10 Hidden Treasures of the Seychelles Islands

Seychelles Islands is an archipelago made up of 115 enchanting and truly divine islands. However, not all of these are accessible to the general public, although you can plan supervised day visits to many of the islands. But, there are many islands that that host numerous tourist each year. They are home to multiple sun-kissed beaches, offer world-class accommodation, delicious food, exciting activities and so much more.

Here is your guide to the most popular and gorgeous and breathtaking Seychelles Islands. You can stay at popular Islands such as Mahe and Praslin and enjoy day trips to Bird, Aldabra and Moyenne Islands.

1. Best time to visit the Seychelles Islands

• Peak Season: The best time to visit the Seychelles Islands is between May and August. This is also the busiest tourist season. Although the temperatures may rise to sometimes unbearable degrees, the absence of hurricanes and rainfall make it worth the while. So, if you are in the mood to visit the enchanting Seychelles Islands, its best to do it during this time. Make sure you book in advance so you can secure the best hotels and enjoy low airfares.

Make sure you carry your swimsuits as the beaches are truly divine during this time of the year. You can enjoy a host of water activities such as snorkelling, sailing and diving. Don’t forget to pack your sunglasses and lots and lots of sun scream.

• Low Season: Although the Seychelles islands are a year-round destination. Thanks to the monsoons and cyclones this the period from December to March is not a favourite time for tourist. Even though Seychelles Islands do not fall in the cyclone zone, the weather can be quite windy and unpredictable due to increase in cyclone activities in the Indian ocean.

Rainfall is frequent, and you may be stuck indoors, sometimes days at a time. However, if you are on a budget, this is an excellent time to plan your vacation to the Seychelles Islands. Especially, if you are planning a romantic getaway. There are fewer people on the islands, the beaches are fairly empty, and you can score spectacular accommodation at great prices. And even if you are stuck indoors, there are plenty of indoor activities you can enjoy at your fantastic resorts or hotel.

A Guide to The Majestic and Enchanting Seychelles Islands

1. Mahé Island

This is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago spread across a staggering 157.3 km². The capital city of Seychelles, Victoria is also located in Mahe Island. Nearly 86% of Seychelles population calls Victoria its home. Irrespective of its large population, the city is an exquisite charming beauty with many pristine and sun kissed beaches and enthralling mountains. Victoria is home to the famous jellyfish tree and many rare orchid trees. If you are travelling with your family and don’t wish to move around all that much, then you must stay at Mahe Island.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Codevar Craft Centre
• Natural History Museum
• Botanical Gardens
• Anse Intendance
• Beau Vallon Beach
• Location: Mahe Islands is located on the North-East coast of Seychelles

2. Praslin Island

Praslin is one of the most popular Seychelles islands and the second largest in the archipelago. The island is home to stunning white beaches, turquoise waters and lush green tropical forests. If you want to avoid large crowds and be one with nature, then Praslin is the Island for you and your family.

• Nearest Airport: Praslin International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Anse Lazio
• Anse Geogette
• 18 Hole Golf Course
• Location: Praslin is about 44 km Northeast of Mahe Island
• Any Other Speciality:
• Ferry Rides to Cousine Island
• Bird Watching
• Scuba Diving

3. La Digue – Among the top places in Seychelles Islands

La Digue is a captivating Island a hidden jewel of sorts among the Seychelles archipelago. It’s the third largest islands in the country and very popular among tourists. Its surrounded by teeming reefs and cobalt waters.  It’s ideal for a romantic getaway as there are fewer crowds on this island. You can enjoy privacy on the beaches and go trekking in the surrounding forests.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Anse Source D’Argent
• Grande Anse
• Veuve Nature Reserve
• Location: Located west of Felicite Island and East of Praslin Island
• Any Other Speciality:
• Trekking
• Glass bottom rides
• Shark and Ray watching cruises

 4. Cousine Island

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Cousine Island is a paradise for honeymooners. A romantic oasis among the many Seychelles islands. It’s not very popular among tourist families. But its home to many luxurious resorts that boats with world-class amenities and many indoor and outdoor activities.

If you are planning on visiting the Seychelles Islands during the low season, then this would be an excellent choice. As you will be able to score a stay one of the many charming hotels and resorts at great bargain prices.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Location: Located west of Praslin Island
• Any Other Speciality:
• Snorkelling
• Nature Walks
• Diving
• Fishing

Must Read: Best Places to enjoy Seychelles Nightlife

5. Aride Island

Seychelles is home to many granitic islands, of which, Aride a very popular tourist hot spot. Mainly because, it’s a famous bird colony, a haven for bird watchers and lovers. The island is open to tourist from Monday to Friday. You need to make prior arrangements with the Island Managers if you want to visit. Booking can be made online or via your hotel travel desk.

Please note that the entire island is classified as a natural reserve, so please be respectful toward the surrounding and the inhabitants.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Entry to the Island: INR 3040 or USD 48 Per Person
• Location: Located North of Praslin Island
• Any Other Speciality:
• Bird Watching

6. Bird Island

One of the most beautiful Seychelles Islands, Bird Island is a breath-taking paradise. Its surrounded by white sand beaches, coral reefs and pristine waters. It’s a very private island and has only 24 bungalows on site offering luxurious world-class accommodation to its visitors.

There aren’t many activities to do, however, its ideal to enjoy a peaceful holiday with gorgeous sunrises and nearly empty beaches. It’s a perfect retreat for those who are looking to get a break from their hectic real word schedules and busy day to day lives.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• West Beach
• Pasee Coco beach
• Hirondelle Beach
• Sooty Tern Point
• Location: Located in the northern tip of Seychelles about 100 km from Mahe Islands
• Any Other Speciality:
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Stunning Sunsets and Sunrises
• Private and peaceful environment

7. Moyenne Island

Situated inside the Ste Anne Marine National Park, this time Seychelles Islands covers an area of just .099 km^2. In the year 1970, the island was declared a flora and fauna reserve. You can plan day visits to the island and explore it by going on guided or unguided hikes, treks and nature walk. The island is a maze of winding trails, but don’t worry you won’t get lost as there are many signs along the way.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Anse Creole
• Location: Located inside the Ste Anne Marine National Park
• Any Other Speciality:
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Hiking
• Trekking

8. Silhouette Island – One of the best places in Seychelles Islands

If you are in search of the famous Incense trees and want to stay at the most popular resort of Seychelles islands, then make you must head to the extravagant Silhouette island.

The islands boast of pristine beaches, a landscape painted with magnificent mountain ranges and a unique opportunity to see some rare incense trees. Additionally, you can enjoy a stay at the Hilton Seychelles Labriz, the most popular resort in the archipelago and spend your day in the lap of luxury and style.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Mount Duaban
• Seychelles Rainforest
• Location: Northwest of Mahe Island
• Any Other Speciality:
• Bird Watching
• Nature Walks
• Hiking in the rainforest
• Diving and other water sports

9. Aldabra Island

The island is the second largest coral atoll in the world. The island is natural to wonder and has remained unchanged over the last 1000 years thanks to no human encroachments. It’s a crowning jewel among the Seychelles Islands and is home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the world.

• Nearest Airport: Seychelles International Airport
• Location: Southwest of Victoria about 1,120 km from the Mahe Island
• Any Other Speciality: The island has limited tourism and is mainly used for research and study purposes

10. Fregate Island

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Fregate is a unique Seychelles Island and offers its visitors exciting and thrilling experiences. Fregate islands boast of a 10km long coastline, that can be explored on foot or via electric buggy’s.

Fregate is often referred to as the treasure island as it’s immortalised by local folklore that tells tales of buried treasure on the island.

This is a very exclusive island and in term of accommodation has on offer just one resort, i.e. the Fregate Island Private.

• Nearest Airport: Fregate Island Airport
• Nearby Beaches and Attractions:
• Anse Victoria
• Anse Macqueraue
• Grande Anse
• Anse Parc
• Location: Located on the eastern coast of Seychelles.
• Any Other Speciality:
• Watersports
• Buggy Rides
• Treasure Hunts
• Rock Spa

FAQ’s

1. What are the two-main season in Seychelles and which is the best time to visit?

The two-main season in Seychelles are:

• Peak Season: May to August
• Low Season: December to March

The best time to visit Seychelles is:

• Seychelles is a year-round destination, just depends on what you want to do and what sort of vacation you are planning.

2. What are the main Seychelles Islands?

The main Seychelles Islands are:

• Mahé Island
• Praslin Island
• La Digue
• Cousine Island
• Aride Island
• Bird Island
• Moyenne Island
• Silhouette Island
• Aldabra Island
• Fregate Island

3. Which is the biggest Seychelles Islands?

The biggest Seychelles Islands is:

• Mahe Island

4. Which is the Smallest Seychelles Islands?

The Smallest Seychelles Islands is:

• Moyenne Island

5. What is the capital city of Seychelles?

The capital city of Seychelles is:

• Victoria

6. What Seychelles Islands can you visit for a fun day trip?

Seychelles Islands you can visit for a fun day trip are:

• Aride Island
• Moyenne Island
• Aldabra Island

7. What Seychelles Islands can you stay at?

Seychelles Islands you can stay at are:

• Mahé Island
• Praslin Island
• La Digue
• Cousine Island
• Bird Island
• Silhouette Island
• Fregate Island