Seychelles travel guide
Possibly the world's ultimate beach spot? But there's more than sand to the Seychelles - trek the lush interior, dive deserted waters and meet the unique creatures of Aldabra, the Indian Ocean's Galapagos
If you can picture images of leaning palm trees, white beaches, lush wild interiors and crystal blue waters, then you can picture the Seychelles. The words ‘natural beauty’ do not do these 115 islands justice. Scattered across the Indian Ocean, the famous archipelago is located 1,600kms from the east coast of Africa.
Whether you stick to the three main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue or explore the outlying islands, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Apart from sunbathing on some of the most exquisite beaches in the world, such as Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Soleil you can trek into the lush, mountainous interior of Mahé island, dive with the critters of the deep at Shark Bank or island hop your way across the archipelago discovering jungle trails, turquoise waters and deserted coves.
The islands are also home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the legendary Vallee de Mai on Praslin island and the jaw dropping coral reef of Aldabra.
Wanderlust recommends
- Take your pick of beaches and indulge in some ‘extreme’ sun tanning. Age-old granite boulders dot the sands on Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue while the powder-soft sands of Anse Victorin, Fregate are the key attraction.
- Dive the azure water and discover the corals of Aldabra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest raised coral atoll on earth.
- Take a guided tour of Morne Seychellois National Park and explore the island’s mountainous interior.
- Make friends with one of the giant Aldabra tortoises on the granite island of Curieuse.
Wanderlust tips
North of Mahé the islands are small and relatively unexplored, which makes for great walking trips through wild, hilly, lush mountains areas. Solo travellers beware: the Seychelles is a honeymooners paradise, so expect to be surrounded by couples.