Seychelles Holidays

About Seychelles

Comprised of just over one hundred islands spread across 455 square kilometres of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles holidays are the epitome of tranquillity. They’re said by locals to be a thousand miles from anywhere, which is a wonderful description of these tiny islands, as they are indeed a thousand miles from the African mainland, with the Indian subcontinent twice the distance in the other direction. So, they are ideally positioned for doing nothing except relaxing in the sun or playing in the sea at some of the most unspoiled, pristine beaches in the world.

The largest of the Seychelles’ islands is the island of Mahe; measuring just under 68 square kilometres, it is home to 77,000 people, which is 86% of Seychelles’ total population. Those who are feeling adventurous can get an astounding view of the island by ascending to its tallest point, Morne Seychellois in Morne Seychellois National Park, reaching 3,000 ft high.

The Seychelles are also a dream come true for nature-lovers, as they are home to dolphins, ancient and giant tortoises, giant fruit bats (one of the noisiest eaters on the planet) and an array of birds, many of which can’t be seen anywhere else in the world. This includes the last flightless bird in the Indian Ocean, the white-throated rail, which is a younger version of the dodo.

As you would expect, there are many five-star resorts and luxury hotels to be found in the Seychelles. If you are feeling indulgent, why not book a room at one of these prestigious resorts, all of which offer beautiful views and serve world-class cuisine?

Seychelles holidays are all about unwinding and de-stressing; they provide a haven for holidaymakers to get away from it all and, if they wish, do absolutely nothing. The many exotic beaches, such as Anse Source d'Argent, allow you to lie back and relax for as long as you wish, soaking up some magnificent Seychelles sun while savouring the sounds of the Indian Ocean washing up on the shores. Practically every island in Seychelles hosts white sandy beaches for visitors to explore and enjoy, complemented by sapphire blue seas. Beach lovers will be spoilt for choice.

Interesting things to do in Seychelles

There are plenty of soothing activities to take part in during Seychelles holidays. Why not enjoy a picturesque island hopping tour, sailing around the Seychelles’ various islands? This experience gives you the opportunity to take a leisurely boat ride along the coastline and take in the spectacular sea and land views.

A visit to the paradise that is La Digue will give you the chance to ride on a traditional oxcart and have a leisurely tour around the beautiful countryside and villages. With no airport and an extremely small number of road vehicles, this is a common mode of transportation on this incredible island. La Digue is home to a population of just 2,000 people, so this tour promises a peaceful and serene experience.

Seychelles holidays also give you the chance to visit the world-famous Vallee de Mai nature reserve. This forest houses a range of endemic plants and boasts some of the world’s purest natural beauty. The Sainte Anne National Marine Park spans across several islands, including Silhouette and Round, and is the ideal place for those who love diving and snorkelling to discover marine life.

Holidays in Seychelles provide plenty of culture, too. Be sure to pay a visit to Victoria's Natural History Museum, as well as the city's bustling marketplace, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture.

If you visit in April, you can also attend the Seychelles Carnival International de Victoria, which invites floats from all over the world to join in this celebratory event; be sure to sample the street food as you enjoy the dancing and live music.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

Seasons

• Dry – May to October, with July and August being the hottest.
• Green – November (when it starts light) to March. Heaviest between December and January.

In The Know

• Capital - Victoria
• Currency - Seychellois Rupee
• Point of Entry - Mahe
• Airlines - British Airways
• Flying Time - 10 hours
• Time Zone - GMT +4
• Visa not required
• Medical Requirements - None

Insider Tips

• Bring a bottle of duty free with you – most spirits are imported and are very expensive
• Take the helicopter from Mahe to La Digue Island – it doesn’t cost much more than the plane & ferry combination 
• Smokers, don’t forget your cigarettes – a packet on North Island costs USD26.00!
• The best value flights over Christmas tend to get booked up 11½ months in advance so try to book in January