Island hopping in Seychelles offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to soak in the unique charm of each island. From the bustling markets of Mahé to the pristine beaches of Praslin and the secluded coves of La Digue, this guide unlocks the secrets to crafting your perfect Seychellois adventure.
Planning Your Island Hopping Adventure
Before diving into the specifics of each island, let’s talk planning. The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons: April-May and September-October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with less rainfall and calmer seas, ideal for boat trips and snorkeling. Avoid the peak seasons (December-January and July-August) if you prefer less crowded islands and more affordable accommodations.
Budgeting: Seychelles isn’t a budget destination, but smart planning can help. Accommodation costs vary significantly. Expect to pay anywhere from €100 per night for a guesthouse to €500+ for luxury resorts. Ferry tickets between islands can range from €15 to €50 per trip, depending on the distance and operator (Cat Cocos is a primary fast ferry service operator). Food costs depend on your dining choices; self-catering is a good option to save, especially if you’re staying in an apartment. Allow at least €100 per day for food, transport, and activities.
Getting Around: Ferries are the most common mode of transport between the main islands. Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season. Inter-island flights are also available, operated by Air Seychelles, but are more expensive. On each island, you can rent cars, bicycles, or use local buses. Buses are the cheapest option, but can be infrequent. Car rentals offer flexibility but can be pricey. Bicycles are ideal for exploring La Digue and some parts of Praslin.
Must-Visit Islands and Their Highlights
Mahé: The Capital and Gateway
Mahé is the largest island and home to the capital, Victoria. It’s where your international flight will likely land. It would be a shame to overlook Mahé in your island hopping adventure as it’s more than just a transportation hub!
Victoria: Explore the colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, a vibrant hub of local life. Sample fresh fruits, spices, and Creole delicacies. Visit the National Museum of History to learn about the Seychelles’ rich heritage. For a panoramic view of the island, hike to the Mission Lodge ruins, once a school for liberated slave children. Don’t forget the iconic clock tower, a miniature replica of London’s Big Ben (also known as Little Ben) – a great photo opportunity!
Beaches: Mahé boasts some of the most stunning beaches in Seychelles. Beau Vallon is a popular choice with its calm waters and numerous watersport activities. Anse Intendance, on the other hand, is more secluded with strong waves perfect for surfing (but be cautious when swimming). Anse Takamaka offers a tranquil setting with turquoise waters and white sand. Baie Lazare, known for its serene atmosphere and crystal clear water, is an ideal bay for relaxing and enjoying the day. Anse Royale is another must-visit – it offers great snorkeling spots and shallow swimming areas.
Activities: Take a guided hike through the Morne Seychellois National Park, home to the highest peak in Seychelles. Visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens to admire the diverse flora and fauna. Go snorkeling or diving at some of the many reefs surrounding the island. Consider a day trip to Moyenne Island, a private nature reserve with giant tortoises and stunning beaches – accessible by boat from Mahé. Don’t miss the chance to visit a rum distillery like Takamaka Rum Distillery, where you can learn about the rum-making process and sample local varieties. For adventurous hikers, scaling the challenging Copolia Trail rewards you with exceptional views.
Accommodation: Mahé offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Consider staying in Beau Vallon for easy access to the beach and restaurants or in the quieter south for a more secluded experience.
Praslin: Home to the Coco de Mer
Praslin, the second-largest island, is renowned for its stunning beaches and lush vegetation.
Anse Lazio: Often ranked among the world’s best beaches, Anse Lazio is a must-see. Its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and granite boulders create a picture-perfect setting. The beach is generally safe for swimming, but be aware of currents, especially during high tide. Two restaurants are located near the beach, offering a variety of dining options.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai is home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm, the largest seed in the plant kingdom. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna of this ancient forest. The entrance fee is around €25 per person. While walking through the lush trails, keep an eye out for the black parrot, another endemic species to Praslin.
Anse Georgette: Another stunning beach on Praslin, Anse Georgette requires advance booking as it’s located within the Lemuria Resort. Contact the resort ahead of your visit to secure access. The beach is known for its calm waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The landscape gives you the immediate feeling of being in paradise.
Activities: Take a boat trip to Curieuse Island, home to a large population of giant tortoises, or Cousin Island, a bird sanctuary. Go snorkeling or diving in the protected waters of the Curieuse Marine National Park. Rent a car and explore the island’s hidden coves and scenic viewpoints.
Accommodation: Praslin has a variety of accommodation options, ranging from boutique hotels to self-catering apartments. Consider staying near Anse Lazio or Anse Volbert for easy beach access.
La Digue: The Island of Tranquility
La Digue is the smallest of the three main islands and is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.
Anse Source d’Argent: Arguably the most photographed beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent is famous for its towering granite boulders, white sand, and shallow turquoise waters. Entrance to the beach requires paying a small fee as it’s located within the L’Union Estate. The beach is ideal for swimming and snorkeling, but be aware of shallow waters and coral reefs.
L’Union Estate: This working estate offers a glimpse into La Digue’s colonial past. Visit the old copra mill, the giant tortoises pen, and the colonial-era plantation house. Entrance to the estate also grants access to Anse Source d’Argent.
Grand Anse and Petite Anse: These two beaches on the eastern side of the island are more secluded and offer stunning scenery. However, the currents can be strong, so be cautious when swimming. Especially Grand Anse has rough waves, which makes it a beloved spot for surfers. Petite Anse is a challenging hike across a hillside. It offers a small secluded beach.
Activities: Rent a bicycle and explore the island at your own pace. Hike to Nid d’Aigle, the highest point on La Digue, for panoramic views. Take a boat trip to the neighboring islands of Félicité or Coco Island for snorkeling and diving.
Accommodation: La Digue offers a range of guesthouses, small hotels, and self-catering apartments. Book well in advance, especially during peak season, as accommodation options are limited.
Beyond the Main Islands: Exploring Hidden Gems
While Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue are the most popular islands, Seychelles offers numerous other islands worth exploring.
Silhouette Island: Known for its rugged terrain and lush forests, Silhouette Island is a haven for nature lovers. The island is home to the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, which offers a variety of activities, including hiking, snorkeling, and diving. Day trips are available, although spending a few nights here allows you to fully appreciate its beauty.
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa
Félicité Island: This private island is home to the luxurious Six Senses Zil Pasyon resort. Day trips are possible, but the resort is the main attraction. The island offers stunning beaches, lush vegetation, and exclusive experiences.
Six Senses Zil Pasyon
Denis Private Island: An eco-tourism gem, Denis Private Island is dedicated to conservation and sustainability. The island is home to a luxury resort that offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching. The resort actively participates in conservation projects, offering guests a chance to learn about and contribute to protecting the island’s natural environment. Staying here is not cheap, but the experience is worth it.
Denis Private Island
Practical Tips for Your Island Hopping Trip
Currency: The local currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
Language: The official languages are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Health: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Seychelles, but it’s always advisable to consult your doctor before traveling. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants, especially in the evenings.
Safety: Seychelles is generally a safe destination, but petty theft can occur. Keep your valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings.
What to Pack: Pack light, breathable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and a waterproof bag for protecting your electronics.
Sample Island Hopping Itinerary (10 Days)
This is just a suggestion, feel free to adapt it to your interests and budget.
Day 1-3: Mahé: Arrive at Mahé International Airport. Explore Victoria, relax on Beau Vallon beach, hike in Morne Seychellois National Park, and visit the Takamaka Rum Distillery. Consider a day trip to Moyenne Island.
Day 4-6: Praslin: Take a ferry to Praslin. Visit Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, and go snorkeling or diving in the Curieuse Marine National Park.
Day 7-9: La Digue: Take a ferry to La Digue. Visit Anse Source d’Argent, explore L’Union Estate, rent a bicycle and explore the island, and hike to Nid d’Aigle.
Day 10: Departure: Take a ferry back to Mahé for your departure flight.
Food and Drink: A Creole Culinary Journey
Seychelles offers a delicious blend of Creole, French, and Indian flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample local specialties such as grilled fish, octopus curry, and ladob (sweet potato and plantain dessert). Fresh seafood is abundant, and many restaurants offer catch-of-the-day specials.
Try ordering some take away food. You’ll find a variety of options like curries, grilled fish and other creole treats sold at affordable prices that are favored among locals.
For drinks, try Seybrew beer, Seychellois rum, and locally made fruit juices. Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials.
Responsible Tourism in Seychelles
Seychelles is a fragile ecosystem, and it’s important to practice responsible tourism. Respect the environment by not littering, avoiding single-use plastics, and using reef-safe sunscreen. Support local businesses, and be mindful of local customs and traditions.
When snorkeling or diving, avoid touching or disturbing marine life. Choose eco-friendly tour operators who are committed to sustainable practices. By being a responsible traveler, you can help preserve the beauty of Seychelles for future generations.
FAQ Section
How much does island hopping in Seychelles cost?
The cost of island hopping in Seychelles varies depending on your travel style, accommodation choices, and activities. A budget traveler can expect to spend around €100-€150 per day, while a mid-range traveler can expect to spend around €200-€300 per day. Luxury travelers can easily spend €500+ per day. The main factors affecting the cost are accommodation, transport between islands, and activities.
What is the best way to get around between the islands?
Ferries are the most common and affordable way to travel between the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Inter-island flights are also available but are more expensive. On each island, you can rent cars, bicycles, or use local buses.
Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?
No, Seychelles offers visa-free entry to most nationalities for tourism purposes. Visitors are typically granted a stay of up to 30 days. Make sure you have a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds to cover your stay.
What is the currency used in Seychelles?
The local currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
What is the best time to visit Seychelles?
The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons: April-May and September-October. During these months, the weather is pleasant with less rainfall and calmer seas, ideal for boat trips and snorkeling. Avoid the peak seasons (December-January and July-August) if you prefer less crowded islands and more affordable accommodations.
References
Seychelles Tourism Board Official Website
Cat Cocos Ferry Website
Air Seychelles Official Website
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Ready to experience paradise? Stop dreaming and start planning your unforgettable island hopping adventure in Seychelles! Book your flights, accommodations, and ferry tickets today. Discover the magic of these pristine islands and create memories that will last a lifetime. What are you waiting for?
