Book Flights to Seychelles

Take a hike from Beau Vallon to Anse Major (a 90-minute walk) and experience ultimate solitude. The beaches here are those normally seen on postcards or travel advertisements. Note that during some parts of the year, the tides can be far more treacherous than the tranquil waters appear to suggest, so pay attention to any warning signs.

If you thought plant seeds were always tiny, then a visit to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve will change your perspective. This national park and World Heritage Site is home to a huge variety of plants and animals, including the largest seed in the world – the coco de mer.

Divers and snorkel enthusiasts should head for Aldabra Atoll, one of the world's largest coral atolls. Stretching more than 35 km, it encircles a tidal lagoon that’s home to tiger sharks and manta rays (so again, pay attention to local advice or warning signs, and swim only where it’s safe to do so).

On a trip to the Seychelles, water is your main playground. Activities range from leisurely cruises and island-hopping to more adrenaline-fuelled fun, such as jet-skiing and water-skiing. Fishing is also popular, with big-game expeditions a favourite among trophy hunters looking for marlin, sharks and rays.

However, if you would rather conserve game fish than hunt them, you can go on guided dives to the coral reefs that surround the islands, and meet these aquatic giants on their own terms.

If you prefer to stay on dry land, then there are plenty of sporting activities, usually arranged by your hotel or resort. From tennis to hiking, cycling to Pilates, you can be as active or as relaxed as you want. If you want to discover the island’s interior, there are several well-marked hiking trails on the main island of Mahé, and a few additional paths and trails on Praslin too.

As you would imagine, the key ingredient in most Seychelles dishes is fish. Creole cooking is very popular, so you’ll find a lot of influences fused together to create a uniquely tropical cuisine that contains a lot of coconut. 

Curries are also common, and of the fish recipes the most iconic dish of the islands is fresh red snapper, simply barbecued and served with very little embellishment.

The best place for any type of shopping, whether for souvenir trinkets or something a little more refined, is the capital Victoria. For the best bargains and the widest choice, head to the market in the city centre.

There are other outlets across the island chain, particularly on Praslin. Larger hotels and resorts have their own boutiques, but these can be expensive.

The classic Seychelles souvenir is the Lodoicea coco-de-mer, or the sea coconut. Keep in mind that you will need an export licence to take one home with you. It’s probably a better idea to go for locally made souvenirs such as jewellery, but make sure jewellery made from items like coral and pearls are supplied by trusted vendors.