Top things to see in the Seychelles
The Seychelles is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with every island offering something unique. Here are some of the must-see highlights of your Seychelles vacation:
Mahe
Mahe is the main island of the archipelago, with all of the famous white-sand beaches, dramatic mountains, and stunning blue waters that make the Seychelles such an iconic destination. There’s lots to see on Mahe, and the island is home to Victoria, the Seychelles' capital, with its pretty and vibrant Creole architecture, including the famous Clock Tower and the charming Sir Selwyn Clarke market, where you can find unique souvenirs as well as local sellers with fresh fish and fruit from the island itself. Head to Takamaka Bay to find out more about the island’s heritage as a rum distillery - there are free guided distillery tours, plus a fascinating museum surrounded by the picturesque medicinal garden and ruins.
Morne Seychellois National Park
Speaking of Mahe, a visit to the main island wouldn’t be complete without seeing Seychelle's national park. Covering about 20% of the island, Morne Seychellois is like nowhere else on Earth. Trek through lush rainforests and mangroves, looking out for wild and rare animals like the Seychelles kestrel, blue pigeon, and sunbird as you go. Keen hikers should book a tour to the top of the mountain – at 3,000ft, you’ll be rewarded with truly breathtaking panoramic views of the islands from the highest point in the Seychelles.
Anse Source d'Argent (La Digue)
Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, this stunning stretch of sand boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by dramatic granite boulders. Stretch out on the soft white sands, hire a transparent kayak to see the amazing marine life, or enjoy swimming and snorkelling in the clear and shallow waters.
You’ll need to pay Rs115 to pass through the L’Union Estate coconut plantation to get access, but your ticket is valid for the full day. The beach is very popular and can get busy in peak season - we’d recommend coming in the early morning and then returning around late afternoon to make the most of your visit.
Anse Georgette (Praslin)
Often ranked as one of the top ten beaches in the world, Anse Georgette is slightly more secluded, but just as beautiful as Anse Source d'Argent. Surrounded by takamaka palm trees and sheltered by granite rock formations, this little bay is a bit more protected, with calmer waters that are perfect for a serene swim.
You’ll need to arrange access before you visit – many visitors to Anse Georgette will be guests of the Lemuria Resort nearby, which offers golf-cart transfers down to the bay. If you’re not staying at the Lemuria, you’ll need to inform the hotel that you plan on visiting (only 30 non-hotel guests are allowed onto the beach per day) but you can then take the well-kept path that goes to the resort’s golf course to get to the beach.
Curieuse Island
This serene island is home to some truly unique sights. For one, it’s home to a native population of giant tortoises, who can be seen lumbering across the island. You can walk around and get up close to these gentle giants, and even pet and feed them. Curieuse Island is also famous for its red earth and the unique coco de mer palm trees, which only grow on this island and nearby Praslin. Tours depart regularly from Praslin, and you can book a private boat that will take you to and around the island for a full day of exploration, sightseeing, snorkelling and more.
Aldabra Atoll
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aldabra Atoll is the second-largest coral atoll in the world and home to the largest population of giant tortoises anywhere on Earth. There are no humans living here apart from the research station staff, and you’ll need to arrange a cruise or chartered flight from Mahe to reach the atoll, but this once-in-a-lifetime experience is well worth the effort to see a dizzying array of rare birds and sea life in their natural habitat.
