Granite islands, giant tortoises and impossible beaches
Open Seychelles in the interactive travelogue →A wild, dramatic surf beach of pale sand backed by palms.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — The calm inter-monsoon months are best for the beach.
Things to do:
The tiny capital's colourful market of fish, spices and crafts.
Best time: Year-round — A covered market lively in any season.
Things to do:
A jungle-clad mountain park of trails high above the coast.
Best time: Apr–Oct — Drier months are best for the mountain trails.
Things to do:
The island's most popular swimming beach and sunset strip.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — Calm inter-monsoon months give the safest swimming.
Things to do:
Tropical gardens showcasing endemic plants, giant tortoises, coastal views, and biodiversity.
Best time: May–Nov — Focused botanical experience with accessible endemic species and relaxed island ambiance
Things to do:
A UNESCO primeval palm forest home to the giant coco de mer.
Best time: Apr–Oct — Drier months are best for the forest trails.
Things to do:
Often rated among the world's best beaches, of granite and turquoise.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — Calm inter-monsoon seas are best for swimming.
Things to do:
A secluded powder-sand cove framed by granite boulders.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — Calm months give the clearest snorkelling water.
Things to do:
A day-trip island of free-roaming giant tortoises and mangroves.
Best time: Apr–Oct — Drier months are best for the boat trip and walks.
Things to do:
Prestigious long white-sand beach with calm lagoon, reef snorkeling, and upscale resort area.
Best time: May–Nov — Premier developed beach offering calm waters distinct from wilder Praslin island beaches
Things to do:
The world's most photographed beach, of sculpted pink granite.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — Calm inter-monsoon months give the clearest shallows.
Things to do:
An old copra-and-vanilla plantation with giant tortoises.
Best time: Apr–Oct — Drier months are best for the estate grounds.
Things to do:
A wild, wide surf beach on the island's exposed east coast.
Best time: Apr–May & Oct–Nov — Calmer inter-monsoon months are safest here.
Things to do:
Exploring the car-free island's beaches and lanes by bike.
Best time: Apr–Oct — Drier months are best for the island cycling.
Things to do:
Dedicated sanctuary for rare black parrot species with guided forest trails and endemic birdlife.
Best time: May–Nov — Specialized nature conservation site protecting critically endangered endemic species
Things to do:
Long sandy beach with crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Best time: Apr–May & Sep–Nov — Most popular and picturesque beach on Mahé island.
Things to do:
Shallow coral gardens ideal for snorkeling.
Best time: Apr–May & Sep–Nov — Vibrant marine biodiversity accessible from shore.
Things to do:
Hub for diving, kayaking, and water sports instruction.
Best time: Apr–May & Sep–Nov — Gateway to underwater exploration and marine activities.
Things to do:
Scenic coastal path with restaurants and shops.
Best time: Apr–May & Sep–Nov — Lively social hub and dining destination with sea views.
Things to do:
Elevated vantage point overlooking Beau Vallon Bay.
Best time: Apr–May & Sep–Nov — Panoramic vista of bay and perfect sunset viewing spot.
Things to do:
UNESCO World Heritage site protecting endemic Coco de Mer palms and endemic bird species.
Best time: Year-round — Walk among ancient palm forest and encounter unique Seychellois endemic species.
Things to do:
Pristine white sand beach with granite boulders, calm waters, and minimal development.
Best time: May to October — Experience untouched tropical island beach paradise.
Things to do:
Scenic harbor with traditional sailing boats and coconut palms overlooking protected bay.
Best time: Year-round — Enjoy peaceful island harbor scenery and maritime character.
Things to do:
Colorful local market selling fresh tropical produce, fish, and traditional Creole goods.
Best time: Daily — Experience authentic Seychellois market culture and local commerce.
Things to do:
Protected marine reserve with coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles in natural habitat.
Best time: May to October — Snorkel pristine coral gardens and encounter endangered sea turtles.
Things to do:
It depends on where you go: every place has its own ideal season on this page. For example, Anse Intendance is best around Apr–May & Oct–Nov. Seychelles has 5 featured cities and areas to plan around.
Roughly 80% of people speak English. The main language is Seychellois Creole, English, French.
The Seychelles passport gives visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to about 151 destinations.
This page lists real traveller costs for Seychelles — accommodation, food, transport, plus education, medical, insurance and connectivity — so you can budget before you go.
Anse Intendance, Victoria & Sir Selwyn Market, Morne Seychellois Park, Beau Vallon Beach, Seychelles National Botanic Garden, Vallée de Mai — each with the best time to visit, why it is worth it, and specific things to do.