Seychelles
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Seychelles
The Seychelles! An archipelago of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife.
Places to Visit
- Mahe Island: Explore the capital city, Victoria, and visit the Morne Seychellois National Park.
- Praslin Island: Discover the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy the stunning beaches.
- La Digue Island: Relax on the picturesque beaches, explore the island’s charming villages, and enjoy water activities.
- Cousin Island: A nature reserve with diverse wildlife, including giant tortoises and seabirds.
Activities
- Beach relaxation: Enjoy the stunning beaches, swim, and soak up the sun.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore the coral reefs, marine life, and shipwrecks.
- Hiking and trekking: Discover the islands’ lush forests, mountains, and scenic views.
- Water sports: Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and fishing.
Wildlife
- Giant tortoises: Visit the Seychelles Giant Tortoise Sanctuary or Cousin Island to see these gentle creatures.
- Seabirds: Spot various seabird species, including the Seychelles warbler and the Seychelles magpie-robin.
- Marine life: Explore the coral reefs and spot diverse marine life, including fish, turtles, and rays.
Culture
- Creole culture: Experience the unique blend of African, European, and Asian influences in the Seychelles’ culture, music, and cuisine.
- Local markets: Visit the local markets to try fresh produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Tips
- Plan ahead: Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
- Respect the environment: Protect the islands’ fragile ecosystem and wildlife.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Try the delicious Creole dishes, seafood, and tropical fruits.
The Seychelles is a paradise for nature lovers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking a relaxing getaway.
Tour operators in Seychelles
Luxury Tour Operators
- Exodus Adventure Travels: Offers tailor-made luxury African safaris with a focus on sustainability and adventure experiences, rated 4.9 for Seychelles trips.
- Ker Downey Africa: Provides luxury group tours and custom itineraries, combining top African safari regions with Seychelles experiences.
- Aardvark Safaris: Offers standard service level and custom itineraries, rated 4.8 for Seychelles trips.
Standard Tour Operators
- Audley Travel: Offers standard service level and group tours, rated 4.6 for Seychelles trips.
- Peregrine Adventures: Provides premier group tours, small ship cruises, and independent travel options, rated 4.7 for Seychelles trips.
- Fred Olsen Cruise Lines: Offers standard service level and small ship cruises, rated 4.5 for Seychelles trips.
Local Tour Operators
- Exploring Tourism: A reliable travel agency in Seychelles offering customized tour packages, airport transfers, and guided tours.
- Booking Seychelles Tours: Specializes in creating unforgettable holiday experiences, including accommodation, guided tours, and entertainment options.
Other Options
- Saga Travel: Offers group tours, small ship cruises, and river cruises, rated 4.4 for Seychelles trips.
- Bestway Tours & Safaris: Provides standard service level and small ship cruises, rated 4.6 for Seychelles trips.
- TourRadar: Offers 31 Seychelles tours with 24/7 customer support and a 4.5-star rating.
Airbnb in Seychelles
Luxury Villas
- Luxury Hideaway with Pool – Cliffhanger Villas: A 3-bedroom villa with a pool, located in Baie Ste Anne, Praslin Island, rated 4.91/5.
- Eden Island Luxury 3 Bedroom Maison: A luxurious 3-bedroom house with stunning views, located on Eden Island, rated 4.86/5.
- Villa Abundance – The Station Seychelles – Sans Souci: A guest favorite with a rating of 4.97/5, located in SC, Praslin Island.
Beachfront Properties
- VallonEnd Beachfront Villa Apartment 2: A serene home with green mountains and turquoise waters, located in Anse Royale, rated 4.88/5.
- Stunning Beachfront Gem: A beautiful beachfront property with a pool, located in Beau Vallon, rated 4.78/5.
- Beach View Villa – Beauvallon Villas: A stunning villa with ocean views, located in Anse Possession, rated 4.76/5.
Apartments
- – Elegant Waterfront Apartment on Eden Island: A luxurious 3-bedroom apartment with stunning views, rated 4.83/5. – Pearl on Eden Island: A pet-friendly apartment with beautiful views, rated 4.96/5. – BMH Sea View Apt with Pool: A guest favorite with a pool and washing machine, rated 4.97/5.⁴
Unique Stays
- Kaz Bulinger – Machabee Seychelles: A cozy home with a rating of 5/5, located in Machabee.
- Cotton Rose Cottage: A charming cottage with a rating of 4.8/5, located in Grand Anse.
- Small Bungalow – Kaz Digwa: A guest favorite with a rating of 4.93/5, located in La Digue.
Airlines in Seychelles
National Airline
- Air Seychelles: The national airline of Seychelles, operating inter-island services and international flights to destinations like Mumbai, Tel Aviv, Antananarivo, Port Louis, Johannesburg, and Abu Dhabi. Its fleet includes Airbus A320NEO aircraft.¹
International Airlines
- Emirates: Offers flights to Seychelles from Dubai International Airport.
- Qatar Airways: Provides flights to Seychelles from Doha International Airport.
- Etihad Airways: Offers flights to Seychelles from Abu Dhabi International Airport and has a codeshare agreement with Air Seychelles.
- British Airways: Offers flights to Seychelles.
- Air France: Offers flights to Seychelles.
- Ethiopian Airlines: Offers flights to Seychelles.
- SriLankan Airlines: Offers direct flights from Colombo to Mahé.
Airport Information
- Seychelles International Airport: Located on Mahé Island, serving as the primary airport for the country.
- Popular airports served by Air Seychelles: Grand’Anse Praslin, Praslin Island, Victoria Seychelles Intl, and Tel Aviv Ben Gurion Intl.
Buses in Seychelles
Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) operates bus services on the islands of Mahé and Praslin, covering various routes and schedules. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around the islands.
Key Features
- Affordable Fares: Bus fares in Seychelles are relatively cheap, with local bus rides costing around 0.47 EUR (approximately 12 Seychelles rupees) per person.
- Reloadable Cards: You can purchase a reloadable transport card for 10 rupees, which can be loaded with additional funds for multiple rides. These cards can be used for multiple people, making them a convenient option for families.
- Bus Schedules: Buses operate from around 6-7 am to 7 pm, with some services running later in the evening. You can check schedules online or at bus stops.
- Route Coverage: There are 35 bus routes on Mahé and 8 on Praslin, covering major streets and key points.
Planning Your Trip
- Using Transit Apps: You can plan your bus journey using Seychelles’s transit authority website or app, which provides routes, transfers, and schedules.
- Signaling the Bus: To catch a bus, wait at a bus stop and signal to the driver.
- Bus Stops: Bus stops are located on major streets near key points.
Additional Tips
- Limited Luggage: Passengers with suitcases are not allowed on buses, so it’s best to take a taxi if you have luggage.
- Alternative Options: Taxis, ride-hailing services, scooters, bicycles, and car rentals are also available in Seychelles.
Boats in Seychelles
Seychelles offers a wide range of boat rentals and charters for exploring its stunning islands and marine life. Here are some options:
Luxury Yacht Charters
- Dream Yacht Charter: Offers multi-day tours and boat charters with experienced captains, rated 4.0 out of 5 stars. Prices start from around $500 per half-day.
- Navigare Yachting: Provides luxury yacht charters with captains, offering sailing experiences around Seychelles. Their fleet includes Lagoon and Riviera yachts.
Daily Boat Rentals
- Sailo: Offers daily boat rentals and yacht charters in Seychelles, with options for powerboats, luxurious yachts, and catamarans. Prices start from around €465 (approximately $500) per half-day.
- Getmyboat: Features a range of boat rentals, including fishing boats, yachts, and party boats, with prices starting from $110 per hour.
Boat Tour Operators
- Angel Tours: Offers boat charters and scuba diving experiences, rated 5.0 out of 5 stars. They provide spectacular boat rides and BBQ lunch options.
- Loyalty Charter: Provides scuba diving and boat tour experiences, rated 4.5 out of 5 stars.
- Clear Water Fun: Offers kayaking and clear kayak rentals, perfect for exploring Seychelles’ waters.
Guides in tourism in Seychelles
Seychelles offers a wide range of guided tours and excursions to explore its stunning islands, marine life, and culture. Here are some top options
Island Tours
- Seychelles Island Tour: A private 4-hour or 8-hour tour covering unique places to visit, recommended by 100% of travelers ($135-$138 per adult).
- Mahe Island Tour: A 7-8 hour tour with a local licensed guide, exploring Mahé’s scenic spots, recommended by 100% of travelers ($131 per adult).
- Praslin-La Digue Day Trip: A 6-hour boat tour from Mahé to Praslin and La Digue islands, visiting Cousin Island and Curieuse Island ($226-$248 per adult).
Marine Life Tours
- St. Anne Marine Park Tour: A guided tour exploring the marine park’s stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life ($109-$115 per person).
- Reef Safari: A snorkeling and fish-feeding tour in St. Anne Marine National Park, recommended by 90% of travelers ($142-$190 per group).
- Semi-Submarine Tour: A 1-hour tour exploring Sainte Anne National Marine Park’s underwater world ($134 per adult).
Nature and Wildlife Tours
- Vallee de Mai Tour: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site’s stunning flora and fauna, including the Coco de Mer.
- Anse Marron Tour: A nature tour visiting Anse Marron beach in La Digue island, recommended by 98% of travelers ($54-$55 per adult).
- Private Nature Trail: A 5-hour tour for 1-2 persons, exploring Seychelles’ natural beauty, recommended by 100% of travelers ($215 per group).
Local Guides and Operators
- Kreol Adventures: Offers boat tours and excursions, including the Curieuse and St Pierre Island excursion.
- Seyvillas.com: Provides travel information and tips for planning your Seychelles trip.
Tourism industry in Seychelles
The tourism industry in Seychelles is a vital sector of the country’s economy, contributing significantly to its GDP and foreign exchange earnings. Here’s an overview
Key Statistics
- Contribution to GDP: 50% of Seychelles’ GDP comes from tourism.
- Foreign Exchange Earnings: Tourism accounts for 70% of the country’s total foreign exchange earnings.
- Employment: 15% of the formal workforce is employed in the tourism industry.
- Tourist Arrivals: In 2013, Seychelles recorded 230,272 tourist arrivals, with most visitors coming from Europe, particularly France, Germany, Italy, and the UK.
Tourist Attractions:
- Beaches: Seychelles is famous for its stunning coral beaches, such as Anse Cocos on La Digue Island and Anse Intendance on Mahé Island.
- Water Sports: Visitors can enjoy various water activities, including snorkeling, diving, and sailing.
- Wildlife: The archipelago’s diverse wildlife is a major attraction, with opportunities to spot unique species.
Challenges and Opportunities:
- Sustainability: The government is focusing on sustainable tourism practices to protect the environment and preserve natural attractions.
- Regional Cooperation: Seychelles is working with neighboring countries to promote regional tourism initiatives and cross-border investments.
- Investment: The government is committed to creating a favorable business environment for tourism investments.
Recent Developments:
- Tourism Festivals: Seychelles celebrates its tourism industry through events like the Annual Tourism Festival, which aims to shape the future of the sector.
- Awards and Recognition: Seychelles has received awards, such as the Travel + Leisure Award for the top island destination in Africa and the Middle East.
Beaches in Seychelles
Seychelles is renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand, and iconic granite boulders. Here are some of the top beaches to visit:
Top Beaches in Seychelles
- Anse Lazio: Located on Praslin, this beach is voted one of the top beaches in Seychelles, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with opportunities to spot sea turtles.
- Anse Source d’Argent: On La Digue, this beach is known for its massive granite boulders, powdery white sands, and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting hermit crabs and giant tortoises.
- Anse Volbert: On Praslin, this stunning beach offers superb sunsets, white sand, and perfect blue waters, great for relaxation and snorkeling.
- Petite Anse: A secluded beach on Mahé, offering calm, emerald waves, powdery white sand, and impressive views, perfect for those seeking a peaceful atmosphere.
- Anse Intendance: On Mahé, this wild beach features white sand framed by granite boulders, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, but be cautious during south-east trade winds.
- Anse Georgette: On Praslin, this secluded beach boasts pristine white sand, bright turquoise waters, and tropical palm trees, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Grand Anse: On La Digue, this picturesque beach offers pristine sandy surface and stunning scenery, although swimming might not be recommended due to deep waters.
- Beau Vallon: On Mahé, this is the longest beach and a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports, with beachfront restaurants.
- Anse Major: On Mahé, accessible via a hike through Morne Seychellois National Park, this beach offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities and a secluded atmosphere.
- Anse Marron: On La Digue, this secluded beach features stunning beauty, tropical forests, white sands, and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Tips for Visiting Seychelles Beaches
- Be mindful of the tides and weather conditions, especially during south-east trade winds.
- Some beaches may have limited amenities, so plan accordingly.
- Respect the local environment and marine life.
- Consider visiting secluded beaches like Petite Anse for a peaceful experience.
- Don’t miss the stunning sunsets on beaches like Anse Volbert.
Touristic sites in Seychelles
Seychelles is an archipelago with numerous stunning islands, beaches, and attractions. Here are some top touristic sites to visit
Beaches
- Anse Source d’Argent: A famous beach on La Digue Island known for its towering granite boulders and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Anse Lazio: A picturesque beach on Praslin Island with pristine white sand and turquoise waters, ideal for relaxation and snorkeling.
- Anse Georgette: A secluded beach on Praslin Island with clear waters and lush landscapes, perfect for snorkeling and spotting marine life.
- Petite Anse: A tranquil beach surrounded by the Four Seasons resort, offering soft white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Beau Vallon Beach: A popular beach on Mahé Island with restaurants and fresh seafood.
Nature Reserves and Parks
- Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and “Garden of Eden” with palm forests, Coco de Mer, and rare black parrots.
- Morne Seychellois National Park: A park on Mahé Island with mountainous forests, endemic birds, and hiking trails.
- Curieuse Island: A protected island with giant tortoises, mangroves, and a marine park.
Other Attractions
- Seychelles National Botanical Gardens: A national green heritage site with mystical bat colonies, a Thai and Chinese Garden, and a Biodiversity Centre.
- Mission Lodge: A historic landmark with stunning views of the surrounding islands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Sainte Anne Marine Park: A protected area with six small islands, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
- La Digue Island: Known for its stunning beaches, azure waters, and pink granite boulders.
- Fregate Island: A private island with beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
National Parks in Seychelles
Seychelles has a total of nine major national parks, covering over 3,500 square kilometers, that showcase the archipelago’s unique biodiversity and natural beauty. Here are some of the top national parks to explore:
Terrestrial National Parks
- Morne Seychellois National Park: Located on Mahé Island, this park spans 3,045 hectares and features breathtaking views, tea plantations, and historical ruins. It’s home to endemic species like the Seychelles scops-owl, Blue Pigeon, and Seychelles Krestel.
- Praslin National Park: Situated on Praslin Island, this park covers 700 hectares and boasts mixed secondary forests, native plants, and six endemic palm species.
- Vallée de Mai National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin Island, known for its palm forests, Coco de Mer, and rare black parrots.
Marine National Parks
- Sainte Anne Marine National Park: Comprising six small islands off Mahé’s northeast coast, this park is renowned for vibrant coral reefs, reef fish, rays, and sea turtles.
- Curieuse Marine National Park: Located adjacent to Praslin Island, this park features coral reefs, diverse marine life, and a mangrove swamp. It’s also home to over 300 Aldabra giant tortoises.
- Silhouette Marine National Park: Situated 20 km off Mahé, this park offers picturesque seascapes, amazing aquatic animals, and opportunities to spot blue-spotted rays and white-tip sharks.
- Baie Ternay Marine National Park: Part of the Marine National Parks system, known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Port Launay Marine National Park: Another marine park with coral reefs and diverse marine life.
- Ile Coco Marine National Park: A marine park known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Nature Reserves
- La Digue Veuve Reserve: A forest reserve on La Digue Island, established to protect the Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher, with forest rangers monitoring the area.
- Aride Island Nature Reserve: A bird sanctuary covering 300 hectares, home to rare bird species.
Cultural sites in Seychelles
Seychelles is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich history and diverse heritage. Here are some top cultural sites to visit
Museums
- Seychelles National Museum of History: Explore the country’s history and cultural heritage through artifacts and exhibits, promoting historical awareness among locals and visitors alike.
- Seychelles Natural History Museum: Currently closed for renovation, this museum typically showcases the flora, fauna, and history of Seychelles.
- Praslin Museum: Discover the traditions and culture of the Seychellois people, participate in interactive activities, and explore the garden’s endemic medicinal plants.
Historical Landmarks
- Plantation House: A prime example of Creole architecture, this 19th-century plantation house showcases Seychelles’ history and cultural significance.
- Domaine de Val des Pres: Experience the history of Seychelles and live alongside locals in this 19th-century plantation setting, featuring traditional architecture and a Maison de Coco for coconut products.
- Bel Air Cemetery: A historic cemetery with mystical graves, shrines, and vaults that reveal the islands’ history.
Art Galleries
- George Camille Art Gallery: Admire vibrant Creole artwork and enjoy the café and exhibition space in this Creole-style house.
- Egbert Marday Art Gallery: Explore the artist’s studio featuring oil, wood, and acrylic works.
- Kenwyn House Gallery: Discover local artistic talents and shop for African diamonds in this French colonial-style house.
Places of Worship
- St. Pauls Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral built in the 19th century and refurbished between 1992 and 1995.
- Victoria Mosque: A significant religious site honoring Queen Victoria.
- Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Hindu Temple: A stunning Hindu temple built in 1992.
Cultural Experiences
- Kreolfleurage Parfums: Learn about local perfume-making and explore the art of creating fragrances.
- Kot Man-Ya Exotic Garden: Marvel at over 200 types of tropical plants and orchids, and interact with giant tortoises, sunbirds, and guinea pigs.
Hotels in Seychelles
Luxury Hotels in Seychelles
- Constance Ephelia: A 5-star resort with tropical gardens, private rooms, and villas on the hillside seafront, offering natural surroundings and private beach dinners from £493 per night.
- Four Seasons Resort Seychelles: Located in Baie Lazare on Mahé, offering oceanview suites and villas with luxury furnishings and private verandahs, with a spa and island getaway vibe from £690 per night.
- Kempinski Seychelles Resort: Situated in Baie Lazare, featuring chic guestrooms, luxury linens, and deluxe suites with spectacular views, along with Creole dishes at its two restaurants from £682 per night.
- Raffles Seychelles: A luxury hotel in Baie Sainte Anne, offering villas with boutique furniture, French windows, and private terraces, along with a sushi room and spa from £648 per night.
- North Island: A luxury resort with private villas and an intimate pool, offering bird’s eye views of the ocean and island ambiance with cocktails at the Rum Shack from £817 per night.
Boutique Hotels
- Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie: A resort on La Digue with luxurious villas, tropical gardens, and a private beach, featuring a spectacular pool from £444 per night.
- Mango House Seychelles: A boutique hotel with stylish suites and villas, offering a relaxing atmosphere.
- Coco de Mer Hotel: A 5-star hotel with attentive staff, superb suites with views, and a beautiful setting.
- Dhevatara Beach Hotel: A boutique hotel on Praslin with open-plan living suites, soaking tubs with sea views, and Creole cuisine from £283 per night.
Beachfront Hotels
- Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino: A beachfront resort with spacious rooms, king-size beds, and private plunge pools.
- The H Resort Beau Vallon: A spectacular destination with white sand beaches, biodiversity, and underwater world exploration options from £634 per night.
- JA Enchanted Island Resort: A resort located in the Sainte Anne Marine Park, offering suites, villas, and an 18-hole golf course from £963 per night.
- Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island: A tranquil retreat for couples and families, featuring rustic villas and bungalows, with a tortoise sanctuary from £1040 per night.
Other Top-Rated Hotels
- Canopy by Hilton Seychelles Resort: A family-friendly hotel with excellent staff, amazing food, and a great location.
- Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa: A 5-star resort with fantastic staff, clean rooms, and great food.
- Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa: A 5-star resort with attentive staff and superb amenities.
- Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas: A luxury resort with villas and excellent service.
