The Ultimate Seychelles Adventure Guide: Hidden Gems and Insider Tips
The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, is known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundance of marine life. The luxury resorts attract honeymooners and high-end travellers, but the Seychelles offer far more than just lavish getaways.
If you’re seeking an adventure that combines natural beauty, local culture, and exciting outdoor activities, this guide will take you beyond the tourist hotspots. From stunning off-the-beaten-path beaches to sustainable travel practices, here’s how to explore Seychelles in the most immersive and rewarding way.
1. Stunning beaches beyond the tourist hotspots
The Seychelles’ iconic beaches, Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue and Beau Vallon on Mahé may be the most popular, but there are numerous secluded and less-known beaches waiting to be discovered.
Here are just a few of the other beaches in the Seychelles you could explore:
Anse Georgette, Praslin
Anse Georgette is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbour, Anse Lazio, but this stunning gem is every bit as gorgeous. Tucked away on the grounds of the Constance Lemuria Resort, Anse Georgette offers clear turquoise waters and soft white sands – perfect for a peaceful day away from the crowds.
Anse Marron, La Digue
For the true adventurers, Anse Marron is a hidden treasure that requires a guided hike to reach. The challenging trek takes you through granite boulders and jungle paths, but the reward is a pristine beach with pools formed between the rocks and virtually no tourists in sight. A true slice of paradise for those willing to go the extra mile.
Petite Anse, Mahé
Mahé, Seychelles’ largest island, offers its share of secret spots too. Petite Anse, located near Baie Lazare, is a beautiful beach accessible via a short hike from the Four Seasons resort. The beach features calm waters perfect for swimming, and its isolation makes it feel like your private island.
Cruises to Seychelles are a great way to explore more of the beaches the islands are so famous for.
2. Dive into local culture and cuisine
While the beaches are undoubtedly the main attraction, Seychelles is rich in cultural heritage that’s just as fascinating. The Seychellois culture is a vibrant mix of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences, and this melting pot is best experienced through its people, markets, and food.
Explore Victoria’s Market
Victoria, the capital of Seychelles on Mahé, is home to Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where you can experience local life firsthand. Vendors sell a variety of fresh fish, tropical fruits, and spices, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Seychellois. It’s also the perfect place to try local Creole cuisine.
Try traditional Seychellois dishes
Seychellois food is a delightful fusion of Creole, Indian, and Asian flavours – sample dishes include pwason griye (grilled fish), ladob (a sweet dish made from breadfruit or bananas), and rougaille (a spicy tomato-based sauce). Street food stalls across the islands serve up favourites like samoussa (similar to samosas), coconut curries, and fresh fruit juices.
Visit La Digue for island culture
La Digue is one of the most traditional islands, where ox-carts and bicycles are the primary modes of transportation. The island’s laid-back lifestyle is the perfect backdrop to experience Creole culture. Visit a local rum distillery, explore traditional fishing villages, and attend a Sega dance night to immerse yourself in local entertainment.
3. Adventure activities in Seychelles
Seychelles isn’t just about lounging on the beach. If you’re an adventure enthusiast, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
Snorkelling and diving
The Seychelles’ crystal-clear waters are teeming with marine life, making it one of the best destinations for snorkelling and diving. Spots like Baie Ternay on Mahé and Coco Island near La Digue offer underwater experiences where you can swim alongside turtles, colourful fish, and vibrant coral reefs. For divers, the Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a chance to encounter sharks, manta rays, and even dugongs.
Hiking in the National Parks
Seychelles’ islands are crisscrossed with trails that lead you through forests, up mountains, and to hidden coves. One of the best hikes is the Morne Blanc Trail on Mahé, which takes you to a stunning viewpoint over the island. The Vallee de Mai on Praslin is another must-visit, a prehistoric forest that’s home to the endemic Coco de Mer palm.
Island hopping
With 115 islands, island hopping is a quintessential Seychelles adventure. Cat Cocos ferries connect Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, offering the most accessible route for inter-island travel. For the more remote outer islands like Bird Island or Denis Island, you can charter boats or small planes. Each island has its unique charm, from Praslin’s lush forests to La Digue’s granite boulder beaches.
4. Budget tips for exploring Seychelles
Although Seychelles is often perceived as a luxury destination, it’s possible to explore the islands on a budget if you plan carefully.
Stay in guesthouses
Instead of five-star resorts, opt for locally-owned guesthouses and self-catering accommodations. Many of these guesthouses offer an authentic Seychellois experience, with hosts who can provide insider tips on the best places to visit.
Use public transport
Rather than renting a car or booking expensive tours, use Seychelles’ efficient bus system, especially on Mahé and Praslin. Buses are cheap and connect most parts of the islands. For inter-island travel, the Cat Cocos ferry is more budget-friendly than flying between islands.
Dine at takeaways
While high-end restaurants abound, you’ll find many affordable and delicious takeaways scattered across the islands. These small food stalls serve up local Creole dishes like curry, grilled fish, and rice at a fraction of the cost of a sit-down meal.
5. Sustainable travel practices in Seychelles
As a delicate island ecosystem, Seychelles is highly conscious of sustainability. Travellers can support the islands’ conservation efforts by adopting responsible travel practices.
Respect marine life
When snorkelling or diving, avoid touching or stepping on coral reefs, as they are incredibly fragile. Many marine parks, such as St. Anne Marine National Park, require visitors to pay an entry fee, which contributes to conservation efforts. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen to prevent harm to marine life.
Support local businesses
Choose locally-owned accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators to ensure your tourism dollars benefit the Seychellois community. Seychelles also has many eco-friendly lodges and guesthouses committed to sustainable tourism.
Participate in conservation projects
Many organisations in Seychelles offer volunteer opportunities for tourists interested in conservation. Projects include turtle monitoring, reef restoration, and bird conservation. Check out the Seychelles Islands Foundation or Nature Seychelles for more information on how to get involved.
Visiting the Seychelles
Seychelles is more than just a luxury honeymoon destination; it’s an adventurer’s paradise with untapped beaches, rich local culture, and thrilling activities for all types of travellers. By exploring the islands’ lesser-known gems, embracing the local lifestyle, and practicing sustainable tourism, you can create a truly unforgettable Seychellois adventure.