Where is Seychelles? – The location
The Seychelles is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean. It comprises 115 islands and is home to rich marine life with many endemic species. The Seychelles has been ranked by National Geographic as one of the top 20 islands in the world; and it has been described as “a paradise for divers”.
Never-ending beaches are broken up by granite boulders emerging from the earth. This makes this tropical beach holiday destination one of the most picture-perfect destinations in the world. However, the Seychelles is particularly known for the vast array of activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Live out your tropical island fantasy
Seychelles is a group of 115 islands and atolls situated in the western Indian Ocean. It’s located in the southern part of Africa and just east of Madagascar. The main island of Mahé has an area of 457 km², and its several smaller islands make up the Seychelles archipelago. Some of these islands and atolls are still uninhabited, and some of them are protected by UNESCO. However, many of them have been converted into tourist resorts. The country’s remarkable biodiversity is due primarily to its location between Africa and Asia on one side and Madagascar on the other. This means that it is home to species that are found nowhere else in the world – many are endemic (those which are only found here).
The best beaches of Seychelles
Seychelles is a beautiful island country with beaches on each island that have been awarded “Best Beach” awards by National Geographic. One magical beach is Anse Lazio, situated on the north-western coast of Praslin island. The beach itself is surrounded by palm and takamaka trees, pearly white sand, and glassy waters.
The area forms part of a protected marine park boasting a pristine paradise with a thriving coral reef just 200 metres offshore. More so, the area is teeming with underwater life, from eels to lionfish, and more, that can be seen when diving with a mask and snorkel. Also, with no cars on this island, the only means of transportation is the bicycle. However, exploring this beach is possible by yacht, making the experience even more memorable.
The other magical beach of Seychelles
With several immaculate, unspoiled beaches in Seychelles, every visitor − from those on honeymoon, or romantic couples, even to families, are spoilt for choice. Besides the magic of Anse Lazio, visitors can also explore Petite Anse on Mahé, which is an excellent location for families, especially those wanting to snorkel or swim. Another beach on Praslin is Anse Georgette, with its soft white sand. This is a public beach, but access is via the nearby resort. Like many other beaches, accessing the beaches from the water makes the visits easier. This is similar to the case of one of the most photographed beaches in the world, Anse Source d’Argent, at La Digue. This beach embodies a tropical paradise, with granite boulders, crystal clear waters, and flawless white sand.
Explore the best diving spots
The natural coral reefs surrounding the islands are home to thousands of species, including fish, molluscs, echinoderms (e.g., starfish), algae or seaweed (seaweeds), and green turtles which nest on beaches around these islands during the summer months. More so, with its warm waters, diving is possible all year round. One location stands out, that of Desroches Island. Located 230 km away from the mainland, this island offers an underwater paradise to be explored, such as the Desroches Drop, the Canyon, Airport Reef, Big Cave, Mini Wall, and Secret Passage – all unforgettable experiences for divers, and all dives under the supervision of a certified team of professional divers.
However, you don’t need to dive to explore this beautiful paradise − you can opt to snorkel instead of to dive. This means that families and those who are not qualified divers can also enjoy the underwater ocean life −from the brightly coloured coral and the sea turtles to the many and varied tropical fish found in these waters. What makes snorkelling unique is that even beginners can snorkel with manta rays and sailfish. It is best to conduct these types of activities with a professional crew; nevertheless, the experience will last forever.
Explore the endemic species
This archipelago of granite islands has developed seemingly independently. There is a wide variety of endemic plants, such as black ebony trees; and there are rare birds, including Cape Verde petrels which live year-round on Seychelles; Aldabra tortoises roam freely here too!
The Seychelles giant tortoise, or the giant Aldabra tortoise, is an herbivorous land animal that can weigh up to 450 kilograms and measure 2 metres in length. Found on Aldabra Island, it is one of the animals that is a must-see for any visitor to Seychelles.
The bottom line
The Seychelles is a unique destination that offers something for everyone, from the adventurous to the more passive traveller. It is an ideal place for those looking for relaxation and tranquillity. It also provides plenty of adventure options, beautiful underwater diving spots, and exciting activities like snorkelling and island hopping. To make your trip even more unique, avoid the tourists, and gain easy access to the various beaches and islands by travelling by water. You will have the flexibility to move around whichever way you want, be it to relax or to enjoy various activities at various destinations − all with a professional crew on board to assist you.