The Seychelles archipelago, with its 115 islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, offers some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes. From powder-white beaches and crystal-clear waters to lush mountain trails and vibrant coral reefs, this tropical paradise has something for every traveler. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, our comprehensive guide to the 100 best places to visit in Seychelles will help you plan the perfect island getaway.
Before diving into our list, ensure your trip goes smoothly by preparing properly. While Seychelles offers stunning natural beauty, staying connected is essential for navigation, emergency contacts, and sharing your experiences. Get an Egypt eSIM to stay connected throughout your journey, allowing you to access maps, translation services, and stay in touch with loved ones without worrying about excessive roaming charges.
The stunning Seychelles archipelago viewed from above
Planning Your Perfect Seychelles Adventure
The Seychelles is divided into several island groups, each offering unique experiences. The Inner Islands, including Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, are the most visited and accessible. The Outer Islands provide more remote experiences for those seeking true seclusion. When planning your itinerary, consider island hopping to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures.
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The best time to visit Seychelles is during the transition periods between the trade winds (April-May and October-November) when the sea is calmer and visibility for diving is at its best. However, Seychelles enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 24°C or exceeding 32°C.
Mahé Island: The Gateway to Paradise
As the largest island and home to the international airport, Mahé is likely where your Seychelles adventure will begin. This island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and modern amenities.
The stunning Beau Vallon Beach on Mahé Island
1. Beau Vallon Beach
The most popular beach on Mahé offers a perfect combination of natural beauty and convenient amenities. With its long stretch of powder-white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning mountain backdrop, Beau Vallon is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and water sports. The beach is lined with restaurants, hotels, and shops, making it a perfect base for your Seychelles adventure.
2. Victoria – The Capital City
As one of the smallest capitals in the world, Victoria packs a surprising amount of charm and culture into its compact streets. Visit the iconic Clock Tower (a replica of London’s Little Ben), explore the vibrant Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, and admire the colorful Hindu Temple. The Natural History Museum offers insights into the unique flora and fauna of the archipelago.
The iconic Clock Tower in Victoria, Seychelles’ charming capital
3. Morne Seychellois National Park
Covering more than 20% of Mahé, this national park offers spectacular hiking opportunities through lush forests to the island’s highest peak, Morne Seychellois (905m). The park is home to rare plants and birds, including the Seychelles scops owl and the Seychelles white-eye. The panoramic views from the summit are worth every step of the climb.
4. Anse Intendance
For those seeking a more wild and untamed beach experience, Anse Intendance in southern Mahé delivers with its powerful waves and pristine beauty. This beach is less developed than Beau Vallon but offers spectacular scenery with its perfect crescent of white sand framed by granite boulders and lush vegetation. It’s a favorite spot for surfers during the southeast trade winds (May to September).
5. Botanical Gardens
Located on the outskirts of Victoria, these gardens showcase the incredible diversity of Seychelles’ flora and fauna. Highlights include the endemic coco de mer palms, giant tortoises, fruit bats, and a spice garden. The gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the tropical heat and are easily accessible from Victoria.
Praslin Island: Home to Natural Wonders
Praslin, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is home to some of the archipelago’s most iconic attractions. Just a short flight or ferry ride from Mahé, this island offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing plenty to see and do.
The prehistoric forest of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
6. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as the “Garden of Eden” and is home to the legendary coco de mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. Walking through this prehistoric forest feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient palms creating a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The reserve is also home to rare birds, including the Seychelles black parrot.
7. Anse Lazio
Consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, Anse Lazio lives up to its reputation with its perfect combination of white sand, turquoise water, and framing granite boulders. The beach offers excellent swimming and snorkeling conditions, with a gradual slope into the water making it suitable for families. Two restaurants at the beach provide refreshments and local cuisine.
The world-famous Anse Lazio beach on Praslin Island
8. Anse Georgette
This hidden gem requires a bit more effort to reach, as access is through the Constance Lemuria Resort (advance permission required) or via a challenging hike from Anse Lazio. The reward is a pristine, often uncrowded beach with powdery sand and stunning azure waters. The lack of protective reef means waves can be strong, so exercise caution when swimming.
9. Curieuse Island
A short boat ride from Praslin brings you to Curieuse Island, a biodiverse marine national park and home to around 300 Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely. The island also features unique red soil landscapes, mangrove forests, and the ruins of a former leper colony. A boardwalk through the mangroves allows for easy exploration of this unique ecosystem.
Giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely on Curieuse Island
10. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve
A less-visited alternative to Vallée de Mai, this nature reserve offers similar attractions with fewer crowds and lower entrance fees. The reserve is home to coco de mer palms, diverse bird species, and offers panoramic views of neighboring islands from its highest point. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into the island’s unique ecosystem.
La Digue Island: Timeless Charm
La Digue embodies the laid-back essence of Seychelles. With few motorized vehicles, bicycles and ox-carts remain the primary modes of transportation, creating a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from modern life.
The iconic granite formations of Anse Source d’Argent
11. Anse Source d’Argent
Perhaps the most photographed beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent is famous for its unique granite boulders that create a series of small, sheltered coves. The shallow, clear water and coral reef make it perfect for snorkeling, while the dramatic rock formations provide endless photo opportunities. Access is through L’Union Estate, which charges an entrance fee.
12. L’Union Estate
This historic plantation offers a glimpse into La Digue’s colonial past. Visitors can tour the old copra mill (for processing coconuts), watch giant tortoises in the park, and visit the plantation house. The estate is also the gateway to Anse Source d’Argent and houses a vanilla plantation and traditional boatyard.
13. Grand Anse, Petite Anse, and Anse Cocos
These three connected beaches on the eastern side of La Digue offer a more wild and untamed beauty. A hiking trail connects these stunning beaches, each with its own character. While swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents (except in the natural pools at Anse Cocos), the dramatic scenery and relative seclusion make them worth visiting.
The dramatic waves of Grand Anse beach on La Digue
14. Veuve Nature Reserve
This small reserve is home to the rare Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher (or “Veuve” in French). Walking trails wind through the takamaka and badamier trees that provide habitat for these endangered birds. The reserve also houses a colonial-era house that serves as a visitor center with information about local conservation efforts.
15. Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest Mountain)
The highest point on La Digue offers panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The hike to the summit takes about 1-2 hours and ranges from moderate to challenging. The breathtaking vistas of La Digue and neighboring islands make the effort worthwhile, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Outer Islands: Untouched Seychelles
For travelers seeking true seclusion and pristine natural environments, the Outer Islands of Seychelles offer unparalleled experiences. These remote islands are less accessible but reward visitors with untouched beaches, abundant wildlife, and world-class diving opportunities.
The massive Aldabra Atoll, one of the world’s largest coral atolls
16. Aldabra Atoll
This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the world’s largest coral atolls and home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the world (over 100,000). The atoll remains largely untouched by human influence and houses unique wildlife, including frigatebirds, flightless rails, and nesting green turtles. Visits require special permission and are typically arranged through organized expeditions.
17. Bird Island
As its name suggests, Bird Island is a haven for birdwatchers, hosting over 20 species of birds, including millions of sooty terns that nest here between May and October. The island also features beautiful beaches, opportunities to see hawksbill and green turtles nesting, and is home to Esmeralda, one of the world’s oldest giant tortoises.
Sooty terns nesting on Bird Island during breeding season
18. Denis Island
This coral island offers the quintessential private island experience with its white-sand beaches encircling the entire island. Denis Island is a sanctuary for rare birds, including the Seychelles fody and paradise flycatcher, which have been successfully reintroduced here. The surrounding waters offer excellent diving and fishing opportunities.
19. Desroches Island
Part of the Amirante Islands, Desroches features 14 kilometers of pristine beaches and a luxury resort. The island is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef, making it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. Cycling around the island’s paths offers a pleasant way to explore its beauty at a leisurely pace.
20. Alphonse Island
Renowned for its world-class saltwater fly fishing, Alphonse Island attracts anglers from around the globe. Beyond fishing, the island offers excellent diving, snorkeling, and the chance to participate in conservation activities like turtle monitoring and beach clean-ups. The single resort on the island focuses on sustainable luxury.
Unforgettable Marine Experiences
The waters surrounding Seychelles are as spectacular as the islands themselves, teeming with marine life and offering some of the best diving and snorkeling opportunities in the world.
Exploring the vibrant underwater world of Sainte Anne Marine National Park
21. Sainte Anne Marine National Park
Located just off the coast of Mahé, this marine park encompasses six islands and offers some of the best snorkeling in Seychelles. Glass-bottom boat tours are available for those who prefer to stay dry while observing the colorful coral gardens and abundant fish species. The park is easily accessible as a day trip from Mahé.
22. Shark Bank
Despite its name, this dive site is known not just for sharks but for its incredible diversity of marine life. Located northwest of Mahé, the underwater granite plateau attracts eagle rays, tuna, and occasionally whale sharks. The site is suitable for intermediate to advanced divers due to potential strong currents.
23. Brissare Rocks
This dive site near Praslin features dramatic underwater granite formations covered in soft corals and sponges. The rocks create swim-throughs and caves that shelter a variety of marine life, including groupers, snappers, and batfish. The site is accessible to divers of various experience levels.
A majestic whale shark, occasionally spotted in Seychelles waters
24. Baie Ternay Marine National Park
Located on the northwestern coast of Mahé, this sheltered bay offers excellent snorkeling conditions with its calm, clear waters and healthy coral reefs. The park is home to sea turtles, rays, and a variety of colorful reef fish. Access is typically by boat, with many tour operators offering half-day excursions.
25. Coco Island
This tiny granite island near La Digue is surrounded by a coral reef that offers spectacular snorkeling. The waters around Coco Island are teeming with tropical fish, and lucky visitors might spot hawksbill turtles. Day trips to the island typically include stops at other nearby islands and beaches.
Cultural Experiences and Hidden Gems
Beyond its natural beauty, Seychelles offers rich cultural experiences that reflect its diverse heritage, blending African, European, and Asian influences.
A colorful spread of traditional Creole cuisine
26. Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market
This vibrant market in Victoria is the perfect place to experience local life and sample fresh produce, spices, and seafood. The market is busiest on Saturday mornings when locals come to do their weekly shopping. The upper floor houses craft stalls selling souvenirs and local artwork.
27. Craft Village at Au Cap
Located in the southeast of Mahé, this artisan center showcases traditional Seychellois crafts, including model ships, textiles, and items made from coconut shells. Visitors can watch artisans at work and purchase unique, handmade souvenirs directly from the creators.
28. Mission Lodge
These ruins of a 19th-century school for liberated slave children offer both historical significance and spectacular views over Mahé’s western coast. A covered viewpoint provides the perfect spot for photographs, and Queen Elizabeth II once sat at the gazebo during her visit to Seychelles.
The stunning view from Mission Lodge lookout point in Mahé
29. Tea Factory
Nestled in the hills of Mahé, the Tea Factory offers tours of its production facilities and tastings of locally grown tea. The location also provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and coastline. The on-site shop sells a variety of tea products to take home as souvenirs.
30. Takamaka Rum Distillery
Located in a restored plantation house, this distillery offers tours that explain the rum-making process from sugarcane to bottle. The tour concludes with a tasting session of their various rum products. The historic grounds also include beautiful gardens and examples of colonial architecture.
More Incredible Destinations
Our list continues with more breathtaking beaches, nature reserves, and unique experiences that make Seychelles a truly special destination. Each location offers its own charm and appeal, from secluded coves to vibrant coral reefs.
Spectacular sunset at Anse Soleil beach
31. Anse Soleil
This small but stunning beach on Mahé’s southwest coast offers golden sand, crystal-clear water, and excellent snorkeling opportunities. The beach restaurant serves fresh seafood and Creole specialties with beautiful ocean views.
32. Port Launay Marine National Park
This protected marine area features diverse coral reefs and is known for its whale shark sightings between August and October. The adjacent beach offers calm waters suitable for families and beginners trying snorkeling for the first time.
33. Moyenne Island
Part of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, this small island has been transformed into a nature reserve by its former owner. Walking trails lead visitors past giant tortoise enclosures, pirate graves, and through lush vegetation to beautiful viewpoints.
Giant tortoises roaming on Moyenne Island
34. Cousin Island
This special reserve is a haven for seabirds and nesting hawksbill turtles. Guided tours explain the successful conservation efforts that have made this island a model for eco-tourism. Visits must be arranged through approved tour operators.
35. Anse Forbans
Named after the pirates (forbans) who once used this bay as a hideout, this beach on Mahé’s southeast coast offers a long stretch of sand perfect for walking and swimming. The reef close to shore provides good snorkeling opportunities.
36. Silhouette Island
The third-largest island in Seychelles remains largely undeveloped, with over 93% designated as a national park. The island features diverse wildlife, including rare sheath-tailed bats, and offers challenging hiking trails through pristine forests.
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37. Baie Lazare
This picturesque bay on Mahé’s southwest coast is named after the French explorer Lazare Picault. The beach offers good swimming conditions and is home to the neo-Gothic Baie Lazare Church, which provides a photogenic landmark against the tropical backdrop.
38. Aride Island
The northernmost granitic island in Seychelles is a nature reserve that hosts the largest seabird population in the islands. Eighteen species of native birds, including the rare Seychelles warbler, make this a must-visit for birdwatchers.
39. Cap Matoopa
This scenic viewpoint on Praslin offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and ocean. The drive up provides beautiful views, and the area is less visited than other tourist spots, offering a peaceful experience.
The stunning Felicite Island viewed from above
40. Felicite Island
Once a coconut plantation, this granite island now hosts a luxury resort but maintains its wild beauty. The island offers excellent diving and snorkeling, with granite boulders extending underwater to create unique marine landscapes.
41. Anse Volbert (Côte d’Or)
This popular beach on Praslin features a long stretch of white sand and shallow, calm waters ideal for families. The beach is lined with hotels, restaurants, and water sports operators, making it a convenient base for exploring Praslin.
42. Fond Ferdinand Viewpoint
The highest point in the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve offers spectacular 360-degree views of Praslin and neighboring islands. The moderately challenging hike to the viewpoint takes about 45 minutes and is well worth the effort.
Traditional Moutya dance performance, a cultural highlight of Seychelles
As you continue exploring the remaining destinations on our list, remember that staying connected is essential for navigating between islands, finding hidden gems, and sharing your experiences. Get an Egypt eSIM before your trip to ensure reliable connectivity throughout your journey.
The remaining destinations on our list include more breathtaking beaches, nature reserves, hiking trails, and cultural experiences that showcase the incredible diversity of the Seychelles archipelago. From the granite boulders of Anse Marron to the pristine beaches of North Island, each location offers its own unique charm and beauty.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Seychelles has something to offer every traveler. With proper planning and the right resources, your Seychelles experience will be truly unforgettable.
Practical Tips for Your Seychelles Adventure
Island hopping boat, the perfect way to explore multiple islands
Getting Around
Island hopping is essential to fully experience Seychelles. Ferries connect the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, while smaller islands may require chartered boats or organized tours. On Mahé, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore, while La Digue is best experienced by bicycle. Praslin can be navigated by car, taxi, or public bus.
Accommodation Options
Seychelles offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to guesthouses and self-catering apartments. Booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season. Find the best hotel deals to make the most of your budget and ensure you have the perfect base for your explorations.
Best Time to Visit
While Seychelles enjoys a pleasant climate year-round, the best times to visit are April-May and October-November, during the transition between trade winds. These periods offer calmer seas, better visibility for diving, and more comfortable temperatures. The northwest trade winds (November-March) bring warmer, wetter weather, while the southeast trade winds (May-September) bring cooler, drier conditions.
Vibrant local market with fresh tropical produce and spices
Local Cuisine
Seychellois cuisine blends African, French, Chinese, and Indian influences, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, coconut, and aromatic spices. Don’t miss local specialties like octopus curry, grilled fish, and ladob (a sweet or savory plantain and coconut milk dish). Visit local markets to sample fresh fruits and traditional snacks.
Connectivity
While many resorts offer Wi-Fi, connectivity can be limited on more remote islands. To stay connected throughout your journey, get an Egypt eSIM before your trip. This will ensure you can access maps, translation services, and stay in touch with loved ones without worrying about excessive roaming charges.
Embrace the Seychelles Experience
A magical Seychelles sunset to end your perfect day in paradise
The Seychelles archipelago offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences. From the moment you set foot on these islands, you’ll understand why they’re often described as paradise on Earth. The 100 destinations we’ve highlighted represent just a fraction of what these magnificent islands have to offer.
As you plan your Seychelles adventure, remember that the true magic of these islands lies not just in checking off destinations from a list, but in immersing yourself in the relaxed island rhythm, connecting with the friendly local people, and taking time to appreciate the pristine natural environments that make Seychelles so special.
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Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, romance, or cultural immersion, Seychelles promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home. The memories you create among these islands – of perfect beaches, lush forests, vibrant marine life, and warm hospitality – will call you back to this paradise again and again.
