An amazing island providing its visitors with unmatched tranquillity and sun-soaked days in Seychelles. Located off the eastern coast of Africa Seychelles consists of a series of small islands located in the Indian ocean. With white sandy beaches, bright blue waters, and palm tree groves the islands do not disappoint when it comes to providing picturesque views for a perfect escape. With nearly half of its landmass set aside for national parks and reserves, Seychelles offers an abundance of undiscovered island treasures.
Let’s Look At A Few Treasures That Make Seychelles A Fascinating Island You Must Visit
The Pristine Beaches
Seychelles is known to have some of the best beaches in the world. With blindingly white sand and clear waters with every shade of blue possible, the beaches here are untouched and surrounded by palm trees and lush vegetation. The best part about these beaches is that they are not crowded and so if you are trying to avoid crowds there are plenty of options here.
A beach in the local language is called an anse, and every anse here has a different experience to offer. The one which is most famous is Anse Source d’Argent, with its distinct granite boulders its regularly called the most beautiful beach in the world and has appeared in movies like Castaway and Crusoe. If you are a snorkeler you would love the coral-rich anse Lazio located on Praslin which is the second largest island in Seychelles. Also if you enjoy seclusion Anse Intendance is the beach to be. On weekends, the beaches south of the airport on Mahé come alive, with local people picnicking and playing music under takamaka trees, and vendors selling Creole cuisine, drinks, and clothing.
The Exquisite Wildlife
Seychelles is a haven for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers. The island is home to some fascinating animals like the world’s smallest frog and some of its biggest tortoises. It’s home to various endangered and critically endangered species. On the Morne Seychellois hiking trail on Mahé, you can spot the Gardiner, but you would have to have great eyesight to spot this animal because it’s only 11 mm long. You can also spot giant Aldabra tortoises living in the wild in North Island, Cousin Island, and Curieuse Island and, Aldabra atoll, where they originate from. Avian enthusiasts should not miss on seeking out the rare Seychelles black parrot which is also the island’s national bird, as well as the Seychelles magpie robin and Seychelles warbler – both of which have been saved from extinction.
Delicious Creole Cuisine
With access to the bounty of the sea, Seychelles has to offer its visitors some of the best dishes of Creole cuisine. The islands have had influences from traders hailing from Africa, China, Europe, and India which is reflected in its cuisines. The dishes can range from creamy curries to soups, and delectable snacks. Some popular delicacies are zourit which is an octopus curry, and a pumpkin soup made with mussels collected from the beach. For individuals with a much more adventurous palate, the island is also known for its bat curry and bat ravioli and the best is available at the Marie Antoinette Creole Restaurant on Mahé. The island is a perfect culmination of fine dining and street food with dishes to satisfy every kind of foodie.
Spectacular Hiking Trails
Though travellers are mainly drawn to the pristine beaches of Seychelles, one should not miss out on the island’s rugged mountains and verdant jungles. These relatively untouched lands are a sight to behold. There are hikes available catering to every kind of explorer. If you are looking for an easy stroll through granite boulders, we would suggest the Anse Major trail. Another trail located between two beautiful beaches is the Anse Georgette trail on Praslin. A challenging hike would be a hike to Morne Seychellois, but being the highest point in Mahe hikers are rewarded with a picturesque view upon completion of the same.
World-Class Diving
From coral gardens to wildlife-rich deep-water wrecks, Seychelles offers the most diverse diving experiences in the world. The best part of diving here is that it’s underrated so divers can take advantage of the uncrowded diving spots. The main diving islands are Mahé, La Digue, and Praslin which are part of the inner island group and are remains of a submerged mountain range. These rest on a shallow plateau and are blessed with marine life. The Outer Islands to the south of the archipelago are uninhabited, presenting the experienced diver with excellent opportunities to explore where few have gone before. You can dive here with sharks and manta rays, and explore the coralline making it a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Indulge In Real Island Rum
A trip to the island of Seychelles would be incomplete without a good serving of local rum. Widely available and absolutely delicious the rum from the island is the must-try for every rum lover. A must-visit for the rum connoisseur would be the Takamaka Rum Distillery on Mahe, which not only serves cocktails that are out of the world but some delicious Creole food as well. Another destination for the tipplers would be Seybrew which serves palm wine that must not be missed.
Perfect Weather All Year Round
A destination with perfect weather is always a plus for every traveller. The weather in Seychelles is warm and beautiful all year round. Even during the monsoon, the warmth is sustained and the rain doesn’t last too long. The temperature only really varies a couple of degrees on either side of 30°C, which is perfect to enjoy a pina colada and doesn’t make you uncomfortable. Though you may not vacation to enjoy the rain, rain0020in Seychelles is a sight to behold.
Also Read: A Solo Traveller’s Budget Guide To Seychelles
A Paradise For Every Traveller
With some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Seychelles is a paradise for every traveller. Whether you wish to explore the wildlife, the delectable cuisine or just lay on the beach and tan the island here makes a perfect getaway. So head on there and have an experience which you will not forget for years to come.
