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The Republic of Seychelles is an island nation located in the eastern Indian Ocean, off the coast of Africa. These islands were discovered by Portuguese navigators in the 16th century and later colonized by the French in the 18th century. The French named the islands "Seychelles" after the then-French Minister of Finance, Jean Moreau de Séchelles. Today, Seychelles has a population of only about 98,000 people.
Out of the 115 islands in the Seychelles archipelago, only 33 are inhabited. The most populated islands include Mahe, where the capital city of Victoria is located, Praslin, known for its pristine beaches, and La Digue, famous for its laid-back atmosphere and scenic beauty.
General Tips
Public Beaches
All beaches in the Seychelles islands are public. This means that even if a beach belongs to a hotel, it is open to the general public. Visitors can access and enjoy these beaches just like hotel guests staying in the vicinity. Some hotels may require prior arrangement, so it's advisable to check with the hotel you are staying at.
Wine Enthusiasts
For wine enthusiasts, it's recommended to bring your own wine from home. Prices for alcohol in Seychelles are high, especially for quality options. Most restaurants allow patrons to bring their own bottle of wine, often charging a corkage fee (in some cases, this fee may be waived).
Recommended Itinerary
To make the most of your Seychelles experience, here's a recommended itinerary:
- Begin your trip on Praslin Island for 2-3 days.
- Take a ferry to La Digue for 2 nights.
- Conclude your journey in Mahe for another 2-3 days.
If starting on Praslin, consider taking a domestic flight directly there, then flying out from Mahe to maximize your time on each island.
Arrival and Transportation
All international flights to Seychelles land at the international airport in Victoria, Mahe. It's a relatively small airport that immediately immerses you in an authentic atmosphere. From here, if you wish to continue to one of the nearby islands, there are several transportation options:
Ferry - There are ferries operating between Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. A ferry from Mahe to La Digue necessarily stops at Praslin as Praslin and La Digue are very close (15 minutes by boat). The ferry journey from Mahe to Praslin takes approximately an hour and a half. It's recommended to purchase ferry tickets in advance on the website (https://www.seychellesbookings.com/) and to ensure there is a ferry available on the day you plan to travel, as the number of ferries has been significantly reduced during the pandemic.
Domestic Flight - Air Seychelles operates domestic flights from the capital Mahe to Praslin (there are no flights to La Digue). The flights depart from the adjacent terminal at the Victoria airport.
Private Charter Flight - It's possible to charter a private plane for approximately 800 euros. The private plane can reach any of the three islands.
For travelers, these options provide flexibility and convenience to explore Seychelles' stunning archipelago.
Praslin
Praslin is the second largest island in Seychelles. It is predominantly a nature reserve and is home to the unique Coco de Mer palm trees, which naturally grow only here. These Coco de Mer nuts are protected by law and are not allowed to be consumed in Seychelles due to their rarity. The Coco de Mer palm takes about 25 years to mature before its fruit is ready for consumption. On Praslin, visitors can explore the reserve where these palms grow and learn all about their fascinating story.
Praslin Island is essentially surrounded by a bypass road. The road is not circular but has a start and end point. Traveling from one end to the other can take about 50 minutes and costs approximately 25 euros by taxi, which is worth considering when planning accommodations and attractions.
During our visit, we hired a recommended driver whose rates were significantly lower compared to others. His contact number (available on WhatsApp) is Donny +248-2529950+
Curieuse Island - A Natural Paradise in Seychelles
Curieuse Island is an uninhabited island located northeast of Praslin, Seychelles, and it is home to giant Aldabra tortoises. These tortoises grow in a protected reserve and are cared for from infancy to maturity by local conservation efforts. Visitors can explore the island as part of a day trip from Praslin, usually accessed by boat. There are several tour options available: a full-day excursion including lunch and stops at neighboring islands, or a half-day trip without lunch.
Tours can be done in groups or privately. The advantage of a private tour is the flexibility to request drop-offs at specific beaches on the way back. Beyond the tortoises, Curieuse Island presents a truly paradisiacal landscape, resembling a real-life Eden.
Accommodation - Our Stay at Constance Lemuria Hotel
During our visit, we stayed at Constance Lemuria Hotel, located at the western edge of the island. The hotel boasts three stunning beaches, two of which offer breathtaking sunset views, three restaurants, a perfect swimming pool, and a sea-view breakfast experience. It is renowned for its high-level service and personalized attention, with a dedicated WhatsApp representative available for any requests.
Recommended Beaches
Anse Lazio Beach - Considered the most beautiful beach on Praslin. It features a long stretch of stunning coastline with granite rocks in the water. Access is either by car or by sea, typically at the conclusion of the Curieuse Island tour. Note that sea access depends on tides and sea conditions on the day.
Anse Kerlan Beach - These are actually two adjacent beaches, one larger and expansive, and the other smaller. They are located at the Constance Lemuria Hotel.
Anse Georgette Beach - Another beach at the Constance Lemuria Hotel, situated beyond the hotel's golf course. Access is via a fifteen-minute walk through the golf course. It is renowned for its stunning beauty and is personally my favorite beach on Praslin.
Anse Boudin Beach - The beach at Raffles Hotel. It's a relatively small strip of beach, not particularly impressive compared to others on the island.
These beaches offer diverse experiences, each with its own unique charm and amenities, making them ideal for exploring and enjoying the natural beauty of Praslin Island.
Restaurants in Praslin
Diva Restaurant - Located at Constance Lemuria Hotel. This gourmet restaurant requires a dress code upon entry. At Diva, you have the option of a private dinner in the wine cellar, accompanied by a sommelier and personal waiter. It’s an exceptionally unique experience where you'll taste a five-course fixed menu (modifiable based on dietary preferences) paired with fine wines from the restaurant’s cellar. Jerome, the sommelier, guides you through the entire meal, enhancing the experience with his extensive knowledge. Reservations are highly recommended as only one couple can enjoy dinner each evening.
This culinary journey at Diva promises a perfect dining experience, ideal for those seeking an intimate and exquisite evening on Praslin.
Curieuse Restaurant - Located at Raffles Hotel. A seafood restaurant specializing in fresh fish and seafood delicacies. Enjoy a culinary journey with a focus on the bounty of the Indian Ocean, offering a delightful dining experience amidst the luxurious setting of Raffles Hotel.
The Nest Restaurant - Found at Constance Lemuria Hotel. This restaurant is renowned for its excellent chef-led cuisine, making it highly recommended for an evening meal. Delight in gourmet dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, accompanied by impeccable service and a picturesque ambiance that enhances every dining experience at Constance Lemuria.
Les Lauriers Restaurant - A charming Italian restaurant with a cozy atmosphere. Enjoy delicious pizzas straight from the wood-fired oven, alongside a variety of other Italian culinary delights. Immerse yourself in a casual dining experience that captures the essence of Italian cuisine at Les Lauriers.
La Digue
La Digue is the smallest among the three main islands but, in my opinion, the most beautiful. It retains a relatively untouched charm despite its popularity. Most residents and tourists get around the island on bicycles, which can be rented in the town or through hotels. Unlike the larger islands, you won't find massive resorts here, and everything feels simpler in comparison, which adds to its appeal. What I find most enjoyable here is cycling along the stunning coastline, stopping to snorkel, and then continuing on.
Additionally, La Digue serves as a departure point for diving sites in the area if you're a diving enthusiast.
Many people visit La Digue on a day trip from Praslin. However, in my personal opinion, it's highly recommended to stay on the island for at least a couple of days to truly appreciate its beauty.
Accommodation - Le Nautique
During our stay on La Digue, we opted for Le Nautique Hotel, a boutique establishment with only a few rooms managed by an Australian couple. The hotel features an excellent restaurant and a pool overlooking the sunset. Like most hotels on La Digue, Le Nautique does not have its own beach, but this is typical for accommodations on the island.
Recommended Beaches
Anse Banana Beach - A beautiful stretch of relatively untouched beach.
Anse La Reunion Beach - A vast and stunning beach strip with several vendors selling souvenirs.
Anse Patates Beach - A small and almost hidden strip that is not easily visible from the road. Descending down the stairs reveals a true paradise!
Anse Source d'Argent Beach - The most famous beach in Seychelles. It's a stunning beauty that has earned the title of the world's most photographed beach. Located within a nature reserve, there's an entrance fee to access it, and you can continue by bicycle until the end within the reserve. What makes this beach unique is that its beauty is best seen from the water, looking back towards the shore. Along the stretch, giant granite rocks appear as if placed there for a movie set. The main attraction here is kayaking tours, transparent kayaks are available specifically for this purpose. Tours depart from outside the reserve, either as a guided group or by renting a kayak independently for an hour. This attraction is highly popular but operates somewhat monopolistically with high prices and relatively low service levels.
Restaurants in La Digue
Le Repaire Restaurant - An Italian restaurant with a romantic atmosphere in La Digue.
Le Nautique Restaurant - Located at Le Nautique Hotel. An excellent seafood restaurant with a stunning waterfront view overlooking the sunset.
Chez Jules Restaurant - A simple local restaurant near Banana Beach serving authentic Creole cuisine. Among the dishes offered, you can taste fruit bat curry. Yes, it's true and not for the faint-hearted!
Mahe Island
Mahe is the largest island in Seychelles, home to the capital city Victoria and the primary international airport where flights arrive in the country.
The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Seychelles, along with several top-rated hotels. A significant portion of Mahe is designated as a nature reserve, offering hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
Distances on the island can be quite large, necessitating transportation. Options for getting around include taxis or renting a car. If opting for a car rental, it's important to note that driving is on the left side of the road and the roads can be narrow and winding. Locals often drive somewhat recklessly, so comprehensive insurance is highly recommended when renting a car for added peace of mind.
Accommodation - Constance Ephelia
We stayed at the Constance Ephelia Resort, a sprawling giant resort that spans a vast area and can accommodate up to a thousand guests. The resort is essentially divided into two parts, the South and North wings, with considerable distances between them. To reach almost any point within the resort, guests rely on continuous buggy shuttle services.
The resort features three beaches within its grounds and six restaurants. Its main advantage lies in its ability to provide almost everything within its premises, minimizing the need to venture outside. Its relatively attractive pricing also makes it popular among families with children. However, I believe it may be less suitable for couples seeking a quieter, more intimate atmosphere due to its somewhat bustling environment.
Copolia Trail
The Copolia Trail is the most well-known and relatively easy hiking trail on Mahe. Stretching approximately 900 meters uphill, it leads to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the northeastern part of the island and neighboring islands. The trail takes about 40 minutes to an hour to complete, depending on walking pace. It winds through jungle terrain with lush vegetation, culminating in a stunning panoramic vista.
It's important to carry water as there are no facilities to purchase any in the area. The trail offers a rewarding experience for hikers seeking both natural beauty and a moderate physical challenge amidst Seychelles' tropical landscape.
Recommended Beaches
Anse Louis Beach - A wide stretch of beach recommended for visiting its southern area.
Petite Anse Beach - Located within the Four Seasons Resort, this stunning beach strip is renowned for its beauty and is considered one of the most beautiful in Mahe. Access to the hotel is by foot as vehicles are parked at the entrance, and it takes about ten minutes downhill to reach the beach. Tip: Booking a restaurant reservation in advance at the hotel allows access with a vehicle.
Anse L'Islette Beach - Constance Ephelia
Anse L'Islette Beach is one of the beaches at Constance Ephelia Resort, offering a perfect view of the sunset.
Restaurants in Mahe
Cyann Restaurant - Cyann Restaurant at Constance Ephelia is divided into two sections: a sushi bar and an à la carte restaurant. The restaurant offers a luxurious dining experience where appropriate attire is required.
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