Are you dreaming of endless bright white beaches, lots of sunshine, a turquoise blue sea and most of all peace and quiet? Northeast of Madagascar, in the warm Indian Ocean, you will find the fairytale islands of the Seychelles. This is the place to go if you want to take it easy and truly enjoy life. Relax under a swaying palm trees, take a trip into the jungle, check out impressive mango and banana trees but most of all take the time to seek out all the exotic animals and vegetation. You will surely be amazed by the natural beauty - it's like stepping into a dream world!
Victoria, capital of the Seychelles
The largest island called Mahé is where you will find the capital city, Victoria. This is where most of the inhabitants live - apart from Victoria there are only smaller villages rather. There is a harbour and a market which both are worth visiting, then of course a trip to the beach at Beau Vallon Bay, where you can take a dip to refresh yourself before setting off to explore the rest of the paradise islands. The marine national park St Anne is also well worth a visit, it’s only accessible by boat from Mahé.
Food in the Seychelles
As the Seychelles have been under the control of a number of countries throughout history, it makes it easy to understand why the food usually is spicy with influences from all over the world. There are so many flavour experiences to be had; French, English, African, Chinese and Indian cuisine. Don’t miss out on the locally grown fruit and the super fresh seafood. Should you become thirsty the local beer Seybrew will solve that problem nicely. And for something a little stronger try the dark Takamaka Rum, a local specialty.
Things to do when you travel to the Seychelles
The best thing to do in the Seychelles is of course to lay back and take it easy, hang out on the beach, soak up the sun and cool off in the crystal clear waters. There are plenty of unbelievable beaches to be found, but for those of you who want to try something else there are wonderful activities both over and under water to be had, with great snorkelling and diving as well as surfing.
One of the most distinguishing features you'll come across when travelling the Seychelles is the ”Coco-de Mer” palm with it's large double nuts that can weigh up to 15-30kg! The palms are endemic to the island of Praslin and a trip to the national park Valle de Mai will probably be the best place to see them - Valle de Mai is even included on UNESCO's list of heritage sites! While visiting Praslin you must also take the time to visit the beaches on the eastern side of the island: Grand Anse and Petit Anse.
Travelling to the Seychelles?
Plan your trip to Seychelles in Africa well in advance as the numbers of visitors are regulated. The Seychelles are considered to be a more exclusive destination, especially as it is so unexploited. That also reflects on the prices which are relatively expensive.
The best time to visit depends on what it is you want to do. Months to avoid are October – February when the weather is quite unstable. The rest of the year the weather is usually very good! If it's diving you are after then the best time is between September and November or March and April. And for surfing between May and October.