Seychelles

Indian Ocean

Imagine paradise and thoughts instantly turn to the Seychelles - one of the world's greatest natural treasures.

Overview

Imagine paradise and thoughts instantly turn to the Seychelles. This archipelago of 115 stunningly beautiful islands, just below the equator, sparkle in the middle of the Indian Ocean and are one of the world's greatest natural treasures.

Deserted, pristine, dazzling-white beaches framed by granite boulders, shimmering turquoise lagoons, swaying emerald coconut palms, warm tropical breezes, lush forests and stunningly colourful underwater life await guests. Each of the islands are unique and exhibit an individual charm, personality and atmosphere of their own. Island-hopping is the best way to explore and many choose to take a day excursion to one of the inner granite islands or stay at one of the exotic island hideaway resorts. This is a place where natural purity and authenticity are perfectly cocooned from the hustle and bustle of modern life. A place where tranquillity and simplicity can be found and innocence rediscovered. A place like no other, and another world entirely.

Highlights

From the contrasting island of Mahé, filled with bustling markets and quiet beaches and stunning National Parks to almost-deserted islands, renowned for wildlife conservation and romantic escapes, the Seychelles offers both action-packed and laid-back adventures.

Explore Victoria

One of the world's smallest capital cities, the charming Victoria, is not to be missed. Discover bustling markets, beautiful botanical gardens and the famous Victoria Clock Tower. Learn about the history of the Seychelles and the actions used to conserve the island's natural heritage at the Natural History Museum and explore the only Hindu temple in the Seychelles - Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple.

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

In the heart of Praslin, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a stunning natural palm forest which has remained largely unchanged since prehistoric times and is home to the world's largest population of the rare Coco de Mer palm. Clearly marked, short hiking trails (1km - 2km) lead through the lush forest and are easy enough for the whole family to enjoy this unique landscape.

Meet the Locals

Bird Island symbolises the perfect balance between nature and running an ecologically sound hotel. Conservation is at the forefront with a focus on the protection of the critically endangered Hawksbill and Green turtles. Assist the island's Conservation Offer with the turtle hatch-lings and meet Esmeralda, the world's largest giant tortoise.

When to visit

The Seychelles boasts a tropical climate making it a good place to visit at any time of the year. However, different times of the year may be better suited depending on a visitor's particular interests. From November to March north west trade winds bring much of the island's life giving rains and is an ideal time for fishers to stay, while the south east trade winds which blow from May to September bring cooler and windier conditions, perfect for sailing, surfing and hiking. The periods of calm between these months normally produce warm weather, calm seas and superb conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving.