La Digue and Félicité offer a unique Seychelles experience, far removed from the bustling beaches of Mahé. This guide provides actionable tips for island hopping like a pro, unlocking the hidden gems and unforgettable activities these idyllic islands have to offer.
Getting to La Digue: Your Gateway to Paradise
Reaching La Digue is an adventure in itself, typically involving a combination of flights and ferries. First, you’ll likely fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) near Victoria, the capital on Mahé. From there, you have two main options: a direct ferry or a shorter flight followed by a ferry.
The direct ferry is the most common and cost-effective choice. Cat Cocos provides a high-speed ferry service from Mahé to Praslin, and from Praslin, you’ll hop on a smaller ferry managed by Inter Island Ferry to La Digue. The Mahé-Praslin leg takes about an hour, while the Praslin-La Digue leg is a quick 15 minutes. Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season (December-January and July-August), to secure your spot. You can check schedules and make reservations directly on the Seychellesbookings website, a well-known service for booking ferry travel within the Seychelles. Prices vary but expect to pay around €60-€80 per person for a round trip from Mahé to La Digue (via Praslin).
Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight from Mahé to Praslin with Air Seychelles. This option cuts down transit time considerably. The flight is only around 15 minutes, but it can be more expensive. After arriving on Praslin, you’ll still need to take the ferry to La Digue. While pricier, flying offers breathtaking aerial views of the islands. Check the Air Seychelles website for flight schedules and prices.
Practical Tip: Seasickness can be an issue on the ferry, so if you’re prone to it, take motion sickness medication beforehand. Also, pack light! Lugging heavy suitcases onto and off the ferries can be cumbersome, especially during transfers. A backpack is ideal.
Exploring La Digue: Embrace the Slow Pace
La Digue is famous for its reliance on bicycles as the primary mode of transportation. Car rentals are limited, and the few taxis can be expensive. Renting a bicycle is readily available upon arrival at the La Digue jetty. Several rental shops are right there, and most accommodations also offer bike rentals.
Expect to pay around SCR 100-150 (approximately €7-€10) per day for a basic bicycle. Inspect the bike before you rent it, checking the brakes, tires, and seat. Some shops also offer electric bikes for rent, which can be helpful for tackling some of the hilly terrain.
Anse Source d’Argent: Picture-Perfect Paradise
Anse Source d’Argent is undoubtedly the most photographed beach in the Seychelles, and for good reason. Its granite boulders, sculpted by time and tide, create a surreal and stunning landscape. The turquoise water is shallow and calm, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Access to Anse Source d’Argent requires entering through L’Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation.
The entrance fee to L’Union Estate is SCR 100 (approximately €7) per person. Inside the estate, you can also visit the giant tortoise enclosure, the traditional copra mill, and the reconstructed colonial house. The walk to Anse Source d’Argent from the entrance takes about 15-20 minutes. You can also cycle most of the way, parking your bike near the beach access point.
Insider Tip: Anse Source d’Argent can get crowded, especially during midday. Visit early in the morning (before 9 am) or late in the afternoon (after 4 pm) to avoid the crowds and enjoy the beach in relative peace. During low tide, you can walk further along the beach and explore more secluded coves.
Grand Anse & Petite Anse: For the Adventurous Souls
Grand Anse and Petite Anse, located on the other side of La Digue, offer a completely different beach experience. These beaches are wilder and more dramatic, with strong currents and powerful waves. Swimming is not always advisable, but the scenery is breathtaking.
Reaching Grand Anse requires a scenic 15-20 minute bicycle ride from La Passe (the main village). From Grand Anse, a moderately challenging 15-minute hike over a rocky trail leads to Petite Anse. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes for the hike and bring plenty of water.
Warning: Swimming at Grand Anse and Petite Anse is generally not recommended due to the strong currents and undertow. If you do choose to swim, exercise extreme caution and stay close to the shore. There are often no lifeguards on duty.
Anse Cocos: A Hidden Gem Worth the Effort
Anse Cocos is a more secluded beach located beyond Petite Anse. Reaching it requires another 30-45 minute hike over rocky terrain. The trail can be challenging, but the reward is well worth the effort. Anse Cocos features natural rock pools protected from the waves, offering safe and calm swimming.
What to Bring: When venturing to Grand Anse, Petite Anse, and Anse Cocos, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes. A small backpack is also helpful for carrying essentials. It’s also wise to pack insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be present.
L’Union Estate: More Than Just a Beach Entrance
While L’Union Estate is primarily known as the gateway to Anse Source d’Argent, it offers a variety of other attractions. Explore the traditional copra mill, where coconuts are processed into oil. Visit the giant tortoise enclosure and observe these gentle giants up close. Learn about the history of vanilla cultivation on the island at the vanilla plantation. The reconstructed colonial house provides a glimpse into the life of the island’s early settlers.
Snorkeling & Diving: Exploring the Underwater World
La Digue offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving. The coral reefs surrounding the island are teeming with marine life. Several dive centers on the island offer guided dives and snorkeling trips. Popular dive sites include Marianne Island and Ave Maria Grotto. You can often spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
Cost: Expect to pay around €60-€100 for a guided dive, depending on the location and duration. Snorkeling trips typically cost around €30-€50 per person, including equipment rental.
Hiking to Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest): Panoramic Views
For breathtaking panoramic views of La Digue and the surrounding islands, hike to Nid d’Aigle (Eagle’s Nest), the highest point on the island. The hike is steep and challenging, but the reward is spectacular. The trail starts near La Passe. It takes about 1.5-2 hours to reach the summit. You can also hire a taxi to take you part of the way, shortening the hike.
There’s a restaurant at the summit where you can enjoy a refreshing drink and soak in the views. If you prefer, pack your own picnic to enjoy at the top. The entrance fee to the Nid d’Aigle Nature Reserve is SCR 100. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for the hike.
Félicité Island: An Exclusive Escape
Félicité Island is a privately owned island located a short boat ride from La Digue and Praslin. It’s best known as the home of the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort, an ultra-luxury resort offering unparalleled privacy and exclusivity.
Reaching Félicité: Access to Félicité is primarily through the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort. Guests typically arrive by helicopter or private boat transfer from Mahé or Praslin. Non-guests may be able to visit the island on a day trip arranged through the resort, but this is subject to availability and can be very expensive.
What to Expect at Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Six Senses Zil Pasyon offers a wide range of activities, including:
- Spa treatments: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments at the resort’s stunning spa, nestled amongst the granite boulders.
- Water sports: Enjoy a variety of water sports activities, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The resort has its own dive center and offers guided diving and snorkeling trips.
- Hiking: Explore the island’s lush vegetation and scenic trails. The resort offers guided hikes to discover hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
- Rock climbing: For adventurous guests, the resort offers rock climbing experiences on the island’s granite cliffs.
- Private beaches: Relax on pristine private beaches and soak up the sun in complete seclusion.
- Sunset cruises: Take a romantic sunset cruise around the island and enjoy breathtaking views of the Seychelles sunset.
Is Félicité Worth the Splurge?
Visiting Félicité is an experience for those seeking ultimate luxury and exclusivity. The island’s natural beauty is unparalleled, and the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort offers world-class service and amenities. However, it comes with a hefty price tag. A stay at the resort can cost several thousand euros per night. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, La Digue offers a similar natural beauty and a more authentic Seychelles experience.
Island Hopping Itinerary: A Sample Plan
Here’s a sample itinerary for a 5-day island-hopping trip to La Digue and Félicité:
Day 1: Arrival in La Digue & Anse Source d’Argent
- Arrive in La Digue via ferry from Mahé (via Praslin).
- Check into your accommodation and rent a bicycle.
- Explore L’Union Estate and visit Anse Source d’Argent.
- Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a beach bar.
Day 2: Grand Anse, Petite Anse & Anse Cocos
- Cycle to Grand Anse and hike to Petite Anse and Anse Cocos.
- Spend the afternoon swimming (in the rock pools at Anse Cocos) and relaxing on the beach.
- Have dinner at a local restaurant in La Passe.
Day 3: Nid d’Aigle Hike & Snorkeling
- Hike to Nid d’Aigle for panoramic views of the island.
- Go snorkeling or diving at a nearby reef.
- Visit the Veuve Reserve, home to the endangered Seychelles black paradise flycatcher.
Day 4: Félicité Island (Optional)
- If your budget allows, take a day trip to Félicité Island or stay at the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort.
- Enjoy the resort’s amenities, such as spa treatments, water sports, and private beaches.
- If not visiting Félicité, spend the day exploring other beaches on La Digue or relaxing by the pool.
Day 5: Departure
- Enjoy a final breakfast on La Digue.
- Take the ferry back to Mahé for your departure flight.
Beyond the Beaches: Discovering La Digue’s Culture
While La Digue is famed for its beaches, take time to discover its cultural heart. Visit the local market in La Passe for fresh produce and souvenirs. Chat with the friendly locals and learn about their way of life. Enjoy Creole cuisine at a local restaurant. The slow pace of life on La Digue is infectious, so embrace it and savor the moment.
The Veuve Nature Reserve protects the last remaining habitats of the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher, a critically endangered bird. Guided nature walks are available, offering a chance to spot this rare and beautiful species.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip
Currency: The currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). While Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, you’ll often get a better exchange rate if you use SCR. ATMs are available in La Passe.
Language: The official languages are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Electricity: The voltage is 220-240 volts, and the plugs are British-style three-pin plugs. Bring a universal adapter if needed.
Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the evenings. Bring insect repellent and wear long sleeves and pants if necessary.
Sun Protection: The sun in Seychelles is strong. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from sunburn.
Water: While tap water is generally safe to drink, it’s recommended to drink bottled water.
What to Pack: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sandals, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. A small backpack is also helpful for carrying essentials.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Seychelles can be an expensive destination, but it’s possible to travel on a budget. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Eating at local restaurants and cooking your own meals can save money. Traveling during the off-season (May-June and September-October) can also help you save on flights and accommodation. Expect to spend at least €100-€150 per day per person, excluding flights and luxury accommodations.
To save money, consider buying groceries at the local market and preparing some of your own meals. Many guesthouses have kitchen facilities available for guests to use.
Planning Your Trip During the Best Time
The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. The months of June to August are also popular, but they can be windier. December and January are the wettest months.
Consider also the local events and festivals. The Creole Festival in October is a vibrant celebration of Seychellois culture.
A Note of Responsible Travel
When visiting La Digue and Félicité, be mindful of the environment. Avoid touching or damaging coral reefs. Dispose of your trash responsibly. Support local businesses and communities. Respect the local culture and customs. By traveling responsibly, you can help preserve these beautiful islands for future generations.
FAQ Section
What is the best way to get around La Digue?
The best way to get around La Digue is by bicycle. Bike rentals are readily available upon arrival at the La Digue jetty or at most accommodations. Taxis are also available, but they are more expensive.
How much does it cost to enter L’Union Estate and access Anse Source d’Argent?
The entrance fee to L’Union Estate is SCR 100 (approximately €7) per person.
Is it safe to swim at Grand Anse and Petite Anse?
Swimming at Grand Anse and Petite Anse is generally not recommended due to the strong currents and undertow. If you do choose to swim, exercise extreme caution and stay close to the shore.
What is the best time to visit La Digue and Félicité?
The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October), when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller.
How can I visit Félicité Island?
Access to Félicité is primarily through the Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort. Guests typically arrive by helicopter or private boat transfer from Mahé or Praslin. Non-guests may be able to visit the island on a day trip arranged through the resort, but this is subject to availability and can be very expensive.
References List
Seychellesbookings.com
Air Seychelles
Ready to experience the magic of La Digue and Félicité? Don’t just dream about turquoise waters and sculpted granite boulders – start planning your unforgettable island-hopping adventure today! Book your flights, reserve your accommodation, and get ready to discover the unique charm of these Seychelles gems. Your paradise awaits!
Explore Places to Stay in Seychelles
Feel free to zoom in and out of the map to explore the area and find the best place to stay for your trip.