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Seychelles
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Discover Seychelles Top 5 Must-See Destinations
A trip to the Seychelles offers a dreamy escape, with pristine beaches, azure waters, and luxurious accommodations creating a tropical paradise you might not associate with Africa.
With 115 islands, there’s plenty to explore, from popular spots like Mahé and Praslin to uninhabited gems. Deciding where to go in the Seychelles can be a delightful challenge. Island hopping allows for exploration beyond the well-trodden paths, whether cycling around La Digue or experiencing luxury on private islands. For adventurous divers, the remote Outer Islands offer thrilling experiences.
1. Mahe Island
Irrespective of where they plan to go within the Seychelles, all travelers kick off their journey from Mahé, which stands as the largest and most diverse island in the archipelago. It takes its name from the former French Governor Mahé de La Bourdonnais, originally dubbed the “Ile d’Abondance,” or the “Island of Abundance.” Mahé truly embodies its moniker, boasting an abundance of natural splendor with its sandy, palm-fringed beaches and crystal-clear blue skies, which enchant countless visitors. Despite its relatively modest depiction on most world maps, Mahé encompasses 154 square kilometers, stretching 28 kilometers in length and 8 kilometers in width. Moreover, it is home to Victoria, the world’s smallest capital city.
2. La Digue
La Digue is the serene, more tranquil counterpart to the larger Seychelles islands of Mahé and Praslin. Time seems to slow down on this (mostly) motor-free island. Creole-style houses are tucked beneath papaya trees, adorned with overflowing flower-filled window boxes and planters. Fishermen leisurely stroll along the roads, carrying sticks adorned with freshly caught fish, while wooden pirogues gracefully glide across the water. This is the epitome of authentic Seychellois island living.
3. Private Islands such as Cousine or Denis Island
In the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, a remote paradise island lies a thousand miles from the African mainland. Adorned with lush palms and vibrant foliage, this untouched sanctuary is a rare haven where nature thrives and humans observe in silent wonder. Cousine Island is a sustainable refuge for rare species and visitors eager to experience its magic. Denis Island, the second northeasternmost island in the Seychelles, is situated 60 kilometers north of Mahé, perched at the northern boundary of the Seychelles bank, alongside the neighboring Bird Island, which holds the distinction of being the northernmost Seychelles island. Spanning 1.4 square kilometers, this coral island was named after the French Navy officer Denis de Trobriand, who first explored it in 1773.
4. Outer Islands
The Seychelles archipelago comprises over 100 islands, located approximately 1000 miles off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. While the main attractions for visitors are the three largest islands (Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue), the secluded outer islands offer a haven for explorers. Remote and unspoiled, the Outer Islands of Seychelles are characterized by their discreet service, barefoot luxury, azure waters, and unforgettable experiences. It’s a paradise where one can immerse themselves in nature, and we’re certain that even David Attenborough would find it hard to leave!
5. Praslin
Despite being the second-largest island in the Seychelles, Praslin has a population comparable to that of a small European town. Upon arrival by light aircraft (a brief 15-minute flight from Mahé), you’ll be greeted by a jungle-clad mountain ridge emerging from the ocean, interspersed with sporadic low-rise houses and a petite jetty. While the allure of sun, sea, and sand is undeniable, Praslin offers more than just the quintessential tropical island experience. Here, you’ll discover botanical wonders, rare bird species, and the relaxed rhythm of traditional Seychellois island life.