Seychelles Travel Guide | TripTard.Com
Seychelles Tourism Board
Seychelles is a beautiful tropical island country located in the Indian Ocean. The country has an area of 115,000 square kilometers and a population of over 111,000 people. The official language of Seychelles is English, but French is also spoken. The majority of the people reside on the larger islands such as Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. The smaller islands are inhabited by a mix of native Seychellois and foreign nationals who vacation there year-round. Some popular tourist destinations in Seychelles include: La Digue, Praslin, Mahé and Silhouette Island.
About Seychelles
Seychelles is a perfect destination for those who love the natural beauty and tranquility of the islands. The archipelago of Seychelles lies some 1,500 miles off the east coast of Africa, and consists of 115 islands that are scattered over a surface area of 1,200 square miles. These islands have a flourishing coral reef system, which is home to more than 1,500 species of fish and coral. In addition, Seychelles has more than 160 bird species and over 100 different types of palms.
Visitors can enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or relax on white sandy beaches while taking in the natural beauty surrounding them. Activities such as golfing, fishing, hiking and biking are also possible on the islands.
There are several resorts located on the main island of Mahé and smaller islands nearby that offer guests all the amenities they need for an unforgettable stay. For those looking for an activity beyond relaxing on a beach or exploring nature, there are many interesting things to do in Seychelles including visiting museums or going shopping at local boutiques.
Seychelles History
Seychelles is a group of 115 small islands in the Indian Ocean, east of India. The islands are named after Louis de Seychelles (1736-1818), an admiral in the French Navy who explored the area in 1766. The British took control of the islands in 1814, and they became a protectorate of the United Kingdom in 1905. In 1971, Seychelles became an independent republic.
The first recorded European visitor to Seychelles was Portuguese sailor João da Nova, who arrived on January 3, 1502. da Nova named one of the island groups "Ilha de Santa Maria" (Island of Saint Mary). The Dutchman Joris van Spilbergen sighted the islands in 1610 and called them "Seychellen". The name "Seychelles" does not appear to have been used before that time.
The first British settlement on the islands was established in 1814 by Captain Augustus Keppel. The French began to settle on the islands in 1825, and the British expelled them in 1838. France again began to settle on the islands in 1842, but Britain again expelled them in 1845
Climate of Seychelles
The climate of Seychelles is predominantly tropical and has a lot of variation between the different islands. The northern archipelago, Mahé, has a cooler climate with more rainfall than the southern islands. The mountains that make up much of the country also play their part in moderating temperatures.
The average temperature in Seychelles is around 26 degrees Celsius, but this can vary depending on where you are. In the north it can be cool at night and warmer during the day, while in the south it can be hotter during the day and cooler at night. The east coast has a slightly cooler climate due to its proximity to the Indian Ocean.
The winds are often strong and unpredictable, so it is important to take adequate precautions when travelling to Seychelles. Make sure you have appropriate clothing for the weather and carry plenty of water and snacks.
How to get to Seychelles
Getting to Seychelles is easy! There are a few methods of transportation you can use to get there, and TripTard has detailed information on each one.
The most popular way to get to Seychelles is by plane. Air France, British Airways, and KLM have all flights available from various airports in Europe and North America. The cost for a plane ticket can vary, but generally costs around £500-£1,000 per person.
If you’d rather not fly, there are also charter boats available that will take you directly to the Seychelles Islands. These boats cost around £2,000 per person and will take around 10-12 days to reach the islands.
Finally, if you’d rather stay on the mainland while exploring the islands, there are also many hotels available that will take you right to your door. The prices for these hotels range from £50-£120 per night.
Visas and Entry Requirements
If you're thinking of traveling to the Seychelles, you'll need to be aware of the visa requirements. All foreigners visiting the Seychelles for longer than three months must obtain a visa from the Seychelles Embassy in their home country. The visa application process is straightforward, but there are a few things you should know in advance. Most importantly, make sure you have all your documents together and ready to go: your passport, an official letter of invitation from an authorized tour operator or hotel in Seychelles, your passport photo, and proof of financial resources (such as a recent bank statement). You can apply online or at the embassy; both options require a fee.
The most common type of visa is a six-month tourist visa. It allows you to stay in the Seychelles for six months and visit any number of destinations. You will need to show proof of funds and a return ticket. If you qualify for a business visa, it will allow you to stay for up to one year and work in the Seychelles. You will need to provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while living in
Get around Seychelles
When planning your trip to the Seychelles, be sure to consider what type of traveler you are. If you are looking for a relaxed beach vacation, then the Seychelles islands may not be for you. If on the other hand you are looking for an adventure, there are plenty of activities available such as diving, snorkeling, and hiking.
If you are traveling with children, be sure to read our article on family friendly activities in the Seychelles. Additionally, many hotels and resorts offer child care services so that parents can enjoy their stay without worrying about their children.
Below is a list of things to do while in the Seychelles:
-Visit one of the many world-class beaches on Mahé or Praslin Island.
-Explore the many caves and stunning landscapes on La Digue or Praslin Island.
-Cross over to Mahe Island to explore its lush rainforest or wander around Victoria Falls National Park on Mahe Island.
-Dive with sharks in The Fregate Shark Reserve on Praslin Island or visit The Riviera Maya Sundowners Resort’s intense shark cage diving program
Shopping in Seychelles
Shopaholics rejoice! Seychelles has everything you need, and then some. From luxury souvenirs to funky finds, there's something for everyone on the island paradise. Whether you're looking for a quirky gift or just want to indulge in some retail therapy, Seychelles has it all. Here are our top picks for the best shopping in Seychelles:
1) The Causeway: This high-end mall is a must-see if you're visiting Seychelles. You'll find brands like Gucci, Prada, and Chanel among others. There's also a wide selection of luxury goods and dining options here.
2) Port Louis: This busy port town is home to many shops and boutiques, including some excellent jewellery stores. You'll find unique pieces made from local materials like coral and seashells.
3) Victoria Falls: If you're looking for an authentic souvenir, make your way to Victoria Falls. Here you can find traditional clothing, arts and crafts, and even wild animal products. Be sure to snap a picture of yourself with the infamous falls in the background!
Tours of Seychelles
Seychelles Travel Guide | TripTard.Com
There are many types of tours that you can take while in Seychelles. Island hopping tours give you the opportunity to visit different islands and enjoy the natural beauty of each one. Wildlife tours focus on spotting interesting creatures like lions, elephants, and monkeys. Cultural tours expose you to the unique customs and traditions of the local people.
If you're looking for something a little more adventurous, there are sports tours that let you hike through the jungle or kayak along beautiful beaches. Whatever your interests, TripTard has a tour that's perfect for you!
Practicalities When Travelling To Seychelles
If you're thinking about visiting the Seychelles, there are a few things you'll need to take into account before your trip. The Seychelles are an archipelago of 115 islands and islets, located east of Africa and just north of Madagascar. The country has a population of just over 100,000 people and despite its small size, there's plenty to see and do in the Seychelles.
Here are a few practicalities to bear in mind when travelling to the Seychelles:
-The currency is the Seychellois dollar (SC). You will need to have some form of currency if you're going to spend any time in town. Exchange rates can be found on the government website.
- Travellers should note that whilst English is spoken by most people, it isn't always widely understood. It's therefore advisable to pack some basic phrases in your language for use when travelling around the island chain.
- There is no ATM network in the Seychelles so travellers should ensure they have enough cash with them when they arrive. Credit cards are generally accepted but rates may be high.
- Electricity is available round