The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, just south of the equator. This tropical paradise attracts travelers with some of the world’s most stunning beaches and lush rainforests teeming with exotic animals and rare plants. The Seychelles enjoy pleasant weather year-round, with air temperatures rarely falling below 24°C or rising above 33°C. The water temperature is a consistent +27°C, making swimming enjoyable all year. The four largest islands — Mahé, Praslin, Silhouette, and La Digue — offer more than just beach lounging under palm trees; they also boast a wealth of unique attractions.

MAHÉ

Mahé is the main island of the Seychelles, home to nearly 90% of the country’s population. Here you’ll also find Victoria, the nation’s capital and the smallest capital city in the world. You can explore Victoria’s colonial buildings in just a few hours of leisurely walking. Key highlights include a small replica of Big Ben, the main shopping street Market Street with its Chinese-style market, and a botanical garden with rare plants where you can feed giant tortoises.

Don’t miss the Morne Seychellois National Park, the archipelago’s largest park. The park features the Morne Seychellois mountain, unique plants like the "jellyfish tree," whose fruits resemble small jellyfish, and the brightly colored carnivorous plant Nepenthes. The park is also home to rare orchids and wildlife like the flying fox. A must-visit spot is the Craft Village, just 3 km from the airport, where you can explore a 19th-century Creole estate and buy handcrafted souvenirs from local artisans.

PRASLIN

Praslin, the second-largest island, is known as the "Palm Island" thanks to the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to an abundance of coco de mer palms. Their fruit, resembling either a heart or a pair of buttocks, can weigh up to 20 kg. The iconic coco de mer, featured on the Seychelles coat of arms, can be purchased as a dried and hollowed-out souvenir weighing about 1 kg. The reserve is also home to rare black parrots – spotting one is considered a sign that you’ll return to the Seychelles.

Another highlight on Praslin is the Black Pearl Farm, which breeds black pearl oysters and vibrant Tridacna maxima clams sought after by aquarists worldwide.

SILHOUETTE

The third-largest island in the Seychelles is a national park. It features a turtle farm and forests filled with exotic plants and animals, such as the Seychelles flying fox and the blue pigeon with a red crest. Adventurous visitors can climb Mont Pot-a-Eau, offering breathtaking views of the island. Surrounded by coral reefs, Silhouette is a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

LA DIGUE

A small and charming island best explored by bicycle or ox-cart. Despite its size, La Digue offers vibrant flora, fauna, and an equally colorful underwater world. You can climb Nid d’Aigle, a 333-meter mountain that requires no special preparation. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands. A unique tradition here allows you to write your name on agave leaves at the summit.

WHAT TO TASTE IN THE SEYCHELLES

Octopus curry with coconut pulp
Parrotfish fillet
Shrimps in a sweet sauce
Dishes made from flying foxes, bats, or turtles (if you’re feeling adventurous!)
Desserts of sweet potato or banana cooked in coconut milk with cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg