Seychelles isn’t just about pristine beaches and luxurious resorts. Beyond the postcard-perfect images lies a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. The term “SPOTS in SEYCHELLES” represents these lesser-known gems, offering unique adventures for travelers seeking something more than just sun and sand. This article dives deep into these SPOTS, providing practical tips, directions, and insights to help you craft an unforgettable Seychellois adventure.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A Primeval Paradise
Nestled on Praslin Island, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site that transports you to a prehistoric world. This primordial forest feels untouched, teeming with endemic plant and animal life, most famously the coco de mer palm. Unlike the manicured gardens of luxury resorts, this is raw nature at its finest.
Getting There: Take a ferry from Mahé to Praslin (approx. 1 hour). From the Praslin jetty, hire a taxi or take the local bus towards Baie Ste Anne. The Vallée de Mai entrance is well-signposted from the main road.
What to Expect: The reserve offers guided tours (highly recommended) that last around 1.5-2 hours. These tours provide invaluable insights into the unique ecosystem and the significance of the coco de mer. You can also explore independently using well-marked trails. The trails range in difficulty, so choose one appropriate for your fitness level. Be prepared for humidity and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Cost: Entrance fees are around €25 per adult. Guided tours incur an additional cost (approx. €15-€20 per person). Booking in advance is advisable, especially during peak season, through the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority website.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and increase your chances of spotting the elusive black parrot, another endemic species found only on Praslin and Curieuse islands.
Anse Lazio: Beyond the Postcard
Anse Lazio consistently ranks among the world’s best beaches, and for good reason. Its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and granite boulders create a breathtaking scene. However, there’s more to Anse Lazio than meets the initial Instagram-worthy view.
Reaching the Paradise: Fly from Mahé to Praslin. From the Praslin Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Anse Lazio. The road is a bit winding, but well-maintained. Bus services are also available, but they may require a longer travel time and some walking.
Beyond Sunbathing: While sunbathing is definitely a must, consider snorkeling or swimming along the edges of the bay. The coral reefs near the granite boulders offer a glimpse into a vibrant underwater world. Two restaurants, Bonbon Plume and Le Chevalier Bay Restaurant, provide delicious Seychellois cuisine with stunning views.
Safety First: The currents at Anse Lazio can sometimes be strong, especially during certain times of the year. Pay attention to the warning flags and heed the advice of lifeguards. There have been rare shark attacks in the past (though extremely uncommon), so be aware of your surroundings and avoid swimming far out.
Cost: No entrance fee for the beach itself. Restaurant prices vary, expect to pay around €20-€40 per person for a meal. Car rental costs around €40-€60 per day.
Hidden Gems: Walk to the far end of Anse Lazio (towards the right if you’re facing the sea) to find a smaller, more secluded cove called Petite Anse Lazio. It requires a bit of a scramble over rocks, but the tranquility and privacy are worth the effort.
Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoises and Doctor’s House
Curieuse Island, a short boat ride from Praslin (approx. 30-45 minutes), offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. It’s home to a large population of giant tortoises, a former leper colony, and a well-preserved Doctor’s House that serves as a museum.
Getting There: Arrange a boat trip from Praslin (either from Anse Volbert/Cote d’Or or Baie Ste Anne). Numerous tour operators offer excursions to Curieuse, often combined with a visit to St. Pierre Island for snorkeling.
Giant Tortoise Encounters: The highlight of Curieuse Island is undoubtedly the giant tortoises. You can interact with these gentle giants, feed them leaves, and take memorable photos. Respect the animals and avoid disturbing them in their natural habitat.
Doctor’s House and History: The Doctor’s House, a colonial-era building, houses a small museum that details the island’s history as a leper colony. It provides a fascinating glimpse into Seychelles’ past.
Mangrove Boardwalk: A raised boardwalk meanders through the mangrove forest, offering a unique perspective of the island’s diverse ecosystem. Keep an eye out for mudskippers and other mangrove-dwelling creatures.
Cost: Boat trips to Curieuse Island typically cost around €60-€100 per person, including lunch. National park fees are usually included in the tour price, but double-check with the operator.
Packing Essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable walking shoes, and mosquito repellent. Water and snacks are also recommended, though lunch is usually provided as part of the tour.
Morne Seychellois National Park: Hiking and Panoramic Views
Mahé Island’s largest national park, Morne Seychellois, offers a network of hiking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and waterfalls. This is a must for adventure seekers looking to escape the beaches and immerse themselves in the island’s lush interior.
Trail Options: Various trails cater to different fitness levels. The Morne Seychellois trail, the park’s highest point, is a challenging but rewarding hike offering panoramic views of Mahé. Shorter and easier trails, like the Copolia Trail (famous for its unique granite rock formations) and the Trois Frères Trail, are also available.
Getting There: Access points for the trails are located across Mahé. The easiest way to reach the trailheads is by car or taxi. Public buses also serve some areas near the park, but you may need to walk a considerable distance to reach the starting point of the trails. Google Maps can be helpful for navigation but always confirm directions locally.
What to Expect: Hikes can range from a couple of hours to a full day. Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, and pack snacks. The weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so be prepared for rain. It is easy to get lost, especially on the unmarked trails. Consider bringing a local guide, map and compass, or GPS navigation device.
Cost: No entrance fee for the park itself. Hiring a guide costs around €50-€100 per day, depending on the trail and the duration of the hike.
Safety Precautions: Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Stick to marked trails whenever possible. Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for slippery rocks and steep drops. Avoid hiking alone, especially on the more challenging trails.
Mission Lodge Lookout (Venn’s Town): A Glimpse into History
Located in the mountains of Mahé, the Mission Lodge Lookout (also known as Venn’s Town) offers both breathtaking views and a glimpse into Seychelles’ colonial past. This was the site of a mission established in the 19th century to educate freed slave children.
A Historical Site: The ruins of the mission buildings stand as a reminder of Seychelles’ history of slavery and the efforts to provide education and opportunity to the freed slaves. Information boards provide historical context and insights into the mission’s operations.
Panoramic Views: The lookout point offers stunning panoramic views of Mahé’s west coast, including the coastline, turquoise waters, and nearby islands. It’s a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the natural beauty of Seychelles.
Getting There: The Mission Lodge is easily accessible by car or taxi. It’s located along the Sans Souci Road, which winds through the mountains of Mahé. Public buses also serve the area, but you may need to walk a short distance to reach the lookout point.
Cost: A small entrance fee (around €5 per person) is charged to access the site.
Combining with Other Activities: The Mission Lodge can be easily combined with a visit to the Tea Factory or a hike in the Morne Seychellois National Park. It’s a great way to break up a day of hiking or exploring the island.
St. Pierre Island: Snorkeling Paradise
St. Pierre Island, a tiny granite islet off the coast of Praslin, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a must-visit for underwater enthusiasts.
An Iconic Landmark: St. Pierre Island is easily recognizable by its cluster of granite rocks and a few palm trees. It’s one of the most photographed landmarks in Seychelles.
Snorkeling and Diving: The waters surrounding St. Pierre Island are teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. Snorkeling and diving opportunities are abundant. Many tour operators offer excursions to St. Pierre, often combined with visits to Curieuse Island.
Getting There: Boat trips to St. Pierre Island are readily available from Praslin (Anse Volbert/Cote d’Or and Baie Ste Anne). Most tours include snorkeling gear.
Cost: Boat trips to St. Pierre Island typically cost around €60-€100 per person, including snorkeling gear and sometimes lunch.
Underwater Photography: St. Pierre Island is a great place for underwater photography. The clear waters and abundant marine life provide excellent opportunities to capture stunning images.
Aride Island: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Aride Island, a nature reserve managed by the Island Conservation Society, is a haven for seabirds. It is considered the most important seabird breeding site in the Indian Ocean. Access is restricted to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
Millions of Birds: Aride Island is home to millions of breeding seabirds, including frigatebirds, terns, and shearwaters. It’s a truly remarkable sight to witness the sheer number of birds nesting on the island.
Conservation Efforts: The Island Conservation Society actively manages Aride Island to protect its biodiversity and conserve its natural heritage. They conduct research, monitor bird populations, and remove invasive species.
Getting There: Access to Aride Island is only possible through authorized tour operators. Contact the Island Conservation Society or a reputable tour operator in Praslin to arrange a visit. Boats usually depart from Praslin.
Restricted Access: Due to the sensitivity of the ecosystem, visitor numbers are limited. Strict rules and regulations are in place to minimize disturbance to the bird populations. All visitors must adhere to these guidelines.
Cost: Boat trips to Aride Island, including conservation fees, typically cost around €150-€250 per person.
Exploring Victoria Market: A Taste of Local Life
The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, more commonly known as Victoria Market, is the vibrant heart of Mahé’s capital city. It’s a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike come to buy fresh produce, seafood, spices, and souvenirs.
A Sensory Experience: The market is a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells. The colorful displays of fruits and vegetables, the lively chatter of vendors, and the aroma of spices create an immersive experience.
Fresh Seafood: The seafood section of the market is a must-see. Fishermen display their daily catch, offering a wide variety of fresh fish, prawns, crabs, and octopus. You can even have your fish cleaned and filleted on the spot.
Local Produce and Spices: Sample local fruits like mangoes, passion fruit, and breadfruit. Browse the spice stalls for cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and cloves, all grown locally. These spices make excellent souvenirs.
Souvenir Shopping: The market also has stalls selling souvenirs, including local crafts, clothing, and jewelry. Bargaining is expected, so don’t be afraid to haggle for a better price.
Getting There: The Victoria Market is located in the center of Victoria, Mahé. It’s easily accessible by car, taxi, or public bus.
Best Time to Visit: The market is busiest in the morning, when the fresh produce and seafood are at their best. Visit early to avoid the crowds.
Cost: No entrance fee. Prices for goods vary depending on the vendor and your bargaining skills.
Anse Source d’Argent: La Digue’s Iconic Beach
Anse Source d’Argent, located on La Digue Island, is arguably the most photographed beach in the world. Its unique combination of granite boulders, white sand, and turquoise waters makes it a truly stunning sight.
Why It’s Special: The beach’s iconic granite boulders, sculpted by time and tide, provide a dramatic backdrop for photos and create secluded coves for swimming and sunbathing.
Getting There: La Digue is accessible by ferry from Praslin (approx. 15-20 minutes) and Mahé (direct ferry available, approx. 1 hour 30 minutes). From the La Digue jetty, you can rent a bicycle (the most common mode of transport on the island) or take an oxcart to Anse Source d’Argent.
Exploring the Beach: The beach is actually a series of smaller coves separated by granite boulders. Explore each cove to find your perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
L’Union Estate: To access Anse Source d’Argent, you need to pass through L’Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation. There is an entrance fee to the estate (approx. €10-€15 per person).
Activities: Besides swimming and sunbathing, you can also go snorkeling in the shallow waters or explore the granite boulders and caves. Keep an eye out for colorful fish and other marine life.
Best Time to Visit: Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and capture the best light for photos. The beach is especially beautiful at sunset.
Silhouette Island: A Remote Paradise
Silhouette Island, the third largest island in Seychelles, is a remote and unspoiled paradise. It’s home to lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Only one hotel, Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, operates on the island.
Untouched Beauty: Silhouette Island remains largely untouched by development. The island’s rugged terrain and dense rainforests have helped to preserve its natural beauty.
Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the island’s interior on a network of hiking trails. The trails lead to stunning viewpoints, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Keep an eye out for endemic birds and other wildlife.
Getting There: Access to Silhouette Island is primarily by boat from Mahé. The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa operates its own boat transfers for its guests. Helicopter transfers are also available.
Activities: Besides hiking and exploring the island’s natural beauty, you can also go snorkeling, diving, fishing, or simply relax on the beach.
Cost: Staying at the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa isn’t cheap; expect to pay a premium for the exclusivity and remote location. Boat transfers and activities also add to the cost.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to visit Seychelles?
The best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October. The weather is generally pleasant, with warm temperatures and little rain. These months also avoid the peak tourist crowds.
Do I need a visa to enter Seychelles?
No, Seychelles offers visa-free entry to citizens of most countries. You will need a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds to cover your stay.
What is the currency in Seychelles?
The currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). However, Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. Credit cards are also accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. It’s always advisable to carry some local currency for smaller establishments and local markets.
Is Seychelles an expensive destination?
Yes, Seychelles is generally considered to be an expensive destination, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining. However, it is possible to travel on a budget by staying in guesthouses, eating at local restaurants, and utilizing public transport.
What languages are spoken in Seychelles?
The official languages of Seychelles are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. English and French are widely spoken in tourist areas.
References
Seychelles National Parks Authority
Island Conservation Society
UNESCO World Heritage Centre
Ready to Discover the Real Seychelles?
Forget the typical tourist traps and superficial experiences. Seychelles offers a deeper connection to nature, history, and vibrant local culture. Book your trip today and let these “SPOTS in SEYCHELLES” ignite your sense of adventure. Discover beyond the beaches and create memories that will last a lifetime. The islands are waiting!
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