There is definitely more to the island paradise of Seychelles than meets the eye. With its dreamlike setting, Seychelles, is one of the top travel destinations in the world for families and honeymooners alike. Tourists flock this exotic land all year round. Seychelles which comprises of nearly 115 islands is located in the Indian Ocean, off the East African Coast. This archipelago is full of interesting distractions which adds to its innate charm.
From its unsurpassable natural beauty to the high octane adventure activities that this island nation offers, there is something for everyone in Seychelles. A few of the top tourist attractions in Seychelles include its powdery white beaches, its exotic marine life and the lip-smacking local cuisine. To discover more about this idyllic paradise and learn about the top things to do here, read on.
Here Are 10 Best Things To Do While In Seychelles
1. Explore The Numerous Pristine Beaches
Seychelles abounds with some of the best beaches in the world. This archipelago has over 60 tourist beaches which are famed for their sparkling clear waters.
The stunning, powdery white beaches of Seychelles range in size from sweeping bays of white sand to small hidden coves.
Anse Georgette, Anse Cimitere, Beau Vallon, Port Launay, Anse Bamboos, Anse Bois de Rose are some of the popular beaches of this tropical island nation. Besides sunbathing, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and parasailing are popular beach activities.
2. Discover The Remarkable Marine Life
The waters off the coast of this tropical paradise, is full of exotic marine life.
Snorkeling and / or scuba diving are some of the best way to explore the unusual and endemic marine species which thrive in the warm waters that surround this island paradise.
Additionally, visitors can even sign up for a tour in a glass bottom boat to discover the many secrets of Ste Anne Marine Park – which has the unique distinction of being the first marine park in the Indian Ocean.
3. Go Island Hopping
The best way to discover this idyllic nation is to go on an island hopping tour. Seychelles comprises of a whopping 115 islands.
Each of the islands of this nation has its own inimitable charm.
Besides Mahe, (the largest among the 115 islands) tourists can also sign up for day trips to La Digue (the smallest island ), Praslin (the second largest island), Curieuse Island, Aride Island, Assumption Island or the charming Cocoa Island.
4. Wander Through the Colorful Markets
Victoria the capital city of Seychelles is home to one of the most colorful and lively covered markets in all of Seychelles –Sir Selwyn Selwin Clarke Market.
This market which was originally built in 1840 and later renovated in 1999, sells everything from spices to seafood, local souvenirs and even colorful sarongs.
Tourists can also visit the weekly Victoria Bazaar, the popular Bazaar Labrin, in Beau Vallon Beach or even the vibrant Bazaar Ovan which is located in Baie Lazare.
5. Visit The Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden
This charming garden which grows a variety of spices is located in Mahe Island. Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden was created along the lines of the famous 18th century French gardens.
This lush spice garden is an absolute haven for nature lovers, environmentalists and botanists.
After exploring the delightful spice garden visitors can enjoy a memorable ‘Plantation Lunch’ which is served at the quaint restaurant that is located within the precincts of this garden.
6. Explore Valle De Mai Nature Reserve
Valle de Mai Nature Reserve is located in the picturesque island of Praslin. This nature reserve, which closely resembles a natural palm forest, is a nature park and a UNESCO world heritage site.
This 19.5 hectare parcel of land has the largest population of endemic coco-de-mer that is found anywhere in the world.
This park also offers refuge to a host of endemic flora and fauna. Visitors to this emerald tinged forest can hike along its numerous hiking trails while absorbing the breathtaking beauty of its surrounding. Bird watchers should keep their eyes peeled for the elusive black parrot, the lovely blue pigeon and the exotic Syechelles bulbul.
7. Visit Domaine De Val des Pres (Craft Village)
If you want to get a feel of traditional creole culture, then a visit to Domaine De Val des Pres is a must.
Domaine De Val Pres is located in St Roch Au Cap, which is approximately 16 kms from the capital city of Victoria.
This traditional creole village, which showcases quintessential Seychellois life, has numerous artisanal kiosks and a much celebrated traditional restaurant ‘Pomme Cannelle’. Visitors to this historical site can also explore the ‘La Kaz Roza’ – a workers house.
8. Discover Curieuse Marine National Park
Curieuse Marine National Park is one of the top notch tourist destinations for a day trip. A visit to this island paradise is not complete without observing the Seychelles Giant Tortoise. The best place to spot these gentle giants is at the Curieuse National Park which is located in Curieuse Island that is situated off the coast of Mahe.
The Curieuse Island, a bio-reserve, is also the best place to spot the hump head parrotfish.
This park also has nearly eight different species of mangroves. The Curieuse Marine National Park also has many splendid walking trails. It is also home to a historical colonial villa.
9. Take In The Sights of Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
Located in the outskirts of Victoria, the Seychelles Botanical Gardens is well over 100 years old.
This manicured botanical garden was established by Mr. Paul Evenor Rivalz Dupont in 1901.
This garden is home to a variety of endemic flora which includes different kinds of fruit trees, palm trees and spice. Visitors to this exotic garden are simply mesmerized by the large collection of native orchids. Another unique feature of the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens is the large colony of fruit bats which can be found hanging from the lofty branches of the numerous fruit trees which dot the graden.
10.Enjoy Authentic Seychellois Food
Taste the remarkably versatile Seychellois cuisine. The traditional and delicious cuisine of Seychelles has been influenced by Indian, Chinese, African, French and English cuisine. Green papaya salad, coconut fish curry, octopus curried in fresh coconut cream are just few of the popular dishes here. To get an indepth insight into the traditional cuisine of this island nation visitors are encouraged to visit the Festival Kreol which serves mind blowing Seychellois food.
