OVERVIEW
Seychelles is an archipelago of some 115 widely-spread islands located north-east of Madagascar in the warm azure waters of the Indian Ocean. The phrase ‘heaven on earth’ gets overused, but Seychelles is one place that lives up to this description. Think picture-perfect beaches of white sand, framed by smooth granite boulders and palm trees swaying in gentle ocean breezes.
It is a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on earth such as the giant Aldabra tortoises, the Coco-de-mer, the world’s largest seed, the jellyfish tree, the Paradise flycatcher and the Seychelles warbler. Seychelles prides itself on its record for far sighted conservation policies that have resulted in an enviable degree of protection for the environment and the varied ecosystems it supports.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Seek out the incredible Coco-de-Mer palm and the rare Seychelles Black Parrot at Vallée de Mai, Praslin.
- Set foot on the magical island of La Digue where the main forms of transport are still bicycle and ox-cart.
- Pamper yourself on the spectacular and exclusive North Island reached by helicopter.
- Venture to the remote and luxurious Alphonse Island for sailing, fishing, and diving in places where few have gone before.
- Visit Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and Praslin’s Vallée de Mai once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden.
Gateway city: Mahe
Best time to travel: Year-round; however, some specific activities are better during certain seasons.
SEYCHELLES & SAFARI ITINERARIES
These itineraries will give you an idea of what is possible and can be further customized to suit your individual travel styles and budget. Connect with one of our travel experts for a complimentary trip consultation.
MAHE
Mahe is the largest of the islands and is accessible from either Nairobi or Johannesburg. Hire a private vehicle and follow the island’s coastal road, past villages brought to life with bright bougainvillea and hibiscus. Head to Beau Vallon which is probably the most popular beach in the islands. Wander the streets of French-colonial Victoria, the island’s capital. Sample seafood and delectable curry dishes, and rum at Takamaka Rum Distillery.
PRASLIN
The second-largest island, Praslin, can be reached by air or by ferry from Mahe. Stroll through the extraordinary Valee de Mai and ancient forest of the Coco-de-Mer palm. Take a dip in the azure water of famous Anse Lazio. Put your toes in the sand at Cote D’Or, one of the longest stretches of beach on the island. Enjoy memorable Creole cuisine and the warm breeze as you gaze over the ocean.
LA DIGUE
For a true island getaway at a relaxed pace, take a short ferry ride from Praslin to La Digue Island where the main forms of transport are bicycle and ox-cart. Wander along the trails that wind their way from beach to beach. Snorkeling reveals marine life of vibrant colors. Jump on a bicycle and head to L’Union Estate Farm, a traditional coconut mill and plantation house.
NORTH ISLAND
A private island of only 11 villas, North Island is a true barefoot luxury escape. It is a sanctuary of untouched beaches, extraordinary experiences, and personalized service. When you not exploring the island, kayaking, scuba diving, or stand up paddle boarding, you can soak up some rays, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, or simply relax in the comfort of your private villa with plunge pool.
ALPHONSE
One of the most pristine islands of secluded beaches, lush forests, and stunning coral reefs, Alphonse actually consists of three adjacent islands: Alphonse, St. François, and Bijoutier. The ancient Giant Aldabra Tortoises make their home here, and if your timing is right you can watch the baby turtles during hatching season, as they scramble to the ocean. Guided nature walks through the forest reveals a flurry of over 130 bird species. From fly-fishing. kayaking, and stand up paddleboarding to snorkeling, diving, and exploring the reefs with a resident marine biologist – there is no shortage of activities for a vacation as active as you like.
