An island nation at the heart of the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles sit 1,000 miles off the East African coast. Although one of the world’s smallest countries, the Seychelles comprises an archipelago of 115 islands and atolls, from tiny outcrops of coral to vast hunks of granite. While this island republic is reputed as a white-sand haven for honeymooners and heliophiles, the Seychelles’ offerings extend far beyond its beaches.

Geographically, the Seychelles are split into two principal island groups. Ringed by a halo of coral atolls, the centrally-located Inner Island Group hosts the charismatic capital of Victoria on the most populous island of Mahé – gateway to the Seychelles

VALLÉE DE MAI NATURE RESERVE

Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage site located on the island of Praslin in Seychelles. The reserve is home to one of the world’s most intact and ancient palm forests, featuring the endemic Coco de Mer palm tree that produces the largest seed in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour through the reserve to learn about the unique flora and fauna, including several species of endemic birds, reptiles, and insects. The reserve is also home to several other rare species of palms, including the vanilla orchid and the palmiste coco. The natural beauty of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve makes it a popular destination for hiking and nature walks. Visitors can explore the network of trails that crisscross the reserve and discover the hidden streams and waterfalls that flow through the forest. One of the most popular trails is the “Coco de Mer Trail,” which takes visitors through the heart of the palm forest and provides an up-close view of th

VICTORIA

Victoria is the capital city of Seychelles, located on the island of Mahé. It is the smallest capital city in the world, with a population of around 25,000 people. Despite its small size, Victoria has a vibrant atmosphere and offers visitors a range of cultural, historical, and culinary experiences.

One of the highlights of Victoria is the colourful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where visitors can browse and purchase a variety of local fruits, vegetables, spices, and souvenirs. The market is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to experience the local culture and interact with the friendly Seychellois people. Another must-see attraction in Victoria is the Victoria Clock Tower, a prominent landmark in the city centre.

MORNE SEYCHELLOIS NATIONAL PARK

Morne Seychellois National Park is a protected area located on the island of Mahé in Seychelles, covering over 20% of the island’s total area. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species, and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. One of the highlights of the park is the Morne Seychellois Mountain, which is the highest peak in Seychelles, standing at 905 meters above sea level. Visitors can hike to the summit of the mountain, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and the neighbouring islands. The park also features a network of hiking trails that lead through the lush tropical forests, across pristine rivers, and to secluded beaches. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems of the park, including the montane forests, coastal mangroves, and freshwater wetlands, and discover the unique flora and fauna that call them home. Wildlife enthusiasts can also enjoy the park’s biodiversity, which inclu

CURIEUSE ISLAND

Curieuse Island is a small granitic island located in the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean. The island is a protected area and part of the Curieuse Marine National Park. It is located about 2 kilometres northeast of Praslin Island and has a total area of about 2.9 square kilometres.

Curieuse Island is known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and unique wildlife. The island is home to about 500 Aldabra giant tortoises, which are the largest land tortoises in the world, and are considered a vulnerable species. Visitors can also see the famous Coco de Mer palms, which produce the largest seeds in the plant kingdom, and a wide range of other endemic flora and fauna. Curieuse Island was formerly used as a leper colony, and visitors can still see the ruins of the old hospital and the doctor’s house. Today, the island is a popular destination for eco-tourists and nature lovers, who come to explore its scenic trails, swim in its crystal-clear waters, and marvel at its unique wildlife.

ANSE INTENDANCE

Anse Intendance is a stunning beach located on the south coast of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. The beach is known for its beautiful white sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Anse Intendance is a long, wide beach that stretches for about 1.5 kilometres. The beach is framed by large granite boulders and lush green vegetation, giving it a secluded and natural feel. The waves at Anse Intendance can be quite strong, making it a popular spot for surfers and bodyboarders. However, the beach also has areas with calmer waters, making it suitable for swimming and snorkelling. Anse Intendance is located in a protected area, and visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the conservation of the beach and its surrounding environment. Facilities at the beach are limited, but there are a few small restaurants and snack bars nea

ALDABRA

Aldabra is a remote coral atoll located in Seychelles, in the Indian Ocean. It is the world’s second-largest coral atoll and is home to one of the most pristine and intact coral reef ecosystems in the world. Aldabra was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 and is known for its unique and diverse wildlife, including many endemic species.

Aldabra is home to a number of species that are found nowhere else in the world, including the Aldabra giant tortoise, the world’s largest land tortoise. The atoll is also home to a variety of birds, including the Aldabra rail and the white-throated rail, both of which are flightless and endemic to the atoll. The waters surrounding Aldabra are home to a wide variety of marine life, including sea turtles, dolphins, and a number of shark species.