Seychelles Travel Guide 2025 | Best Attractions, Festivals & Local Tips

Seychelles

Quick Info

Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush landscapes. Famous for its unique biodiversity, Seychelles is home to rare species like the Aldabra giant tortoise and the coco de mer palm. The islands offer a mix of luxurious resorts and nature reserves, making them perfect for both relaxation and eco-tourism. The vibrant Seychellois culture blends African, European, and Asian influences, which is reflected in its cuisine, music, and festivals. Visitors come to Seychelles to experience its pristine beaches, world-class diving spots, and tranquil island atmosphere.

Capital:

Victoria (on Mahé Island)

Main cities:

Victoria, Beau Vallon, Anse Boileau, Anse Royale

International airport:

Seychelles International Airport (SEZ)

Population:

about 130,418

Area:

446 sq km

Dependency Status:

Seychelles

Language:

Seychellois Creole, English, French

Currency:

Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

Time zone:

GMT+4

Country Code:

+248

Driving:

Left-hand side

Electricity:

Plug and outlet type used on the island: Type G, 240V

Emergency Number:

999

Tipping:

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; 5-10% for good service is common.

Map

Best Time to Visit

Seychelles

The best time to visit Seychelles depends on what activities you’re interested in. For beachgoers and sun-seekers, April, May, October, and November offer the best weather, with calm seas and temperatures averaging between 25°C to 30°C. These months are ideal for diving, snorkeling, and sailing, as visibility in the water is excellent. The drier months from June to September are great for outdoor activities like hiking and windsurfing, with pleasant temperatures around 24°C. This period is also less humid, making it a comfortable time for exploring the islands. However, Seychelles is a year-round destination, and even during the wet season (December to March), rain showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine.

Top 10 Attractions in

Seychelles

Anse Source d'Argent: One of the most photographed beaches in the world, known for its unique granite boulders, white sand, and shallow turquoise waters.

Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site on Praslin Island, home to the rare coco de mer palm and a lush, prehistoric forest.

Aldabra Atoll: A remote UNESCO site and the world’s second-largest coral atoll, home to the largest population of Aldabra giant tortoises.

Sainte Anne Marine National Park: A protected area of six islands offering fantastic snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours.

Victoria Market: The bustling capital market is perfect for buying local spices, fruits, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Beau Vallon Beach: A popular beach on Mahé Island, known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and water sports.

La Digue Island: A car-free island offering a relaxed atmosphere, with bike rentals and beautiful beaches like Anse Source d’Argent.

Curieuse Island: Known for its giant tortoise sanctuary and scenic hiking trails through mangrove forests.

Anse Intendance: A wild and beautiful beach on Mahé, popular with surfers due to its large waves.

Morne Seychellois National Park: This mountainous park offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Mahé and diverse plant and animal life.

Local Tips -

Seychelles

Pack Light: The tropical climate means you’ll need lightweight, breathable clothing. Don’t forget your sunscreen and insect repellent.

Use Local Buses: Public buses are an affordable way to get around Mahé and Praslin, though taxis and rental cars are also available.

Rent a Bike on La Digue: La Digue is best explored by bicycle, as there are no cars, making it a peaceful way to discover the island.

Respect Marine Life: When snorkeling or diving, avoid touching corals and marine animals to protect Seychelles’ delicate ecosystem.

Bring Cash: While larger hotels and restaurants accept credit cards, small shops, and local vendors often prefer cash.

Stay Hydrated: The tropical heat can be intense, so carry water with you, especially when hiking or spending time at the beach.

Try Creole Cuisine: Don’t miss local dishes like grilled fish, octopus curry, and coconut-based desserts, often flavored with island spices.

Plan for a Relaxed Pace: Island life is laid-back, so don’t expect things to move quickly. Take your time and enjoy the leisurely vibe.

Travel Off-Peak: If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November).

Snorkel Early in the Morning: The waters are calmest in the morning, offering the best conditions for snorkeling and spotting marine life.

Carnivals and Festivals in

Seychelles

Seychelles Creole Festival: Held in October, this week-long festival celebrates Seychellois culture with traditional music, dance, food, and art.

SUBIOS – The Seychelles Festival of the Sea: Celebrated in November, SUBIOS highlights marine conservation through underwater photography competitions, talks, and ocean-themed activities.

Cool Facts About

Seychelles

Unique Coco de Mer Palm: Seychelles is home to the coco de mer palm, which produces the world’s largest and heaviest seed.

Aldabra Atoll’s Giant Tortoises: Aldabra Atoll is home to over 150,000 giant tortoises, making it one of the largest tortoise populations in the world.

The Smallest Capital in the World: Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is often called the world’s smallest capital city.

World’s Only Granite Islands in the Ocean: Seychelles is the only place in the world with granite islands in the middle of the ocean.

Protected Marine Life: Nearly half of Seychelles’ landmass is dedicated to nature reserves and protected areas.

Celebrity Destination: Seychelles has hosted numerous celebrity weddings and honeymoons, including Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Endemic Species: Seychelles is home to many endemic species, including the Seychelles black parrot and the Seychelles warbler.

Currency Signed in Three Languages: The Seychellois Rupee features three languages: Seychellois Creole, English, and French.

One of the Cleanest Oceans: The waters around Seychelles are considered some of the cleanest in the world, making it a prime diving destination.

Abolition of Slavery Celebrated: The island celebrates the abolition of slavery every year on June 5th with cultural events and parades.

FAQ

What is the Island known for?
Seychelles is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, unique biodiversity, and luxurious resorts. The islands are famous for their giant tortoises, the rare coco de mer palm, and spectacular marine life, making it a top destination for eco-tourism and relaxation.

Is Seychelles a good destination for families?
Yes, Seychelles is great for families, offering child-friendly resorts, calm beaches, and activities like snorkeling, nature hikes, and visits to giant tortoise sanctuaries. The tranquil atmosphere and safe environment make it ideal for family vacations.

Is Seychelles a safe destination for tourists?
Seychelles is generally very safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, but as with any destination, it's important to follow standard safety precautions and safeguard your belongings.

Do you need a visa to visit Seychelles?
Seychelles does not require a visa for visitors of any nationality. You just need a valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation to enter and stay for up to 90 days.

What is the best way to get to Seychelles?
The best way to reach Seychelles is by flying into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island. There are direct international flights from various major cities in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

Should I rent a car on the island?
Renting a car is recommended for exploring Mahé and Praslin at your own pace. Public transportation is available but can be limited, and taxis are relatively expensive.

Is Seychelles wheelchair accessible?
While some luxury resorts and hotels offer good wheelchair accessibility, other parts of the islands, especially beaches and nature trails, may present challenges due to uneven terrain.

What are Seychelles’ most famous landmarks?
Some of the most famous landmarks include Anse Source d'Argent, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, and Aldabra Atoll. Victoria Market and the iconic Clock Tower in Victoria are also popular attractions.

What are the best beaches on Seychelles?
Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue is world-famous for its stunning granite boulders, while Beau Vallon on Mahé is great for swimming and water sports. Anse Lazio on Praslin is another popular beach known for its soft sand and crystal-clear waters.

What is unique about Seychelles’ wildlife?
Seychelles is home to many rare species, including the Aldabra giant tortoise and the Seychelles black parrot. The islands are also surrounded by coral reefs, offering excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities.

What traditional foods should you try on Seychelles?
Try local dishes like grilled fish, octopus curry, and "ladob" (a sweet dish made with coconut milk and fruit). Seychelles is also known for its spicy Creole cuisine, which blends African, French, and Indian flavors.

Can you drink tap water on Seychelles?
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Seychelles. Bottled water is widely available and preferred by most visitors.

What is the nightlife like on Seychelles?
Nightlife in Seychelles is more relaxed compared to other destinations, with beachfront bars and resorts offering live music and cocktails. For a more lively night out, head to Victoria or Beau Vallon.

How can I stay connected to the internet on Seychelles?
Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, resorts, and cafes. You can also buy a local SIM card with a data plan for reliable internet access across the islands.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Seychelles?
Popular souvenirs include handcrafted jewelry, artwork made from coco de mer shells, local spices, coconut oil products, and Creole-inspired handicrafts. Vanilla pods and Seychelles tea are also great gifts to bring home.

20 Essential Words

Bonzour – Good morning (Seychellois Creole)

Bonswa – Good evening (Seychellois Creole)

Mersi – Thank you (Seychellois Creole)

Silvouplé – Please (Seychellois Creole)

Wi – Yes (Seychellois Creole)

Non – No (Seychellois Creole)

Ansanm – Together (Seychellois Creole)

Zanfan – Children (Seychellois Creole)

Dilo – Water (Seychellois Creole)

Lanmizik – Music (Seychellois Creole)

Bato – Boat (Seychellois Creole)

Kokoye – Coconut (Seychellois Creole)

Manze – Food (Seychellois Creole)

Zoli – Beautiful (Seychellois Creole)

Laglwar – Glory (Seychellois Creole)

Byen – Well/Good (Seychellois Creole)

Piti – Small (Seychellois Creole)

Gran – Big (Seychellois Creole)

Sega – A traditional music style (Seychellois Creole)

Dimans – Sunday (Seychellois Creole)

Famous figures connected to

Seychelles

Sir James Mancham: The founding president of Seychelles who played a key role in the country’s move to independence in 1976.
Danny Faure: Former president of Seychelles, known for his environmental conservation efforts and championing climate action.
Jany de Letourdi: A popular Seychellois musician and cultural ambassador, known for promoting Creole music.
Jean-Marc Volcy: A Seychellois singer-songwriter famous for his contributions to modern Creole music.
David Andre: A renowned poet and songwriter, often regarded as one of the most influential figures in Seychelles’ music scene.
Alain St. Ange: A former Minister of Tourism and Culture, known for his contributions to promoting Seychelles as a tourist destination.
Eddy d’Ombrage: A legendary local artist famous for his traditional art and promoting the Seychellois culture through his paintings.
Victoria Cupidon: A local philanthropist and entrepreneur, known for her efforts in community development and charitable work.
Rita Romain: A renowned Seychellois author, famous for her works on Creole culture and language.
Marie-Antoinette Alexis: A culinary icon known for her authentic Creole cuisine, often featured in local festivals and events.

Films and TV Shows Shot on the Island

Thunderbirds (2004): Some scenes of this adventure film were shot in the beautiful landscapes of Seychelles.

The Mysterious Island (2010): This TV miniseries used Seychelles as a backdrop to portray a deserted tropical island.

Goodbye Bafana (2007): Filming took place in Seychelles to represent various locations in South Africa for this historical drama.

Castaway (1986): This British TV series was partly filmed in Seychelles, showcasing the islands’ tropical beauty.

Uninhabited (2010): A horror-thriller filmed on a deserted island in Seychelles, taking advantage of the island’s natural isolation.

The Blue Lagoon (1980): Though primarily filmed elsewhere, some scenes were shot in Seychelles due to its pristine landscapes.

Pirates of the 20th Century (1979): This Soviet action-adventure film was partly shot in Seychelles.

Robinson Crusoe (1997): Parts of the film adaptation of the famous survival story were filmed in Seychelles, enhancing its deserted island setting.

Crusoe (2008): This TV series, based on the novel Robinson Crusoe, was filmed on various tropical islands, including Seychelles, showcasing its pristine beaches.

Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014): Some of the scenic coastal shots in this film were filmed in Seychelles, highlighting the island's stunning landscape.