Looking for a taste of Creole culture on an island paradise? Do not look further and head to Seychelles – one of the most stunning travel destinations in the world scattered across the Indian Ocean that for centuries has dazzled tenth of thousands of visitors with its timeless beauty and the variety of attractions it has on offer. In addition to the world-famous amazing islands of Seychelles, visitors will find no shortage of fabulous white sandy beaches, most completely deserted, as well as nature-packed national parks, featuring rich flora and vibrant wildlife and a wide choice of accommodation to suit any budget. And as the Seychelles Islands are blessed with a year-long warm, tropical climate, it’s always a ‘best time’ to visit, although different times of year may be better suited to your particular interests.
Mahe Island Seychelles
Some 17 miles long and only two miles wide, Mahe is the largest of the 115 amazing islands of Seychelles, which is a fantastic getaway for a holiday in Seychelles. The cultural and economic hub of the inner islands, Mahe is also an entry point to the other islands of Seychelles, boasting verdant interior, bustling atmosphere and endless opportunities for beach activities. Diving and snorkeling are popular pastimes here, as the island is guarded by azure water and fringed with colorful coral reefs, teeming with marine life. Visitors to Mahe can also indulge in nature walks, visit the island’s numerous interesting galleries or else explore the nearby islands. What more, there is a great choice of hotels and resorts on Mahe Island, many being little gems situated in truly breathtaking locations.
Must-See’s
Morne Seychelles National Park
With a total of seven official nature trails, the awe-inspiring Morne Seychelles National Park is a nature lover’s dream to come true. It is located on Mahe Island and contains the highest peak in Seychelles, the Mourne Seychelles at 905 meters above sea level. Established in 1979 and with a total surface area of 3,045 hectares, the park is home to a large portion of the only remaining indigenous forest of the Seychelles, which will enthrall visitors with its almost savage beauty.
Vallee de Mai
In the heart of the tiny island of Praslin, one can find Seychelles’s most famous attractions, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve – an outstanding example of low- and intermediate-attitude palm forest preserved in almost its original state. Here visitors will find the famous Coco de Mer palm tree, endemic to the island, with its giant double coconuts. The reserve is only a short drive from the coast at Baie Sainte Anne and is led by several well maintained paths.
Anse Source d’Argent Beach
Located on La Digue Island, Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed and most beautiful beaches in the world, characterized by dark granite boulders on pink sands that make it the most dramatic vision you could imagine for a beach setting. Ideal for those looking to get away from it all, the beach is a great venue for exploring the underwater world as the ocean here is sheltered by a reef, providing calm and shallow waters. La Digue is the most exclusive and mythical island in the Seychelles, where calm and serenity prevail.
Other must see tourist attractions include: Aldabra – the largest atoll in the world and the home to over 150,000 giant tortoises; Denis Island, perfect for snorkeling and deep-sea fishing; the Botanical Gardens on the island of Mahe, highly recommended for the endemic plant species; and Praslin Ocean Farm, a farm dedicated to the cultivation of Giant Clams and Black Lip Pearl oysters which form the black pearls.
