Holidays in the Seychelles

Immaculate and uncrowded beaches of powder-soft white sands, a glorious tropical climate and warm turquoise waters make these islands some of the most idyllic holiday getaways in the world. This is where you will find the palm fringed islands that appear in countless magazines and glossy travel brochures; the coral atolls that teem with fish and the remote and romantic beachfront holiday hideaways.

Almost half of the Seychelles’ land mass are set aside in nature reserves that protect its unique flora and fauna. Among them are the giant tortoises found only here and in the Galapagos, the famous nut of the Coco de Mer and the towering palm trees of the Vallée de Mai nature reserve and world heritage site in Praslin.

The Seychellois people are an interesting blend of many different races. Representatives of almost every race on earth have at one time or another contributed something of their customs and cultures to the islands – creating the colourful and friendly Creole nation of today. These diverse cultural influences are clearly visible in the architecture, music, cuisine and language of the islands. The Creole cuisine is delicious and healthy, usually consisting of locally grown vegetables, fresh fruits and the fish catch of the day. 

The islands are ideal for holiday watersports such as windsurfing and sailing, while underwater the marine life is sensational for snorkelling and diving. The larger granitic islands of Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, which have a more mountainous appearance, offer excellent holiday activities such as hiking, and biking trails.

When To Go

The Seychelles lie outside the cyclone belt and enjoy a stable sub tropical climate with warm and humid weather throughout the year. The average temperature during the day is 29ºC and is usually mitigated by a gentle breeze. July and August are the coolest months and being so near the equator you can expect 12 hours of daylight all year. December and January have the highest rainfall, though when it rains, it is rarely for more than an hour or two.

Windsurfing, kitesurfing and sailing are best at the start and end of the trade winds, usually around May and October. Diving is best in March, April, May, September, October and November when the waters are calmer.

Getting There

Air Seychelles have twice weekly flights direct from London to the Seychelles taking about 10 hours. Air France and Kenya Airways fly to the Seychelles via Paris and Nairobi respectively. There are regular flights from the Seychelles to South Africa and Kenya for safari and beach combinations.

Visas

Most passport holders including British and US citizens do not require a visa to visit the Seychelles.