Experience stunning beaches, coral reefs to bustling markets and tempting Creole cuisine.
Linger on the beach
This utopian archipelago of 115 islands off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean boasts many of the world’s best beaches. Not least is Petite Anse on Mahé, which is said to be the most beautiful Seychelles beach on the islands, being both pristine and isolated. Another beach not be missed is Anse Forbans, which is more remote than many other beaches on Mahé island, but for those who make the effort, the rewards are plentiful – the calm waters are perfect for snorkelling and discovering marine life first hand.
Hike through the rain forests
Lazing around on long, sandy beaches with the Indian Ocean as far as the eye can see is simply a must. It would be a travesty, though, if you were to fly all that way and not explore the nature of Seychelles, with hiking guaranteed to reveal unexpected natural treasures. Located in the very heart of Mahé, Le Morne Seychellois is considered to be the star of hiking. Various routes wind along the slopes covered with tropical forests and at the highest point of the Seychelles islands, deliver the most stunning vistas, including that of Le Morne Blanc mountain.
Explore bustling markets
Take time to explore some of Seychelles colourful markets, which make for the perfect opportunity to get a feel for the Seychellois and their way of life. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in the capital of Victoria, on the island of Mahé, has been around since 1840 and is teeming with fresh fruit, fish, vegetables and spices. Saturday mornings are vibrant, to say the least, and there are plenty of boutiques and shops for souvenir hunting too.
Try Creole cuisine
It is not a true vaycay until you have explored local cuisine or Creole, with dishes on these islands serving up flavours inspired by French, Chinese and Indian cuisine fused with exotic blends of the island’s own herbs and spices, not to mention secrets. Grilled fish has to be up there as dishes to try. Full of flavour, the taste is unparalleled – take your pick of red snapper, jobfish, jackfish and sailfish. For the more adventurous there is bat curry or shark chutney to savour but if that fails to tease your tastebuds, the island’s abundance of fruits mean more palatable dishes are on hand.
Meet giant tortoises
Head to the land of giants, better known as Curieuse island, which is a national park and home to giant Aldabra tortoises roaming the wild – all 300 of these magnificent reptiles in fact. You can get to feed these giants and oo and arr at the super cute baby hatchlings in the nursery or get close to the leathery oldies aged a staggering 80 to 120 years old.
Quarantine status*
You will not be required to quarantine on arrival to the Seychelles, as long as you have a recognised vaccination certificate approved by the health authorities in the UAE and the Seychelles.
* Correct at the time of going to press. It is your responsibility to check with your airline before travelling.