The Seychelles - Insider's Guide

The Seychelles are located in the Indian Ocean approximately 1000 miles off the east coast of Africa. It is famous for its dramatic granite boulders that jut out of turquoise clear ocean waters and white sand beaches. The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 pristine islands in the Indian Ocean, approximately 1000 miles off the eastern coast of Africa. 72 of the islands are classed as outer islands, which are largely uninhabited. The inner 20 islands have a permanent population and other private, protected nature reserves. Islands, such as Denis Island are home to a single luxury resort, leaving the rest of the island to nature. Like other island groups, the outer islands shouldn’t be missed. 

Mahe is the main island and the location of the International Airport. There are direct flights from Dubai, Paris, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Zanzibar. This is used as the jumping off point to the smaller islands such as La Digue and Praslin. Flights do not fly every day to all locations. We suggest staying a minimum of 6-7 nights and visiting Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. 

Being so close to the equator, the Seychelles benefits from a warm tropical climate all year round, and it doesn’t have dramatically different seasons. It is outside the cyclone belt, which means it avoids most storms but not the undercurrent winds. If you are a diver or like to snorkel, there are heavy trade winds that can make depth of viewing poor. Best time for underwater activities is April to May and October to November where visibility can reach 100 feet. During these months, the winds are changing direction, so they are calmer, the sea is at its clearest, and water temperatures remain warm, making for excellent underwater visibility.

The wettest months in the Seychelles are usually from December through to February, with the increased humidity and late afternoon rainfall. Heavy showers can happen throughout the year, but they are usually short and fierce.

Overall Best Time to Visit the Seychelles: April, May, October and November. Calm waters, sunny skies, and optimal conditions for snorkeling and diving. Excellent extension to your safari in East Africa. 

ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS

MAHE - As the largest island in the Seychelles, Mahé is the arrival point for travellers. You can spend your entire time on Mahe and take day trips to the smaller islands. Mahe has towering granite peaks, lush jungle foliage, and some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. 

For snorkeling and diving the reefs around Mahé are full of colorful marine life, especially around Ste Anne Marine Park. 

Our Favorite Place to Stay: Constance Ephelia

PRASLIN – This is a smaller and more laid-back island then Mahe. It is a 15-minute flight or an hour’s ferry ride from Mahe. The island feels relatively untouched, with thick jungles and white sand beaches. One should take the time to explore Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed nature reserve that resembles a prehistoric forest. Praslin and neighboring Curieuse Island are the only places in the world where the Coco d Mer grows. It is the world’s largest nut and known for its provocative odd, shaped coconut.

Anse Lazio is regularly named one of the world’s best beaches with crystal-clear water, granite boulders and powdery white sand. Snorkeling off these beaches can be incredible, with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. It’s the perfect mix of luxury and seclusion, making it an ideal escape for anyone looking to experience the true beauty of the Seychelles.

Our Favorite Place to Stay: Constance Lemuria, Raffles

LA DIGUE ISLAND – This island is what dreams are made of. There is no airport and very few cars. Most people get around by bicycle. You can cycle from one end to the other in under an hour. The island is breathtaking. We know we have said it before but again some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Each beach in the Seychelles keeps outdoing each other. La Digue might be the shining star!

Anse Source d ‘Argent is the beach the is classically shown in pictures. Its clear water, white sands and huge granite boulders jutting out from the water is magical.

Our Favorite Place to Stay: Domaine de L’Orangerie

PRIVATE ISLANDS  

DENIS ISLAND – a 30-minute flight from Mahe. There are no cars, no roads, no internet, no phones, nothing but shear solitude of pristine beaches and turquoise waters. There are only a handful of beachfront cottages. 

DESROCHES ISLAND – 35 minutes by small plane from Mahe it is the home of the Four Seasons Resort with 40 beach suites with private pools. There are also a dozen private villas.

FREGATE ISLAND – an exclusive private island, mostly set aside as a wildlife sanctuary. There are seven white sand beaches that can be booked for private use. 

NORTH ISLAND – the most luxurious of all the resorts. It is secluded sanctuary and unparalleled barefoot luxury, exclusive. It is for the traveler seeking the utmost in privacy with 11 expansive villas. Every guest has their own private attendant, golf cart and custom-tailored daily meals. The spa overlooks the open waters. The La Vie Spa has a menu of curated treatments to heal the mind and body. The main guests you will encounter are the 200 free roaming giant Aldabra tortoises and a thousand sea turtles. Be as social or secluded as you wish. 

SILHOUETTE ISLAND – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is composed of rugged cliffs, lush jungles, Mount Dauban and meandering rivers. It is the third largest of the islands. Development has been limited due to the geographic nature of the island with steep slopes. There are only two places to stay, Niva Labriz and the secluded boutique La Belle Tortue Lodge. The island is reached by a 45- minute boat ride or a scenic 15-minute helicopter tr4andf from Mahe. 

Born Free Safaris Specialists will create the right combination of islands, experiences, and resorts for your dream trip to these magnificent islands. For a good head start, click her and take a look at our The Seychelles - Most Beautiful Beaches in the World itinerary.