10 Seychelles Bucket List Experiences
10 Seychelles Bucket List Experiences
Imagine pristine white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and giant granite boulders creating a dreamlike landscape – welcome to Seychelles! After years of anticipation, I finally experienced the magic of Seychelles and compiled my list of 10 Seychelles Bucket List Experiences to share with you.
Nestled in the Indian Ocean at the northeast of Madagascar, Seychelles is an African country consisting of 115 islands, with 42 granitic islands and 73 coral islands.
Its diverse and breathtaking islands have earned Seychelles a reputation as one of the world’s premier beach and nature destinations. While Mahé, home to the capital Victoria, Praslin, and La Digue are among the most visited, the archipelago offers so much more to explore.
If you have enough time, explore neighbouring islands like Curieuse (home to giant tortoises), St. Pierre (celebrated for coral reefs), Cocos Island, Desroches, Silhouette, or North Island. Luxurious resorts on islands like Desroches and North Island offer exclusive experiences, accessible primarily to hotel guests.
While Seychelles is famous for its powdery white sand beaches and striking boulder formations fringed by palm trees, it’s a destination rich in history. Inhabited since the 18th century, Seychelles boasts a diverse cultural tapestry, making it a captivating destination not just for its natural beauty but also its cultural heritage.
Delve into Seychelles’ cultural treasures and visit two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island is renowned for its Coco de Mer palm trees, while Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll, offers a unique natural spectacle.
Planning your trip to Seychelles? While March-April and October-November are often recommended as optimal times (I went in October and the weather was amazing), Seychelles boasts a year-round tropical climate. Situated just south of the Equator, the islands enjoy consistently warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 32 degrees Celsius and almost 12 hours of daily sunlight, making any time of the year ideal for a visit.
Embrace the tropical paradise with the assurance of great weather throughout your stay. Though occasional tropical downpours are possible, they are typically brief and unlikely to dampen your holiday spirits.
My Seychelles Itinerary
In October 2023, my dream of exploring this tropical paradise came true with a week-long escapade, focusing on the enchanting islands of Praslin and La Digue.
While my time was limited, I highly recommend a more extended stay of 10 to 15 days for the ultimate Seychelles experience. This duration allows exploration beyond Praslin and La Digue to include Mahé, the archipelago’s main island featuring the capital Victoria, along with smaller gems like Curieuse, St. Pierre, Cocos Island, or Silhouette.
Wondering how to reach Praslin? You can opt for the scenic airway with a domestic flight from Mahé airport to Praslin for a quick 15-minute journey, albeit at a higher cost. Alternatively, a one-hour speed ferry ride offers a budget-friendly alternative. I chose the domestic flight to maximize my time, which was very convenient. When arriving to Mahé airport from your international flight, you only have to change terminal to take the domestic flight to Praslin. The aerial views of Seychelles during the flight (if you fly in daytime) are simply breathtaking.
Wondering where to stay in Praslin, Seychelles? There is a myriad of accommodation options, ranging from local self-catering spots to charming boutique hotels and luxurious resorts. Praslin offers diverse areas for accommodation, such as Grand Anse in the northwest, near the airport. Baie Ste Anne and Cote d’Or on the eastern coast, close to the ferry harbor with a concentration of hotels and resorts. And Anse Lazio in the north, a more secluded yet stunning area.
During my week in Seychelles, I chose to stay in Cote d’Or at Le Duc de Praslin, an exquisite hotel situated right in front of a breathtaking white sand beach and pristine waters. Beyond its prime seafront location, Le Duc de Praslin boasts two stunning pools, a tropical garden, spa, gym, and two exceptional restaurants serving delicious local and international cuisine, complemented by top-notch service. Conveniently located within 5km of the ferry harbor and the renowned Vallée de Mai park, this stay at Le Duc de Praslin truly encapsulated the best of Praslin’s highlights.
Even if it’s the second largest island in the Seychelles and it has much to offer, Praslin has only 4km wide and 11km long. To explore the island’s landmarks, choose from various transportation options, including local buses, taxis, organized tours, or the flexibility of renting a car.
I decided to rent a car for a few days. I found it affordable and convenient, allowing me to explore Praslin at my own pace. Keep in mind that driving in Seychelles is on the left side, which might be different from many countries. The narrow roads can be challenging, but with cautious driving, it’s a worthwhile experience— in my opinion the best and most cost-effective way to navigate the island.
Dedicating a day to visit La Digue, a must-see in Seychelles, I decided to take the ferry, which only takes 15 minutes. I booked it online in advance to avoid crowds. La Digue is home to Anse Source d’Argent, often considered as one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Let me share with you now my 10 Seychelles Bucket List Experiences, inspired by my own journey in the country. May your time in Seychelles be as memorable as mine!
10 Seychelles Bucket List Experiences
Spend a Day at Anse Georgette
Ranked among the world’s most stunning beaches, Anse Georgette is a must-see destination in Praslin. Nestled in the northwest region of the island, this public beach is situated within the grounds of Constance Lemuria resort. Even if not staying there, visitors can enjoy a beach day at Anse Georgette by simply making a complimentary reservation with the hotel in advance.
Upon reaching the resort, register at the entrance, indicating your prior booking. From there, embark on a pleasant and straightforward 20-minute walk across the property, passing through the golf course. The journey is not only enjoyable but also leads you to breathtaking sea views, making it a rewarding experience.
Envision a pristine white sand beach, turquoise waters, and iconic granite boulders in surreal formations – that’s the magic of Anse Georgette. Framed by palm trees and lush vegetation, this beach is a paradise of natural beauty.
The beach is almost untouched and there are not many facilities, but you can find a few kiosks selling beverages, fruits and some snacks. The waters are warm and inviting, but caution is advised for inexperienced swimmers due to occasional strong currents. Anse Georgette promises an unforgettable beach day. And if time permits, staying for the mesmerizing sunset just enhances the experience.
As you make your way to the beach through the golf course, a path leads to a viewpoint for Anse Georgette. Although I couldn’t explore it myself, I’ve heard the views are nothing short of breathtaking.
Watch the Sunset at Anse Lazio
Another mandatory beach to visit in Praslin is Anse Lazio, also often rated one of the best beaches in the world. Situated in the northeast, it is easy to get there by car via the main road. Albeit the final stretch being quite steep. The descent, however, offers unparalleled views of Anse Lazio.
Upon reaching the beach area, a spacious parking lot awaits, allowing for easy access with just a short 5-minute walk to the shore. Here, numerous restaurants and bars facing the sea beckon, offering a chance to indulge in a delightful Seychellois meal.
There is a reason why Anse Lazio is well known around the world. Its long stretch of white sand and crystal clear waters framed by palm and takamaka trees is stunning!
For those seeking more secluded spots, explore the trails on the left side of the beach, leading to small beaches bordered by impressive granite boulders – perfect for capturing postcard-like pictures.
Plan to stay there for the day to enjoy one the most beautiful beaches you’ve ever been. And don’t miss the golden hour. The sunset at Anse Lazio is magical and probably the most beautiful one I experienced in Seychelles.
Explore Vallée de Mai
While Seychelles is renowned for its postcard-perfect beaches, it also boasts an impressive and remarkable forest area that has remained unchanged for millions of years. Home to endemic palm tree species, including the iconic coco de mer – the world’s largest palm tree seed – Vallée de Mai in Praslin is a pristine haven.
An UNESCO World Heritage site since 1989, Vallée de Mai invites visitors to wander through well-preserved trails amidst untouched nature. Here, you’ll encounter over 1400 palm trees, including the legendary coco de mer.
Located at the heart of Praslin, Vallée de Mai offers to visitors several paths around the forest. There are different walking tours with distances from 1,5 to 4 kilometers. For a more in-depth experience, consider booking a tour with an independent guide. While there is an entrance fee, in my opinion it is worth it and this was one of my favourite places in the island.
Enjoy the Beach at Cote d’Or
Cote d’Or, also known as Anse Volbert, is the largest beach in Praslin island and one of the most popular. With a wide extension of white powered sand and pristine waters, palm trees and the characteristic granite boulders at the end of the beach, it is a great plan for a relaxing day.
It has a lot of accommodation options, so in my opinion it is the perfect place to stay while in Praslin. Along the beach, numerous restaurants beckon, offering diverse dining experiences. Nearby there is a small village hosting souvenir and handcraft shops.
Cote d’Or isn’t just a place for relaxation; it’s a hub for exciting water activities. From snorkeling and scuba diving to surfing and sailing, the beach caters to adventure enthusiasts. Moreover, sea tours commencing from the beach provide additional exploration options.
Stay in a Beautiful Beachfront Hotel
During my Seychelles escapade, I stayed at Le Duc de Praslin, strategically nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or. Boasting a prime beachfront location and proximity to the island’s most breathtaking attractions, it stands as the perfect base for a Praslin getaway.
This beautiful hotel, situated in front of one of the island’s best beaches, doesn’t just offer a stunning backdrop but also provides unparalleled facilities and top-notch services. I indulged in the best of both worlds, relaxing in the sun on the beach and enjoying the hotel’s two exquisite pools. One embraced by lush tropical gardens and the other facing the beach. Le Duc de Praslin has two restaurants where I could taste everyday delicious typical and international cuisine.
The variety of room types, each with its own unique charm, ensures a personalized experience. I stayed in a modern room complex close to the beach, featuring sea views and a design that masterfully blends modernity with sea elements in the decor. Couldn’t recommend it more to be your ultimate beachfront retreat in Seychelles.
Island Hoping
With 115 islands, Seychelles invites you to embark on a captivating journey of island hopping. While Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are popular bases, exploring other islands is made easy with a diverse offer of boat tours. Whether opting for group excursions, catamaran beach-hopping adventures, or private cruises, there’s a perfect option for every preference and budget.
Probably the easiest and most affordable way to commute across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue is taking the regular ferry that connects the main islands several times a day. That was my choice to visit La Digue from Praslin and it’s very reliable and convenient.
Sailing through the turquoise waters of Seychelles provides not only a mode of transportation, but also a chance to witness the enchanting landscapes from a different angle. As you navigate the Indian Ocean, keep an eye out for the extraordinary sight of giant tortoises gracefully swimming alongside your boat – a touch of Seychelles magic.
Visit the most Beautiful Beach in the World
Often considered the most beautiful beach in the world, Anse Source d’Argent definitely deserves this recognition. Located in the southwest of La Digue Island and accessible via a 15-minute ferry ride from Praslin, this beach is an absolute must-visit in Seychelles.
Upon arriving in La Digue by ferry, the most convenient and delightful way to explore the island, including Anse Source d’Argent, is by renting a bike. La Digue, nearly car-free, relies heavily on bikes as the primary mode of transportation. Alternatively, you can opt for one of the few available taxis or a tuk-tuk.
Access to Anse Source d’Argent is through the L’Union Estate Park, a historic coconut and vanilla plantation providing insights into La Digue’s colonial history. A small entrance fee grants you access not only to the beach but also to encounters with giant Aldabra Tortoises, explorations of old plantations and the plantation house, and a visit to the traditional copra factory.
As you step onto Anse Source d’Argent, prepare to be captivated by its unparalleled beauty. Having explored beaches around the world, I can confidently say this is the most amazing of them all. Imagine a powdery white sand beach, transparent turquoise waters, surrounded by lush forests, and framed by spectacular granite boulders in unreal formations. This is the enchanting allure of Anse Source d’Argent.
As you immerse yourself in the beauty of Anse Source d’Argent, take the time not only to relax on the beach, swim, and snorkel but also to explore the surrounding area. A parallel trail runs along the beach, leading to secluded coves and hidden beaches nestled among granite boulders, each more picturesque than the last. For a unique experience, consider kayaking in transparent kayaks.
Facilities in the area, including restaurants, fruit and drink stands, and small souvenir shops, ensure you have everything you need for a day of leisure.
La Digue Island itself is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Beyond the renowned Anse Source d’Argent, there are other breathtaking places to explore. Don’t miss Grande Anse Beach, Anse Marron Beach, or Summit Nid d’Aigle – the island’s highest point at 333 meters. Nature enthusiasts can delve into various hiking trails, making La Digue a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. If time permits, consider dedicating a few days to fully explore the wonders of La Digue.
Paddle a Transparent Kayak
Have you dreamt about riding a transparent kayak on crystal clear turquoise waters in a tropical destination? Your dreams will come true in Anse Source d’Argent.
I rented a crystal kayak paddle with Crystal Water Kayak, combined with a drone photoshoot. It was definitely a bucket list experience!
Crystal Water Kayak not only offers the thrill of transparent kayaking, but also provides educational adventure kayak tours visiting some secluded beaches only accessible by the sea.
Capture Bird Eye Views
There’s a certain magic in witnessing the beauty of Seychelles from above, capturing bird’s-eye views of some of the world’s most stunning landscapes. To indulge in this visual feast, consider these options:
– Internal Flight: Opt for the internal flight connecting Mahé to Praslin. Choose a window seat on a day flight for the best aerial views. Don’t forget to have your camera ready to capture the mesmerizing scenery unfolding below.
– Helicopter Ride: Elevate your experience with a helicopter ride. Whether exploring remote islands or enjoying a scenic tour, helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the archipelago. Various tours are available, providing different views of Seychelles.
– Drone Photoshoot: For a more personalized touch, consider a drone photoshoot. Register your drone and apply for flight authorization with the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority if you own one. Alternatively, you can organize a drone photoshoot locally. I opted for a memorable drone photoshoot with Crystal Water Kayak in Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue, capturing epic shots and videos of Seychelles.
Meet the Giant Tortoises
Did you know that Seychelles is home to some of the world’s largest tortoise species? Nestled in the Indian Ocean, this archipelago boasts the renowned Aldabra Giant Tortoise, recognized not only for its impressive size but also for its exceptional longevity. These majestic creatures can live over 150 years. Classified as a “vulnerable species,” the giant tortoises receive protection under the Wild Animals and Birds Protected Act in Seychelles.
Encounters with these gentle giants are possible in various locations throughout Seychelles, both in the wild and within protected enclosures. The largest herds can be found on North Island, Cousin Island, or Curieuse Island. Planning a day tour to these islands allows for an up-close experience with these incredible creatures. From Praslin, boat tours to Curieuse Island provide a fantastic opportunity to witness the giant tortoises in their natural environment while exploring a different island.
In La Digue Island, a visit to L’Union Estate offers another chance to see Aldabra Tortoises. Combining the stunning beaches of La Digue with the incredible experience of interacting with these gentle giants, creates lasting memories of Seychelles’ unique wildlife.
For some more beach travel inspiration in the Indian Ocean, check my Travel Guide to Mauritius and my blog post Perfect Getaway in Maldives.
