Fondly referred to as the original Garden of Eden, the Seychelles is a beautiful and diverse destination where holiday dreams come true.

With 115 different islands making up this Indian Ocean archipelago, you can choose to hop from destination to destination, soaking up every possible experience on offer. Start off in Mahé, the main island and home to the capital, Victoria, before heading over to the ideally situated Praslin for easier access to the other incredible hotspots. Every part of the archipelago is accessible by short domestic flights or boat rides. Divine beaches, lush greenery and unique wildlife create an escape like no other. See how hundreds of years of history has come together to produce a vibrant hub, where French, English and Seychellois Creole cultures live harmoniously on these island paradises. Here’s Destination2’s guide to holidays in the Seychelles.

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Are Holidays in The Seychelles Expensive?

With the Seychelles being a dream destination offering luxurious accommodation and untouched landscapes, the cost to visit and make your holiday worthwhile could be a little expensive. If you’re looking for adventure on a budget, there are plenty of more economical resorts to choose from as well as multiple free activities. A day trip out to one of the many beaches located across all of the islands, like Port Launay on Mahé, will fulfil your every need with powdery sands, blue-green waters and palm trees. To further save money, you could consider travelling during the months April to May or October to November as the cooler weather means less tourism and more opportunities to come across some bargain deals. If you are willing to spend a little on your dream holiday, you’ll find an array of sensational luxury resorts dedicated to providing opulence among blissful backdrops.

What Are The Top Attractions?

Brimming with potential for adventure, the Seychelles is perfect for losing yourself in nature. Experience the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to walk alongside giant Aldabra tortoises. Curieuse Island is their tropical sanctuary and is reachable via speedboat from Praslin Island in just 10 minutes. Walk the forest paths as these majestic creatures freeroam beside you, learning about them from their dedicated caretakers. Wander through the untouched Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO world heritage site on Praslin. Incredible prehistoric forests are home to all six species of palm, including the coco de mer. Listen out for the extremely rare black parrot. Moyenne Island is completely unpopulated and where you can find the world's smallest national park. Despite being only nine hectares, this gem is a haven of biodiversity with around 40 endemic plants only found on granitic islands. Take a boat ride from Mahé to discover this paradise.

Can I Go All-Inclusive?

Yes, you definitely can! There are a number of 5-star all-inclusive resorts that will cater to all your needs while you explore the beauty of the Seychelles. Perfectly situated on the white sand beaches, you’ll have access to a world of activity and relaxation. Enjoy all the benefits going all-inclusive offers, including three meals a day, a variety of alcoholic and soft beverages and sweet treats. More premium boards promise a great selection of choice, from in-room minibar options, a la carte menus and access to more activities. If you’re seeking something with a little more flexibility, there are a number of mesmerising resorts offering bed and breakfast, half board and full board options. Whether you’re looking for a romantic retreat or an out-of-this world family-holiday, the Seychelles is the perfect place to create long-lasting memories all while relaxing in the comfort and luxury provided by your resort.

How Long Should I Stay?

To make the most of your holiday to the Seychelles, a stay of 10-14 days is the way to go. This would allow you to fully immerse yourself in everything the islands have to offer and enjoy an array of exhilarating activities. Island hopping is common practice in the Seychelles as they are all unique, with most visitors wanting to see at least three or four in one trip to this dream destination. Relaxation days are also imperative, as the rugged terrains and lush landscapes create the opportunity for scenic hikes. The flight here can be long, with some layovers necessary from the UK, so having a long trip planned will ensure the hours spent on the plane going to and from the archipelago are worth it. Visitors are welcome to stay longer than two weeks if they wish, with the Seychelles issuing everyone a three-month visitor permit when they arrive.

What Do I Need To Take?

With constant sunshine all year round, protection from the UV rays is essential. Ensure you bring high-factor sun cream, sunglasses and hats for when you’re ticking activities off your bucket list. Suitable footwear is necessary as the terrain varies between each island, with some being more mountainous and rugged than others. You can hike or trek through the breathtaking forests with peace of mind and comfort. The diverse environment of the Seychelles also means there are insects not found in the UK. Prepare and bring bug repellent to make sure you can keep them at bay. Swimwear will be needed if you want to take a dip into the Indian Ocean surrounding the islands or for relaxing on one of the white sand beaches. Waterproofs might be helpful if you decide to visit during the summer months as this is when the heaviest rainfall occurs.

Best Time To Visit

Blessed with a tropical climate, the Seychelles archipelago experiences warm weather all year round and up to 12 hours of sunlight per day. The summer months fall here between December and February, with temperatures reaching the mid 30s. It’s at this time that the islands receive their essential wet season, when you can expect short-lived bursts of rainfall. January, while being the hottest month, is also the wettest. June to August are the winter months, when temperatures fall to around the mid 20s. Many find the months of April to May and October to November the most pleasant as temperatures are at a comfortable level between winter and summer. This is due to trade winds that blow in, providing perfect conditions for exploring everything the Seychelles has to offer. Whatever time of year you choose to go, you’ll find a unique and breath-taking adventure awaiting on this archipelago.

“For the perfect romantic location, the Seychelles offer a slice of heaven on earth. Brimming with luscious landscapes, mouthwatering cuisine, exotic wildlife and stunning beaches, you'll have it all.

““Enticing holiday-makers in with bucket list activities, you’ll be left wanting more after witnessing the incredible mash-up of culture and history. Hop between the islands, from the thriving Mahé to the isolated and natural Alphonse

“Spend up to 12 hours a day in glorious sunshine, understanding why this out-of-this-world destination is seen as the original Garden of Eden. Surround yourself with rare and exotic wildlife like the giant tortoise or black parrot. Go in search of the mythical coco de mer seed which was once the centre of many legends.

“Whether you plan to relax on the beach, adopt the local lifestyle or wander for hours through divine nature reserves, the Seychelles will guarantee a sensational holiday that you won’t forget.”

Fisherman’s Cove Resort

Bordering 3km of the picturesque Beau Vallon Beach is the delightful Fisherman’s Cove Resort. Relax on the powdery white sands or explore beneath the waves of the Indian Ocean, where you might see a few turtles. With spacious and neutrally decorated accommodation, you’ll feel like you're in heaven. Unwind in the natural environment of the Sesel Spa for true bliss. The vibrant bars offer tasty cocktails while the enticing aromas from the restaurants will engulf your senses.

Check out the Fisherman’s Cove Resort

Constance Ephelia

Blending into the unspoiled landscape of Mahé is the 5-star Constance Ephelia resort. Stand on the glorious white-sand beach and overlook the marine national park of Port Launay or take a dip into the sparkling Indian Ocean. Richly furnished villas provide sanctuary for couples on romantic retreats and families on a Seychelles adventure. Tantalise your tastebuds with delicious local cuisines infused with international flavours in the out-of-this-world restaurants and detox in the spa with a choice of invigorating therapies.

Check out the Constance Ephelia

Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

The perfect backdrop for intimate moments between couples or families is the 5-star Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa. Peaceful villas built into the hillside provide comfort and the feeling of home. Relax in the infinity pool and take in the unmatched scenery before enjoying al fresco dining and handcrafted cocktails. Surrounded by the Indian Ocean, you’ll find endless fun in the plethora of activities available on land and in water, including snorkelling, boat tours, yoga and golf.

Check out Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa