Seychelles

How many days: 10

Spend three or four days on Mahé, exploring Victoria, beaches and mountain scenery. Allow three days on Praslin for Vallée de Mai, Anse Lazio and the surrounding coast. Finish with two or three days on La Digue, where cycling and beach visits are the main pleasures.

If you have only a week, choose two islands rather than rushing through all three. Build in flexibility around ferry journeys and weather. Seychelles is particularly enjoyable when you can revisit a favourite beach rather than feeling obliged to see a new one every day.

What to do in Seychelles

Visit Anse Source d'Argent

See the famous granite boulders and shallow turquoise water on La Digue. Check tide and swimming conditions before entering the sea.

Explore Vallée de Mai

Walk through this UNESCO-listed palm forest on Praslin. Look for the distinctive coco de mer palm and listen for forest wildlife.

Relax at Anse Lazio

Enjoy one of Praslin's striking beaches, framed by tropical vegetation and granite rocks. Swimming conditions vary with the weather.

Cycle around La Digue

Explore quiet lanes, villages and beach access points by bicycle. It is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the island.

Discover Victoria

Walk through the compact capital on Mahé, visiting its market and central streets. It gives you a sense of everyday Seychellois life.

Hike in Morne Seychellois National Park

Explore forested slopes and mountain viewpoints on Mahé. Choose established trails and prepare for humid, sometimes slippery conditions.

Snorkel in clear coastal water

Look for reef fish and other marine life at suitable sites. Conditions change with wind and swell, so seek local advice.

Visit Curieuse Island

Take an organised boat excursion to see giant tortoises and coastal scenery. Follow conservation rules and give wildlife space.

Explore Anse Georgette

Visit this beautiful Praslin beach if access arrangements allow. Check locally whether advance permission or an alternative approach is needed.

Take a nature-focused boat trip

Explore nearby islands and marine environments with an emphasis on wildlife and conservation. Choose an excursion suited to sea conditions.

What to eat and drink

Try Creole fish curry

Enjoy fish cooked with spices, herbs and sometimes coconut milk. It is a familiar part of Seychellois home-style cooking.

Eat grilled fish

Choose freshly prepared fish with rice, vegetables or a Creole sauce. Simple cooking allows the seafood to take centre stage.

Sample octopus curry

Try tender octopus in a spiced sauce, often served with rice. It is a distinctive island speciality.

Enjoy a takeaway Creole meal

Pick up a local-style meal of curry, rice, vegetables and chutney. It is a practical way to eat well between beach stops.

Taste breadfruit

Try breadfruit roasted, fried or prepared as a side dish. Its mild flavour works well with strongly seasoned food.

Drink fresh coconut water

Enjoy coconut water or a fresh fruit juice in the tropical heat. Seasonal local fruit also makes a good light breakfast.

Getting around

Getting around depends on the island. Victoria is walkable, and Mahé and Praslin have public bus networks, although buses are less practical with large luggage or for reaching isolated beaches. La Digue is particularly well suited to bicycles, with relatively short distances between its main settlements and attractions.

Taxis and hire cars are available on the larger islands. Driving is on the left, roads can be narrow and steep, and parking near popular beaches may be limited. Ferries and domestic flights connect the principal islands. Allow enough time for transfers and remember that rough seas can disrupt boat journeys.

Good to know

• Some beaches have dangerous currents, shore breaks or seasonal seaweed. Never assume clear water means safe swimming.
• Inter-island travel needs planning, especially when connecting with international flights.
• Rain can be heavy and sudden, particularly in forested areas.
• Protect coral and wildlife by avoiding contact and following reserve rules.
• Bring insect repellent and plenty of drinking water for walks.
• Check access arrangements for protected areas and beaches that require permission.