Seychelles travel guide, including map of Seychelles, top Seychelles travel experiences, tips for travel in Seychelles, plus exploring the reefs of Aldabra
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.
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.
The Seychelles are blessed with year-long warm, tropical weather. The climate is governed by the trade winds. From October to March winds from the north-west bring warmer weather and from May to September the easterly trade winds bring cooler, winder weather ideal for sailing.
The wind free months of April and October are the best months for diving and snorkelling, when the water is warmer and clearer.
Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) is 8km south of the capital Victoria on the island of Mahé.
Inter-island flights are operated by Air Seychelles. A number of ferry and catamaran companies offer trips between the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and are far cheaper than flying.
On the islands of Mahé and Praslin an extensive bus service operates, fares are cheap and services frequent. For flexibility, hire a car. Drivers must be over 23-years-old. On the island of La Digue, bicycles are the principal form of transport.
The Seychelles has a wide range of accommodation options. There are of course the ultra plush and ultra expensive resorts, but you can also find cheaper guesthouses and self-catering apartments. Camping is forbidden anywhere on the islands.
The staples are fish and rice. It goes without saying the seafood is fresh and delectable. Lobster, crab, octopus and a huge array of fish are gilled, steamed, salted, baked, smoked, minced and the list goes on.
The islands also have a large variety of tropical fruit including mango, banana, papaya and crambole. Fruit juices are popular. The local beer is Seybrew. Also try the palm wine calou.
The Seychelles is relatively safe with no specific dangers or scams. Consult your GP or a travel health clinic for advice on inoculations.
Some travellers have been critical of the public health system, which offers the cheapest service. Private hospitals and clinics are more expensive but have better equipment and staff. Tap water is safe to drink.
Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.