Forget the crowded resort beaches and generic tourist traps. Seychelles holds a collection of secret havens, untouched shores, and hidden paradises waiting to be discovered. This guide unveils the archipelago’s best-kept secrets, offering a glimpse into secluded beaches, lush trails, and authentic experiences that go beyond the typical postcard image.
Unveiling the Untouched Beaches of Mahé
Mahé, the largest island, is often seen as just the entry point, but venture beyond Beau Vallon, and you’ll be rewarded with remarkable solitude. Anse Intendance, famed for its powerful waves (best for experienced surfers), offers dramatic scenery and fewer crowds than its northern counterparts. It’s particularly breathtaking during the sunrise and sunset. To reach it, follow the south coast road, where marked signs lead you to a parking area. Be mindful of the strong currents if you’re tempted to swim. Another hidden gem is Anse Capucins, reachable only by foot via a moderately challenging trail. It’s recommended to go early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, and definitely wear appropriate hiking shoes.
For a more accessible but equally stunning option, consider Anse Takamaka (not to be confused with the more popular beach of the same name). This smaller, lesser-known Anse Takamaka is located on the south-western coast. You’ll likely encounter more locals than tourists here, providing a genuine Seychellois beach experience. The costs for getting around Mahé can vary. Renting a car is about €40-€60 per day, providing unmatched flexibility. Alternatively, the local bus service is incredibly affordable at around SCR 7 (about €0.50) per journey, but remember to plan your travel, as it can be time-consuming.
Praslin’s Secret Shores and Inland Treasures
Praslin, the second-largest island, is renowned for Anse Lazio, often listed among the world’s best beaches. However, its increasing popularity means it’s far from a secret. Instead, seek out Anse Georgette, a secluded paradise that requires advance booking due to its location within the Constance Lemuria Resort grounds. While you don’t have to be a guest to visit, you must email the resort to reserve your spot. The beach is accessible by a short walk through the resort, or via a challenging coastal path from Anse Lazio. The reservation system helps to control crowd levels, ensuring relative tranquility. If you are walking, it’s best to wear hiking sandals or shoes that can handle the trail and the sand.
Beyond the beaches, Praslin holds inland secrets. The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm. A guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the unique ecosystem. Entry fees are around SCR 350 (about €25) per person. Allow several hours to explore the trails. Make sure to wear insect repellent. For a panoramic view of Praslin, climb to the top of Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve. It’s a great alternative to the Vallée de Mai, and often less crowded and better value. Local sources suggest a guided tour here costs in the region of SCR 250 (around €18).
La Digue: Beyond Anse Source d’Argent
La Digue, the smallest of the three main inhabited islands, is famous for Anse Source d’Argent, with its photogenic granite boulders. However, its popularity often overshadows the island’s other offerings. Grand Anse, Petite Anse, and Anse Cocos, located on the east coast, are well worth the effort it takes to reach them. Hiring a bicycle is the primary mode of transport on La Digue, costing around SCR 100 (about €7) per day. From La Digue jetty, cycle southwards along the coastal road. The roads are mostly flat, but the journey to Grand Anse involves a steep hill towards the end. From Grand Anse, there is a walking trail to Petite Anse (allow about 15 minutes), then another trail from Petite Anse to the enchanting Anse Cocos (allow another 20 minutes). Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are limited facilities beyond Grand Anse. The currents at these beaches can be strong, so exercise caution when swimming.
For an alternative perspective of La Digue, ascend the Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest Mountain), the island’s highest point. Several trails lead to the summit, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands. Consider hiring a local guide to lead you, particularly if you are not experienced in hiking. It’s worth noting that some parts of the trail can be slippery, especially after rain. The charge for a local guide could be SCR 500 to SCR 800 (about €35 to €55).
Exploring Silhouette Island: A Haven of Biodiversity
A short ferry or helicopter ride from Mahé transports you to Silhouette Island, a haven of biodiversity and tranquility. The island is dominated by mountainous terrain and lush forests, perfect for nature enthusiasts. The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa is the main accommodation option. However, even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can arrange a day trip to explore the island’s trails and beaches. Day trips usually cost in the region of €150-€200, which includes the ferry transfer and lunch at the resort.
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa
Anse Mondon, located on the north coast, is often cited as Silhouette’s most stunning beach. You can reach it by boat or a moderately challenging hike through the forest. The island is home to unique flora and fauna, including the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat, one of the world’s rarest mammals. Guided nature walks are offered by the Hilton Labriz, providing insights into the island’s ecology. Be sure to keep an eye out for the giant tortoises, which roam freely on the island.
Bird Island: A Sanctuary for Wildlife
Located at the northernmost point of the Seychelles archipelago, Bird Island is a genuine wildlife sanctuary. It gets its name from the vast colonies of sooty terns that nest there between May and October. This privately owned island is accessible by a 30-minute flight from Mahé. The Bird Island Lodge is the only accommodation on the island, providing an eco-friendly experience. A stay on Bird Island is expensive, but it’s an exceptional experience for nature lovers. Prices range from €300-€500 per night, depending on the season.
Beyond the sooty terns, Bird Island is home to various bird species, including fairy terns, noddies, and frigatebirds. It’s also a nesting site for green and hawksbill turtles. During your stay, you can participate in guided nature walks, birdwatching tours, and turtle patrols. The island’s marine life is equally impressive, making it a great destination for snorkeling and diving.
Denis Island: Unparalleled Exclusivity
Denis Island, another private island, offers unparalleled exclusivity and luxury. Accessible by a 30-minute flight from Mahé, it’s home to the Denis Private Island resort, an eco-luxury property that focuses on sustainability. The resort offers a range of activities, including fishing, diving, snorkeling, and nature walks. Staying on Denis Island is at the higher end of luxury travel, costing around €1000-€2000 per night. The focus here is on privacy and tranquility, catering to those who seek ultimate relaxation and seclusion.
Denis Private Island
Denis Island has a strong commitment to conservation, with ongoing projects to protect the island’s flora and fauna. Guests can participate in these projects, gaining insights into the island’s unique ecosystem. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for divers and snorkelers. The island’s remote location ensures pristine conditions and abundant biodiversity.
Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoises and Doctor’s House
Curieuse Island, easily accessible by boat from Praslin, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It is home to a large population of Aldabra giant tortoises, which roam freely on the island. The island was formerly a leper colony and the Doctor’s House, a preserved colonial building, stands as a reminder of its past. Boat trips from Praslin typically cost around SCR 600-800 (about €40-€55) per person, often including lunch and snorkeling stops at nearby islands.
A well-maintained boardwalk leads through the mangrove forest, connecting Baie Laraie on one side of the island to Anse José on the other. The tortoises are used to human presence and can be approached closely, but remember to respect their space and avoid feeding them. The Doctor’s House now serves as a museum, providing insight into the island’s history as a leper colony. You can also enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding waters, which are home to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
Cousin Island: A Birdwatcher’s Dream
Cousin Island is a special nature reserve, managed by Nature Seychelles, that is renowned as a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a managed and protected environment for birdlife. This is particularly important for species whose ongoing survival is threatened. You can reach Cousin Island by boat from Praslin. Visits must be pre-booked through Nature Seychelles. Entry costs are approximately €45 and the visit, limited to a specific timeframe to minimise disturbance, offers a unique opportunity to see rare bird species in their natural habitat.
The island is home to several endemic bird species, including the Seychelles magpie-robin, the Seychelles fody, and the Seychelles sunbird. It’s also a nesting site for seabirds, such as white-tailed tropicbirds and wedge-tailed shearwaters. Visits are carefully managed to minimize disturbance to the birdlife. During your visit, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will provide insights into the island’s ecology and conservation efforts.
Aride Island: A Pristine Nature Reserve
Aride Island, situated off the coast of Praslin, is another pristine nature reserve managed by the Island Conservation Society. Access to Aride is restricted to certain days of the week and visitors typically need to book in advance. It’s recognised as the most important seabird island in the Indian Ocean. Boat trips can be arranged from Praslin, and depending on the operator and package, a trip (especially private charters) could cost around SCR1500-SCR2500 (approximately €100-€170).
The island’s diverse birdlife includes Audubon’s shearwaters, roseate terns and lesser noddies. It’s one of the few places in the world where Wright’s gardenia grows, an endemic plant. As with Cousin Island, the environment is carefully managed to protect its biodiversity. Visits are led by conservation staff who enhance the experience with information about the islands’ wildlife.
The Remote Aldabra Atoll: The Ultimate Secret
For the ultimate Seychelles secret, consider a trip to the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the largest atolls in the world. It’s a remote and largely uninhabited coral island, with exceptionally diverse wildlife. Aldabra is logistically challenging and expensive to reach. Access requires special permits. It’s not a place for casual tourists. Visits are usually conducted on specialist research or expedition cruises. These trips cost several thousand euros and may last ten days or more.
Aldabra is home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises, as well as numerous bird species, marine life, and unique flora. The atoll’s isolation has allowed its ecosystem to evolve largely undisturbed. Visitors must adhere to strict guidelines to protect the island’s fragile environment. If you’re a dedicated nature enthusiast or researcher, a trip to Aldabra is an unforgettable experience.
Practical Tips for Exploring Seychelles’ Hidden Gems
Planning a trip to Seychelles’ hidden gems requires careful consideration. First and foremost, book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season. Many of the smaller islands have limited accommodation options and require pre-arranged permits for visits. Regarding transportation, consider renting a car on Mahé and Praslin for greater flexibility. Local buses are an affordable alternative, but they can be time-consuming. On La Digue, bicycles are the preferred mode of transportation. When packing, include lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and hiking shoes. Remember to respect the environment and follow responsible tourism practices.
It’s advisable to carry both Seychelles Rupees (SCR) and Euros (EUR). While many establishments accept credit cards, smaller businesses and local markets may prefer cash. Be aware of the strong sun and humidity. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and protect your skin with sunscreen. It is important to also be mindful of the tidal conditions and swim only in designated areas. Check the weather forecast for up-to-date information, especially during the monsoon season. Most importantly, be open to embracing the slow pace of life and immersing yourself in the local culture. Seychellois people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, so take the time to interact with them and learn about their traditions.
Cost Expectations for the Seychelles
Seychelles is generally considered an expensive destination, but it is possible to tailor your trip to fit your budget. Accommodation costs vary widely, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Eating out can also be costly, so consider self-catering options to save money. Transportation expenses will depend on your mode of travel. Renting a car provides greater flexibility but can be more expensive than using local buses. Activities such as diving, snorkeling, and boat trips can also add up, so factor these costs into your budget. Overall, expect to spend around €150-€300 per day per person, depending on your travel style and preferences.
Essential Etiquette for Travellers
While Seychellois people are very welcoming, it’s essential to observe basic etiquette. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid taking photos of locals without their permission. Respect the environment by not littering and avoiding touching or disturbing wildlife. Bargaining is generally not expected in shops and restaurants, but it may be acceptable at local markets. Learn a few basic phrases in Creole, such as “Bonzour” (Good morning/Good day) and “Mersi” (Thank you). Showing respect for local customs and traditions will enhance your experience and foster positive interactions with the Seychellois people.
Embrace the Unexpected
One of the best things about exploring Seychelles’ hidden gems is the opportunity to embrace the unexpected. Be open to straying from the beaten path and discovering your own secret havens. Chat with locals, ask for recommendations, and allow yourself to get lost in the beauty of the islands. Some of the most memorable experiences come from serendipitous moments and spontaneous adventures. Remember, the Seychelles is more than just a collection of beaches; it’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, and create lasting memories.
FAQ Section
What is the best time to visit Seychelles for good weather?
Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the winds are calmer. The dry season (June-August) is also a good option, but it can be slightly cooler. The wet season (November-March) is characterized by higher humidity and rainfall.
Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?
No, Seychelles offers visa-free entry to all nationalities. You will need to have a valid passport, a confirmed return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
What currency is used in Seychelles?
The official currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). However, Euros (EUR) and US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas.
Is it safe to drink tap water in Seychelles?
While tap water is generally considered safe to drink, it is recommended to drink bottled water, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
What languages are spoken in Seychelles?
The official languages are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. Creole is the most widely spoken language among the locals.
Are there any health precautions I should take before traveling to Seychelles?
Consult your doctor or travel clinic for advice on recommended vaccinations and health precautions. It is advisable to protect yourself from mosquito bites, as dengue fever and chikungunya are present in Seychelles. Also, remember to wear sunscreen and stay hydrated to avoid heatstroke.
How do I get around between the islands?
You can travel between the main islands (Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue) by ferry or domestic flights. Ferries are more affordable, but flights are faster. For smaller islands, you may need to arrange private boat transfers.
What kind of power plugs are used in Seychelles?
Seychelles uses British-style power plugs (Type G). You will need a travel adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
Are there ATMs in Seychelles?
Yes, ATMs are available on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. However, it is advisable to carry some cash with you, especially when visiting smaller islands or local markets.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Seychelles?
Major credit cards such as Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, smaller establishments and local businesses may prefer cash.
What should I pack for a trip to Seychelles?
Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, hiking shoes, and a reusable water bottle. You may also want to bring a waterproof bag for protecting your electronics and valuables.
References
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
- Seychelles Meteorological Authority.
- Nature Seychelles.
- Island Conservation Society.
Ready to uncover the Seychelles that most tourists miss? Ditch the predictable package holidays, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to be amazed. The secret beaches, hidden trails, and untouched islands of Seychelles are waiting. Book your flight, reserve your accommodation, and embark on a journey to discover the true heart of this island paradise. Your unforgettable escape awaits!
