Seychelles isn’t just about Mahé. While it’s the biggest and busiest island, the real magic happens when you hop to the Inner Islands. Think pristine beaches, unique wildlife, and a laid-back vibe that’s hard to find anywhere else. This guide dives deep into planning your ultimate Seychellois island-hopping adventure, uncovering hidden gems and offering practical tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Planning Your Inner Island Escape: A Step-by-Step Guide
Before you even dream of turquoise waters, you need a plan. Seychelles, while small, requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to island hopping. Here’s how to get started:
1. Defining Your “Perfect Island” Portfolio
What are you looking for? Secluded beaches for romantic getaways? Vibrant coral reefs for diving? Hiking trails with stunning panoramic views? Each island has its own character. Here’s a taste:
- Praslin: The second-largest island, known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai, home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm. It’s a bit more relaxed than Mahé but still offers good amenities.
- La Digue: Famous for Anse Source d’Argent, arguably the most photographed beach in the world, with its granite boulders and crystal-clear waters. La Digue is smaller and more laid-back, with bicycles being the primary mode of transport.
- Silhouette Island: A largely untouched paradise, with lush rainforests, towering mountains, and stunning beaches. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking solitude. You’ll find only a couple of resorts here.
- Félicité Island: Home to the exclusive Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort, Félicité is a haven of luxury and tranquility. Expect exceptional service and breathtaking views.
- Cousine Island: A private island dedicated to conservation. You can stay on the island, but it’s an expensive, all-inclusive experience. Birdlife is abundant.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Think about what matters most to you. Do you want a variety of restaurants and activities, or are you content with a small selection of options in exchange for peace and quiet? Browse photos and read reviews online. Sites like Seychelles Tourism Board can be a great resource.
2. Timing is Everything: Understanding Seychelles’ Seasons
Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but there are differences in weather patterns.
- May to September: The southeast trade winds bring cooler temperatures and drier conditions. This is generally considered the best time to visit.
- October & April: These are transition months with calmer winds and warmer temperatures – great for snorkeling and diving.
- November to March: The northwest monsoon season brings higher humidity and more rain. Expect occasional heavy showers, but also plenty of sunshine.
Consider your priorities. If you’re a diver, the transition months offer the best visibility. If you prefer cooler, drier weather, aim for May to September. Keep in mind that prices can also fluctuate depending on the season.
3. Getting Around: Ferries, Flights, and Helicopters
Island hopping in Seychelles involves choosing your transportation method. Here’s a breakdown:
Ferries:
- Cat Cocos: This is the primary ferry service connecting Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. It’s a fast and relatively affordable option. The journey from Mahé to Praslin takes about an hour, and from Praslin to La Digue it’s only about 15 minutes. Book in advance, especially during peak season, through their website: Cat Cocos. Prices range from around €50-€80 per sector, depending on class and route.
- Inter Island Ferry: A smaller ferry that operates between Praslin and La Digue. This is a good option for short trips.
- Local Boats: For reaching smaller islands, you might need to charter a local boat. This can be arranged through your hotel or a local tour operator.
Flights:
- Air Seychelles: Offers domestic flights between Mahé, Praslin, and other islands like Bird Island and Denis Island. This is the fastest option, but also the most expensive. Check their website Air Seychelles for schedules and prices.
Helicopters:
- Zil Air: If you’re looking for a luxurious and convenient way to travel, consider a helicopter transfer. Zil Air offers transfers to several islands, including Silhouette, Félicité, and North Island. Expect a premium price tag. You can find more info on Zil Air’s website.
Recommendation: For most travelers, a combination of Cat Cocos ferries and potentially a domestic flight to reach more remote islands is the most practical and cost-effective approach. Consider the following example itinerary:
Day 1-3: Mahé (explore the island, beaches, hiking). Overnight stay in Mahé.
Day 4-7: Cat Cocos to Praslin (Vallee de Mai, Anse Lazio). Overnight stay in Praslin.
Day 7-10: Inter Island Ferry to La Digue (Anse Source d’Argent, explore by bicycle). Overnight stay in La Digue.
Day 10: Return to Mahé by ferry for departure.
4. Accommodation: From Budget Guesthouses to Luxury Resorts
Seychelles offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly guesthouses and self-catering apartments to luxurious resorts.
- Mahé: Has the widest selection of accommodation, catering to all budgets. Beau Vallon is a popular area with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and activities.
- Praslin: Offers a good mix of hotels, guesthouses, and villas. Consider looking in areas like Grand Anse or Côte d’Or.
- La Digue: Predominantly features smaller guesthouses and hotels, creating a more intimate atmosphere.
- Smaller Islands: Often have only one or two luxury resorts. These offer a truly exclusive and secluded experience, but come with a higher price tag.
Tips for Booking: Book accommodation well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Use booking platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb, but also check the hotel’s website directly for potential deals. Read reviews carefully to get an idea of what to expect. Consider accommodations close to the beach you want to frequent. Don’t be afraid to contact the accommodation provider directly with questions or special requests.
5. Budgeting for Paradise: How Much Will It Cost?
Seychelles is often perceived as an expensive destination, and it can be, but it’s possible to travel on a moderate budget with some planning.
- Accommodation: Expect to pay anywhere from €50 per night for a basic guesthouse to €500+ per night for a luxury resort.
- Food: Eating at restaurants can be expensive, especially in tourist areas. Self-catering can help you save money. Look for local markets where you can buy fresh produce.
- Transportation: Ferry transfers can cost around €50-€80 per sector. Domestic flights are significantly more expensive. Buses on Mahé and Praslin are a cheap way to get around.
- Activities: Entry fees to national parks and reserves can add up. Consider purchasing a Seychelles National Parks Foundation membership if you plan to visit multiple parks.
Sample Budget (per day, per person):
- Budget Traveler: €100-€150 (guesthouse, self-catering, public transport, limited activities).
- Mid-Range Traveler: €200-€300 (comfortable hotel, some restaurant meals, ferry transfers, some activities).
- Luxury Traveler: €500+ (luxury resort, fine dining, private transfers, excursions).
Pro Tip: Look for package deals that include accommodation, flights, and transfers. This can sometimes be more cost-effective than booking everything separately.
Unveiling the Gems: Exploring the Inner Islands in Detail
Now that you’ve got the logistics sorted, let’s dive into what each island has to offer:
Praslin: Beyond the Vallée de Mai
Praslin is more than just the Vallée de Mai, although that is certainly a must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Coco de Mer palm, whose suggestive double coconut is endemic to Seychelles. Entry costs around SCR 350 (approximately €25). Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the trails through the forest. Hire a guide for a more in-depth experience.
Beaches on Praslin:
- Anse Lazio: Consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches, Anse Lazio boasts pristine white sand, turquoise water, and granite boulders. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There are a couple of restaurants nearby.
- Anse Georgette: Another stunning beach located near the Constance Lémuria resort. Access is limited, so you’ll need to book in advance through the resort (even if you’re not staying there). The effort is worth it.
- Côte d’Or: A long, sandy beach with calm waters, ideal for families. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops in the area.
Other Activities on Praslin:
- Black Pearl Farm: Learn about pearl farming and see how these beautiful gems are cultivated.
- Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve: An alternative to the Vallée de Mai, offering similar vegetation and stunning views. It’s less crowded and often considered a better value for money.
- Day Trip to Curieuse Island: This island is home to hundreds of giant tortoises. You can also explore the Doctor’s House, a former leprosarium.
Where to Eat on Praslin:
- Café des Arts: Offering beachfront dining with a French-Creole fusion menu
- Restaurant Paradisier: Known for fresh seafood and local specialties.
- Pirogue Restaurant & Bar: Relaxed atmosphere with authentic Creole dishes.
La Digue: A Step Back in Time
La Digue is a true gem. With its laid-back atmosphere, reliance on bicycles, and stunning beaches, it feels like stepping back in time. The island is small enough to explore in a few days, but you could easily spend a week here relaxing and soaking up the atmosphere.
Anse Source d’Argent: No trip to La Digue is complete without a visit to Anse Source d’Argent. The unique granite boulders, crystal-clear water, and white sand create a postcard-perfect scene. Entry to the L’Union Estate, where the beach is located, costs SCR 100 (approximately €7). Come early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
Beaches on La Digue:
- Grand Anse: A beautiful, wild beach with strong currents. Swimming is not always safe here, but it’s a great spot for sunbathing and taking photos.
- Petite Anse: A short hike from Grand Anse, Petite Anse is a secluded beach with even stronger currents. Be extremely careful when swimming.
- Anse Coco: A bit further afield, Anse Coco is a stunning beach with calm waters and natural swimming pools. It requires a longer hike to reach.
Other Activities on La Digue:
- Veille Reserve: Visit the Veuve Nature Reserve. Entry is free. The Veuve is a rare paradise flycatcher, found only on La Digue.
- Hike to Eagle’s Nest Mountain: Enjoy panoramic views of La Digue and the surrounding islands.
- L’Union Estate: Besides Anse Source d’Argent, the estate also features a traditional copra mill, a tortoise pen, and a colonial house.
Where to Eat on La Digue:
- Gala Takeaway: A popular spot for affordable and delicious Creole food.
- Chez Jules: Offers fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.
- Fish Trap Restaurant & Bar: A romantic setting with a focus on seafood and Creole cuisine.
Remember that the electricity on La Digue can be unstable and cut without warning. This can affect availability of ATMs. Be sure to bring enough cash from Mahé or Praslin.
Silhouette Island: Untamed Beauty
Silhouette Island, the third largest granitic island in the Seychelles, is a world away from the hustle and bustle of Mahé and Praslin. This mountainous island is covered in lush rainforest and surrounded by pristine beaches. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a truly secluded experience. The only way to get there is by boat or helicopter.
Things to Do on Silhouette Island:
- Hiking: Silhouette offers a network of hiking trails that lead through the rainforest to stunning viewpoints. Hire a local guide to learn about the island’s flora and fauna. The climb to Mont Dauban is challenging but rewarding.
- Beaches: Grande Anse is a long, sandy beach on the west coast of the island. Anse Mondon is a secluded beach on the north coast, accessible by boat or by hiking trail.
- Diving and Snorkeling: The waters around Silhouette are teeming with marine life. Explore the coral reefs and swim with colorful fish.
- Silhouette Island Conservation Project: Learn about the island’s conservation efforts and participate in activities like turtle monitoring.
Where to Stay on Silhouette Island:
- Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa: The main resort on the island, offering a range of accommodation options, restaurants, and activities.
- La Belle Tortue Lodge: A smaller, more intimate lodge with a focus on sustainability and eco-tourism.
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa
Be sure to bring insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially in the rainforest.
Other Inner Islands to Consider
While Praslin, La Digue, and Silhouette are the most popular Inner Islands, there are several other islands that are worth considering, depending on your interests and budget.
- Félicité Island: Home to the luxurious Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort, Félicité offers unparalleled privacy and exclusivity.
- Cousine Island: A private island dedicated to conservation, Cousine is a haven for birdlife.
- North Island: Another exclusive private island resort, known for its stunning beaches and commitment to sustainability. Where William and Kate honeymooned!
- Denis Island: A remote island with a focus on sustainable tourism, Denis Island offers a tranquil escape from the modern world.
North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort
Essential Tips for Island Hopping in Seychelles
Here are some additional tips to help you plan your island-hopping adventure:
- Pack Light: You’ll be moving around a lot, so pack light. Choose versatile clothing that can be easily mixed and matched.
- Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect your skin and the coral reefs by using reef-safe sunscreen.
- Learn Some Basic Creole Phrases: While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Creole phrases will be appreciated by locals.
- Respect the Environment: Be mindful of your impact on the environment. Don’t litter, avoid touching coral, and be responsible with your water and energy consumption.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially when you’re out exploring in the sun.
- Be Prepared for Mosquitos: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings. Bring insect repellent with DEET.
- Bargain Respectfully: It’s often acceptable to bargain for souvenirs and taxi fares, but do so respectfully.
- Get Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is essential in case of unexpected events.
- Download Offline Maps: Internet connectivity can be spotty on some islands, so download offline maps to your phone.
- Check Visa Requirements: Check the official Seychelles Immigration website for the most up-to-date visa requirements. Most nationalities do not require a visa for short stays.
SPOTs in Seychelles: Unearthing the Hidden Treasures
Beyond the beaches, Seychelles holds many hidden gems. Here are a few ‘SPOTs’ to consider adding to your itinerary:
- Mission Lodge (Venn’s Town), Mahé: A historic site with stunning views of the island. Once a school for freed slave children, this is a site of deep importance. Located high in the mountains above Victoria.
- Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Mahé: A beautiful garden showcasing the diverse flora of Seychelles. Located in Victoria.
- Anse Marron, La Digue: A truly secluded beach accessible only by hiking. Hire a guide to navigate the tricky terrain and discover hidden swimming pools.
- Takamaka Rum Distillery, Mahé: Take a tour of the distillery and sample the local rum.
- Baie Ternay Marine National Park, Mahé: A great spot for snorkeling and diving, accessible by boat.
FAQ:
Here are some frequently asked questions about island hopping in Seychelles:
Is island hopping in Seychelles expensive? Yes, Seychelles can be an expensive destination, but it’s possible to travel on a budget with careful planning. Choose affordable accommodation, self-cater when possible, and utilize public transport.
What is the best time to visit Seychelles for island hopping? The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is cooler and drier.
How do I get around between the islands? Ferries are the most common mode of transport between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Domestic flights are available for reaching more remote islands.
Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles? Most nationalities do not require a visa for short stays in Seychelles.
What should I pack for island hopping in Seychelles? Pack light, versatile clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Seychelles? It’s generally recommended to drink bottled water, although the tap water is treated, it might contain small levels of bacteria.
References:
Seychelles Tourism Board Official Website
Air Seychelles Official Website
Cat Cocos Official Website
Zil Air Official Website
Seychelles National Parks Authority
Ready to trade your everyday routine for the turquoise waters and sun-kissed shores of Seychelles? Don’t just dream about it, plan it! Use this guide as your blueprint, book those ferries and accommodations, and prepare for an island-hopping adventure that will create memories to last a lifetime. Your paradise awaits. What are you waiting for?
