Seychelles is often described as the epitome of a tropical paradise. Comprising 115 islands, this unique destination offers a stunning blend of white sand beaches, lush jungles, and an incredibly rich cultural heritage.
Known for its year-round warm climate and secluded coves, Seychelles has become synonymous with luxury and unspoiled beauty, making it a dream destination for travellers seeking an escape from the ordinary.
While many visitors come for the sun and sea, Seychelles offers much more than just beach lounging. Exploring its diverse offering allows travellers to experience the depth and breadth of this remarkable destination. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 things to do in Seychelles. We offer luxury and budget Seychelles packages tailored to your preferences, ensuring an unforgettable tropical escape.
1. Relax on Anse Lazio Beach
Anse Lazio, located on Praslin Island, is widely recognized as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The beach is framed by impressive granite boulders and lapped by the calm, clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The idyllic scenery makes Anse Lazio a picture-perfect spot to unwind and soak in the serenity of Seychelles.
Visitors can indulge in a range of relaxing and adventurous activities. The beach’s gentle waters make it ideal for swimming, offering a refreshing break from the tropical sun. Sunbathers can stretch out on the soft sands, enjoying the warmth and taking in breathtaking views of the horizon.
For those looking to explore beneath the waves, Anse Lazio is a haven for snorkelling, with its shallow waters providing a chance to spot vibrant marine life, including colourful fish and coral formations just a short distance from the shore.
The best time to experience Anse Lazio is during the early morning hours or later in the afternoon when the light is soft, creating a magical ambiance for photos and quiet reflection. This timing also helps avoid the midday crowds that often gather, as Anse Lazio is a popular spot among tourists.
Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, and arriving early means you can secure the perfect spot to lay down your towel.
2. Explore Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Nestled in the heart of Praslin Island, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its otherworldly beauty and ecological significance.
Often referred to as the “Garden of Eden,” this ancient palm forest offers visitors a rare opportunity to step into a pristine and untouched natural wonderland, where time seems to have stood still for centuries. The reserve is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and anyone eager to experience the unique biodiversity that Seychelles has to offer.
The crown jewel of Vallée de Mai is the Coco de Mer palm, an iconic species endemic to Seychelles and known for producing the largest and heaviest seed in the plant kingdom.
The reserve is also home to rare wildlife, including the endangered Seychelles black parrot, the island’s national bird, which can often be heard chirping melodiously from the treetops. Other fascinating species include brightly coloured geckos and unique insects that contribute to the area’s rich biodiversity.
Exploring Vallée de Mai is made easy with well-maintained hiking trails that wind through the reserve, offering visitors an immersive experience. Trails vary in length and difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and avid hikers. Along the paths, interpretive signs provide insights into the flora and fauna, while the lush surroundings create a tranquil atmosphere. For a more in-depth understanding of the ecosystem, guided tours led by knowledgeable rangers are available, offering fascinating details about the history and unique species of the reserve.
3. Snorkeling and Diving Adventures
Seychelles is a diver’s paradise, offering some of the most pristine underwater landscapes in the world.
The archipelago boasts a wide range of dive locations, each offering its unique charm. Baie Ternay Marine National Park, located off the northwest coast of Mahé, is ideal for beginners and snorkelers. Its calm, shallow waters teem with vibrant coral reefs and schools of tropical fish.
For more experienced divers, the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit. This remote and pristine location is one of the largest coral atolls in the world, home to giant groupers, manta rays, and even hammerhead sharks. Other notable spots include the Shark Bank for its pelagic fish and the Ennerdale Wreck, a fascinating artificial reef.
Seychelles’ waters are home to an extraordinary array of marine life. Snorkelers will encounter colourful coral gardens, playful parrotfish, and the occasional hawksbill turtle, while divers can marvel at reef sharks, eagle rays, and shoals of barracuda.
Beginners can join snorkelling excursions or take introductory scuba courses offered by professional dive centers across the islands. For certified divers, Seychelles offers advanced dives with opportunities to explore shipwrecks and drift dives.
4. Visit La Digue Island and Bike Around
La Digue, one of the most charming islands in Seychelles, offers a perfect escape for those seeking a laid-back vibe and a slower pace of life. This picturesque island is known for its traditional Creole architecture and a unique culture where bicycles replace cars as the primary mode of transportation. Visiting La Digue feels like stepping back in time to a simpler, more peaceful way of living.
Cycling is an integral part of life on La Digue, and it’s one of the best ways to explore the island’s beauty. The lack of motorized vehicles creates a serene atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil surroundings.
As you pedal through quiet lanes flanked by palm trees and hibiscus flowers, you’ll pass charming Creole houses and small eateries serving delicious Seychellois cuisine. Cycling on La Digue isn’t just a way to get around—it’s an experience that lets you connect with the island’s natural beauty and warm culture.
A visit to La Digue isn’t complete without exploring its iconic beaches and landmarks. Anse Source d’Argent, frequently ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, is a must-visit. Nearby, L’Union Estate offers a glimpse into the island’s history, featuring a working coconut plantation, a traditional copra mill, and the giant Aldabra tortoises that roam freely.
Other highlights include Grand Anse, another stunning beach perfect for picnics and relaxation, and Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest), the highest point on the island offering panoramic views for those who enjoy a short hike.
5. Hiking in Morne Seychellois National Park
Morne Seychellois National Park, the largest terrestrial park in Seychelles, is a haven for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. Covering a significant portion of Mahé Island, the park is home to dense forests and rugged mountain peaks.
Among the park’s many trails, the Copolia Trail and Morne Blanc Trail are two of the most popular and rewarding options. The Copolia Trail is a moderate hike that takes around 45 minutes to an hour each way, leading to a granite outcrop with panoramic views of the east coast of Mahé, including the St Anne Marine National Park and lush, surrounding hills. Along the way, you’ll encounter unique plant species like pitcher plants and endemic palms.
The Morne Blanc Trail is slightly more challenging but equally spectacular. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete and rewards hikers with a breathtaking viewpoint at the summit. Here, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the western coastline, including Port Launay Marine National Park and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.
The trails wind through lush tropical forests filled with endemic flora like the jellyfish tree and the Seychelles vanilla orchid. You may also spot rare fauna, including the Seychelles bulbul, the Seychelles kestrel, and brightly coloured frogs and geckos.
The scenic viewpoints along the trails provide a sense of accomplishment, offering stunning vistas of the island’s rugged landscapes and shimmering coastline.
6. Experience Creole Culture and Cuisine
Seychelles’ Creole culture is a vibrant tapestry woven from African, Asian, and European influences, making it as rich and diverse as the islands themselves. Exploring this culture offers a deeper understanding of Seychelles beyond its picturesque landscapes.
A major highlight of this cultural journey is the local cuisine, a fusion of flavours and ingredients that reflect the islands’ history and natural bounty.
The heart of Seychellois cuisine lies in its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Seafood takes centre stage, with dishes like grilled fish marinated in garlic and ginger and the beloved octopus curry, slow-cooked in a fragrant blend of coconut milk and spices.
For a snack on the go, try samosas filled with spiced meat or vegetables, or indulge in desserts like coconut nougat and banana fritters, which highlight the island’s tropical produce. Many dishes are accompanied by rice, lentils, or vegetables cooked with a Creole twist.
A visit to the vibrant Sir Selwyn Clarke Market in Victoria, Mahé, is a must for those wanting to experience the local food scene. Here, you’ll find an array of fresh fish, tropical fruits, spices, and handcrafted goods. The lively atmosphere is an experience in itself, as you mingle with locals and take in the colourful sights and scents of the market.
For an authentic Creole dining experience, visit popular restaurants like Marie Antoinette on Mahé, which serves traditional dishes in a historic colonial house, or La Perle Noire in Beau Vallon, known for its fusion of Creole and international flavours. On La Digue, Chez Jules offers fresh seafood and laid-back island vibes.
Creole culture extends beyond food into the vibrant world of music, dance, and festivals. Traditional moutya and sega music, characterized by rhythmic drumbeats and storytelling lyrics, form the soul of Seychellois celebrations. You’ll often see locals dancing barefoot to these tunes during cultural events, weddings, or family gatherings.
For an immersive cultural experience, time your visit to coincide with the Seychelles Creole Festival held annually in October. This week-long celebration honours the islands’ Creole heritage through music performances, art exhibitions, dance shows, and culinary fairs. It’s an ideal way to witness the joy and energy that define Seychellois culture.
7. Island Hopping Excursions
One of the greatest joys of visiting Seychelles is the opportunity to explore its many islands, each offering its own distinct charm and experiences.
Day trips are a popular way to experience multiple islands without the need for extended stays. Regular ferry services operate between the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, offering a convenient and scenic way to travel. For smaller or more remote islands, guided boat tours are widely available, often including activities like snorkelling and picnics, or guided walks.
Private charters and catamaran tours are another fantastic option for those looking for a more personalized experience. These often allow flexibility in your itinerary, letting you tailor your island-hopping adventure to your preferences.
8. Explore Seychelles’ History at Victoria
The capital city of Victoria, located on Mahé Island, is often described as the smallest capital in the world, but its compact size is brimming with charm and historical significance.
Unlike sprawling metropolises, Victoria is easy to navigate on foot, making it perfect for leisurely exploration.
Sir Selwyn Clarke Market is a must-visit for anyone eager to experience local culture. Vibrant stalls offer fresh produce, seafood, spices, and handmade crafts, making it a sensory feast.
Known as “Little Big Ben,” the Clock Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Victoria. Erected in 1903 to commemorate Seychelles becoming a British Crown Colony, it stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past.
Seychelles Botanical Gardens provide a tranquil escape filled with exotic plants, towering palms, and vibrant orchids. Visitors can also encounter giant Aldabra tortoises and fruit bats, adding a touch of wildlife to the historical experience.
9. Fishing Trips and Water Sports
Seychelles offers thrilling fishing trips and an array of water sports that cater to adventure seekers and leisure enthusiasts alike for unforgettable aquatic experiences.
Fishing in Seychelles is a bucket-list activity for anglers. Deep-sea fishing charters take you beyond the turquoise lagoons into the deep blue, where the waters are rich with game fish. Many charters offer both half-day and full-day options, allowing you to customize your experience.
For those who prefer to stay closer to shore, Seychelles offers a range of water sports that allow you to explore the islands at your own pace. Kayaking through the calm lagoons provides a peaceful way to admire the beauty of the coastline and its hidden coves. Paddleboarding offers a fun and accessible way to glide across the water while soaking up the sun.
Meanwhile, windsurfing combines the thrill of speed with the challenge of harnessing the wind, making it a favourite for adrenaline junkies.
Most resorts and water sports centers on the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue provide rentals and lessons for beginners, allowing everyone to participate, regardless of skill level.
10. Relax at a Luxury Spa
Seychelles is synonymous with luxury, and its world-class resorts and spas take relaxation to an entirely new level.
Signature treatments often incorporate locally sourced ingredients like coconut oil, tropical fruits, and essential oils, offering a sensory connection to the islands. Enjoy a beachfront massage while listening to the gentle lapping of the waves or opt for a detoxifying body wrap infused with Seychellois herbs. Yoga and meditation sessions on the beach are also common offerings, designed to harmonize the mind and body with nature. View our Seychelles holiday packages and start planning your dream vacation today.
