The Seychelles is a country consisting of more than 100 islands. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful tropical paradises I have ever been to. If you’re looking for crystal clear water, white sand you shouldn’t look at without wearing your sunglasses and/or wildlife you won’t find anywhere else on planet Earth, then you should not miss out on “the land of perpetual summer”. Decision made? Here are 5 things to not miss out on while you’re in the Seychelles.
Go island hopping
So… over 100 different islands to choose from, but where do you start? Well, on Mahé probably. Mahé is the country’s biggest and most populated island and also your starting point if you are arriving through the only international airport of the country, creatively called ‘Seychelles International Airport’. Mahé is a fantastic island with lots of great options for a relaxed holiday. But the Seychelles has so much more to offer, it would be a shame to only stay on one island.
I decided to visit 3 islands (Mahé, Praslin and La Digue) in 2 weeks. Hopping islands is quite easy, as there are regular ferry connections between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, the three major islands of the Seychelles. I’d suggest checking out Cat Cocos (https://www.seychelles-ferry.com/) if you’re thinking of hopping between these islands.
Beware: there are several horror experiences to be found and read when googling this ferry connection, mainly due to rough seas. I found the trips I made (3 in total) all to be very calm and relaxing. It’s weather dependent though, so if you’re not immune to seasickness, check out the weather forecast for a more appropriate day to board the ferry.
See the unique wildlife and nature
The Seychelles is quite a unique country, and the wildlife and nature you can encounter there, are no different. The country is home to over 80 endemic plant species, for example. Take the coco de mer for example. Coco de mer is French for ‘coconut of the sea’ and I’m not a tree expert but it’s like a palm with very big coconuts that kinda look like… well, you decide.
I highly recommend visiting Vallée de Mai in Praslin (http://www.sif.sc/vdm), a lush reserve with an ancient forest of coco de mer palms and many native animals. Entrance fee per person: SCR 350 / $ 26 / € 24 / £ 22.
