The Seychelles archipelago, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean just off the coast of East Africa, consists of 115 spectacular islands and is an idyllic sun-soaked destination for luxury holidays.

Whether you are travelling with family or as a couple, there is a myriad of excitement and enrichment for explorers. From thrilling water sports action with the kids to unforgettable mountain hikes and stunning beachfront backdrops for honeymoons, you will find everything you need and more in the Seychelles. With a fabulous selection of 3-, 4-, and 5-star resorts, you have plenty of options for where to base yourself to discover the best attractions and experiences on these glorious islands.

Here are our top 10 things to do on a holiday in the Seychelles.

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1. Walk with giant tortoises on Curieuse Island

One of the most unique and captivating experiences you can have on holiday in the Seychelles is walking with giant tortoises. Just off the shores of Praslin, you can reach Curieuse Island via speedboat in just 10 minutes, making it a very popular day trip for holidaymakers. On this historical island, there is a walking track across the island where you can stroll alongside these fascinating animals as they roam freely. You can also enjoy a bbq lunch in the sunshine and learn all about these unique creatures.

2. Scuba dive in the Indian Ocean

Unveil an enchanting underwater realm teeming with vibrant marine life and breathtaking coral formations. With spectacularly clear ocean waters, the Seychelles islands offer an abundance of amazing diving opportunities for both professionals and beginners, such as Shark Bank and Dredger Wreck. Prepare to be amazed by barracuda, manta rays, stingrays, fan corals, and so much more. The shoulder months of March to April and October to November offer the best visibility and calmest seas, but scuba diving is possible at any time of year in the Seychelles, making it a no-brainer for a holiday adventure.

3. Share a picnic on the beach

Picture yourself sitting across from the love of your life on satin sands, overlooking beautiful hues of blue sparkling under the sunshine. You will be spoilt for choice with stunning beaches to pick from for your picnic setting on a romantic holiday. For a remote and untouched beach, head to Anse Georgette, whilst Beau Vallon is the longest beach on Mahé island - the largest island in the Seychelles and the home of its capital, Victoria town - making it a sought-after stretch for tourists to unwind and cool off in turquoise waters.

4. Hike through mountainous landscapes

Embark on a rustic adventure along the Anse Major trail from Bel Ombre for picturesque vistas and cap it off with a refreshing ocean swim, or grab a snorkelling mask and explore shallow-watered flora and fauna to continue your day of discovery. Alternatively, within Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé, the Copolia Trail beckons with its popular route to a 500-metre-high summit that overlooks Victoria, neighbouring islands like Praslin, and the breathtakingly blue Indian Ocean. Taking only an hour and a half to complete, this trail is ideal for even hiking novices, but it is recommended to hike early in the morning when temperatures are cooler.

5. Sample Creole cuisine

From freshly caught seafood dishes like grilled fish with tangy tamarind sauce to hearty curries bursting with spices and coconut milk, each bite of local Seychelles cuisine tantalises taste buds with a fusion of African, French, Indian, British, Spanish, and Chinese influences. Bring your loved ones along to an authentic cooking class so you can recreate these delicious meals at home. At your accommodation, you can also expect a wide range of homely comfort foods, light bites, and a host of refreshing beverages for an enjoyable holiday experience.

6. Explore a range of water sports

If diving deep below the water’s surface isn’t your thing, you can indulge in exhilarating water sports action in the Seychelles. The Southeast winds can commonly create ideal conditions for surfing enthusiasts between May and September, and one of the most well-known surfing spots in the Seychelles is Grand Anse on the island of La Digue. The azure waters also beckon you to try out an abundance of other aquatic activities, such as kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boat trips out to fabulous snorkelling spots.

7. Putt on picturesque greens

For times when you find yourself getting restless on the beach, many people don’t know that you can find great golfing spots on holiday in the Seychelles. Imagine teeing off against a backdrop of shimmering blues and sun-drenched greens with your closest friends whilst catching a bronzed tan, surrounded by the serene beauty of paradise. The 18-hole golf course at Constance Lemuria Resort on Praslin island provides a heavenly setting to test players of all skill levels. With warm, gentle breezes and year-round sunshine, golfers can enjoy their game in perfect conditions.

8. Visit the world’s smallest national park

Moyenne Island, surrounded by the clear waters of the Indian Ocean, holds the distinction of being the world’s smallest national park, making it a bucket-list favourite for tourists. This ecological gem spans a mere 9 hectares but brims with biodiversity, lush vegetation, and natural wonders. A short boat ride from Mahé, Moyenne Island entices adventurers for a joyous day trip with approximately 40 endemic plants, a lot of which can only be found on granitic islands. For nature lovers and explorers, this gem is one you don’t want to miss.

9. Enjoy a glass of Takamaka rum

In the Seychelles, the globally distributed Takamaka rum is distilled, aged, and blended. Founded 20 years ago by the d’Offay brothers, the Takamaka Rum Distillery is situated in 18th-century La Plaine St Andre. Enjoy a tour of the distillery, sip on a fresh cocktail infused with the local rum, and try something delicious from the food truck while you are there. Complete your experience with a visit to the gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs and bottles of this authentic Seychellois spirit to savour later.

10. Be transported back in time at Vallée de Mai

Step into an unspoiled paradise at Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin island. Wander through pristine prehistoric palm forests, the only place in the Seychelles where all 6 species of palm grow together, including coco de mer, the largest seed in the plant kingdom. Millions of years of isolation have nurtured a treasure trove of unique species. Families will love the surreal landscape adorned with oversize leaves and an audio backdrop of wildlife such as the black parrot, one of the world’s rarest birds that can only be found here.