Top 10 things to do in the Seychelles Islands.
What to see in Seychelles? What to do? What are the beaches not to miss? Read my guide so you don't miss the best of these dreamy islands
An eco-sustainable paradise in the heart of the Indian Ocean... The Seychelles invites you on an incomparable journey through the wonders of one of the most fascinating archipelagos on the globe. On unspoiled beaches, surrounded by glistening coral, sea turtles and exotic plants, it is wonderful to enjoy the warmth of the sun. It consists of 115 islands that are partly granitic and partly coral. Here nature reigns supreme, with uniquely shaped beaches framed by majestic pink granite boulders and vividly colored corals.
The major islands are Mahè, Praslin and La Digue. I have visited them all.
Where the Seychelles Islands are and how to get there
The Seychelles islands are a paradise nestled in theIndian Ocean. This archipelago boasts a variety of natural attractions, including idyllic beaches, lush vegetation, breathtaking coral reefs, nature reserves and rare creatures, such as the
Mahé, with its capital Victoria, is an ideal starting point for exploring the other islands. However, it is important to note that the trips to the other islands, which you absolutely cannot miss, are expensive for transportation and life on these islands takes place mainly during the day. Not to be missed for any reason is the covered Sir Selwyn Selwyn - Clarke Market. Visiting the town's market is a mouthwatering opportunity to see the life of Sychellesians up close . For an African market, it is not very large. It is proportionate to the size of Victoria. Fish is the big star, but there are also many spices and fresh vegetables. The best time to visit is definitely the first half of the morning. Also not to be missed The Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple is a unique structure in Victoria, It was built in 1992 and is the only Hindu temple in Seychelles. The temple was dedicated toLord Vinayagar, also known as Ganesh or Ganesha, the god of new beginnings and the remover of obstacles.
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So don't expect this destination to be like Formentera.theSeychelles Islands are a true paradise exactly because they are far from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Ideal for couples, honeymooners and those looking to regenerate in touch with nature. Restaurants closetheir kitchens very early, generally by 8:30 p.m., and in the evening there are no major events or activities to do, these islands are the perfect place to truly unplug.
BY AIR
The airlines that make the cheapest connections from Rome to Mahe Island are operated by 8 airlines. The airlines that make the cheapest connections are Ethiopian Airlines (€531.99), Turkish Airlines (€537.26) and Emirates (€562.99) We departed with Emirates to Rome Fiumicino via a stopover in Dubai.
The airlines that make the cheapest connections from Milan to Mahe Island are Ethiopian Airlines (505.06 €), Turkish Airlines (538.75 €) and Qatar Airways (649.27 €) you stop over in Dubai and the total travel time is 14 hours.
Airlines flying to Seychelles (in addition to Air Seychelles) are: Emirates, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Condor.
Local currency Seychelles rupee (SCR)
Tropical climate, warm year-round. Temperatures average around 32 degrees during the day and below 20 °C at night
Time zone 2 hours ahead of Italy
Top 10 things to do in the Seychelles Islands.
The Inner Islands are favorite destinations for tourists and
offer a wide choice of resorts and accommodations. Unfortunately, they are also known to be very expensive, but they offer a dream experience. Our trip began with a flight from Rome to Mahé with Emirates. Then on to Praslin and finally La Digue. The main islands are connected by ferries. Between Mahé and Praslin there is also an air link operated by Air Sychelles (15-minute flight). In Mahé and Praslin one travels by rental car (driving is on the left) or by transfer or cab , which in our case was the ideal solution. It is also possible to get around by public bus. In La Digue , on the other hand, one gets around by bicycle.
How can I hail a cab in Seychelles?
Cabs are available at the port, airport, and other places on the islands. There is no single phone number for cabs, but I can provide you with a few for your convenience. Also, you can book a cab through the staff at your accommodation or the restaurant where you are dining.
Mahé Cab Services: Tel. 2526038
Seychelles Taxi Touring: Tel. 2535694
Sey Discovery Tours: Tel. 2630481
A cab ride of about 20 minutes can cost about 20 euros (for example, from theairport to the port of Mahé). Usually cabs are metered, but if this is not the case, it is advisable to always agree in advance on the price with the driver.
How to reach the islands and move between them?
Between the islands, the main means of transportation is by ferry. Daily connections between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are available, but they come at a high cost, perhaps the largest expense after lodging. (70 euro one way) It is advisable, especially during peak season, to purchase tickets before leaving from Italy. We purchased our tickets for all routes from a travel center in Victoria as soon as we arrived on the island. Below I leave contact information.
Elite Club - Miss Raisa Orphe
Office A3 Bel Etang Building Mont Fleuri
Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles
Tel: +248 432 11 22
Email: info@eliteclubseychelles.com
Traghetto Mahé <> Praslin: durata ca. 60 minuti, costo ca. 60 €
Traghetto Praslin <> La Digue: durata ca. 15 minuti, costo ca. 20 €
Traghetto Mahé <> La Digue: durata ca. 90 minuti, costo ca. 75 €
In most cases, getting to La Digue from Mahé (or vice versa) requires taking a ferry that stops in Praslin. I recommend that you always book your ferry tickets in advance
Where to stay in the Seychelles Islands?
We have been to these islands in December, which is THE most expensive time to travel to Seychelles, especially between Christmas and New Year's Day, with rates that can double. After the holidays, prices drop significantly, then rise again in April. In July and August, there is a further increase in prices. February and March, on the other hand, represent the cheapest months to visit the Seychelles.
We departed from Monopoly, and planned our trip to visitthe archipelago's three fascinating islands-Mahé (1 night), Praslin (4 nights) and La Digue (5 nights).
For our stay, we preferred small local accommodations , small residences, room rentals by booking in advance from Italy as well as from Booking.com there are reference sites dedicated to these islands that I found very useful and that I recommend you to consult specialized sites about Seychelles such as Seyvillas or Seychelles SiTours
Also download the VISIT SEYCHELLES app to find accommodation to suit all budgets and needs.
Mahè
Upon our arrival in Mahé, we were greeted by an intense tropical storm that characterized our first two days on the island. However, the rains here are intense but short-lived. From the airport, we took a cab to our Beau Vallon Villa Chalets apartment , booked through Booking.
Mahé is renowned for its white sand beaches, some of which are located right in the famous Beau Vallon Bay , which is why we chose to stay on this side of the island. Finally, we were able to relax. In addition, Mahè is known for its scenic granite relief, most notably the Morne Seychellois, surrounded by lush rainforest and home to the natural park of the same name (which I hope to see the next time I return to the Seychelles Islands).
Dinner time finally arrives and we are suggested a great place, minimalist and typically local, with an open buffet offering fish, barbecue and Creole cuisine. We decide to stay still in the Beau Vallon area and head to the Boat House Restaurant Lots of fish, vegetables and rice. Excellent
Un giorno al St Anne Marine Park
The day after our arrival, we participated in a boat excursion from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in St. Anne Marine Park, which includes six islands but is only allowed to visit Cerf and Moyenne in the day. We booked Captain Michel 's boat , DOLPHIN NEMO (which you can contact by clicking on this Link - or write dolphinnemo10@gmail.com) at Marina Charter in Victoria. St. Anne Park is easily accessible from Victoria by boat, just 5 km off the coast of Mahé, and is the oldest marine protected reserve in the Seychelles. So much variety of fish! I think snorkeling in the Seychelles was one of the best of my life. The rocky seabed of the archipelago is rich in marine life. After enjoying a succulent fish BBQ on a dream beach, in the afternoon and after a deep sleep under the trees, we returned to the hotel.
An interesting little detail: dishes and crockery are washed in the sea without the use of any kind of detergent.
In Mahè some beautiful beaches are Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka, Anse Intendance (southwest) a very pretty little beach near the luxurious Banyan Tree resort ideal for watching the sunset, which we did not see because the sky was a bit overcast. You can book a tour of the most beautiful beaches directly at the port of Mahè when you arrive (the agencies all make signs and the price is always the same for everyone) the cost can range from 70 to 110 euros per person depending on the season. If you have time you can venture into the striking rainforest of Morne Seychellois National Park.
Praslin
After taking the ferry from Mahé, we traveled for 60 minutes and spent 60 euros per person to get to Praslin, where we spent four nights. This crossing will remain indelible in my memory. Very high waves, surging sea. It was impossible to get up.
The feeling of the stomach during seasickness is like an internal turmoil. A mixture of emptiness, discomfort and sometimes a feeling of impending nausea. I felt that tingling in my hands characteristic of someone about to faint. I assure you that the whole boat was struggling dangerously due to the adverse weather conditions.
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During our stay, we admired some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. Our lodging was Mango Lodge area Anse Volbert with a beautiful sea view, a beach within walking distance and an excellent (savory) breakfast. We spent four days of pure relaxation on the beautiful Anse Volbert Beach, just a 12-minute walk from our hotel.
As soon as we set foot on this island, we recovered and soon after adjusted to the leisurely pace of the islanders. Our journey to the beaches so much dreamed of since our days in Italy, we felt, was just beginning.
It is one thing to expect to find crystal-clear waters, granite rock formations, inviting sea and the chance to snorkel among turtles. The other is really finding them and diving in forgetting all about them. It really is a dream vacation, a common desire for many Italians to leave for these destinations during the winter months. Treating oneself to a tropical getaway during this season is a gift that everyone deserves to experience.
Visita guidata a Vallee dei Mai Nature Reserve
An entire morning was devoted to visiting Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve It is a protected nature reserve located on this island. Since 1983, this area has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the uniqueness of its more than 1,400 specimens of the legendary Coco de Mer palm , with the largest fruit in the world. This type of palm grows wild only here in Praslin and Curieuse, the oldest specimen is about 300 years old and 27 m tall.
Afterwards, we spent the entire afternoon on Cote d'Or Beach, which was only 6 minutes away from our accommodation. For ease of travel, wearranged with the hotel owner to hire a chauffeur-driven transfer that took us to visit different beaches for two days.
Visitare Anse Lazio, spiaggia iconica dell'isola
Before saying goodbye to the island, be sure to visit Anse Lazio, one of the most enchanting beaches in the world. Anse Lazio is an icon of the Seychelles, with its golden sand glistening in the sun, clear waters, and waves that accompany you along the shore. The smooth rocks here are as smooth to the touch as caresses.
A heavenly beach with white sand and turquoise water.
Here we sunbathed, swam countless times and let the waves lull us (there is always a gentle breeze). A magical place, perfect for enjoying spectacular sunsets that dye the sea orange. Enjoying the sunset is always worth it, especially if you are in good company.
Snorkeling da Ille Curieuse e Isolotto di Saint Pierre
If you like swimming or snorkeling I invite you to take this boat trip to Ille Curieuse and Islet of Saint Pierre. We relied on Bruno - Infinity Charter; From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with transfer from hotel to meeting point round trip and soft drinks on board. Of course, almost all boat tours include the always popular and great quality fish/meat BBQ on the beach. In addition, we were provided with all the necessary snorkeling equipment. A ten-minute boat ride takes you to the islet of Saint Pierre. I remember having one of the best snorkels of my life in the Ille Curieuse. We swam ashore in dreamy waters to walk to the giant tortoise breeding center. Beautiful!!! The turtles roam freely around the park and beach and you can get close to them. We saw the Aldabra giant tortoise.
Where to dine.
Seychelles cuisine, also called Creole cuisine , is exotic, simple, a little spicy, fresh and young. A Full Fusion in which you can find French, Indian, Chinese, English and Italian dishes. Most of the dishes are based on the two raw materials that do not come important and are local, we are at the equator and on an archipelago, we are talking about Fruits and Fish. The main ingredient and always used, with fish, meat and vegetables is Rice. Rice with Curry is of course the dish you find everywhere.
For dinner, after a long day of sea and boat, we were hungry.
We chose to pamper ourselves and stayed at Lauriers Restaurant (Les Lauriers Eco Hotel) Usually restaurants often offer a traditional Creole buffet with grilled fish and meat specialties, salads,various kinds of curries, and delicious desserts. The buffet is available every day, with the exception of Wednesday evenings. At lunch and on Wednesday evenings, several a la carte options are available. Here I remember having a fabulous crab soup served with sweet potatoes. Usually the fish is served with a tomato Creole sauce flavored with curry and coconut milk (70 euros per person) -including swimming in the pool in the afternoon.
We stayed at La Goulue in Anse Volbert a small restaurant with a bar and nice view that offered delicious Creole and Caribbean specialties at a good price.
that distinguish them from other places in the world. Average price per person for a day (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) with a meal (lunch or dinner) cocktails during the day, water, fruit and a few snacks as well as pool use and relaxation costs you about 300 euros per person. (Of course there is also the spa and much more...) Even here for dinner, I had crab soup and the best crab of my life
Taste the famous and local RUM TAKAMAKA that has become world famous and take a souvenir back to Italy.
La Digue
Last stop, last island, One of my favorite islands in the World. A 15 by ferry from Praslin is La Digue . We go to the hotel The Transfer picks us up from the port as agreed before arriving with the hotel owner. We carry our luggage and head to our Guest House Etoile Labirine (you can also make reservations by sending an email to info@etoile-labrine.com).Here as per our understanding, they also let us find the Mountain Bikes that we have reserved for our entire stay on the island (I believe 15 euros per person per day).
La Digue charms with its immense pink granite boulders rising above enchanting beaches of pure white sand. With few hotels and numerous small guest houses hidden among the trees, this fantastic island offers an ideal retreat for those who wish to completely unplug. In this little paradise, cars are virtually absent and most people, locals and tourists included, travel by bicycle. For a breathtaking experience that will remain indelible in the memory, we visited the beach voted the most beautiful in the world: Anse Source D'Argent, the real attraction of La Digue. This place is famous for its huge granite boulders surrounding small sand dunes, all shaded by majestic coconut palms.
Spiaggia "Anse Source d'Argent"
A real must for anyone visiting the Seychelles! The beach can be reached through L'Union Estate Park, for which you pay a daily entrance fee of 150 rupees - 9.60 euros per person. From there you then simply follow the signs with directions. The shallow turquoise waters, white sandy beach and towering granite rocks make Anse Source d'Argent one of the most photographed beaches in the world. In fact, scenes from such films as “Emanuelle,” “Robinson Crusoe - The True Story, ‘ ’Cast Away,” and the famous Bacardi commercial from the 1990s were filmed here . , As you enter this park, you can both get lost and isolate yourself, but also if you want to there is a lovely area full of amenities, you will find little cafes and beach huts, with background music accompanying the moment of relaxation while enjoying a freshly prepared drink with fresh fruit, or savoring some local food.
How wonderful! We spent two whole days here.
Also defiladed, there are small stores, all in the form of gazebos, where you can buy handicrafts or handmade jewelry. And don't forget to organize an excursion by renting the famous Crystal Water Kayaks to explore the surrounding waters.
La Digue by bicycle
La Digue is the smallest of the three main islands and is also one of the most idyllic. This is mainly because bicycles are the main means of transportation. Many accommodations on La Digue offer bicycles for rent. In most cases you can rent them directly upon arrival. If your accommodation does not have them, you can rent them from one of the official bicycle rental stores located around the port.
Map in hand!
The real vacation for me was this. I found it great that you could ride a bike while enjoying magnificent ocean views. In addition to the famous beaches that you absolutely must see and swim Anse Cocos beach - Anse Severe - Petite Anse - Anse Cocos - Grand Anse, biking along the trails, you will discover countless beaches, often deserted, perhaps only reachable on foot, Dive in.
By boat between the Coco, Felicitè and Sister Islands.
I know I will sound like a repetitive, but this was a fantastic excursion for me, where we had the best snorkeling of the trip. And I assure you that the other snorkels had been wonderful as well. But not like this one. I had contacted Nevis Ernesta, a very special local guide. His motto “More than just a boat trip, I want to share my island” You can also contact him at these references - whatapp 00248 2515557 emailnevis_ernesta@hotmail.com web Excursion Ladigue
From 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. departing from the harbor included two snorkel stops walking island visit and a fantastic BBQ. While snorkeling we saw sea turtles. I felt like I was a child again.
To make the snorkeling experience truly unforgettable, Nevis used bread as bait. He would throw numerous pieces into the water that attracted a multitude of colorful fish, creating a lively scenery around us as we dived into the water.
I will always remember when, after the walking tour to Sisters Island, we had difficulty getting back to the boat because there were small white sharks swimming near the shore. Although they said they were harmless, it was not enough to keep us from fearing the worst. Nevis escorted us swimming, bringing the boat as close to shore as possible.
Tappa ad Anse Severe e al Bikini Bottom Beach Bar
Anse Severe is beautiful both because of the beach but also and especially because of the atmosphere around this wonderful Bikini Bottom Beach Bar run by an American girl, Islana, who left her country a few years ago and moved with her brother to La Digue where she opened this wonderful little bar where they eat and well and it is an ideal meeting point for vacationers.
It is very central and here we spent a whole morning in the company of locals.
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BBQ on the Beach with Jean Luc Rosette.
His motto is “No Panic. Everything is organic." We met this chef. Jean Luc Rosette, at Bikini Bottom. One night he arranged for us to have a seafood BBQ on the beach at Anse Severe. It's a good experience, we are still in touch on Insgtram. You can write to him here
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