The very best things to do in Seychelles

MAHE – PRASLIN – LA DIGUE

Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, offers an incredible array of experiences, largely centred around its breathtaking natural beauty. As a tour guide operating on Praslin, you will definitely cover some of the best, but here's a comprehensive look at the best things to do across the Seychelles, categorised for easy understanding:

I. Beach & Relaxation (The Iconic Seychelles Experience):

• Anse Source d'Argent (La Digue): Often cited as the most photographed beach in the world, this iconic spot on La Digue is renowned for its massive, sculpted granite boulders, powdery white sand, and shallow, calm turquoise waters. It's a must-visit for its unique beauty.

• Anse Lazio (Praslin): As you know, this beach is a consistent contender for the world's best, offering stunning scenery, excellent swimming, and good snorkelling.

• Anse Georgette (Praslin): Another pristine beach on Praslin, known for its secluded feel and exquisite beauty.

• Beau Vallon Beach (Mahé): The most popular and lively beach on Mahé, offering a long stretch of sand, calm waters ideal for swimming and water sports, and a vibrant atmosphere with restaurants and stalls.

• Anse Intendance (Mahé): A wilder, more dramatic beach on Mahé's south, known for its powerful waves (great for surfing at certain times) and untouched beauty.

• Petite Anse (Mahé): A stunning, more secluded beach on Mahé, often accessed through the Four Seasons Resort, known for its incredible blue water.

II. Nature, Wildlife & Hiking:

7. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve (Praslin): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient palm forest is the only place on Earth where the Coco de Mer palm grows naturally in abundance. It's a surreal "Garden of Eden" with unique flora and fauna, including the rare Seychelles Black Parrot.

8. Curieuse Island (near Praslin): A protected marine park and nature reserve famous for its large population of free-roaming Aldabra giant tortoises. Visitors can also explore mangrove forests and beautiful beaches.

9. Morne Seychellois National Park (Mahé): The largest terrestrial national park in Seychelles, offering numerous hiking trails through lush forests to stunning viewpoints like Copolia Trail and Morne Blanc, providing panoramic vistas of Mahé and the surrounding islands.

10. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve (Praslin): A fantastic alternative to Vallée de Mai, also boasting Coco de Mer palms and offering a rewarding hike to a viewpoint with incredible views of Praslin, La Digue, and other islands.

11. Aride Island Nature Reserve: A significant seabird sanctuary, hosting one of the most important seabird colonies in the Indian Ocean. This place is a haven for those who enjoy birdwatching.

12. Cousin Island Special Reserve: Another important bird sanctuary, managed by Nature Seychelles, offering guided tours to see various endemic and migratory bird species, as well as giant tortoises.

    
    

III. Island Hopping & Boat Excursions:

13. Day Trip to La Digue Island: An essential part of any Seychelles itinerary. Explore the island by bicycle, visiting Anse Source d'Argent, Grand Anse, Petite Anse, and Anse Cocos.

14. St Anne Marine National Park (near Mahé): Seychelles' first marine park, ideal for snorkelling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours to explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It includes several smaller islands like Moyenne Island (known for its tortoises and fascinating history).

15. Boat charters and snorkeling/diving trips: Exploring the inner islands by boat, visiting secluded coves, and experiencing the incredible underwater world through snorkelling or scuba diving (numerous dive sites with rich marine biodiversity, including shipwrecks).

16. Deep-Sea Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, Seychelles is renowned for its big-game fishing, with opportunities to catch marlin, tuna, and more.

    
    

IV. Culture & Local Experiences:

17. Victoria (Mahé): The world's smallest capital city offers a glimpse into Seychellois life. Visit the bustling Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, the iconic Clock Tower, the National Museum of History, and the Sri Navasakthi Vinyagar Temple.

18. Seychelles National Botanical Gardens (Mahé): Home to a wide array of endemic and exotic plants, including more Coco de Mer palms, giant tortoises, and a fruit bat colony.

19. Creole Cuisine Experience: Indulge in the delicious Creole cuisine, a fusion of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences, with fresh seafood, local spices, and tropical fruits. Look for local takeaways and restaurants.

20. Rum Distillery Tour (Takamaka Rum Distillery, Mahé): Learn about the local rum production process and enjoy a tasting.

As a tour guide, you can tailor itineraries that combine these elements, offering a truly unforgettable and comprehensive Seychelles experience for your guests!