Seychelles

Seychelles is a stunning archipelago of 115 islands scattered across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar. Famed for its powder-white beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and lush granite peaks, it’s one of the world’s most coveted tropical destinations. The capital city, Victoria, located on the main island of Mahé, is one of the smallest capitals in the world — yet full of color, culture, and charm.

Beyond its postcard-perfect beauty, Seychelles offers a fascinating mix of African, Asian, and European influences that shape its art, music, language, and cuisine. Seychellois Creole culture celebrates easy island living, warm hospitality, and rhythmic dance and song. Visitors can savor local dishes like grilled fish with Creole sauce, octopus curry, and breadfruit chips, often enjoyed to the sound of moutya drums and sea breezes.

1. MahéIsland

The largest andmost developed island, Mahé is home to the capital city Victoria, theinternational airport, and nearly 90% of the country’s population. It offers amix of mountain rainforests, vibrant markets, and pristine beaches like BeauVallon and Anse Intendance. Mahé is also the gateway to the Morne SeychelloisNational Park, which covers about one-fifth of the island and offers scenichiking trails, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints.

2. Praslin Island

Known as the“Isle of Palms”, Praslin is famous for its lush Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, aUNESCO World Heritage Site where the legendary coco de mer palm growsnaturally. Its beaches — Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette — are often ranked amongthe most beautiful in the world. Praslin has a laid-back atmosphere, charmingguesthouses, and easy ferry connections to neighboring islands.

3. La DigueIsland

A tranquil,bicycle-friendly island where time seems to slow down. La Digue is celebratedfor its granite boulder landscapes and the world-renowned Anse Source d’Argentbeach. The island retains a traditional Creole charm, with oxcarts still usedfor transport, friendly locals, and small family-run guesthouses. It’s perfectfor travelers seeking peace and authenticity.

4.Silhouette Island

Thethird-largest island, Silhouette lies just 20 km northwest of Mahé and is asanctuary for nature lovers. Over 90% of the island is designated as a NationalPark, home to rare plants, giant tortoises, and dramatic forested peaks.Silhouette offers luxury eco-lodges that blend adventure with tranquility.

5. The OuterIslands

Scattered farto the southwest, the Outer Islands are coral atolls and remote marinesanctuaries offering a true “away-from-it-all” experience. Accessible mainly bycharter plane or boat, they include Aldabra Atoll (a UNESCO World Heritage Siteand the world’s second-largest coral atoll), Desroches Island, and AlphonseGroup. These islands are ideal for diving, deep-sea fishing, and sustainableeco-luxury stays.

The key attraction sites are:

• Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue
• Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve (Praslin)
• Morne Seychellois National Park (Mahé)
• Beau Vallon Beach (Mahé)
• Aldabra Atoll (Outer Islands)
• Curieuse Island & Marine National Park
• La Digue Island
• Sainte Anne Marine National
• Victoria Market (Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market)
• Island-Hopping Tours 

Best Time toVisit Seychelles

1. Overall BestTime: April to October
This period offers warm, dry weather and calm seas — perfect for swimming,sunbathing, and island-hopping.

Weather: Sunnyskies, gentle breezes, and low humidity.
Beaches & Diving: Excellent visibility underwater, ideal for snorkeling anddiving.
Wildlife: Sea-turtle nesting season begins, and seabirds flock to the islands.
Festivals: Events such as the Seychelles Carnival and Creole Festivalbring vibrant music, dance, and local cuisine.

2. ShoulderMonths: April–May & October–November
These transition periods between trade winds bring calm seas and fewer crowds —ideal for travelers seeking tranquility.

Weather: Warm,clear, and still — perfect for sailing or kayaking.
Travel perks: Lower hotel rates and peaceful beaches.
Diving: Exceptional underwater visibility, sometimes exceeding 30 m.

3. SoutheastTrade Winds: May to September
Winds pick up slightly, cooling the islands and attracting water-sportenthusiasts.

Weather:Pleasantly warm (24–29 °C) with light breezes.
Beaches: Some southern shores see stronger waves, while northern coves remainsheltered.
Activities: Great for windsurfing, sailing, hiking, and exploring naturetrails.

4. NorthwestTrade Winds: December to March
The warmest, most humid months of the year, with short tropical showersfollowed by sunshine.

Weather: Hot(26–32 °C) and humid, with brief rain bursts.
Marine life: Excellent for spotting whale sharks and turtles.
Festivities: Christmas and New Year celebrations fill the islands with musicand light.