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Seychelles

WELCOME TO OUR SEYCHELLES TRAVEL GUIDE

Seychelles is known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and lush tropical forests. It is a popular destination for honeymooners and nature enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for luxury and adventure.

The beautiful island nation located in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. It is an archipelago consisting of 115 islands, of which the largest are Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. The capital city is Victoria, located on Mahé island.

Things to See and Do in the Seychelles

Visit the famous beaches, like Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue, Beau Vallon on Mahé, and Anse Lazio on Praslin.
Explore the Vallee de Mai: This UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin is home to the coco de mer palm, which produces the world's largest seed.
Visit the Victoria market: The market in Victoria is a bustling hub of activity where you can find fresh produce, spices, souvenirs, and local crafts. It's a great place to get a taste of Seychellois culture.
Seychelles is home to many national parks and nature reserves where you can go for a walk and spot native wildlife. Some popular spots include the Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé and the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve on Praslin.
Go fishing: Seychelles is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with many opportunities to catch tuna, marlin, and other game fish.
Try the local cuisine: Seychellois cuisine is a unique blend of African, French, and Indian influences. Some popular dishes include grilled fish, curries, and seafood dishes.

”The Seychelles are known for their incredible granite-filled beaches ”

“Explore the mainland of Mahé for some incredible views”

What to know

Resorts: Seychelles has a number of luxury resorts that offer upscale amenities and services, such as private beaches, spas, and gourmet restaurants. These resorts are usually located on their own private islands or in secluded areas.

Hotels: There are many hotels in Seychelles that range from budget-friendly options to more upscale choices. Many hotels offer amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and spas.

Guesthouses: Seychelles has many guesthouses that offer affordable accommodation options for budget travelers. These are usually smaller establishments run by locals and offer a more authentic Seychellois experience.

Self-catering apartments and villas: If you prefer to have more independence and privacy, there are many self-catering apartments and villas available in Seychelles. These are usually fully furnished and equipped with a kitchen, and often have their own private pool and outdoor space. You can find most of the inventory on airbnb or VRBO.

The main international airport in the Seychelles is the Seychelles International Airport, located on the island of Mahe. This airport is served by a number of airlines, including Air Seychelles, Emirates, and Etihad Airways, among others.

Domestic air transportation is also available within the Seychelles, with Air Seychelles operating flights between Mahe, Praslin, and other smaller islands in the archipelago. Additionally, there are helicopter services that operate within the Seychelles, providing transport to more remote areas.

Sea transportation is also an important mode of transportation in the Seychelles, with regular ferry services available between Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, the three largest islands in the archipelago. Private boat charters are also available for those who wish to explore the islands on their own.

On the islands themselves, taxis are available, as well as car and bicycle rentals. However, due to the small size of the islands and limited road infrastructure, bicycles and walking are often popular modes of transportation for tourists.

cuisine is a fusion of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences, along with local ingredients and cooking techniques. The cuisine of Seychelles is characterized by its use of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and vegetables, as well as aromatic herbs and spices.

Some of the most popular dishes in Seychelles include:

  1. Fish Curry: Made with fresh fish, coconut milk, onions, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices.
  2. Octopus Curry: A popular seafood dish made with fresh octopus, onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, and a variety of spices.
  3. Ladob: A sweet dish made from ripe bananas or plantains, coconut milk, sugar, and spices.
  4. Chatini Rez: A spicy relish made with onions, ginger, garlic, chilies, and tamarind.
  5. Rougaille: A tomato-based sauce made with onions, garlic, ginger, chilies, and a variety of spices.
  6. Grilled Fish: Fresh fish grilled on an open flame and served with a side of salad or rice.
  7. Coconut Curry: A vegetarian curry made with fresh vegetables, coconut milk, and a variety of spices.

In addition to these dishes, the Seychelles also offers a variety of tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, and pineapples, which are often used in desserts or enjoyed as a snack.

Overall, the cuisine of Seychelles is a flavorful and diverse blend of local and international influences, making it a unique and exciting culinary destination.

Here are some things you might want to know about shopping in Seychelles:

  1. Markets: One of the best places to shop in Seychelles is at the local markets, which offer a range of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and handicrafts. The Victoria Market, located in the capital city of Victoria, is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
  2. Souvenirs: Seychelles is known for its beautiful and unique souvenirs, including coconut shell and wooden crafts, seashell jewelry, and locally-made textiles. These items can be found in souvenir shops and markets throughout the islands.
  3. Duty-Free Shopping: Visitors to Seychelles can take advantage of duty-free shopping at the airport, where they can purchase a range of goods, including perfume, cosmetics, jewelry, and electronics, at tax-free prices.
  4. Shopping Malls: There are several shopping malls in Seychelles, including Eden Plaza and the Seychelles Trading Company, which offer a range of local and international brands, including clothing, accessories, and electronics.
  5. Art Galleries: Seychelles is home to several art galleries that showcase the work of local artists. These galleries offer a range of paintings, sculptures, and other art pieces that make for unique souvenirs or gifts.

Overall, shopping in Seychelles offers a range of options for visitors, from local markets and souvenirs to international brands and duty-free shopping. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a luxury item, Seychelles has something to offer.

The Seychellois people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, and they place a great emphasis on family and community. Music and dance are an integral part of Seychellois culture, and the islands are home to a vibrant music scene with many different styles of music, including traditional Creole music, reggae, and pop.

Food is also an important part of Seychellois culture, and the cuisine is a blend of African, European, and Asian flavors. Seafood is a staple of the Seychellois diet, and many dishes feature fish, shellfish, and other seafood. Curry dishes, rice, and beans are also popular.

Religion in the Seychelles is diverse, with Christianity being the dominant religion. There are also significant Hindu and Muslim populations, and traditional beliefs and practices are also observed by some.

The Seychelles also has a rich history, with influences from French, British, and African colonialism. This history is reflected in the architecture, language, and customs of the country. The Seychelles also has a strong conservation culture, with efforts to protect the unique wildlife and environment of the islands.

JA enchanted island

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Typical costs

The cost of a vacation in the Seychelles can vary widely depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and level of luxury you are looking for. Here are some approximate costs for a typical vacation in the Seychelles:

  • Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in the Seychelles can vary greatly, depending on the type of accommodation and the location. Budget guesthouses and self-catering apartments can start from around $50-200 per night, while mid-range hotels and resorts can range from $150-600 per night. Luxury resorts can cost $600-4,000 or more per night.
  • Flights: The cost of flights to the Seychelles can also vary greatly depending on the time of year and where you are flying from. On average, round-trip flights from major cities in Europe or Asia can cost anywhere from $500-1,500 or more.
  • Food: The cost of food in the Seychelles can also vary depending on the type of cuisine and the location. Local street food and markets can be very affordable, with dishes starting from around $5-10. Mid-range restaurants can cost $15-30 per meal, while high-end restaurants can be $50 or more per meal.
  • Activities: There are many activities to do in the Seychelles, including snorkeling, scuba diving and hiking ranging between USD 100-500 per person, while luxury activities such as private yacht charters and helicopter tours can cost USD 500 or more per person.

Overall, the cost of travel in the Seychelles can range from budget-friendly to quite expensive, depending on the traveler’s preferences and budget. However, visitors can still find affordable options for accommodation, dining, and activities while enjoying the natural beauty and cultural experiences that Seychelles has to offer.

Suggested daily budget – If you’re looking to stay in a 4 star hotel, we recommend budget at least $450 USD per night for lodging and $1000+ for a 5 star hotel. Food costs, if you are staying conservative, will be around $200 per day. Taxis are about $30-100 USD per ride. Keep in mind ferries from Mahé to La Digue and similar are pricey, starting around $100 per person per way.

When to Travel
Seychelles Seasons

The best time to travel to the Seychelles is during the months of April, May, October, and November. During these months, the weather is generally dry and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 24-32°C (75-90°F). Additionally, the sea is calm during this time, making it ideal for water-based activities such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing. The months of December to March are also a popular time to visit the Seychelles, but this is considered the peak tourist season, and prices for flights and accommodation tend to be higher. This period is characterized by warmer temperatures and higher humidity, with occasional rainfall. The months of June to September are generally considered the ``cooler`` months, with temperatures ranging from 22-28°C (72-82°F). However, this period is also the windiest and the sea can be rough, which can affect certain water-based activities. Overall, the best time to travel to the Seychelles ultimately depends on your preferences and the activities you plan to do.

Travel Tips

1
Stay in shoulder season Book a stay during early June to September for great deals at luxury properties.
2
Explore Mahé The Seychelles has an incredible diversity of food, culture and shopping. Mahé is a stunning island and worth spending a day exploring.
3
Plan for transportation Most hotels and resorts are located off the mainland and it is best to pre-book airfare and ferry transfers to maximize your vacation. Ferries do sell out!
4
Learn some French or Creole While English is widely spoken in the Seychelles, French and Creole are also commonly spoken. Learning some basic French or Creole phrases can be helpful when interacting with locals.

Luxury Hotel Reviews

Check out some of our recent hotel reviews.

How to plan your trip

First establish your travel time frame: quick trip to Seychelles? a week on an island? From there, break down where you want to stay and the activities you want to take part in.

Consider the following:

  1. Look at trivago.com to scan for the best rates at luxury hotels (we often find the best benefits when booking direct)
  2. If you have AmEx Platinum, be sure to check their Fine Hotels & Resorts options: you can often gain great inclusions like free breakfast, upgrades and hotel credit for the same rates as booking elsewhere
  3. Be sure to consider the transportation between islands. Ferries and flights do not run daily between all the islands so I would start by deciding which islands you want to visit and go from there.

Gallery of the Seychelles

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