Seychelles
An island off the eastern coast of Africa, Seychelles consists of a series of islands in the Indian Ocean. From the great outdoors to enjoying local food and drink, here are 12 reasons why visiting Seychelles should be added to your travel list. Some of the best beaches in the world can be found here.
Why We Love It
The beaches in Seychelles have so much to offer. The sand is super fine and blindingly white, the water is warm, and you’ll find every shade of blue imaginable. Even the most popular beaches are never crowded, and those looking to avoid crowds entirely have countless secluded options to choose from.
Dreaming of an octopus curry, the freshest-grilled fish straight from the Indian Ocean, or sweet coconut nougat? Book a trip to Seychelles. For something a little more exotic, try the local delicacy, fruit bat. From street food to fine dining, tourists can find all varieties of the best Creole food.
Good to Know
- Country: Seychelles
- Visa Requirements: British and North American passport holders will require a visa to enter. This can be purchased on arrival or prior to departure from your nearest embassy.
- Health: You should get a Yellow Fever vaccine if traveling to or through a country listed by the CDC.
- Languages Spoken: The main languages are French and Creole, but English is also spoken.
- Currency Used: Seychellois Rupee & USD
- Time Zone: GMT +4
Useful Information
How to Get Around
On the main islands, ferries are the primary mode of transport. Helicopters can also be used, but they may be unreliable due to strong winds.
How to Get There
Almost all visitors arrive in Seychelles by airplane, landing at Mahé International Airport. The main islands of Seychelles (Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue) are connected by ferry, and there is also a flight connection between Mahé and Praslin.
Is It for You?
With 115 idyllic islands, each offering its own version of tropical paradise, you may not want to do much more than relax on the sand during your trip to Seychelles. However, it’s worth exploring further, as this beautiful archipelago offers plenty of activities such as island-hopping to explore remote beaches, village visits to learn about local culture, or jungle walks. The islands are surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, and swimming, snorkeling, and diving in the warm, clear waters provide unforgettable experiences, including frequent sightings of boxfish, angelfish, Moorish idols, and even turtles.
When is Best?
The best time to visit Seychelles is between April and May or October and November, as these are the calmer periods between the two trade winds that affect the islands each year. The northwest trade wind blows from November to March, and the southeast wind from May to September. These winds cause seaweed to build up on some beaches, so it’s important to consider this when choosing hotel locations at different times of the year.
The temperature in Seychelles is around 30°C (86°F) all year round, with a mix of sunshine, tropical showers, and sea breezes that disperse humidity. However, the islands’ position, just seven degrees south of the Equator and away from large land masses in the Indian Ocean, makes it difficult to predict the weather or rely on online forecasts.
What Should I Combine It With?
Seychelles is ideal for a beach vacation on its own, or it makes the perfect add-on to a safari in either East Africa or Southern Africa.
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