in advance if you prefer.

There are regular ferries between the main islands, but they do run to a schedule and don’t run all night. However, it’s only really between the three main islands, Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. I think you would definitely want to plan your visit to the islands around the ferry times so as not to be stuck!

Gidraph says

19th April 2019 at 2:11 pm

Hello Great write up and very informative.

Good job!. Never been in Seychelles and have been thinking of it for my honeymoon in early May for like a week.

I like the itinerary guide, sounds a great plan.

Where would you recommend for a hotel? Which is the best airline from Nairobi?

20th April 2019 at 3:27 pm

Hi Gidraph,

So if you follow the itinerary you will see I have put hotel recommendations in. For flights, the only direct flights from Nairobi are with Kenya Airways, so I would recommend those,

have a great time!

SUSANTA GHOSH. says

14th February 2019 at 2:57 pm

IT IS A VERY GOOD ISLAND , I AM AN INDIAN BUT I HAVE BEEN AT SEYCHELLES TOTAL THREE(03) YRS BUT NOT FOR TRAVEL IT WAS JOB AT SPDF.

NAME- SUSANTA GHOSH.

17th February 2019 at 4:34 pm

Thanks for your comment Susanta 🙂

Kristianna says

6th February 2019 at 9:41 pm

Thanks for putting this together, so useful! Have you released the two week guide?

8th February 2019 at 7:55 pm

Hey Kristianna! It’s still on our to-do list. But if I had two weeks, I would probably add in some time visiting some of the other islands like Bird or Denis for a couple of days at least 🙂 If you subscribe to our newsletter you’ll be the first to know when that post goes live 🙂

27th January 2019 at 7:33 am

Hi Laurence & Jessica, You guys are amazing, nice write-up. You have given pretty much a proper travel plan, great job. Enjoy your travelling and keep writing.

Good Day! Cheers Rohit

27th January 2019 at 9:45 am

Thanks Rohit – have a great trip 😀

Gaurav says

25th January 2019 at 9:31 am

Dear Laurence & Jessica,

Thanks for sharing such informational Blog!! I am planning to travel to Sechyelles in Feb. ’19 along with my wife and 1 yr kid. Have couple of questions

1). Do we get vegetarian food (preferably Indian Veg Food) in Seychelles? 2). Are there good medical facilities on Praslin and La Digue? This question is more from my kid’s perspective. 3). For renting a car, is International driving licence must ? 4). Is Visa on arrival facility available ? 5). Pls provide more information on other travel options like Bird Island or Denis Island..

25th January 2019 at 2:42 pm

Thanks very much. Sounds like you’ve got a great trip coming up. I’ll try to answer your questions 🙂

1 – Seychelles food is very similar to Indian food, with a lot of curries especially. The main dishes are fish based, but vegetable curries, rice and lentils are also very popular, so you should be fine.

2 – There’s a hospital on Praslin, and a small island hospital on La Digue. However I have never visited or used these facilities so I cannot comment on how good they are. Also, I am not really able to provide advice as to whether they would be suitable for your child

3 – For renting a car I believe you only need a license to be written in a Latin language like English, rather than something like Chinese or Russian characters. So generally an IDP should not be necessary. However you can always check with the car rental agency if you are not sure

4 – The visa system for Seychelles is generally issued on arrival. I will guess you have an Indian passport based on your food preference 🙂 So you do not need a visa – the tourist visa valid for 30 days will be issued on arrival. You just need proof of onward transportation, proof of booked accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds to support your stay. You can see more advice here: http://www.mfa.gov.sc/static.php?content_id=1

5 – There are lots more options depending on your interests and we plan to write more content about these, however we’ve not had time as yet unfortunately. Bird and Denis are both lovely islands, they are very quiet though, and more for lovers of nature who just want to relax, as there is not much to do other than enjoy nature and the beach.

I hope this helps – have a wonderful trip!

28th January 2019 at 7:28 am

Thanks for the quick revert. The information provided by you is really helpful!..Wish you all the best for your blogs..!!

9th January 2019 at 1:18 pm

Lovely in depth article. My visit to Seychelles includes a Sunday in between. Is mahe shut on Sundays?

9th January 2019 at 1:19 pm

Thanks Rohit! So the beaches and so on are all open (and popular!) on Sundays. However, many shops and attractions will be closed. It’s best to check individual attractions that you want to visit to see if their opening hours are different on a Sunday.

Have a wonderful trip, and let us know if you have any more questions!

Archana says

19th November 2018 at 12:45 pm

Hi Lawrence , Excellent Information . We will be visiting in January 2019 for one week . Plan is 3 nights Praslin 1 night La digue and 3 nights Mahe. Please suggest good options for stay with self catering apartments/airbnb

20th November 2018 at 12:12 pm

Hey Archana!

Thanks very much 🙂

Our suggestions for accommodation are in the post in the section under where to stay ( https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/visiting-the-seychelles-a-1-week-seychelles-itinerary/#Where-to-Stay-in-the-Seychelles )

We haven’t personally stayed in a self-catering on Praslin so don’t have first hand experience to share, although there are lots of options to choose from. On Mahe, we recommend Villa Kordia , and on La Digue we stayed at Oceane Self Catering , both of which are self catering 🙂

Ajith Menon says

21st September 2018 at 9:22 am

Excellent information. This was exactly what I was looking for my Seychelles holiday. Thanks much

21st September 2018 at 2:11 pm

Our pleasure Ajith – have a lovely trip!

22nd September 2018 at 5:55 am

Hi Lawrence,

If I need to do a 9 day or 10 day stay what would you recommend. For e.g. 4 days Mahe, 3 days Praslin and 2-3 days in La Digue. Thanks for your help.

26th September 2018 at 4:41 am

To be honest, with 9 or 10 days I would add on one of the other islands, like Bird Island or Denis Island. These are worth a couple of days, and are quite different from the other islands, so are definitely worth considering 🙂

Have a great trip 🙂

Lombok Wander says

25th June 2018 at 8:57 am

Nice beach and nice view !

25th June 2018 at 9:26 pm

17th June 2018 at 4:14 am

Excellent write-up! And surprisingly, it doesn’t seem as expensive as I first thought it was.

17th June 2018 at 11:53 pm

Thanks very much Scott! It can definitely be done on a reasonable budget, especially if you don’t go crazy with the high end hotels 😀

Solomon pindar maiva says

20th September 2019 at 12:37 am

Very nice beach, and a place to be, I wish to leave there.

20th September 2019 at 8:50 am

I hope you do 🙂

Island Hopping in the Seychelles

Come for the pristine turquoise beaches. stay for the granite boulders, bold curries, wild hiking, and warm-hearted people..

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Anse Source d’Argent, on the island La Digue in the Seychelles, is said to be the one of the word’s most photographed beaches.

Photo by Sarika Bansal

I had my eye on the Seychelles for some time—the archipelago of 115 sun-soaked islands in the Indian Ocean, 1,200 miles off the coast of East Africa. From my native New York, it’s a journey to get there, but from my adopted home in Nairobi, it’s only a three-hour direct flight. And during the pandemic, it ended up being exactly what we needed from a family vacation.

My husband, 1.5-year-old daughter, and I spent almost two weeks exploring the Seychelles’ three main islands. We explored the beaches with their signature granite boulders and clear warm water. We snorkeled alongside neon tropical fish, a stingray, and a needlefish. We hiked through dense jungles, feeling sweaty and serene. The flavorful curries had me eager to buy fresh spices so I could recreate them at home. We met some of the most generous and relaxed people on the planet.

And I will always think of Seychelles as the place that unlocked my daughter’s voice: She sat on the shoreline and started confidently telling stories in toddler babble.

The islands’ physical beauty is undeniable; even if you don’t identify as a beach bum, the Seychelles will turn you into one, by showcasing how diverse this biome can be. Beyond the natural attractions, the country exuded a sense of casual peacefulness, which felt like a salve during this time. I could see why most of our fellow tourists—usually from Europe—were visiting the Seychelles for the 3rd, 7th, or even 12th time.

The country was closed to international visitors for nearly a year, until March 2021; in the meantime, many people lost their jobs and relied on COVID relief from the government. But now, with about 80 percent of the country fully vaccinated and no required quarantine period for visitors, tourism seems to be getting back on its feet. David Germain, regional director of the Seychelles Tourism Board, says the country saw 185,000 visitors in 2021, including 6,000 who visited directly from the United States. (For comparison, the Seychelles had 384,000 visitors in 2019.)

We flew from Nairobi to the biggest island, Mahé, home to the international airport. (Qatar, Emirates, and Etihad all fly from New York to Mahé, usually via Dubai or another Middle Eastern stopover.) The archipelago has three main islands: Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue; many of the others are uninhabited, home to a single resort, or serve as bases for fishing expeditions.

Our trip lasted 12 glorious days, during which we stayed in three guesthouses. We started our trip on the north side of Mahé, in the town of Beau Vallon. After a few days, we took the ferry to La Digue—via a pit stop in Praslin—and spent five days on this three-mile strip of boulder-studded beaches, shallows, and lush hills. We concluded our trip on the south side of Mahé. It was the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the country, while leaving me a wish list of places to explore on my next visit.

Left: A rare and highly protected coco de mer nut, which has given rise to several legends. Weighing in at over 40 pounds, it is the de facto symbol of the Seychelles. Right: Sunset on Beau Vallon Beach, Mahé’s most popular beach

Photos by Sarika Bansal

Where to stay in the Seychelles

Given how vital tourism is for the economy, Seychelles is full of hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and self-catering holiday homes. We opted for the self-catering option throughout our stay: our favorite, Domaine Les Rochers in La Digue, was a family-run garden oasis minutes from the town center. The bungalow we rented felt cozy in the best sense: The bedding was comfortable and stylish, the wraparound porch was perfect for reading when it rained, and the well-appointed kitchen included some ingredients like oil, spices, and fresh fruit. My daughter spent the early mornings chasing the resident cats and chickens. We felt right at home.

For a more upscale stay in La Digue, Domaine l’Orangeraie has dozens of rooms at various price points, an infinity pool, two restaurants, and a full-service spa on a hilltop. In Mahé and Praslin, the Constance Hotels (Ephelia and Lemuria, respectively) offer similar amenities, and on the north side of Mahé, in Beau Vallon, the Savoy and Story resorts are popular hotel options.

Left: The Arulmigu Navasakti Vinayagar Temple is located in the heart of Victoria, the country’s capital. Hinduism is the largest non-Christian religion in the Seychelles. Right: A jungle bar selling coconut water near Anse Major

Things to do in Mahé

Mahé is home to about 90 percent of the Seychelles’ approximately 100,000 residents. It’s the largest island in the archipelago—4 miles wide and 16 miles long—and the most developed. Over the coming days, I’d come to appreciate the shift from Nairobi’s urban craze to Mahé’s island speed, the lilting Creole Seychellois accent, and of course, the tropical weather (most days were in the 80s and sunny, though there were a few rainstorms). We spent our days exploring beaches, hiking, and learning about Seychelles’ culture and history. We ate well. We drank rum. And we made friends along the way.

Best beaches on Mahé

Seychelles beaches have the seemingly requisite pristine white sand and turquoise water, but even more striking are the large granite boulders and secret cove-like settings. All of the country’s beaches are public, even ones accessed through hotels, which made our wish list all the more extensive.

Barrier reefs protect many of Seychelles’ shorelines, which means calm water by the shore—perfect for our beach baby—and ample snorkeling. Our last few days in Mahé were dedicated to beach-hopping, armed with our trusty paper map, the thorough website Snorkel Report , and a book, Seychelles 20 Most Beautiful Beaches .

Mahé’s larger beaches offer a unique charm. Fun beach bars and restaurants flank Beau Vallon Beach , likely Mahé’s most famous beach; from here, I witnessed one of the most colorful sunsets of my life, with views of the majestic Silhouette Island . On the other side of the island, the wide expanse of Anse Intendance features large crashing cerulean waves and a mountain backdrop. Great for surfers, less ideal for toddlers.

We enjoyed Port Launay , a half-moon beach close to the five-star resort Constance Ephelia and located within a Marine National Park. Though most of the coral is sadly bleached, the bay is still home to colorful tropical fish and sea turtles. The beach offers silky sand and plenty of shade from indigenous takamaka trees. Anse Soleil is a small, picturesque cove beach on the other side of the island near the Four Seasons Resort (that was harboring a multimillion-dollar yacht when we visited). Anse Gouvernment , Sunset Beach , and Anse Forbans were other favorites—but above all, Anse Major was the star.

Where to hike on Mahé

On our first full day in Mahé, we did a short, moderately difficult hike to Anse Major . The path alternated between climbing exposed rockface, with views of the azure ocean below, and trekking through a jungle. The trail spat us out onto a tiny beach rimmed by palm trees and boulders. The water was warm, someone had hung up a rope from a palm tree to swing on, and a tiny jungle bar sold fresh coconut water. I felt like I was in a movie. We later learned that the trail continued to two other beaches, that people sometimes grill seafood on the third beach, and that you could also arrive at the beach by boat taxi. But we were so enamored by the secret cove beach that we didn’t venture further. (Tip: Drive on the paved road past the official trailhead to where the trail actually begins, close to the hotel Calm Sorento. That will save you about 20 minutes of walking on pavement each way.)

The winding, mountainous San Souci Road is dotted with trailhead markers. We opted to trek Morne Blanc , a steep out-and-back trail to a great viewpoint, from where we could see half the island, neon blue water, and white paradise flycatchers soaring in the sky. Copolia Trail is another popular, and less intense, trail in this area. The website AllTrails is an exhaustive resource for walking enthusiasts. (Note: I wore normal sneakers and didn’t see a need for hiking shoes. We carried our daughter in a baby carrier for most of these hikes. Bring ample water.)

The lunch spread at Le Jardin du Roi

Where to eat on Mahé

Many people visit the Seychelles, stay in a resort, and leave having only had European-style food. In doing so, travelers will miss the complex, rich flavors of Creole cooking, the casual fun of “takeaway” barbecue joints, and the coconut-forward desserts.

My most memorable meal was at Le Jardin du Roi spice garden, on a hilltop in the center of the island. The set lunch menu—much of which was sourced from the garden—included a few appetizers, such as star fruit marinated in olive oil and breadfruit braised in coconut milk. The main course featured fresh fish, flavorful curries, and tenderly cooked lentils. (You can buy packets of its curry powder before leaving.) Entry to the garden comes with a map, which can serve as a guide around the verdant, untamed property. I saw my first coco de mer tree, a highly protected tree that grows a nut that can weigh over 40 pounds and is shaped like a woman’s bottom, as well as my first aldabra giant tortoise.

We had another indulgent meal at Del Place , close to Port Launay Marine Park . It features local artwork on the walls and a seafront view (complete with an island to admire!). We loved the melt-in-your-mouth red snapper, fried eggplant, and sweet potato mash. We further treated ourselves to the “dessert degustation,” a tasting menu of six cakes, tarts, and mousses.

Other restaurants I would recommend on Mahé include Le Perle Noir and La Scala , both upscale Italian restaurants in Beau Vallon; Marie Antoinette , a family-run Creole restaurant; Baobab Pizzeria , a casual pizza eatery with a fabulous view of Beau Vallon Beach; and Kafe Kreol , which offers a mix of cuisines and creative cocktails.

Finally, we had a lovely time at the Takamaka Rum Distillery , a family-run distillery making rum for about 20 years. We toured the medicinal gardens, learned about how rum was produced, and tasted six products—including white, brown, and spiced rums. It was 11 a.m., but the tour guides clearly knew how to start a party anytime. As we sipped the spirits, they gave us recipes for pina coladas, rum raisin ice cream, and mojitos.

Culture and history of Mahé

My travel style is to see fewer places for a longer time, and use that time to get a sense of what it would be like to live there. For example, I checked out Sir Selwyn Clarke Market , a covered food market in the heart of the country’s capital, Victoria. Built in 1840, the market showcases vendors selling produce, specialty foods like giant cinnamon sticks and vanilla essence, and Seychelles souvenirs.

I did feel a bit of culture shock in the market as I watched vendors wrap all the produce in plastic bags (Kenya banned plastic bags in 2020). There was far more single-use plastic throughout the country than I anticipated, particularly bags and water bottles, especially considering that the Seychelles are in the middle of the ocean and boast some of the cleanest beaches in the world. According to Germain from the tourism board, the importation of single-use plastics has been banned as of February 2021, and vendors are using up their supplies. There will be a gradual shift to paper bags and glass bottles over the coming years.

Part of the reason the country has such a small population is that humans didn’t settle on the islands until the late 18th century, when French traders realized that the archipelago occupied a strategic location between Mauritius and India. Though the French formally ceded control of the islands to Britain in 1814, the French influence has remained strong until today, in the Creole language and the cuisine. In 1835, slavery was abolished throughout the British empire, and liberated people were able to get jobs on plantations in exchange for food and wages.

The Seychelles didn’t shy away from discussing its complicated past—in fact, places like Mission Lodge have a statue honoring the children of formerly enslaved people who attended school there. Germain says the country will soon be restarting a program called “A day in the life of a Seychellois,” in which you visit the market and cook a meal together with a local—a chance to better understand Creole identity and history.

The view from the highest point of La Digue, at the summit of Nid d’Aigle, including the neighboring island of Praslin

Things to do in La Digue

What La Digue lacks in size—the island is three miles long and two miles wide—it more than compensates for with relaxed vibes, jungle hikes, and the most breathtaking beaches I’ve ever seen. It’s home to only 3,000 full-time residents and a handful of motorized vehicles, making it somehow feel larger.

We spent almost a week on this spit of land, and I would seriously consider renting a house and staying for a month or two. (Luckily, the island has a small hospital, and the more developed island of Praslin is only 15 minutes away by ferry, in case anything were to go wrong.) I have happy memories of cooking fresh eggs for breakfast, setting out on our bicycles with a loose plan, our daughter giggling when we went fast, and discovering something beautiful every day.

Beaches and hiking on La Digue

La Digue has what is believed to be the most photographed beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent , accessed most easily through L’Union Estate . It was the busiest beach we visited on our whole trip, but we were able to find a quiet spot for reading and napping. The atmosphere is surreal, with massive boulders that look golden at sunset. The water was so clear that you could see giant fish swimming by your ankles. We spent several hours here, and I can’t wait to return and admire this beach again.

We also enjoyed Anse Severe , particularly around sunset—though beware of sea urchins! I wish I had brought water shoes with me. Anse Patates has some of the bluest water I have ever seen, and lots of hidden spots between rocks to lay out a beach towel and read a book. One day, we rode our bicycles to Grand Anse , where the waves were even bigger than the boulders. There are trails from there to sister beaches, but a huge rainstorm had us cycling back to our guesthouse.

We trekked to the highest point on La Digue, Nid d’Aigle , which I would rate as moderate to difficult, as it was steep and slippery in parts. The views made up for the unsure footing: between the viewpoints, we had a 360-degree view of the area, including Praslin and the tiny islets surrounding La Digue. Next time, I’d plan to hike to the beaches Anse Marron and Anse Cocos , though due to the unmarked trails, they are best visited with a guide.

Where to eat on La Digue

My two favorite spots to eat on La Digue were among the more casual: Rey & Josh Cafe Takeaway and Chez Jules . Thinking about Rey & Josh makes me smile: the owners were warm, the chef was clearly passionate about good food, and though the atmosphere was simple, it made people feel comfortable. If you’re lucky, you may even learn about “secret menu” items based on what ingredients the chef was able to find. We enjoyed it so much that we returned for a second meal.

Chez Jules is a classic Creole restaurant, an open-air straw hut located opposite Anse Banane on the northeast part of the island. It had an extensive menu, bold flavors, chile sauce that turned my ears hot, and friendly service.

Other favorites include Mimi’s Café , famous for its coconut cheesecake (though I preferred the coconut ice cream); Belle Vue , which offers a set menu paired with a sunset view halfway up the mountain; and Le Repaire for a more upscale Italian experience.

Anse Lazio on the island of Praslin, captured in the rain

Things to do in Praslin

We didn’t stay overnight in Praslin, but took advantage of the few hours we spent here. We visited the Vallée de Mai , named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. The nature park is home to over 1,400 endangered coco de mer trees, called as such because sailors first thought they grew in undersea forests, as well as the rare black parrot. At Pirogue Restaurant and Bar , we enjoyed grilled fish and Creole-style pasta.

Next time, I hope to spend some time at Praslin’s famous beaches, including Anse Lazio , which has been called the most beautiful beach in the world, and Anse Georgette .

How to travel within the Seychelles

There are two main ways to travel between islands: ferry and airplane. The Cat Cocos Ferry links Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. It takes about an hour to travel from Mahé to Praslin, and another 15 minutes to La Digue. Alternatively, Air Seychelles offers flights between the islands, as well as to smaller islands across the archipelago (the flight from Mahé to Praslin takes 20 minutes).

To get a real sense of Mahé and Praslin, I’d recommend renting a car and packing a folding paper map (I know, so retro); Google Maps will work just fine, though. We put stars next to all the beaches and hiking trails we wanted to check out, along with notes from people we met along the way. We cherished the freedom of driving around Mahé’s windy roads and spontaneously stopping at farmers’ markets, beachside cafés, and art galleries. However, if you don’t feel comfortable driving, taxis and public buses are available.

Commuting around La Digue is more fun: The tiny island has few cars, and the best way to get around is by bicycle, which you can rent from a few shops near the ferry. Our daughter loved sitting in the baby seat and zooming down the island’s handful of roads. Alternatively, you can walk or hire a motorized buggy.

For my next visit . . .

I’m already planning my second visit to this unique archipelago. I would spend more time on La Digue. Between the relaxed lifestyle and the wild beaches, the tiny island has a special place in my heart.

I would plan for a few days in Praslin, which feels somewhere in between Mahé and La Digue in terms of development. I’d explore the Vallée de Mai more thoroughly, snorkel at Anse Lazio, and discover hiking trails. Meanwhile, my husband would certainly go scuba diving, either on Praslin or Mahé.

I didn’t get to check out one of the country’s resort islands, such as Denis Island , which—according to every person I met who has been—is otherworldly. I’d also spend some time on Seychelles’ less inhabited tracts, such as Silhouette Island and the islets surrounding La Digue.

And I would return to spend time with the warm-hearted people I met. Perhaps I would assist in a beachside barbecue, learn a few steps of the traditional moutya dance (now recognized by UNESCO as “intangible heritage”), and make daiquiris for everyone—with local Takamaka rum, of course.

Things to know about Seychelles COVID restrictions

Our trip did have a rocky start. International travel is complicated these days, and Seychelles is no exception. Long story short: We didn’t have the required PCR test for our daughter and ended up having to turn around and rebook a flight for two days later. (If you’ve ever been to the airport with a baby, you can appreciate how stressful this was.)

Learn from our experience and have a smoother trip by following these steps:

Check the Seychelles’ official website for up-to-date travel information.
Vaccination is not required to enter the Seychelles, but all travelers– including infants –must produce a negative PCR test 72 hours prior to departure.
As soon as you have your negative test results, complete the Travel Authorization Form . (There is a rush charge for filling it out last minute, as we learned the hard way.)
Make sure to take plenty of face masks with you–if you’re in public and not wearing one, you could be fined.
Once you arrive in the Seychelles, you can prebook a PCR test at pcrtest.sc . The process was extraordinarily efficient: Two men in hazmat suits showed up at our guesthouse, where we were lounging in bathing suits. We received our negative results and necessary QR codes by email a few hours later. It felt peak 2022.

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Seychelles Itinerary: The Perfect 10 days in Seychelles {2024}

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Seychelles is full of wildlife, nature, picturesque views, amazing beaches and great food. What’s not to love about this combo? Are you wondering what to see in Seychelles? If you only had 10 days in Seychelles, here is a 10 day Seychelles itinerary with the best things to do in Seychelles (your “must do” list.)

My solo trip to Seychelles will always stay close to my heart. The people, the views, and the ambiance, everything makes this place so soothing and relaxing that you will easily forget that you are on a trip here.

A lot of people often feel that Seychelles is not an ideal place for solo or budget travelers but I disagree. In fact, I stayed here for two weeks and spent just 730 USD. From enjoying gorgeous ocean sunsets to feeding Giant Tortoises, there is a wide range of things to do in Seychelles .

In my Seychelles itinerary for 10 days, I tried to cover three major islands and made the most of my short time here.

Seychelles Itinerary 10 days

Seychelles itinerary day 1: fly to seychelles.

On your first day of Seychelles Itinerary, the main focus is on reaching here and then exploring the capital city. Mahe is home to the Seychellois International Airport so this will be the first stop on your journey here.

There are many flights all over from Europe, Asia, Middle East, etc. to Seychelles. So, you can easily find one in your budget. The best thing about Mahe is that everything is connected by a good bus network . So, you can take a direct bus to reach Victoria City from the airport. The cost for this journey is just 7 Seychellois Rupees which will take around 40-45 minutes. There are also taxis and cabs here to take you to different corners of Mahe Island but they will obviously be expensive.

Once you have checked-in, you can just sit back and relax today. Try to enjoy the beach and ocean views from your hotel itself.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 2: Explore Mahe Island

Victoria city.

On day two, you can head to Victoria City to spend a day here. Established by the British to govern Seychelles, Victoria City is best known for its vanilla, coconuts, coconut oil, fishes, etc.

You can reach Victoria City from any part of Mahe Island as ultimately all the buses have Victoria Bus Stand as the stop. Once you reach here, you can walk 500 m to Market Street. Here, you will get a feel of the colorful and lively Victoria City Market. You can buy a variety of food items here including fresh fish varieties and several native fruits as well.

After spending sufficient time here, you can head to the Albert Street. From here, walk for another 400 m to get a glimpse of the Victoria Clocktower. This clocktower is based on the model of a clocktower in London and is one of the most popular tourist attractions here.

Next, you can head to the National History Museum to learn about the history of Seychelles. Established in 1964, Seychelles National Museum is located right next to the post office. There are different exhibits on zoology, anthropology, botany, and geology. And you can also learn about the history of the Seychelles People’s Liberation Army, People’s Militia, and so on.

Apart from that, you will also find here the oldest map which was drawn in 1517, the smallest statue of Queen Victoria, and so on. The entrance fee for this museum for non-residents is SCR 15. The museum stays closed on Sundays and public holidays and is partially open on Wednesday and Saturday.

Then, make your way to the Jetty area where you will find many colorful boats lined up together. This is where the Cat Cocos Ferry serves the route between Mahe and Praslin. So, you can walk to this point and watch a glorious sunset in front of you.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 3: Explore Mahe Island

La misere viewpoint.

Start your third day in Seychelles by heading to one of the best viewpoints in Mahe. La Misere Viewpoint is the perfect vantage point to observe the Eden Island and Victoria City. And since it is located slightly away from the city, there aren’t many tourists around here. As a result, you can enjoy some quality quiet time here while admiring the gorgeous Eastern coast.

It is open throughout the day so if you have your own vehicle, then you can visit this place at night too. And the view of the entire Victoria City will dazzle you as the entire place is lit up at night. During the night time, you won’t find many people around here apart from a couple of love also who are chilling here. If you are traveling with a group of friends, this could act as the perfect place for night chilling scenes where you can see the entire lit up the shoreline.

Beau Vallon

After you have paid a visit to one of the best viewpoints in Seychelles, it is time to head to one of the most popular beaches on Mahe. Beau Vallon is actually an entire region where you will find several amazing hotels, resorts, souvenir shops, adventure sports centers, and so on. It is on the opposite side of La Misere Viewpoint but it is just 8.3 km from there.

One of the most frequented beaches in Seychelles, Beau Vallon should definitely be a part of your Seychelles Itinerary. Why? Because here you can enjoy a day of snorkeling and scuba diving in the clear ocean water. Plus, there is a lot of shade here on the beach so you can relax on a sunbed and read a book or just get tanned. The sunset here is particularly mesmerizing and on a good day, you can see various shades of colors here.

Apart from the beach, you can also take a walk around here and try local foods that are sold on the nearby stalls. One dish that you should definitely try here is the Curry Rice meal that you can find at most takeaway vans. There are also many souvenir shops, clothing, and accessories stalls here where you can indulge a little.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 4: Explore Mahe Island

On your fourth day, you can go on a few hikes to spend the day.

Mission Lodge

Make the first stop at the Mission Lodge site which offers a kick-ass view and is also a historic site. A part of the Morne Seychellois National Park, Mission Lodge site is the place where the London Missionary Society built a school for slave children after the abolition of slavery in the 19th century. Also, there is a small pavilion here where Queen Elizabeth II used to enjoy her tea in 1972 while admiring the views.

Mainly, this site is a reminder of how Seychelles stamped out the slave trade in the area after the abolition of slavery in 1834. And the views of the coast along with the mountains offer a beautiful feel to this viewpoint. There is no entrance charge for this site so you can enter and spend as much time as you like here.

Morne Blanc Viewpoint

After spending adequate time at Mission Lodge, you can head for the Morne Blanc Hike Trail which is around 3 km from the site. You can choose to wait for a bus or hike the small distance, it is up to you. You will see the start of the trail as there is a board mentioning the Morne Blanc Viewpoint.

From here, it takes around 1 hour for the ascent and 45 minutes for the descent. The path goes through a Misty forest and offers a magnificent view of the western coast. You can assume around 2.5-3 hours for this hike and make sure you start in the morning to catch an unobstructed view of the ocean.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 5: Mahe to Praslin Island

On Day 5, you can plan your departure from Mahe and book a ferry to reach Praslin Island. You can check out from your hotel around 12 p.m. and then take a Cat Cocos Ferry that will cost you 50 Euros for a one-side journey. This journey takes 1.5 – 2 hours to complete and one can even sit on the upper deck to enjoy the island and ocean views.

Once you have reached Praslin Island, you can check-in to your hotel in Praslin and then head to the Cote Dé Or beach where you can do shop for some souvenirs. This is mostly a quiet beach and one can easily sunbathe on the beach and then later take a short swim in the ocean too.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 6: Explore Praslin Island

Fond ferdinand.

On day 2, you should definitely take a tour of the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve which will set you back by 125 Seychellois Rupees. It is a 1-1.5-hour tour in which the guide will give you a brief history of the endemic plants and in Seychelles and will show you around the nature reserve.

You will also learn about the process and historic of Coco De Mer and Vanilla plantation here. And you will enjoy details about the various flora and fauna that you encounter on the way. The guide will also take you to a viewpoint from where you can easily see the Praslin coast and the nearby islands.

Plus, they also have a couple of Giant Tortoises here with whom you can play and spend time with. Honestly, it was quite fascinating to learn about how the Coco De Mer plants pollinate and how it is banned by the government to eat this fruit.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 7: Explore Praslin Island

Anse georgette.

After you have learned about the unique flora and fauna in Seychelles, it is time to relax on the most gorgeous beaches of Praslin. Anse Georgette lies on the northeastern tip of the island and is one of the most secluded beaches in Seychelles.

Perhaps because it is a part of the Constance Lemuria Resort, it is maintained better in comparison to the other beaches. And this is one of the reasons why it looks so gorgeous and completely untouched. The beach is a small enclosure, surrounded by boulders on two sides. And you have to cross the resort’s golf lawn in order to access the beach.

One thing to note about Anse Georgette beach is that it requires a kind of appointment with the resort. So, for half-hour access, you need to register yourself beforehand. This can be a nuisance if you are short on time but trust me, this beach is worth the trouble.

You can then take the hiking route that connects Anse Georgette to Anse Lazio beach and reach the second beautiful beach on Praslin.

Situated on the northwest tip of Praslin Island, Anse Lazio beach has pleasant scenery which is why it is such a popular beach among the tourists.

Similar to Anse Georgette Beach, Anse Lazio is surrounded by granite boulders on two sides but it isn’t protected by a coral reef. The golden sand, turquoise water, and the surrounding boulders make it quite aesthetically pleasing. It is perfect for swimming as well but be careful as it deepens quite quickly.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 8: Praslin to La Digue Island

After you have arrived in La Digue, you can rent a cycle for 100-150 SCR a day and take around the island. It should take you a maximum of 2 hours to cycle from one end to the other end as a majority of the land here is covered with granite boulders and can only be accessed via hiking.

Anse Reunion Beach

Lying next to the L’Union Estate is the Anse Reunion Beach which is a long beach passing through several guesthouses in La Digue. It is easy and safe to access and you can easily secluded spot here since it is so long. Perfect for swimming, this beach is family-friendly as well and is a great place to snorkeling as well.

Protected by coral reefs, this beach is safe for children as well. And the numerous shops and restaurants on the road will make sure that you don’t stay hungry for long. There are snorkeling rental shops here as well so you can enjoy the blue, clear water here.

But if you don’t wish to venture in the ocean then that’s fine too. You can simply sit under one of the trees here and just watch the calm tidal waves. This beach is particularly good for watching a beautiful sunset so make sure that you pay a visit here in the evening.

Anse Severe Beach

Another beach to include in your Seychelles Itinerary is the Anse Severe Beach which lies in the north of La Digue island. During the high time, you might find it hard to locate this beach but otherwise, it is perfect for relaxing and enjoys a calm and even sea flow.

Similar to Anse Reunion Beach, it is easily accessible as it lies right next to the road. And there are many accommodations nearby so you will find a lot of tourists here. But that doesn’t make it any less beautiful.

Personally, I loved to cycle by this beach, especially during a full moon night. The beach becomes empty at night so you can enjoy the night sky peacefully here which indeed looks quite magical.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 9: La Digue Island

L’union estate.

After you have cycled around the island, you can start by exploring the L’Union Estate which will take easily half part of your day. Previously, La Digue mainly focused on coconut farming which was carried out at the L’Union Estate coconut plantation.

Presently, L’Union has become a heritage site where you can visit the Old Plantation House, vanilla plantations, a Giant Tortoise nursery and a pen area. That’s not all though, they also have a boatyard and a colonial-era graveyard here. Plus, this is your entrance to the most photographed beach in the world, Anse Source D’Argent.

An entry ticket for this place will set you back by 115 SCR but it is valid for the entire day. You can learn a lot about the history of coconut farming here and can easily spend 5-6 hours here. Earlier, coconut was grown in fields and copra was produced. Now, you can see how copra is made here which is, in itself, a unique experience.

Another significance of this site is that the first settlers of La Digue were buried in the graveyard here. And the Plantation house which you will find here is one of the oldest forms of French Colonial Architecture. This plantation house was once the home of a Mauritian family who became rich later on. Also, the house is made of precious wood and is covered with palm leaves which makes it look really inviting.

It is easy to reach L’Union Estate on foot or cycle. You can take the cycle inside the site and then park it near the plantation house, giant tortoise pen, beach parking area, etc.

Anse Cocos Beach

After chilling on the Anse Source D’Argent Beach, you can head to Anse Cocos beach that can be reached only through a hike. It is a 45-minute easy walk but make sure you have enough drinking water with you as there are no streams on the way.

There is a small path on the left of the Grand Anse Beach which will take you to Anse Cocos beach. And the hike will be completely worth it as you will come across a secluded beach with a surreal landscape. There is a natural pool of crystal-clear water as well which you can enjoy. And the tide is normal here, so if you are a confident swimmer then you will definitely enjoy it.

Here you have a lot of trees for shade so you can even put up your hammock to chill here. Anse Cocos was the first settlement on La Digue and copra was produced here. You will still see done abandoned buildings and kiln for drying the coconuts here.

There aren’t any bars or restaurants here as well. So, if you wish to enjoy a lunch or some light snacks, get it with you from Grand Anse or someplace else.

Seychelles Itinerary Day 10: Leave Seychelles

After exploring La Digue, you can head back to Mahe Island using the ferry. A ferry ride from La Digue to Mahe will cost around 64 Euros. Also, you will need to change the ferry at Praslin Island once.

Note: There are no direct ferries from La Digue to Mahe. The ones which come up as a booking option will also have a layover at Praslin Island.

We hope that this Seychelles Itinerary for 10 days have helped you plan the perfect trip to Seychelles.

This is a post by Guest Contributor: Rachita from the blog Meander Wander . You can follow her adventures on Instagram .

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The Seychelles Travel Guide: The Ultimate Guide to Paradise

With its white sand, boulder-strewn beaches, impossibly clear waters, and jungle-draped interiors, the Seychelles have an almost mythical beauty.

Made up of 115 islands strewn across the glittering Indian Ocean like pearls, the Seychelles islands combine an otherworldly beach experience with warm Creole culture and spectacular endemic wildlife and biodiversity. The fact that they’re so remote and exclusive only adds to their mystique. There are so many islands to explore, and this Seychelles Travel Guide is here, alongside our destination specialists, to help you navigate.

Split your days between tropical beaches and life-changing experiences. Disappear beneath the waves, searching for tropical fish, whale shark, and sea turtle. Hike through pristine jungle and protected nature reserves. Unwind in world-class spas or spend hours gazing out at never-ending sea views. The ultimate in tranquil relaxation, there’s a reason the locals call it “paradise”—find out for yourself on an unforgettable journey with this Seychelles travel guide.

Which island should I stay on?

Where you stay in the Seychelles depends on what sort of experience you’re looking for and how much time you have. The archipelago is split up into two groups, the Inner Islands and the Outer Islands. The larger islands, such as Mahe and Praslin (Inner Islands) are the easiest to get to, and they offer a wide range of activities. Naturally, the Outer Islands require more travel, but their remoteness adds another layer of exclusivity.

A hiker enjoys panoramic views in Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahe.

On Mahe , a cascade of dense green tumbles towards a thousand shades of blue. The largest island of the Seychelles, Mahe offers a mix of beautiful beaches, rainforest hikes, and local culture. So varied are Mahe’s delights that many travelers opt to venture no further, which means less travel time and more adventure. A large chunk of the island comprises the protected Morne Seychellois National Park, a green oasis traced with 15 km of hiking trails and home to Morne Seychellois, the highest point in the Seychelles. Beau Vallon, a mile-wide curve of pale sand, is the island’s pin-up beach, but there are plenty more to discover dotted around the coast. Spend an afternoon at Victoria Market, bantering with fruit vendors and shopping for souvenirs.

Where to stay on Mahe: Four Season Seychelles , Anantara Maia , and Mango House

Granite boulders and clear waters at Anse Lazio beach on Praslin .

A twenty-minute flight or hour boat journey from Mahe, Praslin ups the Seychellois drama a notch. The beaches here are sublime, particularly Anse Lazio, famed for its enormous granite boulders, and Anse Georgette, a secluded little bay backed by rainforest. The island’s interior is an explosion of life, with dense palm forests blanketing undulating mountain peaks. Visit UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve , one of only two UNESCO sites in the Seychelles, to see the coco de mer palm—towering trees that grow the world’s largest seed and a chance to spot the rare Seychelles black parrot. If you’re interested in island-hopping but short on time, take a day trip from Praslin to nearby La Digue. Ferries are regular and take just twenty minutes.

Where to stay on Praslin: Raffles and Constance Lemuria

Visitor cycling past verdant palms on La Digue, a serene highlight in our Seychelles island travel guide, perfect for secluded beach adventures.

Visitor cycling past verdant palms on La Digue, a serene highlight perfect for secluded beach adventures.

La Digue has a much more laid-back, local flavor. Mostly car-free, the best way to get around is by bicycle. Spend the day cycling between secluded beaches in search of world-class snorkeling spots. Almost every beach on La Digue is a show stopper, but Anse Cocos, Anse Source d´Argent, and Grand Anse deserve special mention. Each one has pure white sand and blissfully clear water. There’s much less development here than on other islands, which gives it a relaxed feel. We recommend visiting as a day trip from nearby Praslin .

The private islands of the Seychelles

Luxury resort on Denis Island featured in our guide as a tranquil Seychelles beach getaway with unparalleled privacy and natural beauty.

Besides the three main islands, you can stay on a handful of exclusive private islands . Each one comprises luxury accommodation and a transfer, either by plane, helicopter, or boat. Prices tend to be higher, but so is the level of experience. Here are some of our favorites:

Denis Island: For a true escape, Denis Island is tough to beat. There’s no WiFi in the rooms and no cellphone signal anywhere on the island, leaving you to enjoy 375 acres of pure paradise with zero distractions. Denis’ proximity to a continental ocean drop-off makes for world-class sport fishing and diving. The transfer from Mahe takes around thirty minutes by plane.

North Island: This rugged little outpost has just 11 villas spaced out to ensure total privacy. The island’s remote location makes for exemplary diving, with the team of resident environmentalists working to establish a marine reserve in the surrounding waters. Other conservation efforts in the North Island include sea turtles, giant tortoises, and magpie robins.

Desroches: drifting in the Seychelles outer islands, Desroches is a coralline island (as opposed to granite, which gives many of the other islands, such as Praslin and La Digue, their unique boulders) with endless white beaches and a Four Seasons property made up of private villas and suites. The flight from Mahe takes around 40 minutes.

Private beach resort on Fregate Island, offering exclusive fishing and spa experiences, a prime Seychelles beach resort destination set to welcome guests in 2025.

Relax overlooking the clear blue ocean from your private pool area on Fregate Island—considered by many to be the world’s most beautiful private island.

Félicité Island: a satellite of La Digue, you can reach Félicité by boat transfer Praslin. The Six Senses Zil Pasyon is the only resort on the island, made up of 28 one-room villas and a handful of multi-room villas. The island itself sits within a protected national park with impeccable reef snorkeling.

Silhouette Island: Make use of the on-island dive center and explore the Silhouette Marine Park, a ring of pristine reef surrounding Silhouette Island, a UNESCO heritage site. The Hilton here is a mid-range option for the Seychelles, with a mix of garden, jungle, or ocean-view villas.

Fregate Island: World-class fishing, diving, spa treatments, and beaches (one of which you can reserve completely to yourself) await on Fregate , the easternmost of the Seychelles granite islands. Currently closed to guests, the island will reopen in 2025 .

An idyllic Amirantes beach scene—a hidden gem in our Seychelles travel guide—inviting tranquil exploration and world-class marine adventures.

The Amirantes: An hour’s flight from Mahe, the Amirantes (Alphonse, Cosmoledo, and Astove) are bastions of untouched biodiversity and idyllic beauty. With an unspoiled marine ecosystem to discover, the diving, snorkeling, and fishing here are among the best in the world. Alphonse has the largest resort feel, with a mix of accommodation types, three bars, a spa, a dive center, and a fishing center. On Cosmeldo, the eight eco pods offer a down-to-earth luxury with a sustainable focus. There are just six rooms available on Astove, making it one of the most exclusive options in the Indian Ocean.

What’s the best way to visit the Seychelles?

The distance between the U.S. and the Seychelles means that most people add an idyllic beach break onto the end of a safari. It’s a world-class beach option with ultra-high-quality resorts and service that goes above and beyond the other similar options in the region. From Africa , the fastest direct flights are from Nairobi (three hours) and Johannesburg (five hours), which opens up East ( Kenya , Tanzania , and Uganda ) and Southern Africa for a safari.

All flights land in Mahe, the main island. From here, you can either choose to stay on Mahe or take another flight or a ferry to one of the other islands. Because the Seychelles is so remote, it has an exclusive feeling that’s difficult to rival; to truly make the most of this special place, it’s worth spending at least four days here. We recommend using one island as a base, with potential day trips and excursions added on. If you want to split your stay between multiple islands, you’ll need to spend more days here—something no one ever regrets when it comes to Seychelles.

When is the best time to visit the Seychelles?

Underwater view of a sea turtle in Seychelles, symbolizing the pristine natural beauty awaiting travelers .

The Seychelles are a year-round beach destination, but some months are slightly better in terms of weather. April, May, October, and November fall over the transitional period between the Northwest (November-March) and Southeast trade winds (April-October), which means the days are warm and sunny, and the water is calmer. The dry weather also means better visibility for snorkeling and diving, which is some of the best in the world. Sea turtles flock to the islands between October and December to nest, while October to November is whale shark season.

Because the archipelago covers such a huge area, weather conditions differ depending on the time of year. We can advise you on the best time to visit each island based on your interests. Generally, from May to September, the southern islands are more affected by rough seas and seaweed; from October to April, the northern side of the islands are more affected.

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Seychelles Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

A tropical beach in Seychelles with white sand and a bright blue sky above

When I think of what heaven would look like, I think of Seychelles. I mean, look at that picture above! It just doesn’t look real. But it is and that’s what makes me salivate every time I think of these beautiful islands located off the east coast of Africa.

Seychelles is composed of 115 islands, many of which are uninhabited. The main islands can be found over 2,000 kilometers off the east coast of Kenya. It’s an amazing place to visit for its diverse marine life and it several nature preserves and marine parks, two of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Unfortunately, isolation and a pristine environment come with a price, and a visit to Seychelles isn’t cheap. This is not a budget destination. Seychelles is a country that caters to honeymooners, celebrities, and high-end tourists. It’s a place you visit to indulge.

Fortunately, in recent years, a few budget options have appeared but, for the most part, you’re going to find this a place hard on your wallet.

This travel guide to Seychelles can help you plan your trip and show you how to visit without breaking the bank!

Things to See and Do
Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
Money-Saving Tips
Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
Best Places to Book Your Trip
Related Blogs on the Seychelles

Top 5 Things to See and Do in the Seychelles

1. Relax on the beach

The beaches here are uncrowded, untouched, and void of any structures. They are beach heaven. The water is clear and warm so it’s always a great place to go swimming or snorkeling. Don’t miss Anse Source d’Argent, Anse Lazio, and Beau Vallon beaches.

2. Explore Vallee de Mai

This is a national park and UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin. It is home to a stunning array of flora and fauna, including the rare Coco de Mer (sea coconut), which can only be found in two places in the world. You can also see several varieties of latanier palms and screw pine.

3. Climb Morne Blanc

Located in Morne Seychellois National Park, this is a fun and challenging hike that takes you through tea plantations all the way to a panoramic view spot above the island. Visit in the morning to beat the clouds. It takes just under an hour to climb.

4. Visit Aldabra Atoll

This UNESCO Site is one of the largest raised coral atolls in the world and is made up of four coral islands with a shallow lagoon in the middle and a coral reef surrounding it. It’s considered the original habitat of the giant land tortoise too (there are 125,000 of them here).

5. Enjoy the food

Seafood, coconut, and curry are among some of the main staples on which you can feast. Coco Rogue is considered a ‘secret spot’ by locals and offers some of the best food around. Bonbon Plume is another popular place to go if you want to sample the tasty local fare.

Other Things to See and Do in Seychelles

1. get active.

After lounging on the beach, spend some time enjoying the island’s recreational activities. Golf, squash, snorkeling, kayaking, badminton, paddle-boarding, tennis, and hiking are all readily available and affordable – in fact, it is included in most hotels. Kayak and SUP tours start at 640 SCR per day while you can go on a snorkeling trip for around 400 SCR per day. Bring your own snorkeling gear if you want to save money (rentals and tours add up fast).

2. Explore Cousin Island

Just over a mile southwest of Praslin, Cousin Island is a protected nature reserve (the native bird population here exceeds 300,000!). Opened in 1968 specifically to preserve the bird populations, here you can walk through the thick forest and check out all the different bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for the endangered Seychelles Magpie Robin. Admission is 600 SCR per person.

3. Hike Nid d’Aigle

The highest point on La Digue, this hike is a fantastic way to spend a day. The sweeping views of La Digue and of the neighboring islands are magnificent. It’s a 4-kilometer (2.5-mile) hike with 333 meters (1,092 feet) of elevation. Most people complete the hike in 1.5-2 hours. Remember to pack plenty of snacks, sunscreen, and water. Aim to hike in the morning before it gets too hot.

4. Visit L’Union Estate Farm

Back when coconut farming was the main industry on La Digue, this was the center of production. Just south of La Passe, the estate is now a national heritage site and is run as a sort of informal museum/theme park. There are some demonstrations involving how the coconuts were harvested and you can explore the Old Plantation House, the colonial-era graveyard, and the boatyard. There are even a pen housing giant tortoises. Admission is 100 SCR per person.

5. Search for the Veuve Bird

La Digue is home to the Veuve Nature Reserve, which was set up specifically to protect the Veuve (the black paradise flycatcher). It’s a small purple and black bird that’s endemic to the island and critically endangered. There are less than 300 left in Seychelles as habitat loss has destroyed their traditional ecosystem. You can arrange guided tours which are guaranteed to find the bird. Admission is 150 SCR and 200 SCR with a guide.

6. Check out the Natural History Museum

If the weather is less than perfect, take a break from the beaches and visit the Natural History Museum in Victoria (on Mahé). It’s small but worth a stop if you’d like to learn about the island’s wildlife and geology. The museum highlights all the flora and fauna on the island and there are also exhibitions on the island’s military and militia. The museum also focuses on the environmental issues and natural disasters that threaten the nation’s future. (Currently closed for renovations).

7. Wander the Botanical Gardens

Also in Victoria, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens offers a deeper look at local flora and fauna, with the infamous coco de mer palms as one of the highlights. Spanning 14 acres, the gardens are over a century old and home to fruit bats and giant tortoises (some of which are over 150 years old). Don’t miss the orchid house — it’s beautiful! Admission is 100 SCR.

8. Go diving

There are plenty of incredible sites to dive in Seychelles, including the Ennerdale wreck, Shark Bank, Dredger Wreck, Fisherman’s Cove Reef, and Marianne Island. If you visit during the monsoon season (May-September) you can see whale sharks. There are plenty of sharks and mantas here all year round too. A single-tank dive costs from 785 SCR.

9. Learn to surf

While you can find decent waves here all year round, April-September is when they’re at their best. Group surf classes last 3-4 hours and cost 2,000-3,000 SCR per person depending on experience level. A private lesson costs around 3,900 SCR. Carana Beach is a good choice for new surfers, while Anse Bougainville, North East Point, Misfit Baya, and Anse Royale are good options for more experienced surfers.

10. Wander around one of the bazaars

Wandering around a bazaar is a great way to soak up the local ambiance and interact with the locals who live here. The bazaar Victoria, on the road to the New Port, has stalls selling souvenirs, jewelry, and t-shirts as well as local Creole food, drink, and music. Bazaar Oven is held on Sundays at Roche Copra in Baie Lazare and offers a taste of the Seychellois Creole way of life with food, drink, snacks, and music. The bazaar Labrin at Beau Vallon beach is one of Seychelles’ most popular bazaars for locals and tourists alike. It’s on every Wednesday (afternoon onwards) and has vendors selling lots of local goods and homemade foods. They also do the traditional “moutia” dance next to the fire. Only open for national festivities, bazaar Au Cap is another popular one and is a great opportunity to taste “Kalou,” a locally made palm wine.

11. Eat street food

Seychelles has a wonderful Creole history which makes up the basis of the local food. They have some delicious fish and curries (even fruit bat curry for the more adventurous!) for main courses; banana, cassava, and breadfruit chips for snacks; and papaya salads, and banana and coconut cake to name a few desserts. You can find places offering takeaway food along many of the more popular beaches and in the towns. Enjoying sunset while eating at bazaar Labrin on Beau Vallon beach is a must.

Seychelles Travel Costs

A tropical beach with a hammock set up in Seychelles with white sand and a bright blue sky above

Accommodation – There are no hostels in Seychelles so budget travelers have to find cheap guesthouses instead. The most budget-friendly guesthouses usually cost around 1,000 SCR per night. They often include self-catering facilities and free Wi-Fi.

Airbnb is available on the islands with private rooms starting at 1,400 SCR if you book early, however, 2,500 SCR is more common. For an entire home or apartment, prices start at 1,615 SCR per night but average closer to 3,000 SCR.

Wild camping is prohibited and there are currently no campgrounds on the islands.

If you’re looking to splash out, there are tons of upscale resorts and international chain hotels here starting at 4,500 SCR per night.

Food – Seychellois cuisine, unsurprisingly, is heavily based on fish and shellfish. Rice is another common staple, with seafood curries being a popular local favorite. Coconuts and fresh fruits (especially mangoes) are available everywhere. Spinach soup, ladob (a sweet plantain/sweet potato dessert), and lentil dhal are other popular dishes.

Eating out at restaurants is pricey, with traditional cuisine costing around 290 SCR for a main dish. Expect to pay double that for a three-course meal in a mid-range restaurant.

If you stick to small restaurants and beach shacks that serve traditional cuisine and only do take-out, you can find meals for around 50-90 SCR. There aren’t really any fast food places here aside from pizzerias. Expect to pay around 130 SCR for a pizza. You can find Indian food around the islands as well, with a main dish costing around 175 SCR.

Both beer and lattes/cappuccinos cost around 70-85 SCR. Bottled water is 24 SCR.

If you are planning to cook your own meals, expect to spend around 1,000 SCR per week on groceries. Most food must be imported but you can find basic foodstuffs like chicken, vegetables, fruit, and rice pretty cheaply.

If you’re cooking your own meals, be sure to check out the Anise Royal Market or the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market. They’re daily farmers’ markets where you can fresh (and affordable) local produce.

Backpacking Seychelles Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 2,000 SCR per day, you can stay in a cheap guesthouse, cook all of your meals, use public transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and do cheap or free activities like swimming and snorkeling. You’ll need to pick one island and stay on it too since island-hopping gets expensive.

On a mid-range budget of 4,100 SCR per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, take some taxis to get around, enjoy a few drinks, and do some paid activities like kayaking or diving. You can also do some island hopping on this budget too.

On a “luxury” budget of 7,900 SCR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, take domestic flights between islands, eat out for all your meals, hire private drivers or rent a car, and do as many excursions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in SCR.

Seychelles Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Saving money in Seychelles is difficult. It’s not a destination for budget travel and most people don’t come here wanting to save money. It’s a luxury destination, after all! But there are a few things you can do so here are a few tips to help you save money in Seychelles:

Find cheap flights – Save money on your flight by being flexible and using deal websites like Holiday Pirates , Scott’s Cheap Flights , and The Flight Deal . They often have great last-minute fares and package deals to the islands.
Stick to cheap guesthouses that include breakfast – Airbnb and Booking.com both have a few affordable options. Look for places that include breakfast or have kitchens to help keep the cost of food down.
Use hotel points – Since there are a lot of international chains here, you can use hotel points for free accommodation. This will cut your costs drastically. To learn more, check out this beginners guide to points and miles.
Eat take out – If you want to eat out, stick to ordering take-out as dine-in restaurants are pricey.
Avoid taxis – Taxis are super expensive here. Take the bus, rent a bike, or walk. You’ll save a fortune.
Travel slow – Flights and ferries between islands aren’t cheap. Travel slowly to spread your costs out (or just stick to one island). Regular ferries and flights will destroy your hopes of staying on budget.
Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is heavily chlorinated so having a water bottle with a filter helps make sure your water is safe, clean, and doesn’t taste funny. LifeStraw makes reusable bottles that ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Seychelles

There are no hostels here so you need to stay at budget-friendly guesthouses if you want cheap accommodation. Here are a few suggestions:

Liane de Mai (La Digue)
Calou Guest House (La Digue)
Villa Kayola (Mahé)
La Rocaille (Mahé)
Seashell (Praslin)

How to Get Around Seychelles

A boat anchored near a small island in the Seychelles during a beautiful sunny day

Bus – Public buses are available on the two main islands: Mahé and Praslin. You can reach pretty much anywhere on the islands via bus, though you may need to change buses. Fares range from 5-10 SCR.

Ferry – There is only one ferry provider serving each of the main routes between the three major islands so you’re stuck paying whatever Cat Cocos (between Mahé and Praslin) and Cat Rose (between Praslin and La Digue) charge for the tickets.

Ferries between Mahé and Praslin cost around 800 SCR and around 250 SCR between Praslin and La Digue.

Air – Flying around the islands isn’t cheap. Most domestic one-way flights cost at least 2,500 SCR. If you’re on a budget, avoid flying. The ferries will be much cheaper.

Car Rental – Car rentals start at 650 SCR per day for a multi-day rental. You don’t need an International Driving Permit (IDP) here as long as you have a valid license. Drivers need to be at least 23 years of age.

When to Go to Seychelles

The best time to visit Seychelles is between April-May and September-October. The islands are less windy during this time and perfect for watersports and lounging on the beach. Temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) all year round, though it’s often breezy so it doesn’t get too humid.

Since different trade winds affect the island at different times of the year, certain islands are better than others depending on which winds are blowing. May-November is less windy on the west side of the islands while the rest of the year is less windy on the eastern coasts.

From January-March, you can also see the baby turtle hatching and making their way out to sea. They start nesting and laying eggs in October, making this a popular time to visit.

How to Stay Safe in Seychelles

Seychelles is a relatively safe place to visit and travelers needn’t worry about crime here. Petty theft is going to be your biggest worry but even that is super rare. As a general precaution, always keep your valuables secure and out of reach. Don’t leave your valuables unattended when eating out or at the beach.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, though the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, don’t walk home alone at night intoxicated, etc.).

If renting a car, be aware that many roads are narrow and winding. Coastal roads often don’t have barriers so drive cautiously. And if you rent a vehicle, don’t leave any valuables in it overnight. Break-ins are rare but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

When swimming, check the conditions before getting in the water to avoid riptides. Dangerous rip can occur off the Beau Vallon beach (among others) when the waters are rough.

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

If you wouldn’t do it at home, don’t do it in Seychelles!

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Seychelles Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Seychelles Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Africa and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money When You Visit Cape Town

The Best Tour Companies in Morocco

The Ultimate Guide to Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

How to Travel Uganda on a Budget

Cape Town Itinerary: What to See and Do in 4 (or More) Days

How to Visit Egypt on a Budget

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Island Vacations

A Guide to Vacationing in the Seychelles Islands

This idyllic archipelago in the Indian Ocean provides the perfect blend of secluded beaches and vibrant multiculturalism.

Steven Casale is a New York City-based freelance writer and digital strategist. He specializes in food, travel, and lifestyle content for publications like Tasting Table , Travel + Leisure , The Lineup , and amNY.com.

De Agostini / Getty Images

Nestled in the Indian Ocean east of Kenya and north of Madagascar is a 115-island archipelago so beautiful that early British explorers thought they had stumbled upon the Garden of Eden. While the Seychelles Islands were reportedly first sighted by Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1502, little — if anything — was known of them prior.

Though remote, the islands attract visitors seeking the ultimate romantic escape — the current Prince and Princess of Wales honeymooned here. After all, there are few places more isolated than this heavenly cluster of islands.

Of course, there's more to the Seychelles Islands than pristine beaches and water so clear you never lose sight of your feet. In addition to abundant natural beauty and wildlife, the main island of Mahé, home to the capital city of Victoria, boasts beautiful 18th- and 19th-century French and British architecture. And that's to say nothing of the incredible seafood and resorts.

As you prepare to book a full-day flight to reach this island paradise, check out our definitive guide to planning the perfect Seychelles getaway.

Getty Images

Before You Go

Tourism has boomed since the Seychelles International Airport opened in 1972 and is now the leading industry. United States passport holders don't need a visa for visits of up to 90 days and can be granted a visitor permit upon arrival, but you must show proof of return transportation, lodging information, and sufficient funds for the duration of the trip.

What to Pack

The Seychelles Islands have a tropical rainforest climate with substantial humidity that is tempered by cooling ocean breezes. Pack plenty of swimwear, loose-fitting clothes, and open-toe footwear, as much of your time here will be spent on the beach. Hiking is also a popular activity, so consider bringing some sturdy boots. Keep in mind that the rainy season runs from December through February.

Getty Images / iStockphoto

What to See

Beaches are the main draw for this island nation, and since the Seychelles Islands are so far-flung, many of them are virtually untouched and are rarely crowded. Anse Lazio beach on the island of Praslin is particularly famous for its clear blue waters and native takamaka trees.

Farther inland on Praslin is the Vallée de Mai Nature Preserve , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This dense jungle is home to primitive plant and animal species that have remained isolated since the islands were formed. While visiting, try to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles black parrot, found nowhere else on the planet.

Nearby, the island of La Digue is known for its lovely Anse Source d’Argent beach, where you’ll find a shoreline framed by picturesque granite boulders. If you need a break from the beach, the city of Victoria on Mahé is home to incredible architecture, open-air markets, museums, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Where to Stay

While budget-friendly lodging is available in the Seychelles, splurge-worthy resorts are also plentiful. Top places to stay include the Six Senses Zil Pasyon on the private island of Félicité — all of its 30 villas face the ocean and feature private plunge pools — and the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles on Petite Anse. Its open-air spa and breathtaking views are reason enough to make the trek.

What to Know

The Seychelles Islands are not known to have been inhabited until the French began colonizing the area in about 1770. Over the years, control of the Seychelles passed between the British and French, until the nation gained its independence from Britain in 1976.

Today, the country remains incredibly multicultural, with most Seychellois tracing their roots back to early French settlers and East Africans who came to the islands later. There is also a sizable South Indian and Chinese influence on the cultural makeup of the islands, which is manifested in the islands' seafood-heavy cuisine. Specialties include shark chutney — mashed shark seasoned with bilimbi juice — and ladob, plantain simmered in coconut milk and served as a sweet or savory dish.

How to Get There

The Seychelles Islands are some 1,100 miles off the coast of mainland Africa, so the best way to reach them is by plane. Most connecting flights originate from Doha, Dubai, or Nairobi. Travel between the islands is typically by small plane or helicopter. Ferry service between the main islands of Mahé, La Digue, and Praslin is operated by Seychellesbookings.com .

Fishing off Anse Source d’Argent beach in the Seychelles.

©Justin Foulkes/Lonely Planet

Mother Nature was unbelievably generous with the Seychelles, a fabled paradise whose islands lie scattered across the Indian Ocean. Spellbinding beaches are the main attraction, and what beaches! Exquisite ribbons of sand lapped by turquoise waters and backed by lush hills, palm trees and Dali-esque boulders. Beyond the beach, diving and snorkelling are brilliant in the warm waters amid abundant marine life, while few places on the planet do ocean-side luxury quite like the Seychelles. Mahé is the largest island and entry point to the Seychelles, with some fabulous resorts, restaurants and beaches, not to mention the small capital city of Victoria. But it's also the busiest island, with glorious Praslin and La Digue a short boat ride away. Even further out, there are real lost-world islands to be found.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Anse Lazio, on the northwest tip of the island, is picture-perfect everywhere you look and often turns up in lists of the world's most beautiful beaches…

Anse Maquereau

Quite possibly the world's most beautiful beach, petite Anse Maquereau is flanked by granitic monoliths, backed by palms and caressed by waters of the…

Anse Marron

Perhaps the most stunning natural pool and beach combo on the planet, Anse Marron sits nestled behind Gaudíesque granite boulders at the remote southern…

Man looking at young coco de mer palm in forest of World Heritage site Vallee de Mai in Praslin National Park.

Vallée de Mai

Gorgeous World Heritage–listed Vallée de Mai is one of only two places in the world where the rare coco de mer palm grows in its natural state (the other…

Anse Source d'Argent

Famed for being one of the most photographed beaches on the planet, Anse Source d'Argent is a sight to behold. Its dazzling white sands are lapped by…

National Museum of History

Housed in Victoria's restored colonial-era Supreme Court building (1885), this terrific museum opened in late 2018. While the architecture itself is worth…

Street setting, People walking along the Market Street in Victoria, Mahe Island, Seychelles

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

No trip to Victoria would be complete without a wander through the covered market. It's small by African standards, but it's a bustling, colourful place…

Palm-fringed Anse Takamaka, Mahe, Seychelles

Takamaka Bay

On this popular tour you learn the story behind the island's main distillery and about the rum-making process. The tour runs for between 30 and 45 minutes…

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Seychellois in traditional dress from their homeland dance in the street parade, with one man playing a large drum © Matt Phillips / Lonely Planet

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The ultimate Seychelles Itinerary & Travel Tips

Paradise beaches, incredible view points and a lush vegetation: These are the Seychelles! This blog post includes useful travel tips you need to know before booking your vacation and the ultimate Seychelles itinerary for the perfect stay!

view point at the top of Mahe, seychelles, trios freres trails, seychelles itinerary

Seychelles Travel Tips and the perfect Itinerary

What is the best time to visit the seychelles.

The Seychelles are a great travel destination with lots of sunshine and blue water throughout the whole year so the best time to visit depends on you personal preferences: – Do you want to skip the peak season when mosts tourists are on the islands? Then book your stay January to April to avoid the high season during the summer months May – August. This is also the right season if you want to experience the hatching of the endangered Hawksbill sea turtles at the beaches (Jan – March). April is one of the best months since the weather is warm and mild.

We’ve been to the Seychelles in November and had beautiful sunny weather but sometimes strong winds which means higher waves. During November – January you also have a bigger change of the tides at the beaches.

How many days are ideal for the Seychelles?

The right amount of days you’re planning to spend on the Seychelles, depends on how many islands you’re planning to visit.

Mahé is the biggest Seychelles island and I would suggest you at least five days . If you want to spend a few more days of relaxing & doing nothing, then I would suggest even more. We decided to split our time on Mahé and spent six nights in total, including five days of exploring and one full day of pampering ourselves in a luxury resort.
Praslin is smaller than Mahé but has many beautiful beaches and must see places. We spent four days on this island, including a full day boat trip and it was absolutely perfect.
La Digue is tiny so we only planned two nights there but I would suggest to stay three nights .

This makes a total of 12 days which is exactly what we did & it has been perfect!

aerial view of one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles, panorama blick über einen der schönsten strange auf den Seychellen

How to get around?

Transfer between the islands:.

If you’re planning island hopping during your Seychelles trip, which I can highly recommend, you will need to transfer between the islands by ferry ( I linked the company we used here ) or by plane:

Mahé – Praslin:

Ferry ride: 1 – 1,5 hrs for around 50,- EUR per person / direction plane ride: 15 mins for around 200,- EUR per person / direction

Praslin – La Digue:

Ferry ride: 20 mins for around 14,- EUR per person / direction

If you want to travel between La Digue and Mahé you will have a short stop in Praslin since there is no direct ferry connection. But you can still book it with one ticket and usually can stay on the same boat as well.

How to get around on the islands:

There are public buses on Mahé and Praslin but I can highly recommend you to book a rental car for your stay which makes it a lot easier to get around the island and to reach places off the beaten path. Additionally a car will safe you a lot of your precious holiday time cause not all bus stops are located close to the best beaches and attractions. This means that you would often have to walk for quite a distance in the heat on streets leading up and down.

Which budget should I plan for the Seychelles?

Many people think that the Seychelles are a high-end luxury destination and not suitable for budget travelers. But that’s not 100% true: Yes, the Seychelles have amazing luxury resorts and the prices for a stay have no limit to the top. But at the same time you can definitely plan a budget friendly trip to the Seychelles.

A big saving trick is to book apartments with your own kitchen. Even basic restaurants in the Seychelles are quite expensive and main courses are usually between 15 – 30 EUR per person. That’s why you can save a lot of money if you cook your own meals and breakfast. The groceries in the supermarkets are still a bit more expensive than back home, especially if the products have been imported, but you will still save a lot of money!

We decided for a mix of budget friendly apartments, some nice mid-priced hotels and a few days in a luxury resort to pamper ourselves.

Here is a price example for one week on Praslin per person

Accommodation: Nice apartment at the beach with kitchen ( f.e. The Seashell Beach Villa → Book it here! ): 100,- per night for 2 persons = 350,- EUR per week / person
Food: 10-15 EUR per day / person when cooking your own meals or 25-35 EUR per day / person eating out = 70 – 245,- EUR per week / person
Transfer between islands = 100,- EUR per person
Entrance to National Parks & Full day Boat Tour = 150,- EUR per person
Rental Ca:r 40 – 50 EUR per day = 140 – 175 EUR per week / person (The price is based on traveling as a couple. In case you’re traveling as a bigger group, the price per person will be lower.)

= 910 – 1.120 EUR per week / person

What are the best beaches in the Seychelles?

If you want to experience postcard worthy beaches with blue water, soft & white sand, framed by palm trees and dark granite rocks, then you will fall in love with the Seychelles. Some of the beaches we visited belong to the most beautiful ones I’ve ever seen during all our travels!

Make sure to check out my blog post with → the best beaches in the Seychelles , including useful information and a map to find them!

beach anse source d'argent during sunset in la Digue Seychelles

Book your hotel in the Seychelles for the best prices here:

The perfect seychelles itinerary – island hopping.

Every island in the Seychelles is unique in its own way. That’s why island hopping is the best way to see the Seychelles properly and experience as many sides of these beautiful islands as possible. We focused on the three most famous islands: Mahé, the biggest one with the airport, Praslin with unique beaches and nature and La Digue which is well known for the most photographed and famous beach in the Seychelles.

This is the ultimate Seychelles Itinerary to make the most out of your time:

Seychelles Itinerary: Mahé (Part 1)

our accommodation: → PARADISE CHALETS SEYCHELLES – Book it here! newly opened, mid-priced and modern apartments with kitchen, available with one or two bedrooms and pool
time: three nights (we came back to Mahé at the end of our trip)
Arrival at the International Airport, picking up the rental car (we booked via Sixt)
Checking in a → Paradise Chalet Seychelles – Book it here!
Stocking up on groceries for the next days

Visiting Cap Ternay

There is basically one main road which leads around Mahé so for our first day we decided to visit the part of the island which is the farthest away from our accommodation: The North of Mahé.

Cap Ternay is located at the end of the main road and a very unpopular beach among tourists. It is a calm bay with shallow emerald green water surrounded by a lush greenery which will make you feel like you stepped right into Jurassic Park!

drone view over a beautiful bay in the Seychelles, Drohnen foot einer bucht auf den Seychellen

Sans Soucis Road & Victoria

Sans Soucis Road is a scenic drive through the mountains of Mahé with lovely view points which connects the Northern part with the capital Victoria. There are several hikes you can do along this road. We did one of them during our last days on the Seychelles, when we came back to Mahé – but read more about this later.

Victoria is not only the capital of the Seychelles but also the only city in the country! With less than 30,000 inhabitants Victoria is one of the smallest capitals in the world. Exploring the city will not take very long: Visiting the market, the national museum or the botanical garden and seeing the clock tower – a mini version of the Big Ben – and enjoying a burger and cold drink at the harbour.

Sunset Beach

In the evening we came to a beach which is ideal to watch the sunset: Sunset Beach – what a fitting name 😉 Park your car at the road side and walk a few steps to the small beach which is usually almost empty! The view and the colors are absolutely incredible.

Sans Souci Road on Mahé, a must do for a Seychelles Itinerary

Sans Soucis Road

sunset at the beach in the Seychelles, Sonnenuntergang an einem der schönsten strande auf den Seychellen

If you want to see one of the most beautiful and lesser known beaches on Mahé then you definitely need to put Police Bay to your Seychelles itinerary! You will need to drive a few minutes off road and walk a litte to reach the beach, but it is definitely worth it. Just be aware of the usually strong current at this bay. Find more information about this beach and how to reach it in my blog post with the → best beaches in the Seychelles .

Takamaka Rum Distillery

The Seychelles are not only famous for beautiful beaches but als for rum made out of sugar cane. If you would like to taste the local product and see how it is produced, I can highly recommend you to visit the Takamaka Rum Distillery . They offer free tours and rum tastings for 100 Seychellois Rupee (around 6,50 EUR). But make sure to arrive in the early afternoon since they already close at 4pm.

Surfers Beach Restaurant

In the evening we came to the Surfers Beach Restaurant which is just across the street from the Paradise Chalets. It is located at a little beach on the South East coast. This means that you won’t have a direct sunset view. But anyways the colors have been visible. The food at the Restaurant is good, but not outstanding and the prices are typically high for the Seychelles: I had a local Creole Chicken Curry for around 14,- EUR.

Police bay, a travel tip for your Seychelles Itinerary

Sunrise at Anse Baleine

We decided to split our time on Mahé in a few days at the beginning and some more at the end of our trip, since we had to come back for out international flight anyways. On the fourth day we planned to take the ferry to Praslin.

Before we took the boat in the late morning, we started the day at the beach Anse Baleine just in front of our accommodation. The beach offers a direct view at the sunrise and is incredibly photogenic with palm trees leaning over the waves. If you’re planning to stay at the Paradise Chalets or at another accommodation in the South, it is definitely worth a visit to take some photos in the morning.

sitting on palm tree and watching the sunrise at the beach in the Seychelles, auf einer Palme am strand auf den seychellen sitzend

Anse Baleine

seychelles flag at the ferry, Seychelles Itinerary and travel tips

Ferry to Praslin

Seychelles Itinerary: Praslin

accommodation: → SEASHELL BEACH VILLA – Book it here! a small, family owned and budget friendly hotel with several apartments with kitchen, located at a beautiful beach at the West coast of Praslin P.S. It is way nicer in reality than as it looks on the booking website! I can highly recommend this accommodation.
time: four nights

After our sunrise at the beach we drove to the ferry station on Mahé to remove our rental car. The good thing about the Sixt company is, that they have a station at the airport and ferry station which is very convenient. The ferry to Praslin takes around 1 – 1,5 hrs and costs 50,- EUR per person which is not cheap but definitely more affordable than the 200,- EUR for a plane flight between both islands.

Arriving at the ferry station we rented a car with a small local company and drove to our accommodation at the beach and got some groceries.

beach from our hotel, Praslin, seychelles Itinerary and travel tips

Seashell Beach Villa

Vallée de Mai

After relaxing at the hotel beach in the morning, we drove to the center of the island to one of the biggest landmarks in the Seychelles: The Nature Reserve and UNESCO heritage side Vallée de Mai which is home of the Coco de Mer – the biggest seed in the world! This palm forest in the green heart of Praslin has been isolated from the rest of the world for millions of years which led to the evolution of a unique flora and fauna. Many species can only be found here! That’s why visiting Vallée de Mai feels like traveling back in time to the ancient palm forests of the Seychelles.

The Coco de Mer palm is not only producing the biggest nut in the world but is also highly endangered. The nuts only grow on the female palm trees and it takes around seven year for one nut to be fully ripe, fall to the ground and produce a new palm tree. That’s why it is highly forbidden to eat the Coco de Mer by the Seychelles Gouvernement. Our guide told us that the taste is incredibly flavorful (he knew the taste from when he was still a child and it was still allowed to eat them). When you pick up the shell of a fallen Coco De Mer on the ground to smell it, you will get an idea of the taste – it smells like a Pina Colada. 😀

cost: 350 SCR (around 22,- EUR) per person, without guide
opening times: 8.30 am – 4.30 pm (Fridays only until 1pm)

Coco De Mer, seychelles Itinerary and travel tips

Book the best activities on Praslin here:

Anse Georgette

In the afternoon we drove to the Constance Lemuria Resort which is where you will find the most beautiful beach in the Seychelles: Anse Georgette ! By Seychelles law all beaches have to be accessible to the public even if they are surrounded by a resort. You just have to register your visit at the Constance resort in advance. The best is to do this one or two days before your planned visit. Simply tell the receptionist of your hotel your preferred date and they will take care of it! You find more Information about Anse Georgette and how to reach it in my “ Best Beaches in the Seychelles ” blog post!

For me Anse Georgette is clearly the most beautiful beach we’ve seen in the Seychelles and even belongs to my Top 3 beaches around the world – so it is definitely a must see on your Seychelles Itinerary! The water is blue and perfect for a swim, the sand is soft and the whole scenery is incredibly photogenic. Beside that it is a perfect spot to watch the sunset in the evening.

fantastic beach on seychelles Island, turquoise water and white sand beach

Restaurant Paradisier

After watching the sunset at Anse Georgette we decided to treat ourselves for dinner at the lovely Restaurant Paradisier. It is not far away from the Seashell Beach Villas and has really delicious food. We paid 310 SCR (19 EUR) for a big pizza which is not cheap at all but a typical price for the Seychelles.

Full Day Boat Trip to St. Pierre & Curieuse Island

When you’re visiting Praslin, you should definitely plan one day for a boat tour around the island to go snorkeling and most importantly: to visit the nearby Curieuse Island! It is a National Park and home of around 200 Seychelles Giant Tortoises which roam around freely on the island.

We can highly recommend the full day tour with Angel Tours, which the friendly owner of the Seashell Beach Villa organized for us. The price for the tour is 100,- EUR per person, which includes the following:

pick up from the hotel in the morning
visiting two different snorkeling spots – one of them is the beautiful tiny island St. Pierre which you can see on the photo below
Exploring Curieuse Island to see the tortoises and hike to a hidden beach
Delicious lunch at Curieuse Island
National Park fee
Visiting Anse Georgette at the end of the tour for a swim

We were back at our hotel for sunset and spent a cozy evening at the beach of our accommodation.

→ Book the best day tour to St.Pierre & Curieuse Island here!

st pierre, a tiny island with palm trees surrounded by blue water, seychelles itinerary and travel tips

St. Pierre Island

Curieuse Island

There are two beaches on Praslin which are battling to be the most beautiful one in the Seychelles: Anse Georgette & Anse Lazio. You already know which one these two is my personal favorite but I also understand why some people prefer Anse Lazio : It is a huge beach which is easy to access. The parking lot is just a few steps away from the beach. Anse Lazio is great to go swimming and snorkeling which makes it to the ideal beach for families.

Hike to Lovers Bay

From Anse Lazio you can do a small hike to a picturesque small cove called Lovers Bay or Petite Anse Lazio. In my blog post with the → best beaches in the Seychelles you’ll find a brief explanation how to find the hidden path! Lovers Bay looks like a place out of a fairytale and most likely you will have the tiny beach all to yourself. But make sure to watch out for the sea urges in the water if you want to go for a swim.

Anse Volbert

After spending the whole day at the beach, we decided to visit the area around Anse Volbert in the late afternoon. It is a bustling area and if you walk along the beach you can find different bars and cafes to relax. We stopped at Café des Artes for a small snack and coffee to end the day.

Anse Lazio, a beautiful sandy beach on Praslin with blue water, Seychelles Itinerary and travel tips

Time to say goodbye to Praslin! On the eighth day of our Seychelles trip, we booked a ferry to La Digue in the afternoon. This meant that we still had enough time to visit one place which can’t be missed on your Seychelles Itinerary:

Fond Ferdinand

Fond Ferdinand is a nature park on Praslin with a native lush vegetation. You will also find the endemic and huge Coco de Mer but the best part (& the main reason for our visit) can be found at the end of the trail: After walking 600 steps through the jungle, you reach the top of Fond Ferdinand with incredible views over the neighbored islands and the ocean – you can even spot La Digue!

times: Fond Ferdinand can only be visited during a guided tour, weekdays: 9.30 am, 11am, 12.30 pm or 1.30 pm
price: 150 SCR (10 EUR) including guide

steps leading in the jungle at fond Ferdinand park on Praslin, seychelles itinerary and travel tips

Seychelles Itinerary: La Digue

In the afternoon we took the quick 20-mins ferry connection to La Digue. The first thing we did after arriving at the ferry station was renting bicycles since they are the only means of transportation on the island. One bicycle costs 150 SCR (10 EUR) per day.

accommodation: We stayed at a hotel (without our own kitchen) called “Le Relax Luxury Lodge” which we were totally disappointed of for several reasons. That’s why I wouldn’t recommend it. We actually planned to stay at the Le Nautique which has a way better location and is really beautiful but unfortunately it was already booked out! Nevertheless we came here every night for dinner since it has an amazing sunset view and the cuisine was the best we had in the Seychelles! Can highly recommend to stay at Le Nautique or at least to enjoy your dinner here!
time: We stayed two nights on La Digue but I would suggest three nights

Sunset view at Le Nautique

Unfortunately we only stayed two nights on La Digue which meant that Day 9 has been our only full day on the island which we wanted to use to the fullest:

One of the beaches you can’t miss during your time on La Digue is the beautiful Grand Anse . To reach it, you have to ride quite a bit with your bicycles on streets which lead up and down the whole time. But the strenuous way is all worth it for this amazing blue water and white soft beach with picturesque granite rocks.

P.S. A local told us that there are more beaches behind Grand Anse which are not connected to the street and can only be reached after climbing over the granite rock piles at the end of the Grand Anse. The first beach you will reach is Petite Anse. There are less visitors on this beach than on Grand Anse but in my opinion it is not as beautiful. The second one is Coco Beach which we heard has amazing natural pools. But when we arrived, they were quite disappointing (maybe just because we had low tide?) and definitely not worth the 50 mins hike in the heat from Grand Anse. Especially since it was our only full day on La Digue and I felt like we were wasting time..

Sunset at Source d’Argent

The most photographed and popular beach in the Seychelles is Source d’Argent on La Digue. It is located in the state park “L’Union Estate” and is easy to access. At the entrance gate you have to pay an entrance fee of 115 SCR (around 8 EUR) per person which is valid for the next day as well.

P.S. L’Union Estate has more to offer than just the famous beach. You will find vanilla plantations and the Aldabra giant tortoises! It is also popular to rent one of the famous glass kayaks which have to be reserved online a few days in advance.

After sunset we came back to the Le Nautique Hotel and Restaurant one more time for an amazing dinner!

Sunset at Anse Source d’Argent

Anse Source d’Argent

On our last day on La Digue we came back to the L’Union Estate Park to explore it properly and to enjoy the beautiful Anse Source d’Argent during daylight. Tip: Due to its popularity Anse Source d’Argent is quite packed during the day but many visitors just stop at the first beach and don’t know that, when you follow the path a little further, you will find even more beautiful little beaches with less visitors and enough space!

After a few hours of relaxation and taking a lot of photos we drove back to the hotel to check out and reach our ferry to Mahé.

anse source d'argent during sunset in la Digue Seychelles, one of the best beaches in the Seychelles

Seychelles Itinerary: Mahé (Part 2)

Ferry to mahé.

When you take the ferry from La Digue to Mahé you will always have a short stop in Praslin since there is no direct connection. But anyways it is bookable as one ticket with SeyFerry and during the stop you can usually stay on the same boat.

After arriving back at the port in Mahé it was almost sunset time so we picked up our rental car and drove to our hotel. For our last days on the Seychelles we decided to pamper ourselves and booked a five star resort which we absolutely fell in love with:

accommodation: → HILTON NORTHOLME RESORT & SPA – Book it here! luxury resort with incredible rooms and pool villas, perfect to relax a few days at the beach or pool, great dining choices and especially amazing breakfast!
time: 2 nights

The Hilton Northolme

Relaxation & Snorkeling at the Hilton Northolme

After ten days of exploring we decided to take it a bit slow during our last days to recharge our batteries. So we spent the whole day baking in the sun and snorkeling in the lagoon until the late afternoon.

Sunset at Petite Anse

If you’re looking for a long beach with an amazing sunset view you should definitely check out the Petite Anse. It is located at the property of the Four Seasons Seychelles , but just like all beaches in the Seychelles, Petite Anse has to be accessible to the public as well. You don’t need to pre-register yourself for the visit. Just drive to the resort, park your car outside of the gate and walk through the resort after a health check at the gate. The resort it huge so you will have to walk quite a bit but it is definitely worth it!

Panorama aerial view of Anse Petit Beach in Mahe Island Seychelles

Our flight has been leaving at 11pm on the 12th day in the Seychelles so we still had one full day to explore Mahé and one hike which can not be missed on your Seychelles Itinerary:

Trois Freres Trail

You may remember that we drove along the scenic Sans Soucis Road during our first days on Mahé but didn’t had time to do one of the amazing hikes. That’s why we planned this for our last day. From the many hikes you can do along Sans Soucis Road we decided for Trois Freres Trail since it has the best views and is not as long and exhausting as some others are.

How to reach Trois Freres Trail: With your rental car, drive all the way to the bus station of the Sans Soucis Road where you will see a small street leading uphill. Behind it is a parking lot located where you can safely leave your car and start the hike. Trois Freres Trail is quite short but – especially at the end – very steep. We needed 45-50 mins to reach the top and where blown away by the incredible views! I can definitely recommend this moderate hike during your stay in Mahé!

Eden Island

Not far from Victoria is an artificial island located, which is connected to Mahé and has a big harbor for yachts. But even if you’re not traveling with a yacht, it is worth visiting Eden Island to enjoy the many restaurants, bars, shops and biggest supermarket on Mahé. After our hike we had a nice lunch at Eden Island, overlooking the yachts before we were on our way to the last beach on our Seychelles Itinerary:

Anse Intendance

The last beach we were visiting happened to be my favorite one on Mahé! Anse Intendance is a long beach stripe with soft sand and easy to access with your rental car. Due to its length you will easily find an empty spot for yourself to lay on the sand and take a dip in a blue water with soft waves. Make sure to come in the afternoon and stay until sunset since the view is absolutely lovable!

After our last sunset, we had to say goodbye to the Seychelles, return our rental car at the airport and Check in for our late night flight!

Sunset at Anse Intendance

We were absolutely amazed by the Seychelles! In fact so much that this island paradise turned out to be our favorite destination we visited in 2021! The incredible beaches and unique scenery are outstandingly beautiful and we’re already looking forward to return to the Seychelles in the near future 🙂

I hope my Seychelles Itinerary & Travel Tips will help you to plan your own Seychelles vacation! If you have any other questions, please put them in the comments below or send me a message on Instagram!

Make sure to check out the following blog post as well:

The best beaches in the seychelles, plan your own seychelles trip:, the best beaches in the seychelles.

drone photo of a beautiful beach in the Seychelles with white sand, green palm trees, blue water and dark granite rocks, seychelles Itinerary and travel tips

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Pin this post to find it back later

cover photo for the Seychelles travel tips and Itinerary

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Seychelles again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

– Veronika // RejsRejsRejs If you want even more tips for your trip to Seychelles, you’re welcome to read our article on Seychelles

Seychelles Travel Guide

Jon Arnold / Getty Images

A paradise archipelago in the middle of the Indian Ocean , approximately 1,000 miles off the coast of Kenya , the Seychelles comprises 115 different islands, many of them uninhabited. The capital , Victoria, is located on Mahé, the largest and most densely populated island. The Seychelles is synonymous with postcard-perfect scenery, from its white sand beaches and crystal clear seas to its lush tropical interiors. A popular destination for proposals and honeymoons , it's also famous for its luxury beach resorts, world-class watersports opportunities and rich Seychellois Creole culture.

Key Information

Language: There are three official languages in the Seychelles: French, English and Seychellois Creole. Of these, Seychellois Creole is spoken by nearly 90% of the population, making it the country's lingua franca.

Currency: The currency of the Seychelles is the Seychellois rupee (SCR). For accurate exchange rates, be sure to use an online converter .

Religion: Christianity is by far the most widely practiced religion in the Seychelles, accounting for over 89% of the population. Roman Catholicism is the most popular denomination.

Population: According to the CIA World Factbook, the population of the Seychelles was estimated at just over 94,600 people in July 2018. The archipelago has the smallest population of any sovereign African country.

Geography: Despite its numerous islands, the Seychelles has a tiny total area of 175 square miles (455 square kilometers). To put that into perspective, the entire country is just 2.5 times the size of Washington, D.C.

Weather in the Seychelles

The Seychelles has a tropical marine climate, with consistently warm temperatures and high humidity. There is no distinct summer or winter; instead, seasons are dictated by the trade winds. From late May to early October, the Southeast trade winds bring a cooler, drier period known as the Southeast Monsoon. From December to March, the Northwest Monsoon is characterized by higher temperatures and increased precipitation. December and January are the wettest months and southernmost islands may also be affected by cyclones at this time of year.

When to Visit

The Seychelles is a year-round destination with pros and cons to every season. The best time to visit really depends on what you want to do while you're there. For lounging on the beach, the periods of calm in between the two monsoon seasons (April/May and October/November) are the warmest and least windy. These two shoulder seasons also bring excellent visibility and high water temperatures—perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving . Sailors and surfers will appreciate the windy Southeast Monsoon, while fishing is best during the Northwest Monsoon.

Getting There

Most overseas visitors arrive and depart from Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), located near Victoria on Mahé island. The Seychelles is a visa-free country, which means that there are no visa requirements regardless of your country of origin. Instead, you will be issued with a visitor's permit upon arrival. In addition to a valid passport, you may be asked to present certain documents including a return ticket or ticket for onward travel, accommodation confirmation, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of your stay. Visit the official government website for more information.

Medical Requirements

Unlike many African countries, the Seychelles is malaria -free. There are no compulsory vaccinations —unless you're traveling from a yellow fever country in which case you will need to provide proof of vaccination upon arrival. The CDC advises that all travelers make sure their routine vaccinations are up to date and also recommends that you get your hepatitis A and typhoid injections before visiting the Seychelles.

Key Attractions

Victoria: Located in northern Mahé, picturesque Victoria is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. It was established by the British in the early 19th century and retains much of its colonial charm today. Visit the tropical Botanical Gardens, discover colorful markets overflowing with local fruit and fish, or learn about the islands' history at the Seychelles Natural History Museum .

Morne Seychellois National Park : When you tire of Mahé's spectacular beaches, venture inland to Morne Seychellois National Park. This stunning tract of pristine jungle covers 20 percent of the island's total area and includes the country's highest peak, Morne Seychellois. Hike along the park's tangled trails, remembering to keep an eye out for exotic animal and birdlife as you go.

Praslin : To the northeast of Mahé lies Praslin, the second-largest island in the archipelago. It's known for its laid-back atmosphere and idyllic beaches—the most famous of which are Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. Although relatively undeveloped, the island does boast more than its fair share of ultra-luxurious resorts. It's also the only island with its own 18-hole championship golf course .

La Digue : La Digue is the smallest of the Seychelles' three main inhabited islands. Visitors come here to experience authentic local culture and to visit the archipelago's most iconic beach, Anse Source d'Argent. Located on the island's west coast, it's framed by giant granite boulders and has clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

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On the water.

Seychelles Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit Seychelles

Sure, the Seychelles are idyllic, but how do you plan your Seychelles trip? This step-by-step Seychelles travel guide covers all you need to know.

Picture this: you’re lying on a pristine white-sand beach, skin cosseted by the balmy air, the silence punctuated only by the gentle hiss of sea on shore and the occasional rustle of a palm tree swaying in the breeze. Sounds like a fantasy, right? Welcome to the Seychelles .

This stunning archipelago of 115 islands strung out across the western Indian Ocean like a beach-fringed necklace, might look too good to be real, but I assure you, it isn’t.

Personally, I’ve had two magical trips in Seychelles and I want to help you do the same. This guide covers every aspect of travelling to the Seychelles – the best time to visit, how to get there, what to do when you do, suggested stays and itineraries as well as a hella lot of practical tips you need to know before you go.

Wanna Take a Sneak Peek? Check Out My Youtube Video on Planning Your Trip to the Seychelles!

Before You Go: Top Tips for Your Seychelles Trip

Best time to visit seychelles.

Visiting Seychelles is best from April to May and October-November as it sits between the two trade winds.

The Northwest Trade Wind runs between November-March and brings the wet season, while the Southeast Wind from May to September brings rough seas.

That said, I’ve visited in both January and July and while the weather wasn’t perfect ( as evidenced by this video ) on balance, we had far more sunny days than rainy ones, so don’t expect a non-stop deluge if you do travel in the lower seasons.

Read more : When’s the Best Time to Visit Seychelles?

Handy Resources for Getting To Seychelles

Skyscanner: Using Skyscanner , you can easily find and book flights to Seychelles at the best prices.
Booking.com : Booking.com can help travellers quickly book hotels in Seychelles with a wide selection of options and great prices.
Get Your Guide : If you want to book guided tours in Seychelles, getyourguide.com can help you find a wide variety of experiences available from experienced local guides.

Where to Stay in Seychelles

Mahe is the biggest island in Seychelles and almost certainly where you’ll start your trip as it’s where the international airport is located.

Don’t think that because it’s the biggest island that Mahe doesn’t have plenty to offer though – it boasts more than its fair share of gorgeous beaches and high-end hotels – as such it is a worthy contender for you to base yourself on during your trip.

If you mainly want to base yourself on one island but still see a variety of what the Seychelles have to offer, then you can also look at Praslin and La Digue – two of the archipelago’s more popular islands.

Praslin in particular is a good option if you want to take day trips to some of the smaller islands like Curieuse , Grande Soeur and Aride as there are a few operators offering tours for you to do so.

If, however, you’re after the ultimate paradise escape, I can’t recommend booking a stay at the Four Seasons Desroches enough – located on a private island that’s a 35-minute flight from Mahe, it’s the closest thing you can get to getting away from it all.

If you have more than a week to play with, my suggestion is to plan to stay on a couple of different islands – there are some suggested itineraries later on in this guide.

Read more : Where to Stay in Seychelles and The Best Hotels in Seychelles

Packing for Your Seychelles Trip

Lightweight, layered clothing is key when packing for Seychelles. Pack some comfy sandals, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s glare. Don’t forget your swimsuit either.

Read more : The Ultimate Seychelles Packing List

Travel Insurance

There are always possible risks associated with travelling to a new place. This is why travel insurance can help protect travellers from unexpected events or costs that may arise during their trip.

Travel insurance can cover lost or stolen luggage, medical expenses in case of an unexpected injury or illness, and even financial protection.

Suggested Seychelles Travel Guidebooks

Want a hard-copy Seychelles travel guide to bring with you? My picks are Underwater Guide to Seychelles , Seychelles Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide , and The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Guide 2023 .

Seychelles Visitor Guide: What to Do During Your Seychelles Trip

Top 10 things to do in seychelles, take a boat ride.

Boat trips in Seychelles offer a truly unique experience. Boat trips offer the chance to explore hidden coves, snorkel with sea turtles or just relax on board a traditional wooden dhoni and soak in the beauty of nature.

If you can book onto a trip to the private island of Grande Souer from Praslin – do it! The island is home to a gorgeous beach and is a fantastic snorkelling spot thanks to a thriving reef.

Another great alternative is to book a boat trip to St Anne Marine National Park from Mahe.

Go Island Hopping

Island-hopping in Seychelles is an unforgettable experience. Whether you explore by boat, kayak or even from the sky, the diverse and stunning scenery these islands offer will amaze you.

I spent some of my most recent trip to Seychelles on a Ponant cruise as it enabled me to visit quite a few of the islands – including some pretty out-the-way ones like Remire – alternatively, if you have the resource, you can always charter a yacht.

Read Next: Best Cruises around the Seychelles

Laze on the Beautiful Beaches

From calm lagoons to wild waves, Seychelles has something for everyone looking for a beach paradise.

With their crystal clear waters and rock-framed white-sand beaches, Anse Lazio on Praslin Island and Anse Source D’Argent on La Digue are often called one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.

Enjoy the Capital City, Victoria

The capital city of Seychelles is Victoria, located on the main island of Mahé. Victoria is a charming city with brightly-coloured buildings, shady parks, and fascinating historical sites.

Meet a Few Giant Tortoises

The Seychelles giant tortoise is a species of giant tortoise native to the islands of Seychelles off the coast of East Africa. These gentle giants can live up to 150 years, making them some of the longest-lived vertebrates on earth.

You can find the Aldabra tortoises on many of the islands, but Curieuse is a particularly good spot as there’s a tortoise sanctuary where you can see lots of these gentle giants.

Read more : Curieuse Island Travel Guide

Snorkel in the Crystal Waters

What really makes snorkelling in Seychelles unique is its diverse range of underwater attractions. From caves and walls full of vibrant corals to deeper shipwrecks on the sea floor, there is something for everyone to explore.

Top spots include Grande Soeur West, where the snorkelling is spectacular.

Explore the National Parks

The Seychelles is home to some of the most beautiful and pristine national parks in the world. The two main parks are Vallée de Mai National Park on Praslin Island and Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahe Island.

Spend a Day on Mahe, the Largest Seychelles Island

Mahe is the largest and most populated island in the Seychelles archipelago, in the Indian Ocean off of east Africa. It is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and lush tropical forests.

See the Tea Plants

Seychelles produces some of the world’s finest teas, particularly green tea. The island nation has various tropical tea plants, from small bushes to larger trees.

Tour the Rum Distillery

Touring the Takamaka rum distillery begins with a comprehensive tour of the facility. Visitors will learn about the history of rum making in Seychelles and how locally sourced ingredients help create original recipes.

Read more : The Best Things to do in Seychelles

Suggested Seychelles Trip Itineraries

From exploring vibrant reefs and hiking scenic trails to trying exotic dishes and relaxing on pristine beaches, there’s something for everyone in Seychelles.

Essential Itinerary

You can see all the main points with this itinerary, although you won’t find many hidden gems. Note: I recommend doing this on a two-week trip to save you from rushing around.

Mahe — Moyenne (Day Trip) — Praslin — Curieuse (Day Trip) — La Digue — Mahe.

Explore The Path Less Taken

With a little more time to spare, you can explore secluded beaches and hidden natural beauties.

Mahe — La Digue — Praslin — Curieuse (Day Trip) — Aride (Day Trip) — Mahe — Fregate / Desroches / Remire — Mahe.

Hidden Seychelles – Seychelles Off the Beaten Path

There are many hidden gems in Seychelles. One of the best is Anse Major , a secluded beach with miles of untouched shoreline. Visitors can swim and snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, relax on white sand beaches or stroll through the lush tropical forest.

To top off a stay in Seychelles, check out Silhouette Island – an isolated haven filled with rare plants and animals.

Seeing as most visitors stay in the reaches of the Inner Seychelles, any trip to the Outer Seychelles will take you off the beaten track, but as many of the islands, like Desroches, are only accessible with a stay at a high-end resort, it does come with a price.

How to See the Best of Seychelles For Free

I do warn people that the cost of visiting Seychelles can be high. But there are a few ways to enjoy things for free.

The Beaches – From long stretches of white sand beaches on La Digue Island to hidden coves along Praslin Island, there’s no shortage of breathtaking spots to relax or participate in beach activities.

Under the Sea – With vibrant coral reefs and shallow lagoons brimming with colourful fish, visitors can enjoy snorkelling adventures straight from the shore without setting foot in a boat or paying expensive tour fees.

Join the Locals – Visit one of the traditional Creole markets, where you can chat with locals or purchase souvenirs. Victoria Market on Mahe is one of the biggest.

Dishes to Try in Seychelles

Restaurant Food Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Seafood Creole – A combination of shrimp, calamari and mussels cooked in a thick tomato sauce.

Grilled Fish – Whether barracuda or red snapper, you can’t go wrong with freshly caught fish grilled over coals or on a barbecue pit.

Kari Koko — This popular snack is a spicy coconut curry dish made with either chicken or fish, fragrant spices and chilli peppers.

Top Drinks in Seychelles

Takamaka Bay rum cocktails — Packed with ingredients native to the islands, Seychelles rum cocktails tantalise your taste buds and whisk you away to paradise.

Coco Yaourt – This unique blend of coconut milk and yoghurt is sweet and refreshing, making it an ideal drink for when you’re feeling hot and need to cool down.

Seybrew – If you want something slightly stronger than beer, try a glass of Seybrew, a light lager made with local ingredients such as breadfruit, cassava and spices.

Seychelles Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go to Seychelles

Tips for travelling to seychelles .

Get Your Immigration Form Processed Early: You need to do this within 72 hours of your flight, but the earlier you get it done, the better. It costs 10 € per person, and you can find the requirements on the official website .
Be Respectful: Out of respect for local customs, travellers should dress modestly while visiting religious sites in Seychelles, such as churches or temples.
Know Your Currency: The official currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois rupee (SCR). You can exchange it at banks or foreign exchange bureaus in hotels or the airport upon arrival. However, most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, so cash may only sometimes be necessary.

Tipping in Seychelles

Picnic at Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Tipping servers in Seychelles is customary, even though it is not mandatory or expected. It is polite to leave a small tip for good service, usually 10-15% of the total bill.

In most restaurants, you will tip at the end of a meal. However, some establishments may include a service charge, so check the bill before leaving additional tips.

Interesting Facts About Seychelles

Seychelles is home to the world’s smallest capital, Victoria.
Seychelles hosts a wide variety of flora and fauna, including five endemic species of bird found nowhere else in the world.
The nation’s official language is Creole , though many locals also speak English, French, and German.
Seychelles has a rich variety of wildlife and plants with many endemic species. These include the giant tortoises on several inner granitic islands, such as Aldabra Atoll – one of the world’s largest coral atolls.
The country has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, including Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio on La Digue Island .

Read more : Best Beaches in The Seychelles

Handy Phrases for Travelling to Seychelles

As mentioned, Seychelles speak Creole officially. So here’s a short list of sayings to know when exploring the many Seychelles islands .

“Bonzour” (Good morning)
“Bonnwit” (Goodnight)
“Mersi” (Thank you)
“Wi” (Yes)
“Non” (No)
“Alo” (Hello)
“Ed mwan!” (Help!)
“Atansyon!” (Look out!)
“Mon pa konn koz kreol [byen]” (I can’t speak Seychellois Creole [well])
“Eski ou konn koz Angle {pronounced as Anglay}?” (Do you speak English?)

Seychelles Time Zones

Seychelles is in the Indian Ocean and follows the Eastern African Time Zone UTC+04:00. This is one hour ahead of the Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). The country does not observe Daylight Saving Time, so the time remains the same throughout the year.

Electricity + Adapters

The standard voltage in Seychelles is 240 V AC, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The most common type of plug used in the country is plug type G.

Seychelles Health

One of the great things about visiting Seychelles is that, despite it being a tropical destination (there being so many mosquitoes), there is no malaria risk! There are a few vaccinations suggested for anyone vacationing in Seychelles, but overall there is no huge risk.

Seychelles Transport

Julianna Cycling Runway Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Transport in Seychelles is quite varied and efficient. The most popular way of getting around the islands is by car or motorbike, as the roads are well-maintained, and drivers generally abide by the road rules.

There are also several local bus services that run throughout the day, which are an affordable way to get around. Taxis are in many towns and cities, and cycling is becoming increasingly popular, with custom-built bike lanes now available on many main roads.

Getting between the islands is quite easy, too, with ferries, boat trips, and even flights available. You can also book onto a cruise or chartering a catamaran for travelling between islands.

Safety in Seychelles

Seychelles has an excellent reputation when it comes to being safe for travellers. The crime rate in Seychelles is low, and violent crimes are rare.

As you travel to Seychelles, take precautions as they would with any other destination by avoiding dark or isolated areas and not leaving valuables unattended.

It’s also important to be aware of pick-pocketing and other petty theft, which can occur in crowded areas such as markets or tourist attractions.

Costs and Budgeting

If you’re looking for a winter vacation on a budget, Seychelles is not ideal. Seychelles is known for its high cost of living, with prices for goods and services far higher than in other countries.

Although the cost of living has risen dramatically over recent years, there are still ways to spend wisely to save money.

Tourist attractions often require bookings and tickets, which can be expensive if purchased last minute. You can also take advantage of deals offered by airlines or hotels when booking travel arrangements; these can sometimes result in significant savings.

Seychelles Map

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I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Curieuse Island Travel Guide: Discover Curieuse’s Island Wonders

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Unique travel experiences, fun itineraries & offbeat places to help you plan your dream trip

5 Day Seychelles Itinerary to Mahe and La Digue

This itinerary was created for those who are short on time, but want to see the highlights of the Seychelles. During your 5 days in Seychelles, you will first unwind on the laidback island of La Digue, and next, venture off to Mahe, to explore the vibrant and most populous island.

This 5 Day Seychelles itinerary is for you if you want a mix of relaxation, adventure, and a taste of the local island life. We include our top accommodation picks that won't break the bank, as well as the best spots to eat.

Note: we did not visit Praslin, the second most populous island, so it's excluded from this itinerary.

Best time to travel to Seychelles

Due to changing trade winds, there are sides of the island that are calmer than others year round.

From May - September, the southeast trade winds blow , meaning that on the southern and eastern parts of the island, you will get choppy waves and some beaches with seaweed washed up ashore.

From November to March, the northwest trade winds blow , meaning the northern and western beaches on the island have rougher waves and some with seaweed washed up ashore.

The best time to travel to Seychelles is from October - November and April to May for a few reasons:

These are calmer periods between the changing trade winds, with many beaches having good visibility
You will avoid the rainiest months of December and January
Starting June, the ferry ride from Mahe and La Digue is quite rough - boat sickness alert! A local told us that they personally avoid ferry travel all together starting the end of June for this reason.

Driving in Seychelles

La Digue is almost an unmotorized place, with just a few buggies and motorized vehicles used for commercial and emergency purposes. You won't need to worry about renting a car here - just rent bikes! They are around 100 SCR (~$7 USD) a day.

On Mahe however, the best way to explore the island is by renting a car. We highly recommend it. It really makes for an adventure.

Driving tips and things to know:

Driving is on the lefthand side - we recommend renting an automatic car, not a manual, if you are used to driving on the righthand side.
The ring road is the most developed and easiest to drive on
Some of the roads over the mountain from the East to West side of the island are windy. Just take it slow and easy!
Driving can be stressful at times, but we found it easier compared to other islands, like St. Lucia.
Look out for the large blue busses that seem like they love to drive as fast as they can by you. When you see one coming your way, just slow down as much as possible until they pass you for your own peace of mind. This is what a local told us to do.

Why is Seychelles so expensive?

We scratched our heads when we saw that main courses with average food (like spaghetti bolognese) typically ranged from 300-450 SCR (~$21-$32 USD) and cocktails for 180-220 SCR (~$13-$16 USD). Why was it so expensive? We soon learned why, when we discovered that 80% of consumed goods are imported to the island! Buying a bottle of hard liquor at the grocery store will set you back about 750 SCR ($53 USD) for example.

At beach bars, fresh fruit juices were typically 100 SCR (~ $7 USD), fresh coconuts 75 SCR (~$5.50 USD), and cocktails around 150 SCR (~$11 USD).

6 Seychelles budgeting tips

For well-priced, quality meals, go to a takeaway restaurant. There are plenty on Mahe and La Digue. Main courses are around 100 SCR (~$7 USD).
Rent a car on Mahe instead of hiring a private driver or doing a tour to get around.
Rent bikes to get around La Digue, rather than using taxis (buggies).
Buy snacks and alcohol at the grocery store - we saw locals bring beers and Bacardi Breezers to the beach.
Bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up each day with a large 4L water jug from the grocery mart. Buying smaller water bottles each day adds up fast.
Don't be scared off by the prices of hotels - there are many apartment-style accommodations available for a great value.

Seychelles Itinerary 5 Days

Days 1-3: La Digue

Although La Digue is a lot smaller than Mahe, we recommend staying here for 3 of your 5 days in the Seychelles. We personally preferred La Digue to Mahe, with its laidback atmosphere that allows you to easily relax. It's also a breeze to get around.

La Digue is where you will find the famous beaches you see allover Instagram with large granite boulders. It's not only known for its tranquil beaches, but for its welcoming locals that are proud of their home. Here, you will feel immersed in the local island life.

Getting from Mahe Airport to La Digue

When you fly into the Seychelles, you arrive on the island of Mahe. To get from Mahe to La Digue you have a few options:

Cat Cocos offers a direct 1.25 hour ferry from Mahe to La Digue as well as a 1.75 hour ferry that makes a stop in Praslin.

Here are 8 ferry tips for a successful trip:

Buy your ticket in advance, ferry times can sell out especially in high season.
Even if you buy your tickets online, you need to arrive more than 30 minutes in advance or your tickets could be released.
Spend the extra for the upper deck seat outside. The lower deck may be air conditioned, but people tend to get more seasick.
Check your suitcase in at the ticket office
Take non-drowsy anti-nausea medication, like Gravol, beforehand. We had a few pukers on the top deck (they provide vomit bags on the boat).
Avoid traveling during the rough winter months starting June
Arrive early so you can line up and grab a seat close to the front along the side of the boat. Late arrivers will be stuck in the middle. Your ticket reserves certain sections of the boat, but not seats.
Don't take videos or pictures while the ferry is moving, you will regret it!

By plane & fast ferry

By helicopter.

The most convenient, but expensive way is to take a 17 minute helicopter ride from Mahe to La Digue. For 4 people it costs 1,045 €.

Where to stay on La Digue

What to do on La Digue

See our comprehensive 3-day La Digue itinerary , which includes where to eat and the best things to do on the island.

Here are the highlights:

🏖🍹️ Beach hop on the wild Eastern coast to the island's best beach bar, and cool off in a natural pool at Anse Cocos Beach.
🌅 Enjoy a romantic dinner at Le Nautique Restaurant with sunset views over Anse Reunion Beach.
🚲 Rent bikes to explore the island and observe the local island life
🥾 Hike to La Digue's most remote and alluring beaches, Anse Marron and Anse Peirrot.
‍🚣🏻‍♂️ Rent clear kayaks at Anse Source d'Argent to see picture-perfect views of the famous granite boulders.
🥥🌴 Relax at the beach and hydrate with a fresh coconut.
🦀 Eat fresh seafood at a shipwreck-themed restaurant.

Read the full 3 day itinerary here .

Days 4-5: Mahe

For your last two days, take your transport of choice back to the island of Mahe. This sets you up nicely to catch your flight back home. Mahe is the Seychelles' largest and most developed island. It's more fast pace than La Digue, but with its size, you can set off on an adventure to explore its many landscapes. While we felt the beaches on La Digue were more unique, we preferred Mahe's beaches for swimming and snorkelling.

Where to stay in Mahe

Mahe has a lot of apartment-style accommodations for a good value compared to the expensive hotels on the island. We enjoyed our apartment's spaciousness and the option to cook food in our full kitchen.

As with the Le Nautique brand, the staff are extremely helpful, providing a map with beaches that are safe for swimming and even free snorkelling gear, paddle boards and kayaks you can use. They also offer delivery service with Perry's Grill, so you can get dinner delivered right to your room if needed. Another bonus is that if you have a late flight and want to go to the beach that day, they have a shower and change room you can access after checking out of your room.

Pick up your rental car

Take an early morning departure from La Digue to Mahe, so you have the full day to explore. Once you pick up your rental car at the Seychelles International Airport, set off to your hotel to drop off your bags.

Relax and snorkel at the beach for the day

Mahe has plenty of tranquil beaches to choose from for swimming and snorkelling. What beach you choose, will depend on the time of year you travel due to the changing trade winds. It's best to ask your hotel what beaches are best for snorkelling/swimming at the time of year you're there.

We were there at the very end of May/start of June, so the water on the Eastern and Southern side was choppy. Once we crossed to the Western side of the island we were met with calm beaches excellent for swimming and snorkelling.

🥔 ✨ Our favourite beach on Mahe: Anse Soleil

Our favourite beach for snorkelling and swimming was Anse Soleil. The palms provided shady spots and it didn't feel "resorty". We loved eating lunch at The Deck, a restaurant overlooking the beach that is part of the Beachcomber Hotel. Parking is free on the side of the road at the top of the hill. Don't forget your snorkelling gear!

🥔💨 Burnt potato: Petit Anse

Top tip: if you're travelling to Mahe during the northwest trade winds, your hotel will likely recommend different beaches located on the eastern side of the island. Fairyland Beach and Anse Parnel beside the Surfers Beach Restaurant are excellent for swimming and snorkelling during this time.

Enjoy a sunset dinner at Del Place

After your relaxing beach day, drive to Del Place, one of the best seafood restaurants in Mahe with sunset views overlooking the harbour. Located in Port Glaud, the chic establishment is proudly run by a 100% Seychellois team. We loved the shrimp sizzler that is flambéed in front of you. If you're traveling with your partner, it's the perfect setting for a romantic dinner.

Hike to the secluded Anse Major Beach

Today you will be exploring the northern end of Mahe, where one of its most alluring and secluded beaches is located. Only accessible by hiking or by water, it feels like an untouched tropical dream. The scenic 6 km roundtrip hike takes under an hour each way, and has a couple panoramic views.

Make sure you eat a big breakfast before you leave, and stop in at the grocery store along the way for some snacks and water to bring to the beach. There is a beach bar at Anse Major, however it was closed when we were there, so we're not sure how reliable it is.

This beach is also excellent for swimming and snorkelling, so if you're travelling there when the trade winds are in the southeast, bring snorkelling gear!

Top tip: this is a secret hikers only know about - just a couple minutes north from the main beach you will find a smaller beach that feels even more private.

Have a late lunch at Rockpool Restaurant and drive around northern tip of island

After your day at Anse Major, drive over to the laidback northern tip of Mahe to eat a late lunch at Rockpool. The calming restaurant with a golden Buddha statue as its centrepiece is perched over a cove. Grab a table overlooking the ocean and order one of their Mediterranean plates. Don't miss the chic shop inside that has a well-curated selection of local products.

We enjoyed driving the whole northern tip rather than backtracking down to our stay in Anse Royale. It felt relaxed on this part of the island.

Have sunset drinks at Anse Royale Beach or try local rum at the Takamaka Rum Distillery

If it's Friday, don't miss the Takamaka Rum Distillery which is open late until 10 PM with live music. Other days of the week it's only open until 4:30 PM. If you're like me, and don't like to do tastings of hard liquor, instead try one of their fruity cocktails at the Takamaka Rum Shack . They had the best prices for cocktails we saw on the island at 150 SCR, and offered a good selection of non-alcoholic drinks and food as well.

Their banana daiquiri is the best rum cocktail I've ever had. I tried to recreate it at home and it's just not the same.

If it's not a Friday, order fruity cocktails made with local Takamaka Rum at Kafe Kreol Restaurant overlooking Anse Royale Beach. Pick a table in the sand for the best view and ambience. Their cocktail prices are on par with other restaurants, however their prices for food were some of the most expensive we saw on the island, so be careful with what you order. Their spaghetti bolognese was 450 SCR (~32 USD)! They have decent pizza here made in a proper pizza oven, ranging from 250-400 SCR per pie.

We hope you enjoyed this 5 Day Seychelles itinerary!

Travel Day Tip: beached out and looking for a nice way to spend downtime before your flight? Check out Eden Holistic Spa on Eden Island . The top-notch spa is the perfect way to relax before your flight and it's very well priced. Our massages were excellent! It's also located only 10 minutes away from the airport.

What to pack for Seychelles

Get started on booking your trip to the Seychelles

🌃 Book your accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
🤠 Browse tours with local guides: through GetYourGuide or Viator
🛫 Book your flight: use Skyscanner to compare flights across different airlines (we recommend booking direct with the airline however).

Don't miss our other Seychelles guides:

5 Beaches on La Digue you have to see
12 Top Things to do on La Digue
10 Fun Things to in Mahe, Seychelles

Save and pin this Seychelles 5 Day Itinerary for later:

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This 8 Days Itinerary For Seychelles Helped Us Plan An Amazing Holiday On The Island

27 Mar 2023

The tiny dot in the Indian Ocean is what Seychelles looks like on the map, but we all know that this beautiful island nation holds hundreds of islands and is the perfect destination for a peaceful holiday. Set up on one of the most isolated and dreamy locations, travelers never deny to idea of a vacation in the Seychelles. The tropical lush gardens, the clear blue waters and sky and the golden beaches, are you already lured by its beauty? Well, there is so much to add to it but what better idea that visiting the island nation all by yourself for a real life experience? This is exactly the thought this couple who planned to spend their wonderful days of honeymoon together had in their minds. TravelTriangle helped them plan an unforgettable holiday because that is what exactly honeymoons are supposed to be!

Our honeymoon was really special for us. After all the hustle of our wedding we finally got a chance to spend some time together and so we were considered destinations that offered immense peace and pleasure. Our list of honeymoon destinations included Santorini, Seychelles, South Africa and Mauritius. We needed a relaxing and peaceful trip. After some research, we concluded that February is a good time to visit Seychelles and that it isn’t as crowded as other places under our consideration. Therefore Seychelles it was! Here is our 8 days itinerary for Seychelles.

Details Of Our Seychelles Holiday Package

Trip Type: Honeymoon Cost: INR 11350 No. Of People: 2 Duration: 7 Nights 8 Days Inclusions: – Accommodation, Meet & Greet at Airport, 24 x 7 assistance during the whole trip, Daily Breakfast in Mahe and Praslin island, Return Ferry tickets, La Digue Boat & Bike Tour – 50% Discount on Traditional Massages @ Le Meridien – 2 Complimentary Sunset Sparkling cocktail on the Pontoon on one evening @ Le Meridien – One romantic turn down on the 1st night @ Le Meridien – 15% off in an Indian restaurant @ Mahe – 20% off on Scuba & Snorkeling @ Mahe (With our Vendor), Visa on Arrival, All Taxes Exclusions: Tips, Lunch & Dinner, Anything not included in Inclusions, Otional tours

Itinerary Of Our Honeymoon In Seychelles

Day 1: Arrival in Mahe and Transfer to Praslin Day 2: Sightseeing Day 3: Boat and bike tour to La Digue Island Day 4: Hike to Anse Lazio via Mont Plaisir Day 5: Return to Mahe Day 6: Sightseeing Day 6: Departure to Mumbai

Seychelles Visa For Indians: Applications, Requirements And More

Weather In Seychelles

Seychelles being a tropical country is hot and humid. Mornings and evenings are pleasant though. The months between April to November is a good time to visit Seychelles .

Experiences Included In Our 8 Days Itinerary For Seychelles

We lived in Ajmer and therefore we drove to Jaipur, from where we boarded our flight to Mumbai. Our flight from Mumbai to Seychelles was the Emirates and it was a comfortable flight to Mahe. The moment we stepped into Mahe, we got into our vacation vibes. Here is all that we cherished on our honeymoon in Seychelles .

1. Exploring The Island

One of the best parts of our trip was that we got to explore a lot of beaches. On one of the days, we rented a self-drive car and visited the Cote D’or and Anse Lazio beach. The mesmerizing views of the island were breathtaking and we really loved every part of this drive. One of the most popular beaches of the island, it is lined with a number of shops, restaurants and other adventure activities. We went for diving in the waters of the sea.

2. Boat And Bike Tour

Next day, we took a boat and bike tour to La Digue Island that was included in our 8 days itinerary for Seychelles . When we arrived at the island jetty, we met our guide who gave us our bicycle to explore the island at our own pace. On our island tour, we visited the L ’union estate and the Anse Sourcebeach D’argent. Here we decided to take a swim and relax on the warm sand. We also stopped at a local church, took a lot of pictures and set exploring again. The refurbished colonial plantation house was yet another commendable place to visit on the island. In the evening and spotted some of the most beautiful and rare birds. The setting sun, cool breeze and melody of the birds chirping exactly matched our desire of a dream honeymoon.

15 Best Hotels In Seychelles For A Perfect 2022 Tropical Holiday On The Beach

3. On A Walking Trail

This nature’s trail was yet another memorable experience. The guided nature trail began from Anse Lazio. On our way we got to discover the endemic flora and fauna of Seychelles. We loved the panoramic view of Anse from the hilltop. The tour was approximately an hour long. After the walk, we stopped at the Bonbon Plume Restaurant where we enjoyed delicious Creole lunch. Anse lazio is known for it famous snorkeling site and it was a wonderful experience.

4. City Tour

After a trip of Praslin, we returned back to Mahe. In Mahe, a city tour was well-planned for us in advance. Here after, we visited the Botanical Garden. Here we discovered coco de Mer, giant land tortoises and fruit bats. We also went to the souvenir kiosks at the Esplanade and we also went to see the National Library. Later, we proceeded to Eden Island where we came across sophisticated mansions and apartments with elegant Marina and malls, casinos. On our way back, we also stopped at the view point to admire the stunning views of Victoria and the neighbouring islands.

5. Trip To The Southern Part

On one of the amazing days of our trip, we got a chance to explore the southern part of the island including Anse Intendance, Anse Soleil, local rum Distillery and Victoria City market. It was a beautiful experience to come across the history and culture of the city and enjoy a wonderful vacation here.

Where To Stay In Seychelles

On our 8 days itinerary for Seychelles, we stayed for a total of 7 nights. 4 nights in Praslin and 3 nights in Mahe. In Praslin we stayed in Terrasse Sur Lazio, an Airbnb property that is on the top of Mont Plaisir that offers out of the world view of Anse Lazio. It turned out to be our best time in Seychelles. In Mahe, we stayed at Le Meridian Fisherman’s Cove in an Ocean view deluxe room. The property is situated on Beau Vallon Beach . Offers great services and is in the heart of the city with a lot of places accessible on foot. The room is literally 15 meters from the ocean and offers amazing views. Although well maintained, it is one of the oldest 5-star properties there and is starting to show its age. (Be sure to ask for Ricky if you stay there. He is a porter cum water sports instructor cum waiter and is hospitable and helpful)

There isn’t much to shop. There are some souvenir shops in Victoria, Mahe that offer better prices than other places.

Seafood in Seychelles is heavenly, but us, being vegetarians, didn’t have many options. We carried a lot of snacks with us. Meal for 2 in Seychelles usually costs around 30-40 Euros and there are many restaurants in Seychelles to choose from.

Praslin: We got our food cooked by out caretaker in the Airbnb villa. Ristorante Da Luca Gelateria near Cote D’Or beach: The place a very few places that offer vegetarian food in Seychelles but offers decent pizza.

BonBon Plume at Anse Lazio beach: again, very few vegetarian options. Had fries and shakes there.

La Digue: Enjoyed our lunch at Le Repaire. This probably was the best food we had on our trip. It is a must visit. The Italian Chef there makes out of the world wood fired pizzas and is an interesting person to talk to.

Mahe: Since we stayed close to Beau Vallon beach, we had ample options to eat here. Copper Pot: 10 mins walk from our resort; the place is run by a south Indian family and offers dosas and idlis at unbelievable prices. Not to be missed.

Mahek: located right on the Beau Vallon beach in Coral Strand resort, it is an Indian restaurant. Baobab Pizzeria: again, right on Beau Vallon beach, the place serves nice pizzas. It is always crowded so expect a 30-40 mins waiting time during lunch hour. But it is worth the wait.

Maharajas: A unique and classy Indian dining experience in Eden Island right by the sea where you can feed fishes with the leftovers as well. A must visit.

Chatterbox café: A café in Eden Plaza, Eden Island. Offers a wide range of quick bite options.

Monsoon In Seychelles: A Handy Guide To Explore The Country In The Rainy Season

Dos And Don’ts

Do stay at Praslin. Carry your Indian license. The best way to explore is to hire a self-drive car.
Go hiking in Praslin to Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette.
Do negotiate: For car rentals, taxis etc.
Do visit La Digue for a boat and bike tour. Not to be missed.
Do visit Sunset beach in Mahe.
Avoid leaving hotel premises after sunset.

Tips For Travelers

Carry Euros. Exchange the same with Seychellean Rupees at the earliest otherwise you end up paying the exchange difference everywhere.
Book well in advance to get the best prices.
In Mahe, try staying near beau Vallon. Other places are away from the city center and commutation is a challenge.
Don’t visit Eden island on Sundays as everything is closed.

What To Pack

Light cotton clothes and glasses
Beach bag, beach towels
Snacks if you are a vegetarian

Our Experience With Travel Triangle

Booked the trip with Holidays box. Poulami has a lot of knowledge about the place and was helpful. Was a satisfactory experience overall.

Here’s Your First Time Guide To Seychelles By Sandesh Kumar

Seychelles with its natural beauty and beautiful surroundings attracts one and all. If planning a trip to Seychelles is in your mind, then TravelTriangle can help you plan your 8 days itinerary for Seychelles for a vacation to the islands.

Common Queries

Does it rain much in Seychelles?

Though it rains in Seychelles every year, a more than average rainfall is experienced between the months of November and January. The rain lasts for less than a minute and travelers tend to experience short showers.

What is the best month to visit Seychelles?

The best time to visit the Seychelles in the months of April, May, October and November. The weather in these months are the transition times between the hot and cold winds and travelers can experience an awesome weather.

Is food and drink expensive in Seychelles?

Yes, food and drink options are a little expensive in Seychelles. It is best to go for budget-friendly restaurants and cafes.

Is Seychelles better than Maldives?

Both the Seychelles and Maldives are known for their beautiful beaches and peaceful island life. Both have their own uniqueness and travelers can enjoy something different in both the destinations.

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Seychelles Trip Planner

Top destinations in seychelles.

Top attractions in Seychelles

Other notable attractions

Explore nearby places

Anse La Mouche
Anse Royale
Baie Lazare
Beau Vallon
Anse Etoile
Anse Takamaka
Anse Bois de Rose
Anse Kerlan
Baie Ste Anne
Anse Volbert
Anse la Blague
Joffreville
Ambatoloaka
Antsiranana (Diego Suarez)

All related maps of Seychelles

Map of Seychelles
Map of La Misere
Map of Grand Anse
Map of Anse La Mouche
Map of Port Glaud
Map of Au Cap
Map of Anse Louis
Map of Anse Royale
Map of Baie Lazare
Map of Beau Vallon
Map of Bel Ombre
Map of Victoria
Map of Takamaka
Map of Anse Etoile
Map of Glacis
Map of Amitie
Map of Anse Takamaka
Map of Anse Bois de Rose
Map of Anse Kerlan
Map of Baie Ste Anne
Map of Anse Volbert
Map of Anse la Blague
Map of La Passe
Map of Joffreville
Map of Sambava
Map of Ambanja
Map of Ambatoloaka
Map of Antsiranana (Diego Suarez)

Seychelles throughout the year

Seychelles in January
Seychelles in February
Seychelles in March
Seychelles in April
Seychelles in May
Seychelles in June
Seychelles in July
Seychelles in August
Seychelles in September
Seychelles in October
Seychelles in November
Seychelles in December

Q&A about Seychelles

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Travel Planning Guide

Seychelles Travel Budget - Visit Seychelles on a Budget or Travel in Style

Seychelles Costs

Is the Seychelles Expensive?
How much does a trip to the Seychelles cost?
Seychelles Hotel Prices
Seychelles Cities: Hotel Prices by City
Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in the Seychelles
Best Cheap Hotels in the Seychelles
Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in the Seychelles
Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in the Seychelles
Best Hotels for One Night in the Seychelles
Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in the Seychelles
Best Business Hotels in the Seychelles
Best Hotels for One Week in the Seychelles
Best Beach Hotels in the Seychelles
Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in the Seychelles
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in the Seychelles
Best Luxury Hotels in the Seychelles
Hostel Prices & Reviews
Seychelles Tour Prices
How much does it cost to travel to the Seychelles? (Average Daily Cost)
The Seychelles trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in the Seychelles?

Is the seychelles expensive to visit.

How much do I need for a trip to the Seychelles?
Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to the Seychelles?

You should plan to spend around $202 (S₨2,779) per day on your vacation in the Seychelles. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$51 (S₨703) on meals
$67 (S₨926) on local transportation
$165 (S₨2,267) on hotels

A one week trip to the Seychelles for two people costs, on average, $2,825 (S₨38,899) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 202 S₨ 2,779
One Week Per person $ 1,413 S₨ 19,450
2 Weeks Per person $ 2,825 S₨ 38,899
One Month Per person $ 6,054 S₨ 83,355
One Week For a couple $ 2,825 S₨ 38,899
2 Weeks For a couple $ 5,650 S₨ 77,798
One Month For a couple $ 12,108 S₨ 166,710

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to the Seychelles cost?

A one week trip to the Seychelles usually costs around $1,413 (S₨19,450) for one person and $2,825 (S₨38,899) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to the Seychelles on average costs around $2,825 (S₨38,899) for one person and $5,650 (S₨77,798) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in the Seychelles will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to the Seychelles on average costs around $6,054 (S₨83,355) for one person and $12,108 (S₨166,710) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in the Seychelles is $587 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

Seychelles Island Hopping Mahé & Praslin 14 Days - 3 Destinations $ 2,433
Seychellois Paradise 14 Days - 3 Destinations $ 2,925

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

The Seychelles is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Africa, the Seychelles is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to Senegal or Zambia.

For more details, see Is the Seychelles Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to the Seychelles?

The average Seychelles trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Seychelles travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in the Seychelles

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in the Seychelles is $82 (S₨1,134). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in the Seychelles is $165 (S₨2,267). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 82 S₨ 1,134
Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 165 S₨ 2,267

Hotel Prices in the Seychelles

Looking for a hotel in the Seychelles? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in the Seychelles based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $165. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

Bel Air Hotel Victoria Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 132
Constance Lemuria Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 750

Local Transportation Budget in the Seychelles

The cost of a taxi ride in the Seychelles is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $67 (S₨926) per person, per day, on local transportation in the Seychelles.

Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 67 S₨ 926

Recommended Services

Taxi Services & Transfers on Praslin Island Viator $ 55
Private Transfers from any Hotels to Praslin Jetty Viator $ 44

Food Budget in the Seychelles

While meal prices in the Seychelles can vary, the average cost of food in the Seychelles is $51 (S₨703) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in the Seychelles should cost around $20 (S₨281) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in the Seychelles is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

Food 2 Meals for one day $ 51 S₨ 703

Entertainment Budget in the Seychelles

Entertainment and activities in the Seychelles typically cost an average of $38 (S₨528) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 38 S₨ 528

Recommended Activities

Private Seychelles Islands Tour by Boat with snacks & drinks Viator $ 280
Private Full day Mahé island tour (1-2 persons) Viator $ 258

Alcohol Budget in the Seychelles

The average person spends about $33 (S₨449) on alcoholic beverages in the Seychelles per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 33 S₨ 449

The seychelles on a budget.

At a Glance

Top tourist attractions, popular foods.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

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Seychelles Tour Packages

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Best Seychelles Tour Packages in 2024

Seychelles tour packages to make you forget everything.

There are three primary island groups in Seychelles - Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. These three are among the most scenic due to their lush tropical vegetation and crystal clear turquoise seas. A vast majority of the population lives and works on the three islands. With suitable Seychelles tour packages to choose from, you can experience all this and more. The Seychelles tour packages are unique from any India tours offered . If you are planning a trip to Seychelles, look at the Seychelles tour packages first. If you need help, please get in touch with Seychelles tourism .

A typical Mahé island has a narrow coastal strip with a range of hills, typically rocky and surrounded by coral reefs. As the largest island, Mahe, its capital, Victoria, houses the international airport. Mahé offers numerous thrilling activities such as snorkelling, diving, hiking, shopping, and sunbathing on a deserted beach. Transportation between islands is relatively easy, making the practice of island hopping popular among holiday packages .

From Mahe, take an hour-ride ferry to Praslin, the second-largest island, with exotic, one-of-kind nature treats. From Praslin, take a short boat ride to La Digue for a day trip or remain on the island. In La Digue, Anse Source d'Argent beach is the most famous. Most Seychelles tour packages highlight staying on several islands. Seychelles tour packages will provide you an overview of your destination.

You can check Seychelles tourism packages for additional details. Make sure to pick a suitable package out of the many Seychelles tour packages available . There is a great deal of support and assistance offered by Seychelles tourism .

Seychelles Trip: Best Time to Visit

It is a fabulous place to spend the holidays . Check Seychelles tour packages regularly for changes in prices and offers. There are two times when Seychelles is considered most beautiful: April/May and October/November. The peak season is between May and August. December through March is considered the off-season; Seychelles tour packages prices usually halve during this period. There are some special offers available on international holiday packages .

Seychelles Visa for Indians

Citizens of India are not required to obtain a visa to visit Seychelles as a tourist. Business travellers, tourists, and friends who wish to visit friends and family in Seychelles are issued visitor's permits upon arrival. Check out Seychelles tourism packages for more details.

Seychelles Tour Packages: Best Places to Visit

It will be here where you start and end your Seychelles trip since Mahé is an integral location in most Seychelles tour packages . Spend an enjoyable morning shopping at Victoria Market, where you can buy souvenirs and clothing, along with fresh fruit and vegetables. Seychelles tour packages offer unique experiences in comparison to India tour packages .

An attraction on most Seychelles tour packages is the renowned Anse Lazio, an Insta-worthy beach. There are no rocks on this beach, allowing you to swim without worries and enjoy the beautiful serene seafoam green water.

If you know how to ride a bike, rent one as your primary means of transportation. Ride to the Anse Source d'Argent, another famous beach. Although many visitors take a day trip to La Digue from Mahe or Praslin, we recommend spending a night or two. Find out if any Seychelles tour packages include this destination.

Bird Island

The Bird Island hosts millions of migratory Sooty Terns during the breeding season, May to October. The nests can be viewed from observation platforms by bird watchers and photographers. Also present are giant land tortoises and some of the best big-game fishing in the world. Learn more about these and other destinations in various Seychelles tour packages .

Seychelles Tour: Local Dishes to Try

Grilled Fish: A staple dish of Seychelles people is grilled fish with Creole sauce, usually paired with rice and chutney. This dish is an attraction on some Seychelles tour packages .

Shark Chutney: Commonly served with boiled cassava and chilli, cooked shark meat seasoned with garlic, onions, peppers, basil, lime juice, and turmeric is a coastal treat. For more information, check out Seychelles tour packages or Seychelles packages .

Coconut Curry: A creamy curry showcasing Seychelles islands flavours - coconut milk, mildly spicy, with chicken. Ask about the food included in your Seychelles tour packages .

Breadfruit: This nutritious fruit can be used as a snack or served as an integral part of the main meal. Choose Seychelles tourism packages that emphasise local cuisines.

Things to Do on Your Seychelles Trip

Explore a secret waterfall in praslin.

The waterfall in Praslin with beautiful vistas is a secret treasure hidden in the wilderness. Get directions from locals or Seychelles tour packages .

Explore the Botanical Gardens

From Victoria's downtown area, you can walk to the Botanical Gardens. These gardens are beautiful, with verdant greens and tree-lined walkways offering respite as shade. As well as seeing giant tortoises and finding fruit bats, they include some Seychelles recreational activities.

Go for a Swim in the Ocean

A swimming session at one of the world's most famous beaches is sure to delight. There is no doubt that you will be captivated by swimming here. Even if you are not a swimmer, the tranquillity of the water will refresh you. Ask if any Seychelles tour packages or Seychelles packages include this activity.

Explore the Islands

Island visitors experience a sense of calmness that is rejuvenating. Seychelles tourism promotes these mentioned activities on their islands. In search of serenity, natural beauty, and adventure, tourists from around the globe book holiday packages to visit Seychelles. See if the Seychelles tour packages offered to you include the various recommendations.

Souvenirs from Your Seychelles Trip

Jewellery in black pearls.

Another main attraction of Seychelles is coral reefs. The natural black pearl symbolises infinite wisdom. Souvenirs of black pearls are in high demand, and many Seychelles packages include a shopping spree.

Paintings and other art pieces

Support local artists by purchasing paintings and other art pieces to bring as souvenirs. You can either get your image painted, sketched, or pick a beautiful island scene.

Bottles of essential oil

Recreate the scents of Seychelles to bring back memories. A concentrated extraction of plants -- the benefits include stress reduction, fungal infections, and improved sleep.

Tea and spices

The use of spices in Seychelles, such as curry, cinnamon, vanilla, and chilli, can be traced to Indian influences. It is no different with tea, another daily protagonist of island life.

The right tour package out of the many Seychelles travel packages can elevate a vacation to a dream vacation!

All Packages

Customizable

Sunset on the Rocks Special Packa...

9 Activities

Vibe in Seychelles Package

7 Activities

Inter Island Ferry

Magical Seychelles Package

8 Activities

Complimentary Inclusio...

Witness the true beauty of nature on the exotic Mahe Island.

The Palm-Fringed Beaches of Mahe...

Admire the turquoise waters and clean beaches in Seychelles!

Experience Praslin & Mahe - Seych...

Soak in the sun on the sandy beaches with your family.

Hottest Picks of Seychelles

Take a 360 degree view of Seychelles with our most popular packages

Honeymoon in Seychelles!

Frequently asked questions about seychelles travel, ques. how can i plan a trip to the seychelles from india.

Ans. You will come across numerous Seychelles tour packages from India. There are a few simple ways to reach the island. Air Seychelles operate direct flights from Mumbai to the Seychelles, while there are connecting flights taking off from Delhi too. The SEZ Airport is the primary airport in the region and is situated in Mahe. The distance between India and Seychelles by air is approximately 2,357 miles and journey time is approximately 4 ½ hours by flight.

Ques. Is Seychelles visa-free for Indians?

Ans. While booking your preferred Seychelles tour package, you will naturally wonder about the visa requirements for visiting the island. Indian nationals are exempted from visa to enter the Seychelles. The nation is entirely visa-free and there are no fees and charges for visas that you have to worry about. The country provides visa on arrival to Indian nationals. However, you require your passport to visit the Seychelles. Your passport will be stamped with an entry permit which is valid for 3 months from the date of arrival.

Ques. What is the Seychelles famous for?

Ans. There are several things that the Seychelles is famous for. You would love to know about some of them before booking your Seychelles tour package: The Seychelles is an archipelago, comprising 115 unique islands and many of these are still unoccupied. The Seychelles is famous for its white sandy beaches and lush greenery. Top spots here include Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette at Praslin along with their pink granite rocks. It is also known for Coco De Mer, the indigenous variety of fruit that was found by the French in the 1700s. The islands are also home to the rare Giant Aldabra Tortoises, especially at Curieuse Island, L’Union Estate and La Digue. Aldabra Atoll at Seychelles is also the world’s second-biggest coral and houses these tortoises. These are some of the unique aspects that make Seychelles one of the most beautiful and interesting tourist destinations.

Ques. What are the interesting things to do in the Seychelles?

Ans. You should look up all the major landmarks and things to do across the islands, while booking your Seychelles tour package. These activities and places will add to your holiday and make it memorable. Some of them are: You can go island hopping via ferries or relax at the gorgeous beaches. You may take cruises or go scuba diving. You should not miss Anse Lazio, La Digue and Beau Vallon Beach, along with the Seychellois National Park, Botanical Gardens and Ste Anne Marine National Park for diving excursions. You should also check out the wonderful waterfalls in Praslin, along with tasting the sumptuous local Creole cuisine alongside.

Ques. What is the best month to visit the Seychelles?

Ans. Before booking a Seychelles tour package, you should know about the right time to visit the island nation. The months of April to May and October to November are the best times to visit, since they are relatively calmer periods with soothing weather. You can expect pleasant temperatures with plenty of sunshine and refreshing sea breezes at these months. The off seasons are usually from June to October and December to March every year.

Ques. How do you get around in the Seychelles?

Ans. Those booking Seychelles tour packages should do some research on the ways to get around the islands. The best way is to take ferries between La Digue, Mahe and Praslin. You can also reach the other islands via private helicopters, chartered boats and the like. Cat Cocos and other companies have catamaran rides between the core islands regularly. Public buses are readily available across some of the islands. La Digue also offers ample scope for bike rentals for explorers. Taxis are also available in Praslin and Mahe for hassle-free transportation.

Ques. How many days are enough in Seychelles?

Ans. There are many Seychelles tour packages available online for one week, which will give you time to explore the three main islands of Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, along with checking out their gorgeous beaches, mouth-watering culinary delights and other attractions. Extending your travelling time to 10-14 days will give you more time to not only cover these islands but also explore some accompanying areas like Cousine Island, Silhouette Island, Fregate Island, Aldabra Island and more.

Ques. Which is the biggest market in Seychelles?

Ans. The biggest market in the Seychelles is the Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market. It should be a part of any Seychelles tour package. The Victoria Market, as it is locally called, is the beating heart of the Seychelles. It was built way back in 1840 and renovated thoroughly in 1999. The market is a true manifestation of the lifestyle in the Seychelles, offering attractive spices, fruits, vegetables, fish and a lot more. There are stalls selling sarongs, artwork, souvenirs and flavoured oils among other local delights for tourists. It stays open from Monday to Saturday between 4 AM to 5 PM.

Ques. Is Indian food available in Seychelles?

Ans. Food trails are integral parts of every Seychelles tour package. You should know that Indian food is available in the Seychelles for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian tourists. The former is slightly limited, since local Creole cuisine relies heavily on fish and meat. Indian food is abundantly available in Mahe, although it is not as widely available in Praslin. Some of Mahe’s top restaurants for Indian food include Mahek which has great vegetarian fare and lies on the Beau Vallon Beach. Another Indian restaurant is Maharajas, which is nestled on Eden Island, offering delicious meals for visitors. Some of the other top restaurants for Indian food include Anse Kerlan in Praslin and e-Relax in Anse Royale. The Copper Pot at Beau Vallon is another option worth trying.

Ques. What food is famous in Seychelles?

Ans. There are several varieties of food that are popular in the Seychelles. And, if you are a die-hard foodie, you must include these tasty dishes in your Seychelles tour package to make your trip more flavoursome. These include the famed bat curry or Kari Sousouri which is a major delicacy for the locals. Other delights include Bouyon Bred which is fish soup with vegetables, Kari Bernik, Bourzwa Griye or grilled red snapper and the delightful Kasava pudding. Another top pick is the shark chutney or Satini Reken along with coconut curries and fruit bat.

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seychelles Tour Packages

Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

Image may contain Architecture Building Hotel Resort Adult Person House Housing Villa Plant City and Couch

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Image may contain Nature Outdoors Scenery Architecture Building Shelter Plant Tree Landscape and Vegetation

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

Image may contain Leisure Activities Person Sport Swimming Water Water Sports City Urban Architecture and Building

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

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Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

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UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Image may contain Architecture Building House Housing Villa Summer Hotel Chair Furniture Resort and Palm Tree

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

Image may contain Summer Chair Furniture Person Plant Tree Palm Tree Fun Vacation Outdoors Nature and Beach

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

Image may contain Lamp Bed Furniture Indoors Interior Design Spa and Floor

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

Image may contain Transportation Vehicle Yacht Boat Ship Cruise Ship Nature Outdoors and Sky

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

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The Ultimate Seychelles Itinerary & Travel Guide

Ultimate Seychelles 10 Days Itinerary

Seychelles Itinerary for a week – 7 Days (Recommended)

– Explore Mahé & Relax at a Beachfront Resort –

Things To Do / Places To Visit In Mahe

( Read a detailed post on – Things To Do In Mahe )

– Explore La Digue –

Things To Do In La Digue

( Read a detailed post on – Things To Do In La Digue )

Things To Do In Praslin

– Other Attractions –

For Private Island Experience

Getting Around & Planning

What to Shop

What to Pack

– GETTING THERE –

Handy Tips:

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Best time to visit Seychelles

Best Guest House in Seychelles – Forest Lodge Guest House

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Best Budget Hotel in Seychelles – Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

Best Luxury Hotel in Seychelles – Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Victoria

Day 1 / Stop 2 – Copolia

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Mission Lodge

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Seychelles Tea Plantation

Day 1 / Stop 5 – Explore the West Beaches

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Craft Village

Day 2 / Stop 3 – Takamaka Rum Distillery

Day 2 / Stop 4 – Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Explore the South Beaches

Forest House Guest Lodge

Vallée de Mai

Curieuse Island

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Seychelles

Island Hopping

Big Game Fishing

Baie Ternay Marine National Park

Mahe Island Full-Day Tour

Praslin Fishing Tour

How many days do you need in Seychelles?

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Visiting the Seychelles: The Ultimate 1 Week Seychelles Itinerary

1 Week in the Seychelles

Day 1 – Mahe

Day 2 – Mahe

Day 3 – Mahe

Day 4 – Praslin

Day 5 – Praslin / Curieuse Day Trip

Day 6 – La Digue

Day 7 – La Digue & return to Mahe

1 Week Seychelles Itinerary Overview

When is the Best Time to Visit Seychelles?

Seaweed in the Seychelles

How to Get Around the Seychelles

Getting around the islands

Getting between the Seychelles Islands

Practicalities for the Seychelles

Electricity in the Seychelles

Internet in the Seychelles

Safety in the Seychelles

Drinking Water in the Seychelles

Vaccinations & Health in the Seychelles

Food in the Seychelles

Driving in the Seychelles

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

Where to Stay on Mahe

Where to Stay on Praslin