The Seychelles islands were on my bucket-list for a while. I remember seeing photos of white-sand beaches and thinking to myself: I have to visit one day! My aim in life is to travel to as many countries as possible and I couldn’t wait to sink my toes into the sands of the Seychelles.
I’m originally from Kuwait and was raised there until I did my MBA in Spain. This was the first time I lived outside of my country. Having the opportunity to meet people from all over the world when I was in Spain really triggered my passion to travel. Today I write a travel blog which started back in 2006.
Visiting the Seychelles in 2017 and 2020
I’ve actually visited the Seychelles twice now. The first time was in 2017 and the second time was this year in 2020. My first adventure there was for 4 nights which left me wanting more. Recently, I visited for 5 nights.
In 2017, I managed to explore the islands and see quite a few different beaches. These included Grand Anse Beach, Anse Royale Beach, Beau Vallon and Anse Takamaka. I also had the chance to see the Botanical Gardens and tour to Praslin island, La Digue island and Sainte Anne island.
This year I was invited to stay by Four Seasons Resort Seychelles on Desroches island. It was an amazing experience to enjoy the quietness of the beach and revel in the luxury of the resort during my stay.
10 Best Things To Do in the Seychelles
The Seychelles can only be described as heaven on earth. This archipelago of 115 islands spread across the Indian Ocean is home to beaches that literally have to be seen to be believed. The level of natural beauty here is unparalleled. Below you will find my top 10 things to do in the Seychelles.
1. Take a Day Trip from Mahé to La Digue
The main island of the Seychelles is Mahé and the next two most popular islands are Praslin island and La Digue. You can visit this island on a catamaran from Praslin. La Digue is all about natural beauty with its gorgeous bays, granite rocks, turquoise waters and coral reefs.
2. Cruise through Vanilla Plantations on the Way to Anse Source d’Argent
Some people consider Anse Source D’Argent to not only be the best beach in the Seychelles but in the entire world. This beach is located on La Digue. In order to get to the beach, you have to cruise through this lush park which is home to vanilla plantations and a plantation house.
3. Relax on the Stunning Beaches of Praslin Island
Praslin is the second largest island of the Seychelles and offers beautiful beaches, emerald waters and lush jungles. Transport between Mahé and Praslin comes in two forms: ferries and flights. Some of the best beaches on the island include Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette and Cote d’Or Beach.
4. Discover Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Situated in the heart of Praslin Island is the UNESCO World Heritage site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This reserve contains the vestiges of a natural palm forest that is largely untouched by civilisation. It’s famous for the incredible Coco de Mer which is a massive fruit with a seed weighing 25kg!
People have even called Vallée De Mai the original Garden of Eden and Coco de Mer the original forbidden fruit. There are a number of walking trails throughout the reserve where you can take in the lush surroundings.
5. Snorkel in the Crystal-Clear Waters
You can go snorkelling anywhere in the Seychelles archipelago and you will not be disappointed. These waters are bursting with vibrant fish, beautiful turtles, amazing rays and colourful coral reefs. Some of the best spots include: Anse Lazio, Anse Source d’Argent, Anse Badamier and Bird Island.
6. Go Beach Hopping on Mahé Island
Once you arrive on Mahé Island the first thing to do is go exploring and discover the best beaches. There are many beautiful beaches to be found on this island including: Anse à la Mouche, Anse Aux Poules Bleues, Anse Aux Pins, Anse Baleine, Anse Bazarca, Anse Boileau and Anse Forbans.
7. Explore Sainte Anne Island in the Seychelles
Sainte Anne Island is another fantastic island to explore in the Seychelles. With endless palm-tree beaches and turquoise waters, this island is a dream. It’s super close to Mahé as well – only four kilometres off the coast. There are six main beaches here that will all take your breath away.
8. Visit the Different Hotels of the Seychelles
The Seychelles have some of the most incredible and luxurious hotels on the planet. When I visited in 2020, I stayed at the Four Seasons in Desroches Island. It was luxurious, peaceful and lovely. I recommend it for anyone looking for a getaway. You can also visit other hotels for a drink.
9. Enjoy a Beautiful Sunset by the Beach
Every night is an opportunity to witness a dazzling sunset that can only be seen in the Seychelles. Since this archipelago is close to the equator, the sunsets are warm and consistently beautiful. Whether you’re at your hotel bar or by the beach – you can’t miss out on this wonderful sight!
10. Pamper Yourself with an Outdoor Massage
Seychelles is the ultimate relaxation destination – home to beaches, luxury hotels, wellness spas and massage parlours. Make sure you book an outdoor massage at one of the luxury resorts. Close your eyes and relax as you get a massage with only the sound of waves lapping on the shore.
Meeting the Friendly Locals of the Seychelles
When I travel one of the things that I appreciate the most is meeting local people. My first impression of the Seychelles was that the people here were all super friendly and chatty! They certainly didn’t come across as shy.
Many of the people that I met were curious about me. They wanted to know where I came from and learn more about Kuwait. I also received some fantastic advice about where to go and what to do on these islands.
Delicious Creole Food of the Seychelles
The food of the Seychelles is known as Creole food. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to try the street food which in my opinion represents the real culture more than anything else. However, I tried some amazing Creole dishes like Grilled Fish, Coconut Curry and anything with bananas in it!
What you Need to Know Before you Go
I recommend making friends with locals. They can show you the islands and reveal the best hidden gems. I made friends with a local taxi driver who was extremely kind to take us to some amazing places. The locals always know better. Thanks for reading. Enjoy your trip to the Seychelles!
