Seychelles: A Tropical Paradise in the Indian Ocean
(Seychelles – East Africa)
Seychelles-Tropical Beach View
is a stunning archipelago of some 115 granite and coral islands in the the western Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. Known for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush tropical jungles and rare endemic species, this island nation is often called a “paradise on earth.” The cultural fabric of Seychelles is a rich blend of African, French, British, Indian and Creole influences — seen in local food, music, language (Seychellois Creole, English, French), arts and festivals.
Historically, the islands were uninhabited until European colonial explorers arrived in the 18th century; the islands changed hands between French and British colonial powers before gaining independence in 1976. Over time, Seychellois culture evolved through trade, migration, and maritime connections across the Indian Ocean.
For Indian travellers, Seychelles offers both convenience and fascination: unlike many international destinations, it is visa-free for Indian citizens (visa on arrival) under certain conditions.
Seychelles appeals to a wide variety of travellers: honeymooners seeking romantic beaches, couples wanting scenic escapes, families with kids who enjoy nature and marine life, adventurers hoping to snorkel, dive or hike, and backpackers looking for island-hopping and offbeat charm. The islands offer experiences ranging from relaxing beach time, water sports like snorkeling, diving and kayaking, to nature reserves, forest trails, endemic wildlife viewing (like giant Aldabra tortoises), botanical gardens and local Creole culture immersion. The sheer variety of islands means each has its personality—some more remote, some more developed for tourism—making it ideal for travellers seeking both relaxation and exploration.
How to Reach Seychelles
Since Seychelles is an overseas destination for Indians, here is how to reach:
By Air
The primary international gateway is Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island.
From India, there are connecting flights (via Middle East hubs like Dubai, Doha, Addis Ababa, Nairobi) — typically 1 stop.
Some Indian cities may have occasional direct or seasonal flights (for example Mumbai–Seychelles).
The total travel time (including layovers) often ranges 8–14 hours depending on routing.
Inside Seychelles, domestic inter-island flights (e.g. Mahé ⇄ Praslin) are available, often ~15–25 minutes.
By Sea / Ferry
For inter-island travel, regular ferries and speedboats connect Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and nearby islands.
E.g. Mahé to Praslin by ferry (Cat Cocos) takes ~1.5 to 2.5 hours (depending on sea conditions).
From Praslin to La Digue, ferry takes ~15 to 30 minutes.
Local Transportation & Safety Tips
On Mahé and Praslin, public buses operate, though schedules can be irregular.
Car rentals are possible (drive on the left side).
Use licensed taxis or hotel transfers, especially for night travel or unfamiliar roads.
For ferry trips, always check sea and weather conditions.
Arrive with buffer time for connecting transfers.
Tourist Attractions in Seychelles
Here’s a curated list of best attractions, must-visit places and sightseeing highlights:
Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue) — iconic beach with pink granite boulders and shallow waters.
Vallée de Mai (Praslin) — UNESCO World Heritage palm forest, home to Coco de Mer.
ANSE Lazio (Praslin) — one of the finest beaches with clear blue waters and coral reef.
Morne Seychellois National Park (Mahé) — forest trails, viewpoint hikes and biodiversity.
Beau Vallon Beach (Mahé) — popular beach with water sports and local life.
Explore local markets and crafts, Victoria city walk
Sunset cruise or catamaran sailing
Photography of landscapes, rock formations, underwater scenes
Best Time to Travel
The best season to visit Seychelles is during the transition periods: April to May and October to November, when seas are calm and weather is pleasant.
June to September is cooler, drier, and favourable for hiking and wildlife viewing, though trade winds pick up.
December to February is warmer and wetter (rainy season), sometimes with strong winds and rough seas.
Peak tourist season often aligns with European winter, so expect higher prices and crowds in December–January.
Travelling in shoulder seasons (April-May, October-November) offers good balance: fewer crowds, better rates, pleasant climate.
Events & Precautions
Events & Local Festivals
Festival Kreol — celebrated in October, a vibrant cultural festival showcasing Creole music, dance and art.
Seychelles Carnival / National Day celebrations (June 29) with parades and cultural performances.
Occasional religious and community festivals in local islands reflecting Creole, Christian traditions.
Safety & Precautions
During crowded festivals or events, carry minimal valuables and stay alert to pickpockets.
Avoid walking in unlit, remote areas at night alone.
In marine and beach zones, heed local warnings (strong currents, tides).
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coral and marine environment.
Always book marine or diving excursions with licensed operators.
Keep hydrated and apply mosquito repellent especially in rainy or humid periods.
Local Etiquette & Culture: Respect local customs, modest dress when visiting villages or churches, ask before photography of people.
Shopping Guide & Souvenirs: Local crafts, spices, vanilla pods, shells, local art and handmade jewelry—buy from local markets or artisans.
Things Not to Do / Avoid
Do not remove or damage corals, shells, or marine life.
Avoid feeding or disturbing wildlife (tortoises, birds, fish).
Don’t litter beaches or trails; carry rubbish back.
Avoid wearing loud or revealing outfits in villages or religious spaces.
Don’t venture into strong surf areas without local guidance.
Beware of overbooking too many islands; avoid rushed itineraries that waste time in transit.
Do not ignore local advice or weather warnings for sea travel.
Things to Remember
Pack extra sunscreen, mosquito repellent, first-aid kit, water bottle.
Keep copies of passport, emergency contacts, travel insurance.
Stay hydrated, protect yourself from sun, rest between activities.
Emergency numbers / important contacts:
* Seychelles Police / Emergency: 999 or 999 (24h) (verify locally)
* Ambulance / Medical: same or local hospital contact
* Local island or resort reception numbers
* Tourism Seychelles official site: https://seychelles.travel
Suggested Itinerary
3-Day Itinerary (Popular)
Day 1 – Arrival (Mahé):
Arrive at Mahé International Airport → check-in
Relax at Beau Vallon Beach
Evening stroll in Victoria, visit the market & botanical gardens
Day 2 – Mahé to Praslin:
Morning ferry or domestic flight to Praslin
Visit Vallée de Mai & Coco de Mer
Relax at Anse Lazio in evening
Day 3 – La Digue and Departure:
Early ferry from Praslin to La Digue
Visit Anse Source d’Argent, cycle around island
Return to Mahé & depart
5-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Mahé: Beach time, local cuisine, sunset.
Day 2 – Mahé exploration: Morne Seychellois hike, Botanical Gardens, local markets.
Day 3 – Mahé to Praslin: Transfer, Vallée de Mai, Anse Lazio.
Day 4 – Praslin to La Digue: Explore La Digue’s beaches, cycling, rock formations.
Day 5 – Island hopping & Departure: Morning marine park or small islet cruise, return to Mahé & depart.
7-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival Mahé & relax on beach
Day 2 – Mahé sightseeing & hike
Day 3 – Mahé to Praslin, Vallée de Mai, Anse Lazio
Day 4 – La Digue full day
Day 5 – Curieuse & Cousin marine reserve day trip
Day 6 – Ste Anne Marine National Park, snorkeling or boat safari
Day 7 – Last beach time, shopping in Victoria, depart
Nearby Destinations for Extended Trip
While Seychelles is isolated, for extended itineraries one may combine with nearby destinations (in the Indian Ocean / East Africa). Some suggestions:
Mauritius (~1,100 km / ~700 mi)** — tropical island with beaches & cultural diversity; reachable via regional flights (2–3 h).
Madagascar (~1,500 km / ~930 mi)** — rich wildlife, baobab forests; connect via Africa hubs.
Réunion Island (France) (~1,200 km / ~750 mi)** — volcanic landscapes and mountain hiking; regional flights.
Kenya (Mombasa / Nairobi) — combine wildlife safari + beach extension; reach via flights from Seychelles.
Tanzania (Zanzibar / Dar es Salaam) — spice island, beach + wildlife; connect via flights via East Africa.
Trip extension tip: For smooth connections, check flight availability and visa requirements for the extension countries, allow buffer days for transfers, and plan at least two nights in each destination to make travel worthwhile.
Must Try – For Foodies
Here’s a breakdown of notable eateries in Seychelles (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue) sorted by cuisine type:
Local / Creole Cuisine & Seychellois
Marie Antoinette (Victoria, Mahé) — traditional Creole fare. (@ approx SCR 250-600 per person)
Chez Jules (La Digue) — Creole dishes in beachside setting.
Fish Trap (La Digue) — seafood / Creole menu.
Indian / Veg / Indian-Influenced
Le Relax Beach House Restaurant, La Digue — offers Indian dishes along with Creole and international menu.
International / Fusion
Del Place Restaurant (Mahé) — fine dining, creative fusion and seafood. (@ approx SCR 400-1,200)
Trader Vic’s (Mahé) — international / Polynesian style cuisine.
La Perle Noire (Mahé) — elegant French / fusion cuisine.
Casual / Beachside / Cafes
Leo’s Food Bus (Beau Vallon, Mahé) — casual local eats, food truck style.
