Why the Seychelles?

There is no destination which emanates paradise quite like the Seychelles do. Scuba-diving and snorkelling are the islands biggest draws and are second to none here – delve into the deep and experience a kaleidoscope of tropical fish, sea turtles and diverse coral that lies beneath the islands’ crystalline waters. The Seychelles are at the core of any luxury escape – whether you are ater the ultimate getaway or the privacy of a secluded island, the Seychelles are the place to be.

Head inland to explore local Creole villages, stop by traditional rum distilleries and vanilla crops, or venture into the islands’ interior to discover the mangrove forests, natural granite and unprecedented bird life and indigenous plants. Comprised of around 115 islands, the Seychelles holds an incredible amount of biodiversity in its flora and fauna, with 50% of the landmass either a national park or reserve.

Mahé island, the largest island in the Seychelles is home to the capital of Victoria. The largest city in the Seychelles, it is an excellent place to start your adventure around the islands. With a colourful and vibrant atmosphere, the city includes many attractions for the keen explorer, including cathedrals, mosques, Hindu temples, museums, local restaurants, and lively local markets. Treat yourself to some traditional Creole cuisine, enjoying blended flavours and a fusion of cultures and ingredients which create delicious, mouth-watering dishes. Tuck into a range of seafood dishes, from red snapper, sea bass, tuna and king mackerel, to boniton, barracuda, bream, lobster, and even octopus.

Fruit bats are endemic to the islands, great tenrecs wander through the jungles, Seychelles tree frogs cool off on the trunks of the forest trees, wolf snakes slither along the ground, tiger chameleons and geckos can be found most surfaces, barn owls hide out in the trees, and tens of thousands of Aldabra giant tortoises call the Aldabra Islands their home.

The magnificent Aldabra Atoll is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and showcases the ancient Aldabra giant tortoises in all their glory. A largely untouched wilderness, conservation work and environmental efforts mean the giant tortoises have gone from being thought to be extinct to thriving, with over 100,000 living on the islands. The breathtaking Valée de Mai Nature Reserve is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is where all six palm species which are endemic to the Seychelles can be found together – including the highly-valued coco de mer.

Stunning beaches are perhaps the most outstanding and memorable feature of the Seychelles. White, fine sand, sparkling azure oceans, warm shallows perfect for paddling, and shores and coastline covered in tropical forests and mangroves. Anse Source d’Argent is often named the most beautiful beach in the world, and the turquoise waters and rocky outcrops are waiting to be experienced. Found on La Digue Island, travellers here can also spend their days exploring the forests on an immersive hike, and if lucky can spot the near extinct paradise flycatcher – which can only be found here.

The Seychelles include a range of topographys which make it a hikers paradise as much as a divers heaven. One day you could be snorkelling in the depths surrounding Praslin, exploring the colourful coral reefs and tropical fish, as well as a variety of deep-water wrecks which are covered in sea plants, and the next day you could be hiking through the forest and mountains being rewarded with sweeping views of the luscious islands and stretching ocean. A challenging but highly rewarding hike on the island of Mahé is perfect for a keen trekker – taking 5 hours but taking you to the highest point of the island.

The Seychelles is the perfect destination for all island experiences. From family holidays to honeymoons, there is something to suit everyone; from down-to-earth experiences in nature to private hire luxury island experiences. You don’t have to stay in one place either – with island hopping a popular way to experience all the Seychelles has to offer.