SEYCHELLES
Embark on a journey to the mesmerizing Seychelles, a harmonious archipelago in the Indian Ocean renowned for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and untouched natural beauty. Picture-perfect white sands beckon to those seeking relaxation, while azure waters teem with vibrant marine life, making it a utopia for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
I spent four days exploring everything the islands have to offer, so here’s the best itinerary for the Seychelles. Special thanks to the Visit Seychelles tourism board for hosting me on this trip!
Where is the Seychelles?
Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a captivating archipelago renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical landscapes. This paradisiacal destination is dotted with 115 picturesque islands, each boasting its own unique charm and distinct character. From the granite outcrops of Mahe to the coral atolls of Aldabra, Seychelles exudes an air of tranquility and natural beauty that beckons travelers seeking an idyllic retreat. With its diverse marine life, captivating Creole culture, and luxurious resorts, Seychelles offers an unparalleled escape for those in search of sun-kissed bliss and unparalleled natural beauty.
How to get to the seychelles
Being an archipelago of islands in the Indian Ocean, it might not be easy to find flights to get to the Seychelles. Your best bet is to look for flights from Dubai on Emirates Airlines, Addis Ababa on Ethiopian Airlines, or even from Nairobi. Emirates usually gets into Mahe in the morning, while the Ethiopian Airlines flight gets in the afternoon.
How to get around the seychelles
If you’re staying on the main island of Mahe, you definitely need a car to get around. My driver was absolutely wonderful, so if you need an easy airport pick-up or even tour guide, I highly recommend Ocean Blue Seychelles.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Expedia for the best deals on car rentals.
On the other hand, the island of La Digue doesn’t have any cars so the best way to get around is by bicycle. You can rent them easily in front of the ferry terminal.
If you’re trying to travel between the islands, the Cat Cocos ferry that goes to all three islands — check the schedule to plan your itinerary thoroughly! I will share the links in the itinerary below.
Where to stay in the Seychelles
For the most beautiful beaches, you can find great hotels in the south of Mahe. This is also something to consider if you don’t have enough time to visit the famous beaches in La Digue since they also have the stunning granite boulders. The only downside is, it’s quite far from everything so you don’t have very many food options besides the hotel. Check out Villa Chez Batista for a stunning location at an affordable price.
STAY | Alternatively, check out Booking.com for more options in the area.
Seychelles entry requirements
There is no visa required to enter, however, you need to fill out the immigration form on this site prior to departure. Make sure you fill out the correct form, otherwise you will have to pay a $70 fee upon arrival (I made this mistake because the form I filled out didn’t specify it was the departure versus arrival form).
MAHE ITINERARY
La Misére viewpoint
This is a great first stop for the day to get a feel for the beauty of the island at the best overlook in all the island. In the distance you’ll be able to see Eden Island.
Victoria
Welcome to Victoria, the capital city of the stunning Seychelles archipelago. This vibrant port city is nestled on the northeast coast of Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles. With its colorful markets, charming colonial architecture, and bustling waterfront, Victoria offers a delightful blend of Creole culture and a relaxed island vibe. Visitors can savor fresh seafood at local restaurants, explore the vibrant Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, or take in the majestic views from the nearby Morne Seychellois National Park. I also recommend visiting the Hindu Temple and Clock Tower. Whether strolling along the promenade or immersing in local art and history at museums and galleries, Victoria invites travelers to savor the unique charm of the Seychelles.
Mission Lodge
A little more on the history of the Seychelles with beautiful views of the island. Be sure to also try the traditional Seychellois tea at The Tea House.
Eden Island
By lunchtime drive over to Eden Island to try some incredible octopus coconut curry — a Seychellois specialty!
Domaine Val de Pres
Another historical site to learn more about the Seychelles. You can also head around the back to see how they make perfume from the coco de mer seed — the biggest seed in the world.
La Plaine St. Andre
Takamaka Distillery actually converted this historical site into a rum distillery and it’s a fantastic way to end your day on the island of Mahe. Take a tour and have a drink in their garden afterwards.
PRASLIN ITINERARY
HOW TO GET TO PRASLIN
From Mahe you can easily take the Cat Cocos Ferry, which takes about an hour. You could see both Praslin and La Digue on a full-day trip from Mahe, but La Digue is so stunning I highly recommend staying one night. Praslin, on the other hand, is great to check out just for its UNESCO World Heritage Site.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Viator for other day trips in the Seychelles.
Valleé de Mai nature reserve
This was the main attraction of the island of Praslin, so you can easily do this in the morning before heading to La Digue, or on a day trip from wherever you’re staying.
Hidden in the heart of Praslin Island in the Seychelles, Valleé de Mai Nature Reserve is a captivating haven of natural beauty and wonder. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its lush, primeval forest that dates back millions of years, and is home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm, famed for producing the largest seed in the plant kingdom. As visitors meander through the enchanting pathways, they are immersed in an otherworldly atmosphere, surrounded by unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on the planet. Valleé de Mai’s serene ambiance and rare biodiversity make it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers seeking to marvel at the wonders of the natural world.
LA DIGUE ITINERARY
HOW TO GET TO LA DIGUE
From Praslin, the Cat Cocos ferry is about fifteen minutes to La Digue, making it perfect to squeeze the two islands together.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Viator for other day trips in the Seychelles.
WHERE TO STAY IN LA DIGUE
For luxury travelers I recommend staying at Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie Resort and Spa.
For mid-range or boutique hotels check out Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel La Digue.
For budget travelers Villa Hortensia is a ten minutes walking from the ferry. Unfortunately you’re not going to find a hostel on this island or anything cheaper, but if budget is a concern I recommend staying in Mahe and doing a day trip to La Digue.
SEARCH | Alternatively, check out Booking.com for other hotels in La Digue.
La Digue was my absolute favorite portion of the trip; I would probably spend an extra night or two here if I had the time because the beaches were incredible and straight out of a postcard! You should definitely rent a bicycle and explore the island — you’ll even find wild tortoises roaming around! If you’re doing the Praslin / La Digue day trip from Mahe then the following is what I recommend doing:
L'Union Estate
It’s a few kilometers to get to the heart of the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach so make sure you take a bicycle. You can spot the giant land tortoises in areas around the estate and can feed them leaves. At the beach you can easily rent a glass canoe — I recommend Crystal Water Kayaks, which is directly across from the famous Instagram photo spot with the granite boulders.
