Seychelles isn’t just about those iconic postcard-perfect beaches of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Many smaller, equally stunning islands offer unique experiences, from untouched nature reserves to exclusive private island resorts. Let’s dive in and explore some of Seychelles’ most underrated island gems.
The Charm of Silhouette Island
Silhouette Island, the third largest granitic island in Seychelles, is a haven for nature lovers. Accessible by a 45-minute ferry ride from Bel Ombre on Mahé, or a shorter helicopter transfer, Silhouette feels a world away from the busier main islands. Its mountainous interior is draped in lush rainforest, home to unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. Imagine hiking trails winding through ancient forests, leading to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking pristine beaches and turquoise waters.
The island’s main settlement, La Passe, is where you’ll find the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, the only large resort on the island. While other smaller guesthouses existed in the past, the Hilton has become synonymous with Silhouette Island tourism. This ensures the island remains largely unspoiled, with vast areas designated as national park. For an active holiday, dedicated trails are easily accessible, offering the perfect way to explore. Bird watchers are almost guaranteed to spot endemic birds, such as the Seychelles kestrel.
Cost: A day trip focusing on hiking and beach time is possible and can be relatively affordable, involving the ferry from Mahé (approximately €80 round trip) and bringing your own snacks and water. Staying at the Hilton Labriz is significantly more expensive, with prices ranging from €300 to €800 per night, depending on the season and room type. Food and activities within the resort add to the cost.
Getting there: Cat Cocos ferry from Victoria, Mahé (Bel Ombre Jetty) operates multiple times daily. Helicopter transfers are also available, offering a quicker (but pricier) alternative.
Recommendation: Pack sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, and sunscreen. If you’re not staying at the Hilton, bring all necessary food and water as options are limited outside the resort.
Delving into the Desert Island Experience: Desroches
Desroches Island, part of the Amirantes group, offers a true “desert island” experience. This coral island, located about 230 kilometers southwest of Mahé, is accessible by a 40-minute flight. It’s characterized by its flat terrain, covered in coconut palms and casuarina trees, and ringed by stunning white-sand beaches. The island is now home to the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island, an exclusive property that caters to travelers seeking privacy and luxury.
Desroches is recognized for its exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. The surrounding waters are teeming with marine life, including colorful coral reefs, sea turtles, and a variety of fish species. The island is also a nesting site for sea turtles, and visitors might witness hatchlings making their way to the ocean (especially during nesting season). The Four Seasons also runs a conservation project and visitors are encouraged to participate in citizen science projects that help safeguard the island’s ecosystem.
Cost: Staying on Desroches is an ultra-luxury experience, with nightly rates at the Four Seasons typically starting around €1,000 and going up significantly depending on villa type and time of year. Flights to the island from Mahé are also a significant expense.
Getting there: Scheduled flights are provided by the Four Seasons Resort from Mahé International Airport (SEZ) to Desroches Island Airport (DES).
Recommendation: If you’re looking for an exclusive escape with exceptional diving and snorkeling, and cost isn’t a major concern, Desroches is an excellent choice. Consider booking well in advance, especially during peak season.
Bird Island: A Wildlife Sanctuary
True to its name, Bird Island is a haven for birdlife. Situated at the northernmost point of the Seychelles archipelago, about 100 kilometers from Mahé, this coral cay is home to millions of seabirds, including sooty terns, fairy terns, and noddies. The island is accessible by a 30-minute flight from Mahé and is managed solely as a nature reserve. Until recently, guests could stay at the Bird Island Lodge, a simple eco-lodge focused on sustainability. However reports indicate as of 2024 that the lodge is closed, therefore visiting Bird Island will be dependent on updated information regarding any sustainable and environmentally conscious accommodations.
While on Bird Island one can expect the chance to witness the annual nesting of sooty terns which turns the island into a cacophonous, bustling spectacle, occurring between May and October. Other highlights include exploring the island’s walking trails, discovering secluded beaches, and learning about the island’s conservation efforts. The surrounding waters offer great opportunities for snorkeling and observing marine life.
Cost: Until updated information is released, it will be difficult to accurately cost the trip. However costs relating to flights from Mahe to Bird Island are generally expensive and can range from €400-€600 per person for a return flight.
Getting there: Flights were previously offered specifically for guests of the Bird Island Lodge. Updated information is required before travelling to Bird Island.
Recommendation: Before making plans check with authorities about its conditions with the lodge if your interests remain high in visiting. Bring binoculars for enhanced birdwatching. Respect the wildlife and abide by any guidelines set by the management to minimize disturbance to the birds and their habitat.
Cousine Island: A Private Conservation Paradise
Cousine Island, a small granitic island just off the coast of Praslin, is another incredible example of Seychelles’ commitment to conservation. This private island, accessible by helicopter or boat, is dedicated entirely to protecting its native flora and fauna. For years, Cousine Island has successfully eradicated introduced species and restored the island to its pre-human state. This effort has made Cousine a refuge for endangered species, including the Seychelles magpie robin and the Seychelles turtle dove.
Visitors to Cousine Island stay at the Cousine Island Resort, an exclusive eco-lodge with just four luxurious villas. The emphasis is on responsible tourism, with guests encouraged to participate in conservation activities. You can assist with turtle monitoring, participate in tree planting, or simply learn about the island’s unique ecosystem. The resort also offers excellent dining experiences featuring locally sourced ingredients, and opportunities for relaxation on pristine beaches.
Cost: Cousine Island is one of the most exclusive island escapes in Seychelles, with prices starting from approximately €2,000 per night per villa. This includes meals, drinks, activities, and conservation fees.
Getting there: Helicopter transfers from Praslin or Mahé are the most common way to reach Cousine Island. Boat transfers are also available, but less frequent.
Recommendation: If you’re looking for an immersive conservation experience coupled with luxurious accommodation, Cousine Island is an unparalleled destination. Be prepared for a significant investment.
Frégate Island Private: Ultimate Luxury and Seclusion
Frégate Island Private embodies the pinnacle of luxury and seclusion in Seychelles. This private island, accessible by helicopter from Mahé, features just 16 villas, each with its own private pool and breathtaking views. The island is dedicated to preserving its natural environment, and guests have the opportunity to explore the island’s hiking trails, discover secluded beaches, and interact with the island’s conservation team. Seven beaches are located on Frégate, including Anse Victorin which was named “The World’s Best Beach” by The Times in 1998.
Frégate Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including Aldabra giant tortoises, seabirds, and endemic insects. Guests can participate in guided nature walks, learn about the island’s conservation efforts, and even adopt a tortoise. The resort offers exceptional dining experiences featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and a range of activities, including diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
Cost: Frégate Island Private is one of the most expensive resorts in the world, with nightly rates starting from around €3,500 per villa. This includes all meals, drinks, activities, and transfers.
Getting there: Helicopter transfers from Mahé International Airport (SEZ) directly to Frégate Island.
Recommendation: Frégate Island Private caters to the most discerning travelers seeking ultimate privacy, luxury, and a meaningful connection with nature. The price tag reflects the exclusivity and unparalleled experience on offer.
North Island: An Exclusive Eco-Luxury Hideaway
North Island, another private island in Seychelles, has garnered acclaim for its stunning beauty and dedication to conservation. Famous as the honeymoon destination of Prince William and Kate Middleton, North Island is renowned for its privacy and luxurious amenities and its commitment towards ecologically friendly sustainability.
Only 11 villas are located on North Island, promising exclusivity for its guests. Activities include scuba diving (with a dive center on-site), sailing and windsurfing, sunset cruises and a library with extensive books and DVDs. Beyond the luxuries, North Island has been actively involved in a program that has seen the island being restored as a haven for the conservation of the country’s endangered species. Since 1997, a determined and comprehensive rehabilitation program has taken place to restore the island which supports a rich abundance of indigenous wildlife which can be seen both on land and in the surrounding waters. The Noah’s Ark project has brought back native species and ecosystems that had been lost over time, creating a haven for wildlife.
Cost: Similarly priced near Frégate Island Private, nightly rates start from around €3,500 per villa that includes all meals, drinks, activities, as well as transfers.
Getting there: Helicopter transfers are used from Mahé International Airport (SEZ) directly to North Island.
Recommendation: North Island is the place to go for a relaxing vacation with a dedication towards conservation as well as privacy and luxurious amenities.
Aride Island: A Protected Seabird Sanctuary
Aride Island is a true treasure for ornithologists and nature lovers. Situated north of Praslin, this privately managed nature reserve boasts the highest density of lizards in the world and is a crucial breeding ground for many seabird species only found in the Seychelles Islands. Often referred to as the “seabird capital” the island is home to over a million seabirds including the roseate tern, the world’s rarest tern.
As mentioned before, Aride Island is dedicated to environmental conservation. Visiting Aride Island is possible only through guided tours offered by the island’s conservation team. In fact, the island only opens to the public a few days a week to give the seabirds space (only in seasons where it is safe to enter). The guided tour gives an inside look at the island’s varied wildlife and insight on its conservation efforts. The environment includes endemic plants, lizards and diverse species of birds. Guests are encouraged to follow the guidance of the guides which ensures any environmental damage is minimised and the wild life is preserved. As one of the most important breeding sites for seabirds in the Indian Ocean, Aride Island provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Cost: Accessing Aride Island requires a boat trip from Praslin, costing between €50-€100 depending on the length of the trip, though one needs to arrange access in advance with your guide and the island’s managers. A conservation fee will often be implemented to contribute towards the island’s conservation efforts.
Getting there: To reach Aride Island it is necessary to arrange a boat trip from Praslin.
Recommendation: Plan your trip in advance which allows the guided tour to be booked on Aride Island. As well as that, it would be expected that you will need to wear sturdy walking shoes, sunscreen and take lots of bottled and water and insect repellent.
Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoises and Doctor’s House
Curieuse Island is a granite island near Praslin, and is best known for its large population of Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely across the island. As well as this, it is characterised by its mangrove swamps, coco de mer palms, a former leper colony, and the beautifully named Anse St. Jose beach. The tortoises in fact, have been brought here from Aldabra and have gradually populated the island. Visitors are able to walk within metres of the population.
Curieuse Island Marine National Park is located on the island which provides a safe haven for its unique terrestrial and marine life. The island is rich in cultural significance as well, which once served as a leper colony. There, “The Doctor’s House” still exists which serves as a small historical museum. Visitors are able to trek over to the other side of the island along the trail over the hill.
Cost: There will often be park entrance fees, which allows you to explore the island’s many trails. As well as that, you will have to hire a boat trip from Praslin (about €40), which is a short journey.
Getting there: Boat trips occur regularly from Baie Sainte Anne or Anse Volbert on Praslin. One may also book these boat trips with tours that can include a BBQ lunch on the island.
Recommendation: Bring sunscreen, a hat and a camera for pictures of tortoises! Consider footwear suitable for walking. Follow the instructions set by park authorities to minimize disruption to the wildlife.
FAQ Section
Q: What is the best time to visit Seychelles?
The best time to visit Seychelles is generally during the shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October. These months offer pleasant weather with calmer seas and less rainfall. The peak seasons (December-January and July-August) can be more crowded and expensive.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?
No, Seychelles offers visa-free entry to most nationalities for tourism purposes. However, you must have a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a return or onward ticket.
Q: Is Seychelles expensive?
Yes, Seychelles is generally considered an expensive destination, especially for accommodation and dining. However, it’s possible to reduce costs by staying in guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and eating at local restaurants.
Q: What currency is used in Seychelles?
The currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). US dollars and Euros are widely accepted, especially at larger hotels and tourist establishments. Credit cards are also commonly used.
Q: Are there any health precautions I should take?
Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Seychelles. Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever can occur, so it’s essential to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
References
- Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa Official Website
- Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island Official Website
- Bird Island, Seychelles archive.org
- Cousine Island Resort Official Website
- Frégate Island Private Official Website
- North Island, a Luxury Collection Resort, Seychelles Official Website
- Aride Island website.
- Curieuse Marine National Park (Seychelles National Parks Authority)
Ready to go beyond the beaches and discover the authentic Seychelles? Start planning your adventure today! Explore the untouched beauty of Silhouette Island, indulge in the luxury of Desroches, or witness the incredible birdlife of Bird Island. Book your flights, reserve your accommodation, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t just dream about paradise – experience it!
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