The Seychelles, an island paradise in the Indian Ocean, is a prime destination for beach and nature lovers. With 115 islands, including Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, the archipelago offers diverse landscapes to explore. Discover the must-see attractions of this exceptional place, whether for a short visit or a longer stay. Don’t forget your travel documents, and prepare to experience unforgettable moments under the tropical sun.

Preparing your trip to Seychelles

To prepare for your trip to the Seychelles, there are several things to consider. First, create an itinerary based on your interests. The islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue are among the most visited and offer a variety of attractions.

Don’t forget to check the country’s entry requirements. A valid passport is needed, but no visa is required for stays under three months. For your health, no vaccinations are mandatory, but vaccinations for diphtheria, tetanus, polio, and hepatitis A and B are recommended.

Regarding transportation, several airlines serve the archipelago. Once there, you can travel between islands by bus, taxi, rental car, or boat. For accommodation, you can choose from luxury hotels, modest guesthouses, and vacation rentals.

Formalities for traveling to Seychelles

To travel to the Seychelles, certain documents and formalities are essential. Before boarding, you need to obtain a “travel authorization” online. This document is compulsory for all travelers, including children, and costs EUR 10 per person.

You must present :

• A valid passport,
• A hotel reservation or proof of accommodation for the duration of your stay,
• A onward or return ticket.

Failure to present these documents may result in a penalty charge on arrival. Proof of vaccination or PCR test is no longer required prior to travel.

Islands to visit during your stay

Several islands are worth visiting during your stay in the Seychelles. Mahé, the largest island, is home to the capital, Victoria, and offers magnificent panoramic views. Praslin, famous for its Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a true natural wonder. La Digue is perfect for lovers of paradise beaches and hiking.

Beyond these three main islands, other lesser-known ones are well worth exploring:

• Bird Island: a small wilderness paradise, it’s a haven for birdwatchers.
• Silhouette Island: home to a rich biodiversity and ideal for diving.
• Fregate Island: Known for its giant tortoises, this is a true sanctuary for wildlife.

For a unique experience, consider a catamaran cruise that allows you to discover several islands in a single trip.

Mahé: Seychelles’ cultural and economic center

Mahé, the largest island in the archipelago, serves as the cultural and economic hub of the Seychelles. It hosts Victoria, the world’s smallest capital, where a vibrant blend of cultures and traditions unfolds. Colonial buildings, Hindu temples, mosques, and cathedrals adorn the city streets, embodying the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Mahé’s economy thrives on tourism, the public sector, and fishing, with Mahé International Airport serving as a key hub for international flights. For art and culture enthusiasts, the Domaine de Val-des-Prés is a must-visit, showcasing local craftsmanship and ancient traditions.

Gastronomically, Mahé offers a variety of restaurants specializing in delicious Creole cuisine, abundant in seafood and spices. Vibrant markets like the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke market are perfect for discovering local flavors.

Mahé is renowned for its stunning landscapes, from pristine white sandy beaches to lush mountains. Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints such as Morne Seychellois, the island’s highest peak, ensuring unforgettable vistas for visitors.

The best time to visit Seychelles

To make the most of Seychelles, the ideal time of year varies based on your preferred activities. For those seeking to avoid crowds, the off-season from April to June and mid-September to mid-November offers a dry, sunny climate, ideal for beach relaxation.

If you’re an avid diver, March to May and September to November are recommended for clear waters and abundant marine life. For cultural enthusiasts interested in events like the “Festival Kreol,” consider visiting between September and November or in March-April.

Despite seasonal variations, temperatures in the Seychelles remain pleasant all year round, generally fluctuating between 25°C and 30°C.

Religion and Creole culture in Seychelles

Seychelles’ Creole culture embodies a harmonious fusion of African, Asian, European, and island traditions. Seychellois Creole holds a central position in this diverse cultural tapestry, influencing language, gastronomy, and traditions.

Religiously, Seychelles is predominantly Catholic (75-82%), with Protestantism (6-10%) and Islam (1-3%) also represented. The country is characterized by peaceful coexistence among these diverse faiths, reflecting a spirit of tolerance and mutual respect.

Tourist Office: Guide and map

The Seychelles Tourist Office offers a wide range of tourist guides and maps to help you make the most of your stay. These resources include information on must-see sites, practical tips for your trip and suggested itineraries.

• Tourist guides are available online and on site. They provide detailed information on places to visit, Seychelles history and culture, things to do, accommodation and restaurants. Reference guides include Lonely Planet and Petit Futé.
• Tourist maps are ideal for planning your trip and finding your way around. They show the locations of sights, hotels, restaurants, beaches and national parks. Downloadable maps are particularly convenient for smartphone use.

What’s more, the Tourist Office also offers tourist concierge services, such as transfers and airlines. It can also help you plan your vacation according to your preferences and budget.

International interest in the Seychelles archipelago

The Seychelles archipelago garners undeniable international interest, drawing tourists and investors from across the globe. Tourism stands as the cornerstone of the Seychellois economy, contributing 33.29% to the gross domestic product in 2021.

With the support of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF), the Seychelles government is actively promoting the sustainability of its tourism industry. Significant efforts are directed towards preserving the archipelago’s unique environment, including the establishment of protected areas covering 43% of the national territory.

The Seychelles archipelago is renowned for its luxury tourism, attracting over 360,000 visitors in 2018, predominantly from Europe. There is also ongoing development in eco-tourism and cultural tourism to diversify the tourism offerings.

In addition to tourism, Seychelles is increasingly attracting international investors, particularly in the real estate sector, reflecting growing interest and confidence in the country’s economic opportunities.