The Seychelles, an archipelago scattered like emeralds across the Indian Ocean, offers photographers an unparalleled canvas of natural beauty. From pristine beaches and lush tropical forests to granite boulders sculpted by time and vibrant coral reefs, this guide will navigate you through the ultimate Seychelles photo safari, revealing the most breathtaking spots and how to capture them in their full glory.
Mahé: The Gateway to Photographic Paradise
Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles, serves as the primary entry point and a treasure trove of photographic opportunities in its own right. Arrive at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) and immediately be greeted by the turquoise waters that fringe the island. Rent a car – essential for exploring independently – or hire a driver for a more relaxed experience. Driving on Mahé is on the left, and the roads can be winding, so be prepared. Cost of car rentals can range from €40-€70 per day, depending on the type of vehicle.
Beau Vallon: Sunset Spectacle
Beau Vallon is arguably Mahé’s most popular beach, and for good reason. Its long stretch of white sand, calm waters, and vibrant atmosphere make it a photographer’s dream. The key here is timing. Aim to arrive at least an hour before sunset to scout your location. Look for interesting compositions – perhaps a lone palm tree leaning over the water, local fishermen casting their nets, or the silhouettes of boats against the fiery sky. Use a wide-angle lens (16-35mm is ideal) to capture the expansive scene, and consider using a graduated neutral density (GND) filter to balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker foreground. Don’t be afraid to get your feet wet! Low-angle shots often create a more dramatic perspective.
Anse Intendance: Raw and Untamed
For a more rugged and less crowded beach, head to Anse Intendance on the south coast. This beach is known for its powerful waves and strong currents, making it unsuitable for swimming unless you’re an experienced surfer. However, the dramatic scenery makes up for it. Focus on capturing the raw power of the ocean – crashing waves against the granite boulders, the swirling patterns in the sand, and the textures of the exposed rocks. Telephoto lenses (70-200mm or longer) can be particularly useful here for isolating details and compressing the perspective. The light is often best in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is lower in the sky and casts long shadows. Remember to exercise caution and keep a safe distance from the waves, especially during high tide.
Morne Seychellois National Park: Verdant Vistas
Escape the beaches and venture into the heart of Mahé to explore Morne Seychellois National Park, the largest national park in the Seychelles. Several trails offer breathtaking views of the island, lush rainforests, and endemic plant and animal life. The Morne Seychellois Trail, the park’s most challenging hike, rewards you with panoramic views from the island’s highest peak. However, even shorter and easier trails, such as the Copolia Trail, offer stunning photographic opportunities. Focus on capturing the textures and colors of the rainforest – the vibrant greens of the foliage, the intricate patterns of the tree bark, and the dappled light filtering through the canopy. Macro lenses can be used to photograph the smaller details, such as insects and flowers. Be prepared for humid conditions and bring plenty of water. Entrance to the park is generally free, but guided tours are available for a fee. Check with the Seychelles National Parks Authority for information on trails and permits.
Victoria Market: A Burst of Creole Culture
Experience the vibrant heart of Creole culture at the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, commonly known as Victoria Market, in the capital city of Victoria. This bustling market is a sensory overload, with vendors selling fresh fish, fruits, vegetables, spices, and local crafts. Capture the candid moments of everyday life – the friendly banter between vendors and customers, the vibrant colors of the produce, and the textures of the handcrafted goods. Be respectful when taking photos of people and always ask for permission first. A fast lens (f/2.8 or faster) is essential for shooting in the dimly lit interior, and a wide-angle lens can be used to capture the overall atmosphere of the market. The market is open every day except Sunday afternoon and Monday, so plan your visit accordingly.
Praslin: The Garden of Eden
A short ferry ride (approximately 1 hour) or flight (15 minutes) from Mahé will take you to Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles. Praslin is home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and some of the most stunning beaches in the world. The ferry ride costs around €50-€60 for a round trip. Flights are obviously faster but more expensive, in the range of €100-€150 for a round trip.
Anse Lazio: Paradise Perfected
Anse Lazio is consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, and it’s easy to see why. Its pristine white sand, turquoise waters, and granite boulders sculpted by the waves create a picture-perfect scene. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and capture the beach in its most pristine state. Experiment with different angles and compositions, using the boulders as leading lines to draw the viewer’s eye into the scene. Consider using a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the colors of the water and sky. Snorkeling is excellent here, so bring an underwater camera or housing to capture the vibrant marine life. A word of caution: the current can be strong at times, so be aware of your surroundings.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A Primeval Forest
Step back in time as you enter the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. This ancient forest is a photographer’s paradise, with its towering palms, lush vegetation, and unique wildlife. Focus on capturing the majesty of the Coco de Mer palms, paying attention to their intricate shapes and textures. Look for interesting patterns in the foliage and use the dappled light to create a sense of depth and atmosphere. A macro lens is useful for photographing the smaller details, such as insects and the intricate veins of the leaves. The entrance fee to the Vallée de Mai is approximately €20 per person. Guided tours are highly recommended to learn about the park’s unique ecosystem and conservation efforts. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent.
Anse Georgette: Secluded Sanctuary
Accessing Anse Georgette used to be more challenging, adding to its allure, and now generally requires booking in advance through the Constance Lémuria resort which either borders the beach or essentially controls access. The beach itself is a small cove with unbelievably soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. The contrast between the turquoise waters, the white sand, and the dark green vegetation makes for stunning photographs. Because access is controlled, it tends to be less crowded than other beaches on Praslin. Before your trip, contact the resort to book a time slot to access the beach. This may involve a small fee or require you to have lunch at the resort restaurant.
La Digue: The Island of Timeless Beauty
A short ferry ride (approximately 15 minutes) from Praslin will take you to La Digue, the smallest of the three main inhabited islands. La Digue is known for its laid-back atmosphere, absence of cars (most people get around by bicycle), and some of the most iconic beaches in the world. The ferry between Praslin and La Digue costs around €15 – €20 for a round trip. You’ll find bicycle rentals easily available near the ferry terminal costing around €5 per day.
Anse Source d’Argent: The Iconic Beach
Anse Source d’Argent, with its dramatic granite boulders sculpted by the ocean and its shallow turquoise water, is arguably the most photographed beach in the world. The key to capturing this beach in its full glory is patience and persistence. Arrive early in the morning before the crowds arrive and scout for the best angles. The light is particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset, when the boulders are bathed in golden light. . Experiment with different perspectives – try shooting from low angles to emphasize the scale of the boulders, or from higher vantage points to capture the overall beauty of the beach. A wide-angle lens is essential for capturing the expansive scene, but a telephoto lens can also be used to isolate interesting details, such as the patterns and textures of the granite rocks. There’s an entrance fee to access Anse Source d’Argent, as it’s located within the L’Union Estate, an old copra plantation. The fee is typically around €10 per person.
Grand Anse and Petite Anse: Wild and Wonderful
For a more adventurous experience, cycle or hike to Grand Anse and Petite Anse on the east coast of La Digue. These beaches are wilder and more exposed than Anse Source d’Argent, with larger waves and stronger currents. They are also less crowded, offering a more secluded experience. Getting to Petite Anse involves a relatively short but somewhat challenging hike from Grand Anse. Focus on capturing the raw power of the ocean – crashing waves against the shore, the dramatic rock formations, and the vastness of the sea. Telephoto lenses can be used to isolate details and compress the perspective. Be aware of the strong currents and undertows, and avoid swimming unless you are an experienced swimmer.
L’Union Estate: A Glimpse into the Past
Before or after visiting Anse Source d’Argent, take some time to explore L’Union Estate, an old copra plantation that offers a glimpse into La Digue’s colonial past. Here, you can see traditional coconut processing methods, learn about the island’s history, and visit the giant tortoises. Capture the rustic charm of the old plantation buildings, the textures of the coconut husks, and the gentle movements of the giant tortoises. This estate is one of the only locations you can see the Seychelles Giant Tortoises. Focus your camera on capturing the texture of their skin as well as their shells, and the interactions if any. The entrance fee to L’Union Estate covers access to Anse Source d’Argent.
Beyond the Main Islands: Hidden Gems
While Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue offer the most accessible and well-known photographic locations, the Seychelles archipelago is comprised of over 100 islands, many of which offer unique and untouched landscapes. Consider taking a boat trip or a scenic flight to explore some of these hidden gems.
Bird Island: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
True to its name, Bird Island is a haven for birdlife, with millions of birds nesting on the island each year. This makes it a paradise for bird photographers. The island is home to sooty tern colonies and other rare and endemic bird species, and you can walk alongside them without disturbing them. Focus on capturing the birds in flight, preening themselves, or interacting with each other. A long telephoto lens (400mm or longer) is essential for capturing these images. Bird Island Lodge is the only accommodation on the island, so book well in advance.
Cousin Island: A Conservation Success Story
Cousin Island is a special nature reserve managed by Nature Seychelles. It’s another island with amazing birdlife, including the Seychelles Magpie Robin. It’s also a successful example of conservation. To visit it, you’ll need to join a tour. This will give you access to some amazing bird photography opportunities. You can also see nesting turtles, particularly Hawksbill turtles. Capturing the nesting process offers some unique photographic moments.
Essential Photography Tips for the Seychelles
Beyond specific locations, here are some essential photography tips to help you capture the best possible images in the Seychelles:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Seychelles for photography is during the shoulder seasons – April-May and September-October – when the weather is generally calm and dry.
Protect Your Gear: The Seychelles are a humid and salty environment. Protecting your gear is crucial. Use a waterproof camera bag, and consider investing in silica gel packets to absorb moisture.
Shoot in RAW: Shooting in RAW format allows you to capture the maximum amount of data, giving you more flexibility in post-processing.
Use a Polarizing Filter: A polarizing filter can reduce glare, enhance colors, and cut through haze, making it an essential tool for landscape photography.
Embrace the Golden Hour: The hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, known as the golden hour, offer the best light for photography.
Don’t Forget the Details: While sweeping landscapes are impressive, don’t forget to capture the smaller details that make the Seychelles so unique – the textures of the granite boulders, the patterns of the coral reefs, and the vibrant colors of the local flora and fauna.
Respect the Environment: The Seychelles are a fragile ecosystem. Be mindful of your impact on the environment and avoid trampling on vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
Charge and Backup: Make sure you charge all of your batteries before setting out each day and consider bringing extra batteries to extend your shooting time. Always back up your photos on a regular basis to avoid losing valuable images.
Remember your underwater housings and camera: The reefs are vibrant.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about photographing the Seychelles:
What lenses should I bring for a Seychelles photo safari?
A versatile lens kit should include a wide-angle lens (16-35mm) for landscapes and seascapes, a mid-range zoom lens (24-70mm or 24-105mm) for general photography, and a telephoto lens (70-200mm or longer) for wildlife and distant subjects. A macro lens can also be useful for capturing smaller details.
Do I need a permit to photograph in national parks and reserves?
Generally, no, but it is best to check with the Seychelles National Parks Authority for the most up-to-date regulations, especially for commercial photography.
Is it safe to photograph in the Seychelles?
The Seychelles are generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid leaving your belongings unattended, and don’t walk alone at night in poorly lit areas.
What currency is used in the Seychelles?
The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the local currency. However, Euros and US Dollars are widely accepted, especially at hotels, restaurants, and tourist shops.
How do I get around the Seychelles?
On Mahé and Praslin, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore independently. Buses are also available, but they can be infrequent and crowded. On La Digue, bicycles are the primary mode of transportation. Ferries and small planes connect the islands.
References
Seychelles National Parks Authority Website.
Constance Lémuria Resort Website.
Nature Seychelles Website.
UNESCO World Heritage Centre Website.
Ready to make your Seychelles photo dreams a reality? Start planning your trip today! Research flights and accommodation options, book your ferry transfers, and familiarize yourself with the local customs and regulations. Pack your camera gear, charge your batteries, and prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of the Seychelles. The images you’ll capture will last a lifetime, so don’t wait – embark on your ultimate Seychelles photo safari now and create memories that will truly blow people away!
