The Seychelles is renowned for being a paradisiacal beach location, and while it would be tempting to spend your whole time lounging on the flour-like sand and soaking up the sunshine, there are a number of sights worth seeing and activities worth partaking in. Read on for our guide of things to do in the Seychelles…
Climb Morne Seychellois
Morne Seychellois National Park sprawls across 20 percent of Mahé and plays host to an array of endemic species, as well as some well-worn hiking trails. The Copolia Trail takes about 90-mintues to traverse, but if you fancy more of challenge, trek to the summit of Morne Seychellois (almost 3,000ft high) which takes around five hours.
Surf at Carana Beach or Anse Lascars
From April to September, weather conditions allow for good surf breaks, particularly at Anse Lazio on Praslin and Grand Anse on La Digue. Novice surfers can start off at Carana Beach on Mahé, while surf lessons are offered on Mahé’s Baie Lazare.
Dive with sharks and stingrays
Both beginners and experienced divers can enjoy the underwater world of the Seychelles. For those really wanting to immerse themselves in the water, we can arrange for you to stay on a liveaboard as part of your trip. April, October and November are generally the best months for calm seas and good visibility. Sharks can be spotted at Shark Bank and Channel Rocks, while manta rays are found around Desroches and Aldabra.
Explore the world’s smallest national park
Established in the 1960s by former Times editor, Brendon Grimshaw, Moyenne has now been designated the world’s smallest national park. The 16,000 trees, Aldabra giant tortoises and winding nature paths are looked after by a warden and entry to the park costs €10.
See giant tortoises on Aldabra
The secluded four-island atoll of Aldabra is UNESCO-listed and boasts an extraordinary amount of biodiversity, including red-footed boobies, frigatebirds and, most notably, the largest population of giant tortoises in the world.
Tour the capital, Victoria
With a population of 25,000, Mahé’s capital, Victoria, is one of the smallest capitals in the world and well-worth exploring on foot. Take a look at the colonial clock tower, visit the National Museum of History and stop off at the Sir Selwyn-Clarke Market for tropical fruits and fresh seafood.
Take a Creole cooking lesson
Creole cuisine is an intriguing mix of West African and European-inspired flavours. Learn how to make some traditional dishes during a cookery lesson led by a local family, following a tour of Victoria’s main food market.
See prehistoric palms at Vallée de Mai
Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO-listed prehistoric palm forest featuring all six species of palm, including a cluster of 4,000 endemic coco de mer palms. Marvel at their giant leaves and abundant coconuts, which are the largest seeds in the plant kingdom.
Lounge on Anse Source d’Argent
Perhaps the most quintessentially Seychellois beach, Anse Source d’Argent, is blessed with blonde sand, luscious palms and aquamarine ocean. Located inside L’Union Estate plantation on La Digue, the beach does get busy due to its idyllic surroundings, but is certainly worth visiting at off-peak times.
Discover Anse Georgette
Anse Georgette is a completely undeveloped beach, situated within the grounds of the Constance Lemuria Resort (although anyone can visit). Turquoise waves gently lap at the footprint-free slick of sand and it’s a lovely place for a private picnic.