Seychelles

Wild and authentic tropical islands

Lying a thousand miles off the East African coast and just four degrees south of the equator Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands lying in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Renowned for its lush white beaches with granite boulders Seychelles has coral reefs, lush vegetation and soaring mountains.  It has a number of nature reserves and interesting wildlife including giant tortoises. Accommodation varies from simple guest houses to island hotels at £10k a night like the one Kate and Wills honeymooned in!  There are direct flights from the UK to the main island of Mahe which has a diverse array of accommodation and sights.  But we prefer the quieter Praslin, Desroches and La Digue islands, a short flight or boat ride away.  There are also luxury island hotels on Desroches, Denis, Bird and Fregate islands.  In fact island hopping is one of the best ways to see the Seychelles.  

  • La Digue, with iconic bouldered white beaches has some charming boutique accommodation including the lovely Domaine de l’Orangeraie just 300 metres from a white sand beach and with excellent diving nearby.
  • Desroches island is a 40 minute flight from Mahe has just 48 rooms set amidst coconut palms. Part of the Four Seasons hotel chain it has tennis, bicycles, a pool, gym and its calm waters are ideal for snorkelling, kayaking or diving.
  • On Praslin we love the Constance Lemuria resort which sits in over a hundred acres of lush vegetation. For golf lovers it has an 18-hole championship golf course but the hotel is also suitable for families with a complimentary children’s club.  
  • For something more boutique on Praslin stay at L’Archipel a boutique hotel in colonial style buildings which offers boat transfer to nearby Pierre, Curieuse and Sister islands.  
  • For bird lovers a stay at Bird Island Lodge on its own island visited by 2 million terns between May and October and where Hawksbill turtles lay their eggs October to February.

Walking in the Seychelles

The Seychelles may not seem like a prime walking destination.  If walking is the main focus of your holiday then look elsewhere.  But if you want an idyllic beach holiday with some bursts of activity walking through national parks and experiencing incredible biodiversity and fabulous views then take a closer look at the Seychelles.  There are over 15 trails on the islands maintained by the Seychelles National Parks Association and they can be walked with or without a guide.  You will find them on Mahe, Praslin, La Digue and Silhouette.  On Praslin and La Digue the distances are so small it doesn’t really matter where you stay.  But on the main island of Mahe we can find you a hotel with good access to some walking.  

Key Facts about the Seychelles

Seychelles Photo Gallery

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Ideas for a trip to the Seychelles

Here are some ideas for trips to the Seychelles all of which can be adapted for you and we are always happy to create a bespoke trip from scratch.

From £2895

per person

Island Hopping

On this trip you will spend 14 nights staying in small hotels and guest houses on Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. This enables you to experience authentic Creole hospitality without breaking the bank. This trip includes bed and breakfast accommodation, international flights and ferry transfers between islands. A similar trip but staying in more luxurious accommodation can be booked from £3195

From £6535

Per person

Seychelles twin-centre luxury

Experience two different islands in the Seychelles’ archipelago on this ten night trip - paradisiacal Praslin and the main island of Mahé Explore the unique flora and fauna of UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. Stay in two luxury resorts, Constance Lemuria with three beaches, and all-villa Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas. Fly between the hotels on a private helicopter for aerial views of the islands’ exquisite beauty

From £3389

Per person

Luxury Praslin

7 nights at the 5 * Constance Lemuria on Praslin with its championship golf course, private beaches, high end facilities and gastronomy not to mention its serene U Spa. Days are spent relaxing on the perfect beaches of Petite or Grande Anse Kerlan or Anse Georgette, regularly voted one of the top beaches in the world. The diving here is also world-class, with PADI diving instructors on hand to show beginners the ropes and lead experienced guests to prime marine locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions that haven't been answered here? Send your questions to enquiries@shearwatertravel.co.uk and we'll try our best to help.

British passport holders do not need a visa to enter the Seychelles just a passport valid for the length of their stay. See FCDO advice on visiting the Seychelles

You should ensure your usual vaccinations are up to date and check the NHS Fit for Travel website for advice on immunisations.

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