The Seychelles is 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. 

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: April, May, October and November. Waters are calm, sunny skies and optimal conditions for snorkeling and diving.

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 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.

SILHOUETTE ISLAND

Silhouette Island is stunning. It is surrounded by rugged cliffs, jungles and rivers with few inhabitants. The Hilton Labriz Resort is island-chic. The villas, located on the beachfront or up on hills with wonderful laid-back activities.

Our Favorite Place to Stay: Hilton Labriz Resort

FREGATE ISLAND is one of the most exclusive private islands in the world. Made up of lush greenery and seven picture perfect white-sand beaches with the unique feature of offering private occupation by simply flip the ‘Beach Occupied’ sign.

Our Favorite Place to Stay is one of the island’s 16 private villas, each with infinity pools and stunning views. Ideal for those looking for the ultimate in exclusivity, privacy, and seclusion.

Alternate Private Island: North Island

A remote and secluded island a perfect luxury castaway location hosted by the Four Seasons Resorts with 40 secluded suites and private pools and taking privacy a step further, 11 private villas.

Request your Seychelles getaway costing from a Born Free Island Specialist.