Home to what is supposedly the world’s most beautiful beaches. Seychelles is a stunning and magical island paradise you should definitely go and see. If you fancy relaxing in the sun and enjoying a day on a sandy white beach, watching crystal blue waters lap at the shores. This is a fantastic location to spend your vacation. With several islands to explore, there is no end to things to do and places to explore in Seychelles.
If you are interested in a trip to this tropical paradise, you are in luck. I have curated a few things you might like to do, see or even taste on a trip to Seychelles. From various islands to a few of the local traditional foods. I have selected a variety of things for you to see and learn about should you find that a trip to Seychelles is for you.
Before You Go
Before you take off for your much deserved fun in the sun. There are a few things that you should know about Seychelles before you go. This section will cover three topics which you may need to be aware of before you travel to this tropical paradise.
Get the Jabs
As a country with a lot of mosquitoes and diseases as a result of these infamous flying insects. There are a series of vaccinations which are recommended or required for you to get. For Example:
Yellow Fever: Required if you are travelling from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission. Any person aged one or over must have this vaccination and a certificate if you are from such a country.
Tetanus: Boosters or courses are advised for this disease as it can be transmitted through contaminated cuts, burns or wounds.
There are several other diseases which may pose a threat. Especially to anyone that is immune compromised. As such, please research further into this topic and find out which vaccinations or boosters you should get to prevent contracting any diseases. If you would like to learn more, you can read more at Fit For Travel.
About the Visas
Seychelles is a relatively easy country to visit. As there are a great many countries that do not actually require a visa to enter Seychelles. Places like the United Kingdom, Sweden, Spain, Indonesia and many more do not require a visa to enter this tropical paradise. There are some that do need a visa, such as Iraq, Mongolia and several others which do need a visa. So make sure to do your research before you go.
It is a Bit Pricey
As a whole, as found from several sources, Seychelles is quite expensive as far as holiday destinations go. Bear in mind that things can quickly get pricey if you are on a budget. As such, I recommend planning your trip carefully and if you are on a tight budget. Making sure that you pick hotels or activities that are not going to eat up all your money.
Experience the Unique Cuisine of Seychelles
No trip is complete without trying some of the local dishes. Seychelles has plenty of options for you to try. As a tropical island, there is a surplus of seafood and local fruit dishes you simply have to try. I have selected a few of Seychelles’ local dishes you might like to try.
Sausage Rougay
This popular Creole dish is a staple in many homes. It is a hearty meal often made up of sausages submerged in a sauce and garnished with chillies, ginger , pepper and thyme. It is a delicious meal that will leave you full and satisfied after the fact.
Satini
If you would like to try a salubrious Creole salad, Satini is the dish for you. It is made up of grated ingredients such as unripe papaya, golden apples, spices and onions. However, it is quite a spicy dish, so if you fancy a version that isn’t vegetarian, you may get shark meat or fish slices in your salad. Overall, it is a fun and spicy dish. You should certainly take the time to try during your Seychelles adventures.
Ladob
This delectable Creole dessert is made up of either bananas or sweet potato and coconut milk. The fruit is cooked in coconut milk and is flavoured with sugar, nutmeg and cinnamon as well as fresh vanilla. This creamy dessert is soft and sweet. It is something you will almost certainly enjoy trying.
Roussettes
If you are feeling adventurous, you might want to try this local Seychelles dish. You may be surprised to know that ‘Roussettes’ actually means…fruit bat curry. This strange dish is a local delicacy which is often on the menu. So, if you are feeling brave, you may want to try it out. The meat apparently tastes like venison and is quite tasty. But a word of warning. Beware of small bones if you do decide you want to dry this fruit bat curry.
Explore the Island Paradise of Seychelles
There are many islands to explore in the Seychelles. Each with its own charm and gorgeous sights to see. I have curated a few options around the islands for you to enjoy and peruse. As always, there are plenty of other options out there and my list does not have everything on it. So, if you would like to supplement your travels with any number of the amazing activities available there, feel free to do your own research in addition to this article.
The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
If you would like to appreciate the wonderful diversity of the Seychelles plant life, then you have to go and see the National Botanical Gardens. Not only are there plenty of rare endemic plants such as the ‘Coco De Mer’ and many others. These gardens were established almost two centuries ago and are one of Seychelles’ oldest national treasures. With over 2 hectares of undisturbed forest and flourishing plants.
This is truly a stunning place to explore. An additional plus is being able to see the giant Aldabra Tortoises wandering the area. They can live up to 150 years old. So if you don’t want to go for the plants, at least go and see these ancient creatures going about their daily lives.
Visit Curieuse Island for the Day
If you have the money to spend on a day trip to Curieuse island, I would recommend going. There are plenty of companies that offer day trips to the gorgeous little island in the Seychelles. Some companies offer a stop off at ‘Cousins Island’, where you can get a look at the various birds and wildlife before disembarking and making your way to Curieuse island. Where you will snorkel and explore the reef as well as see the diverse marine life.
You can relax on the island itself and you may get to see the giant land tortoises that call this island home. Be respectful on your visit as this island is protected and preserved as these giant tortoises’ home. As such, be respectful of the environment. Do not litter and do not crowd these magnificent creatures.
Ste Anne Marine National Park
About five kilometers from Mahé is this beautiful marine park. With crystal blue waters and flourishing marine life, this is an excellent spot to snorkel. Or if you are not inclined to get in the water, you might like to take a glass-bottomed boat excursion. If you just want to relax, then there are plenty of beaches you can choose from. Bring along a picnic or grab a bite at one of the park’s restaurants, such as ‘The Jolly Roger’.
Bird Island
If you are a nature lover and particularly have an affinity for birds, this is a great place to check out. Bid island is a protected island home to many endemic birds and animals. It is a protected island but you are able to visit it and, if you are lucky, you may get to see some of the rare birds nesting. This private sanctuary offers a wonderful blend of local hospitality and a relaxing natural environment for you to enjoy. So, if you are interested in checking out this island, please make sure to be respectful to the animals that live there and clean up after yourself.
Visit the City of Victoria in Mahé
There are a lot of different and spectacular places to see on the main island of Mahé. The capital of the Seychelles is a city known as ‘Victoria’. This city is rather small as capitals go and as such there is not a great deal to do within it. I have, however, found several beautiful places you could go or things you could do if you should choose to stay near the city of Victoria.
The Cathedral of Immaculate Conception
A cool point of interest in the city of Victoria is the Catholic ‘Immaculate Conception Cathedral’. This old religious building is not only the largest church in the Seychelles, but is also the main Catholic temple. The massive columns and stunning stained glass windows are typical of Catholic churches. However, there is something special about the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
It was built in 1874 as a replacement for a smaller chapel as it was too small for the growing following at the time. Over the years, the building has been restored several times and still holds that regal feel. If you are in Victoria, it is worth stopping by this beautiful building.
Trois Freres Trail
If you are interested in taking in the great outdoors and exploring what the island has to offer, maybe the Trois Freres Trail is something you would like to do. On this hike you will get to pick between two trails which lead to a lookout point. One trail is a more relaxed hike up to the lookout point. While the other is more suited to someone that is capable of a steep incline and challenging terrain. Both trails will lead to a steel climb over rocks which may not be suitable for everyone. But the view at the top is worth the climb as you will be able to see much of the island.
On your hike make sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring along sunblock and plenty of water. The tropical sunlight can still cause severe burns if you do not take precautions and dehydration is always a potential issue on hikes like this. So please make sure to be aware of what is practical and what you will need.
Seychelles National Museum of History
If you are in the city of Victoria during your trip to Seychelles, the National Museum of History might be a good stop for you. It is worth checking out as it will allow you to learn about the various plants and animals around the Seychelles. From botany to zoology, there is plenty to learn about the islands around you. In addition to natural history, there are several artifacts surrounding the history of the island itself. Topics such as the People’s Liberation Army and the People’s Defense Forces are available to learn about. So, if you are in the town center, make sure to stop by the Natural History Museum.
Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market
On your travels, if you want to get a taste for the culture of the people of the Seychelles, you might want to stop by Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market on your travels. Not only is this the main market in the city of Victoria, but it is also a beautiful example of Victorian architecture. Although it was renovated in 1999, it is still quite lovely to see in person. From the bustling stands selling spices and fish to the souvenir shops which you will most likely be frequenting on your trip.
Beau Vallon
It is difficult to pick just one beach with the hundreds of fantastic options available in the Seychelles. But the Beau Vallon comes pretty close to being the best one out there. There are not a lot of bays in the Seychelles that are as vibrant and spectacular as the Beau Vallon. It is a beautiful beach with crystal clear water and white sandy beaches.
The only downside is that it is quite popular and as such, the beaches may be quite crowded. So, if you are not willing to share with hundreds of people, another, quieter beach may be more your speed. But it is worth stopping by the Beau Vallon just to take in the magnificent vista.
Conclusion
That is all for this week’s travel guide. The Seychelles is a fantastic spot for a vacation. For families, romantic getaways or even on your own. There is something for everyone and there is really no reason to dislike this tropical paradise. If you would like to read more travel guides, check out some of our articles on African country travel guides. There are plenty for you to choose from. For example, Tunisia, Madagascar or even Uganda. There are plenty of other fantastic articles on our website if travel guides are not what you are after.
I hope that I have inspired you to check out this amazing country and perhaps begin your adventures around the world. You only get one life, so write your own story and make it awesome.
