Scattered across the Indian Ocean north-east of Madagascar, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 granite and coral islands known for its clear turquoise waters, dense tropical forests and striking granite boulders. The atmosphere is relaxed and intimate, balancing barefoot luxury with a strong sense of nature and island life. Visitors can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, sail between islands, explore the lush trails of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve or encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and nesting sea turtles in protected habitats. Creole culture, fresh seafood and colourful markets add to the islands’ appeal, while quiet beaches shaded by takamaka trees offer a slower pace best suited to travellers seeking scenery, seclusion and time outdoors.
Dotting the Indian Ocean, Praslin Island is the second largest of the Seychelles’ islands and boasts a tranquil, laidback atmosphere. Stretching over almost 40 square kilometres, the island features lush tropical forest, pristine, world-famous beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, and crystal-clear turquoise waters framed by striking granite boulders. According to local legend, it may have served as a pirate hideout in the 17th and early 18th centuries, and today it is a popular resort destination. Praslin is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, where ancient coco de mer palms produce the largest seeds in the plant kingdom and where the rare, endemic Seychelles Black Parrot is found. Popular activities include turtle and tortoise spotting, snorkelling, diving and boating.
As previously described
This picture-perfect island is part of the Seychelles Archipelago featuring ox-cart taxis, a verdant interior, calm aquamarine bays and stunningly beautiful beaches strewn with massive boulders; it is an utterly idyllic holiday destination. Historically, La Digue was settled by French colonists in the late 18th century, and remnants of its colonial past, such as the L'Union Estate with its traditional plantation house and vanilla fields, are still evident. La Digue has retained a charming old-world atmosphere and a strong Creole identity, with traditions and ceremonies still a focal point of the island’s culture. Major attractions include the gorgeous Anse Source d'Argent beach and the Veuve Nature Reserve, home to the elusive black paradise flycatcher, of which there are only a couple of hundred left on earth.
Set seven kilometres north of La Digue Island, the Seychelles Coco Island has been said to offer the best snorkelling opportunities in the country. Crystal clear water, gorgeous coral and bright fish decorate the exquisite underwater landscape. Above water, the air is often calm and balmy, creating a tropical paradise for nature lovers. Near the beach, there is less coral, but there are just as many fish. Tours usually include a stop at neighbouring Sister Island, where visitors can indulge in a traditional Creole barbeque lunch, explore a coconut plantation, and relax on the sands.
The northernmost granitic island of Seychelles, Aride Island is a nature reserve known as the best seabird island in the western Indian Ocean. See what life was like on these islands 250 years ago, before human settlement: Aride is a wild paradise of lush greenery, white beaches and spectacular, thriving wildlife. The island is inhabited by ten species of seabirds, including the endemic Magpie Robins, Fodies, and many more. Green turtles and hawksbill turtles lay eggs here, and dolphins frolic just off the coast. Extending 200 metres offshore, the reserve encompasses stunningly beautiful coral reef, home to over 400 species of fish, Whale Sharks, and even the enthralling flying fish. Plants grow on Aride Island which exist nowhere else on earth. Swim in the turquoise waters, and take a guided hike along the island. Children can meet animals up close.
As previously described
Set against a towering mountain carpeted in lush vegetation and bounded by the Marine National Park of Mahe, Sainte Anne is the largest island of the Seychelles Island chain. Travellers seeking an idyllic tropical getaway complete with palm-lined sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear turquoise waters should look no further than the exquisite island of Sainte Anne. The island is home to a single luxury resort located on its southwestern point as well as a tiny nearby village. This absence of development has allowed the island to remain a peaceful sanctuary filled with natural flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy relaxing on one of Sainte Anne's six beautiful beaches, snorkelling or diving in the colourful underwater world or exploring the numerous hiking paths on offer.
