Interested in the top places to visit in Seychelles? This stunning archipelago in the Indian Ocean, just off Kenya’s east coast, consists of 115 beautiful granite and coral islands. These islands are home to unique species like the giant Aldabra tortoises and the rare Coco de Mer palm.
While many think of Seychelles as a luxury getaway much like the Maldives, it actually has much more to offer. The islands boast protected marine areas, UNESCO-listed nature parks, and a rich Creole culture that you can experience in the capital city, Victoria.
Seychelles is packed with experiences that will make you fall in love with it. But where should you begin? What should you do? Let’s dive into some of the best activities and places to visit in Seychelles.
Start with Victoria on Mahé Island, the capital city. It’s one of the smallest capitals in the world and serves as the cultural and commercial hub, housing a third of the country’s population. Victoria is a great place to soak in the local Creole culture. Here, you can explore old colonial buildings like the Victoria Clocktower, a replica of London’s clock tower built in 1903. The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens are also located here, featuring various trees and plants, a Giant Tortoise Enclosure, and the famous coco-de-mer tree, which produces the largest and heaviest seeds in the world. Don’t miss Victoria Market for souvenirs, local art, and seafood. You can also visit the Natural History Museum to learn more about the island’s wildlife and geology.
Mahé is home to many beautiful beaches, but Anse Major stands out. This secluded beach is accessible only by boat or on foot via a hiking trail that starts at the end of Bel Ombre Road. The trail runs along the edge of a cliff and is clearly marked. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling, thanks to its scenic beauty.
Mahé can be explored in just a few days, with hiking being one of the best activities. Head to Morne Seychellois National Park for breathtaking views of the island. The Morne Blanc Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park, offering a continuous uphill climb through an old tea plantation and forest, ending at a clifftop with sea views. The path is well-maintained and takes about 50 minutes to complete.
Moving on to Praslin, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a must-visit. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a prehistoric palm forest, almost untouched by time. It is home to the endemic coco de mer and other unique plants. The coco de mer (Lodoicea) is notable for having the largest seed in the plant kingdom, sometimes called the “Sea coconut” or the “Seychelles nut.”
Anse Lazio, located on the northwest of Praslin Island, is considered one of the best beaches in Seychelles. Its clear waters and stunning scenery attract many tourists.
Curieuse Island, near Praslin, became a marine national park in 1979 to protect its native wildlife. The island features a mangrove swamp and giant coco de mer palms. It is also home to over 300 Aldabra giant tortoises, which roam freely on this unique island. Some of these tortoises are over 100 years old, measuring about 122 centimeters in length and weighing around 250 kg.
La Digue is another destination worth visiting. Renting a bicycle is a fantastic way to explore the many stunning beaches on this island. The most beautiful beaches here are Grand Anse and Anse Source d’Árgent, known for their sparkling blue waters, white sand, and iconic Seychelles boulders. Anse Source d’Árgent is famously one of the most photographed beaches in the world, while Grand Anse is celebrated for its pristine sand and picturesque scenery.
So, these are some of the highlights of Seychelles. If you’ve been there, please share your recommendations in the comments!