Things to Do in Seychelles

Island hopping across the Seychelles' core trio Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue is widely considered the ultimate choice among Seychelles activities to experience the archipelago's diverse landscapes and shifting paces of life. This movement allows you to seamlessly transition from dense rainforest trails and bustling markets to mystical, prehistoric palm forests and finally to completely tranquil, vehicle-free coastal tracks. Rather than confining yourself to a single destination, embarking on an island-hopping itinerary unlocks the full spectrum of the islands, blending vibrant local culture with untouched natural history in a single journey. Most travelers dedicate at least three to five days to this moving exploration to fully absorb the shifting atmosphere of each stop.

Entry Fee: There is no single, unified island-hopping pass. While exploring the open areas of the main islands costs nothing, individual nature reserves, parks, and key heritage sites along your route require separate admission. For example, accessing the famous beaches of La Digue requires a ticket to L'Union Estate (around SCR 150), and visiting Praslin’s prehistoric palm forest requires a dedicated entry fee.

Timings: Ferries operate daily. Cat Cocos runs multiple departures between Mahé and Praslin, typically from 07:00 to 17:30. The Praslin–La Digue ferry runs frequently from around 07:00 to 17:00. Schedules vary seasonally, so check the Cat Cocos official website before travelling.

Among all the beaches in the Indian Ocean, Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue is consistently ranked as one of the most photographed and most beautiful on earth. What makes this beach truly extraordinary is not just the powdery white sand or the shimmering turquoise shallows – it is the enormous ancient granite boulders, sculpted over millions of years into impossibly smooth curves and towering forms, that frame every view. The shallow lagoon makes swimming accessible for all ages, and the interplay of golden light on the pink-tinged granite at sunrise and sunset creates scenes of almost surreal beauty.
Access to Anse Source d'Argent is through L'Union Estate, a historic coconut and vanilla plantation that charges a small entry fee. The estate itself is well worth exploring before you reach the beach.

Location: La Digue Island Lodge, L'Union Estate, Seychelles
Timings: Daily, approximately 06:00 – 17:00.
Entry Fee: SCR 115 per adult (includes access to L'Union Estate and the beach). Children under 12 are typically free. Fees are subject to change; check the latest rates locally on arrival.

Visiting the Vallée de Mai on Praslin is one of the most extraordinary Seychelles activities for nature lovers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of only two places on Earth where you can see the legendary Coco de Mer palm growing in its natural state. Walking through the ancient forest here feels like stepping back in time. The towering palms, some over 800 years old, form a cathedral-like canopy overhead, filtering the tropical light into shafts of green-gold. The reserve is home to the rare black parrot, Seychelles' national bird, along with geckos, skinks, and the elusive Seychelles blue pigeon. The Coco de Mer nut itself, the world's largest seed, is an iconic natural wonder that has fascinated travellers and botanists alike for centuries.
Well-maintained trails wind through the reserve, suitable for all fitness levels. Guided tours are available and are highly recommended for those wanting to spot wildlife and understand the ecological significance of this primaeval forest.

Location: Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles
Timings: Daily, 08:00 – 16:30 (last entry at 17:00).
Entry Fee: SCR 472

Few wildlife encounters anywhere in the world are as humbling and memorable as coming face to face with a giant Aldabra tortoise. These magnificent reptiles, which can live for well over 150 years and weigh up to 300 kilograms, are among the last truly giant land tortoises remaining on earth. The Aldabra Atoll – itself a UNESCO World Heritage Site – hosts the world's largest population of these tortoises, numbering over 100,000. For visitors to the main islands, the best places to see them at close range include the enclosure at L'Union Estate on La Digue, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens in Victoria on Mahé, and the conservation facility at Cousin Island. Watching these ancient creatures move with unhurried dignity, their wrinkled necks stretching towards outstretched leaves and fruit, is one of those Seychelles activities that stays with visitors long after they leave. It is an experience as profound as it is gentle and utterly unique to the Seychelles.

Location: L'Union Estate (La Digue), Botanical Gardens (Mahé Victoria), Cousin Island.
Timings: L'Union Estate: 08:00–17:00. Botanical Gardens: Monday–Friday 08:00–17:00, Saturday 09:00–17:00.
Entry Fee: Botanical Gardens: SCR 50 adults, SCR 25 children. L'Union Estate entry included in Anse Source d'Argent fee (SCR 115).

A catamaran sunset cruise along the dramatic coastline of Mahé is one of the most romantic Seychelles activities you can experience. As the sun descends towards the Indian Ocean horizon, the sky above the granite mountains turns extraordinary shades of orange, pink, and violet, reflected in the glassy waters below. Most sunset cruise operators depart from the Beau Vallon area on the northwest coast of Mahé, heading along the coastline while guests enjoy chilled local Seybrew beer, fresh tropical fruit platters, and canapés. The gentle roll of a well-provisioned catamaran, the warm evening breeze, and the spectacular natural light show make this one of the most unforgettable experiences the islands offer.
Numerous operators offer sunset cruises, with prices typically ranging from SCR 900 to SCR 1,800 per person depending on inclusions. Premium cruises may include a freshly prepared Creole dinner, wine, and dolphin-watching opportunities.

Location: Departures from Beau Vallon Beach, Mahé.
Timings: Typically depart approximately 17:00–17:30, returning after sunset around 19:30–20:00.
Price: Approximately SCR 900 – SCR 1,800 per person. Check with operators such as Mason's Travel or individual yacht operators for current rates.

Declared a marine national park in 1973, the Sainte Anne covers approximately 1,500 hectares of protected ocean just a short boat ride from the capital, Victoria, on Mahé. It encompasses six islands: Sainte Anne, Cerf, Round Island, Long Island, Moyenne, and Cachée and protects some of the most vibrant coral reef ecosystems in the entire western Indian Ocean. For ocean lovers this is the perfect answer to the question What to do in Seychelles? Snorkelling and glass-bottom boat excursions reveal a stunning underwater world of brain corals, staghorn formations, hawksbill turtles, nurse sharks, octopus, and hundreds of species of reef fish in vivid tropical colours. The park is also home to significant populations of giant clams.
Day trips to the marine park depart from the Inter-Island Quay in Victoria, with most operators offering a combination of snorkelling, a glass-bottom boat tour, and a barbecue lunch on one of the islands.

Location: Sainte Anne Marine National Park, offshore from Victoria, Mahé.
Timings: Day trips generally depart around 09:00 and return by 16:00–17:00.
Price: Approximately SCR 1,200 – SCR 2,500 per person for a full-day excursion including lunch and snorkelling equipment. Park entry fees are typically included in tour packages.

No visit to Seychelles is complete without a proper immersion in Creole cuisine, one of the most distinctive and delicious food cultures in the entire Indian Ocean region. Seychellois Creole cooking is a vibrant fusion of African, French, Chinese, and Indian culinary traditions, built around the islands' extraordinary natural larder of fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and fragrant spices. A proper Creole meal might begin with a bowl of bouillon, a richly spiced fish broth, followed by grilled red snapper served with ladob, a sweet coconut and green banana stew, accompanied by rice and fresh rougaille, a punchy tomato-chilli-ginger sauce that is the cornerstone of the Creole kitchen.
For the most authentic experience, seek out local family-run restaurants known locally as 'snack bars' or take-away spots serving the daily catch. In Victoria, the area around Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market is an excellent hunting ground for street food. On Praslin, Café des Arts and Loutier Coco on La Digue are beloved institutions.

Location: Throughout all main islands. Victoria Market area (Mahé), Loutier Coco (La Digue), Café des Arts (Praslin).
Timings: Lunch: typically 11:30–14:30. Dinner: 18:30–22:00. Hours vary by establishment.
Price: SCR 150 – SCR 400 per person for a full meal at a local restaurant. Fine dining establishments charge SCR 800 – SCR 2,000+ per person.

Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world, home to a population of roughly 26,000 people, yet it manages to pack an enormous amount of charm, history, and culture into its compact centre. A leisurely walking tour of Victoria's historic core is among the most rewarding things to do in Seychelles. The city's colourful mix of Creole townhouses, bustling market streets, French colonial architecture, and vibrant religious buildings, including both Hindu temples and a Catholic cathedral, reflects the extraordinary multicultural history of the islands.

Location: Northeast coast of Mahé Island.
Timings: Open to visitors at all times. Most shops and markets operate Monday–Saturday, 08:00–17:00.
Entry Fee: Free.

The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, located in the heart of Victoria, is the beating commercial and social heart of Seychelles. Built in 1840 and subsequently renovated, this covered market is the best place in the entire archipelago to immerse yourself in the colour, scent, and energy of daily Seychellois life. Stalls overflow with freshly caught fish – red snapper, kingfish, sailfish, and octopus alongside pyramids of tropical fruits such as jackfruit, soursop, golden apple, and carambola. Spice vendors sell bundles of cinnamon, vanilla pods, turmeric, and lemongrass, while craft sellers display jewellery made from Coco de Mer shells and locally carved wooden items.

Location: Market Street, Victoria, Mahé.
Timings: Monday–Friday: 07:00–17:30. Saturday: 06:00–14:00.
Entry Fee: Free.

Standing at the central roundabout of Victoria, the Clock Tower, locally known as 'Lorloz', is the most recognisable landmark in the Seychelles' capital and one of the most photographed spots in the country. The tower is a miniature replica of the Little Ben clock tower in Vauxhall, London, originally installed in 1903 to commemorate Seychelles becoming a crown colony. The surrounding roundabout, with its fountain and colourful plantings, serves as the symbolic heart of Victoria. The Clock Tower makes an ideal starting point for any walking tour of the capital.

Location: Francis Rachel Street roundabout, Victoria, Mahé.
Timings: Accessible at all times (outdoor monument).
Entry Fee: Free.

Established in 1901, the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens in Victoria is a wonderfully tranquil escape from the bustle of the capital and one of the finest botanical collections in the Indian Ocean. Spread across 15 acres, the gardens are home to an exceptional collection of endemic Seychelles palms, including the iconic Coco de Mer and the rare Lodoicea sechellarum, alongside orchid collections, medicinal plant beds, and towering trees draped in tropical epiphytes. The resident colony of giant Aldabra tortoises is an enormous draw for families, and fruit bat colonies can often be spotted roosting in the canopy overhead.

Location: Mont Fleuri, Victoria, Mahé.
Timings: Seven days a week, From 8 a.m. to 4.30 p.m.
Entry Fee: SCR 250 per adult.

One of the most rewarding and easily accessible of all Seychelles things to do on Mahé requires nothing more than a car, a sense of adventure, and a free morning or afternoon. The Sans Souci Road (officially called the Sans Souci Forest Road) winds through the heart of the Morne Seychellois National Park, climbing from Victoria up into the mist-wreathed highland interior of the island before descending to the west coast at Port Glaud. The drive offers spectacular panoramic views on both sides of the mountain ridge, glimpses into dense palm forests, and access to several trailheads, the tea factory, and the Mission Lodge Lookout. Roadside fruit stalls selling fresh coconuts, mangoes, and breadfruit add to the experience.

Location: Connecting Victoria (east) to Port Glaud (west), through Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahé.
Timings: Accessible at all times. Best driven in the morning for clear views.
Entry Fee: Free. Car hire on Mahé typically costs SCR 500 – SCR 900 per day.

Covering approximately 20% of Mahé's total land area, the Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest protected area in the Seychelles and the setting for some of the finest jungle hiking in the entire Indian Ocean region. The park's trails range from short, gentle forest walks to full-day summit climbs, with the most popular being the ascent of Morne Seychellois itself at 905 metres, the highest peak in the country. Other excellent trails include the Copolia Trail (a manageable 1.4km route through mist forest to a granite plateau with stunning island views), the Trois Frères Trail, and the Salazie Trail, which passes through rare pandan forest.

Location: Morne Seychellois National Park, central Mahé. Trailheads are accessible from the Sans Souci Road.
Timings: Seven days a week, From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Entry Fee: SCR 250

Perched high in the mountains above Victoria along the Sans Souci Road, the Mission Lodge Ruins and Lookout Point are one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the entire Seychelles archipelago. The ruins are those of a school established in the 19th century to educate freed slaves, lending this beautiful spot an important layer of historical significance. The wooden viewing platform at the lookout offers jaw-dropping panoramic views across the northern coast of Mahé, encompassing the capital Victoria, the outlying islands of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, and on clear days, the distant silhouette of Praslin on the horizon. The sunset here is particularly spectacular.

Location: Mission Lodge, Sans Souci Road, Mahé. Approximately 10 km from Victoria by car.
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm.
Entry Fee: SRC 100 for non-residence.

Seychelles is home to one of the rarest tea plantations on earth, the Tea Tavern, on Mahé's central highlands. The old plantation and factory sits at around 300 metres above sea level within the national park, surrounded by rows of tea bushes that create an almost surreal landscape in this tropical island setting. The facility once processed tea commercially, and some small-scale production continues, while the site now serves primarily as a scenic café and viewpoint. Visitors can enjoy a cup of locally grown tea while taking in sweeping views over the forest canopy and the ocean beyond, making it one of the more unexpected and charming Seychelles things to do on the island.

Location: Tea Tavern / Tea Factory, Sans Souci Road, Mahé.
Timings: Monday–Saturday: 09:00–16:30.
Entry Fee: Free to visit. Tea and refreshments: approximately SCR 80 – SCR 200.

Beau Vallon Beach, stretching for over two kilometres along the northwest coast of Mahé, is the most popular and most accessible beach on the island and among the finest beaches in the entire Indian Ocean. Protected by a gentle headland from strong currents, the beach offers safe swimming for all ages in warm, clear waters. The wide sandy shore is backed by a line of takamaka trees providing natural shade, and a lively strip of restaurants, snack bars, water sports operators, and souvenir vendors line the beach road. Beau Vallon is also where many catamaran and boat excursion operators are based, and its Wednesday evening market is one of the best outdoor dining experiences in the Seychelles.

Location: Northwest coast of Mahé, approximately 10 km from Victoria.
Timings: Beach accessible at all times. Water sports operators: approximately 08:00–17:00 daily.
Entry Fee: Free.

For travellers willing to venture beyond the more well-trodden paths, Anse Intendance and Anse Takamaka on the southwest coast of Mahé offer a wilder, more dramatic beach experience. Anse Intendance is a sweeping horseshoe bay backed by lush vegetation, where powerful waves strongest between May and September, make it a favourite with surfers, while the sheltered southern end remains swimmable year-round. Anse Takamaka, a short drive further along the coast, is a narrow bay sheltered between massive granite boulders with a calm inner lagoon ideal for snorkelling. Both beaches see far fewer visitors than Beau Vallon, making them ideal retreats for those seeking peace and untouched natural beauty.

Location: Southwest coast of Mahé. Approximately 28–35 km from Victoria by car.
Timings: Accessible at all times.
Entry Fee: Free.

Beau Vallon is not only Mahé's finest beach; it is also the island's most vibrant hub for evening entertainment and dining. The beach road comes alive after dark with a string of restaurants, beach bars, and live music venues that showcase the warmth and energy of Seychellois hospitality. The weekly Wednesday Beau Vallon Night Market is an absolute highlight: local vendors set up stalls along the beach serving freshly grilled fish, octopus curry, satays, Creole rice dishes, and an array of tropical cocktails and fresh juices, with the sound of sega music, the traditional music of the Indian Ocean Creole culture, drifting across the warm night air.

Location: Beau Vallon Beach Road, northwest Mahé.
Timings: Night Market: every Wednesday from approximately 17:30–22:30. Restaurants and bars: generally 18:00–23:30.
Entry Fee: Free entry. Food and drinks: approximately SCR 150 – SCR 800 per person.

Already highlighted as one of the best things to do in the Seychelles, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve deserves special mention as the undisputed crown jewel of Praslin. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient palm forest, still largely unchanged from prehistoric times, offers one of the world's most extraordinary nature walks. The reserve's network of well-marked trails winds through towering groves of Coco de Mer palms, their massive double-lobed nuts the stuff of legend, alongside endemic species found nowhere else on earth. The Seychelles Black Parrot, of which fewer than 1,000 remain, is best spotted in the reserve's quieter early morning hours.

Location: Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles
Timings: Daily, 08:30–16:30.
Entry Fee: SCR 450 adults

The Coco de Mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica) is one of the most extraordinary plants on earth and Praslin is one of only two places in the world where it grows wild. The tree bears the world's largest and heaviest seed, which can weigh up to 25 kilograms and measure over 50 centimetres in diameter. The Coco de Mer nut takes between six and seven years to fully develop, and the tree itself can live for up to 1,000 years. Licensed Coco de Mer nuts are available for purchase through registered government channels and make an utterly unique Seychelles souvenir. Prices for certified nuts start from approximately SCR 2,500 depending on size.

Location: Vallée de Mai and Fond Ferdinand, Praslin.
Timings: 8:30 am to 16:30 pm (Vallee de Mai reserve timings)
Entry Fee: Included in Vallée de Mai or Fond Ferdinand reserve entry fees which costs around SRC 450-SRC 500 per person.

Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin Island is the kind of place that makes time feel irrelevant. Framed by smooth granite boulders, swaying takamaka trees, and impossibly turquoise water, it consistently earns its reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The gentle waves and calm, shallow bay invite you to simply float, unwind, and let the warm Indian Ocean wash every worry away. Whether you're lounging on the powdery white sand with a good book, sipping fresh coconut water in the shade, or snorkelling along the rocky edges teeming with colourful fish, Anse Lazio offers pure, effortless bliss.

Location: North coast of Praslin.
Timings: Accessible at all times. Restaurants open approximately 10:00–17:00.
Entry Fee: Free.

Tucked away at the northwestern tip of Praslin, Anse Georgette is one of the most pristine and secluded beaches in the entire Seychelles archipelago. Access has historically been restricted to guests of the Lemuria Resort, but non-guests can now arrange access by reservation through the resort, which offers a complimentary shuttle to the beach. The effort of reaching Anse Georgette is amply rewarded: a sweeping arc of white sand, crystal-clear water, and a backdrop of dense tropical vegetation combine to create a scene of extraordinary natural beauty. The beach is rarely crowded, lending it an atmosphere of genuine seclusion.

Location: Northwest tip of Praslin.
Timings: Access by reservation through Lemuria Resort.
Entry Fee: Free for access; contact Lemuria Resort to arrange a permit.

A less-visited but equally rewarding alternative to the Vallée de Mai, the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve on the eastern slopes of Praslin is a spectacular granite hill reserve offering some of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the entire Seychelles. The reserve is home to the second-largest wild population of Coco de Mer palms on the island, along with populations of the rare Seychelles Black Parrot. The main trail to the summit takes approximately two hours and passes through diverse forest ecosystems before emerging onto open granite plateaus with sweeping views across the turquoise sea towards La Digue and Curieuse Island.

Location: Eastern Praslin.
Timings: Daily, 08:00–16:00. Guided walks recommended and available through the Praslin Tourism Office.
Entry Fee: Approximately SCR 270 adults. (Check current rates at the reserve entrance.)

Praslin and the surrounding islands were once important centres of spice production, and several small plantations and gardens across the island still cultivate cinnamon, vanilla, pepper, lemongrass, and an extraordinary range of exotic tropical fruits, including breadfruit, jackfruit, soursop, carambola, and the mangosteen. Visiting a working spice garden offers a deeply sensory and educational experience learning how vanilla orchids are hand-pollinated, how cinnamon bark is stripped and dried, and how the varied ingredients of Creole cooking are grown and harvested. Several gardens around Grand Anse and Baie Ste Anne welcome visitors informally; guided tours can be arranged through local operators.

Location: Various locations across Praslin. Grand Anse and Baie Ste Anne areas.
Timings: Variable; guided visits typically are 09:00–15:00 by arrangement.
Price: Approximately SCR 150 – SCR 400 for a guided plantation walk.

Away from the beaches and nature reserves, Praslin offers a quietly rewarding opportunity to explore authentic Creole village life in communities such as Grand Anse, Baie Ste Anne, and Anse Volbert. Walking through these villages reveals traditional Creole architecture: wooden houses painted in soft pastels with decorative tin roofs alongside local churches, craft shops, and the easy conviviality of Seychellois street life. The local bakeries produce extraordinarily good bread and coconut pastries each morning, and the fish stalls in the village markets are stocked with the freshest catch imaginable. This gentler kind of cultural exploration is among the most underrated Seychelles things to do on the island.

Location: Grand Anse, Baie Ste Anne, Anse Volbert, Praslin.
Timings: Accessible at all times. Markets are busiest in the mornings.
Entry Fee: Free.

With a circumference of roughly 38 kilometres, Praslin is easily driven in a single leisurely day, and the coastal road that rings the island is one of the most scenic drives in the entire Seychelles. The road winds past deserted bays, fishing villages, dense coastal vegetation, and a succession of viewpoints where the turquoise sea and outlying islands create constantly spectacular compositions. The drive from Anse Volbert around the northern coast to Anse Lazio and then south via Anse Kerlan is particularly beautiful, offering views towards Curieuse Island and the distinctive silhouette of Cousin Island.

Location: Around the entire perimeter of Praslin Island.
Timings: Accessible at all times. Best in morning light.
Entry Fee: Free. Car hire: approximately SCR 600 – SCR 1,000 per day.

For birdwatchers, Praslin is one of the most important islands in the western Indian Ocean, providing critical habitat for several globally threatened endemic species found nowhere else on earth. The Seychelles Black Parrot, with fewer than 1,000 individuals remaining, is the flagship species, but the island's forests are also home to the Seychelles sunbird, Seychelles blue pigeon, Seychelles kestrel, and the charming Seychelles fody. The Vallée de Mai is the prime birdwatching location, though the forested trails of Fond Ferdinand and the coastal woodland around Anse Lazio also offer excellent opportunities. Dawn is the most productive time for bird activity.

Location: Vallée de Mai (primary), Fond Ferdinand, coastal woodland areas, Praslin.
Timings: 8:30 am to 16:30 pm (reserve timings)
Entry Fee: Included in Vallée de Mai entry fees which is SRC 450 per person

Serving as the primary gateway to La Digue, exploring the charming coastal village of La Passe is one of the most relaxing Seychelles activities to experience local island life. Stepping off the jetty brings you directly into a peaceful hub filled with traditional Creole architecture, small boutique shops, and open-air cafes facing the water. The harbour area is always alive with a mix of colourful local fishing boats, arriving ferries, and residents chatting on bicycles. Strolling or riding through the village streets offers an authentic glimpse into the island's unhurried daily rhythm, making it the perfect spot to slow down, enjoy a fresh coconut, and watch the ocean.

Location: Northwest coast of La Digue, surrounding the main jetty.
Timings: Accessible at all times; shops and cafes generally open from 08:00 to 18:00.
Entry Fee: Free.

La Digue's flat coastal roads and unhurried atmosphere make cycling the ideal and most authentically Seychellois way to explore the island. Bicycle hire is available from numerous outlets near the ferry jetty, with basic bikes available from approximately SCR 100 – SCR 150 per day. The main coastal road running from La Passe ferry terminal around the north and east of the island to Grand Anse passes through scenes of great natural beauty: coconut plantations, rock pools, traditional Creole homesteads, and spectacular ocean vistas. The southern and western tracks towards Petite Anse and Anse Cocos are rougher but deeply rewarding.

Location: La Digue Island all roads.
Timings: Accessible at all times.
Entry Fee: Bicycle hire: approximately SCR 100 – SCR 150 per day.

L'Union Estate is one of the finest examples of a traditional Seychellois plantation estate, and its grounds encompass a wealth of historical, cultural, and natural interest that makes it one of the most worthwhile attractions on La Digue. The estate was established in the 19th century as a coconut and vanilla plantation and still retains its colonial-era buildings, including a traditional Creole plantation house, a copra-drying facility, and a working ox-cart demonstration area. The estate also houses the giant tortoise enclosure and provides the access path to Anse Source d'Argent, making it the starting point for most visitors' La Digue experience.

Location: South of La Passe, La Digue.
Timings: Daily, 06:00–18:00.
Entry Fee: SCR 150 per adult (non-resident), including access to the beach.

Within L'Union Estate, a still-operational copra-processing facility provides a fascinating window into the traditional economic life of the Seychelles Islands. Copra, dried coconut meat from which coconut oil is extracted, was one of the cornerstones of the Seychellois economy for well over a century. Demonstrations of the traditional copra production process, including coconut husking, meat drying on wooden frames, and the old oil-pressing equipment, bring this aspect of island heritage vividly to life. For travellers interested in history, culture, and traditional craftsmanship, this is one of the most genuinely educational Seychelles activities available on La Digue.

Location: L'Union Estate, La Digue.
Timings: During estate opening hours: 06:00–18:00.
Entry Fee: Included in L'Union Estate entry (SCR 150).

One of the most popular stops within L'Union Estate is the giant tortoise enclosure, home to a small colony of Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely within a large fenced area beneath shading palms. Visitors are permitted to hand-feed and gently touch the tortoises, an experience of gentle wonder for children and adults alike. Watching these prehistoric-looking giants navigate their enclosure with ancient unhurried grace, their leathery necks stretching for proffered vegetation, is one of those experiences that feels genuinely outside of ordinary time. The tortoises at L'Union Estate are among the most accessible and personable in all of Seychelles.

Location: L'Union Estate, La Digue.
Timings: 06:00–18:00 daily.
Entry Fee: Included in L'Union Estate entry (SCR 150).

On the wilder east coast of La Digue, Grand Anse Beach is a dramatically beautiful stretch of coastline that contrasts sharply with the sheltered lagoons of Anse Source d'Argent. The beach is exposed to the open Indian Ocean and often experiences powerful surf and strong currents particularly during the northwest monsoon season from November to March, making it unsuitable for swimming on many days but absolutely spectacular for simply sitting and watching the force of nature in action. The beach is backed by dense vegetation and sees few visitors, lending it an atmosphere of primal, unspoiled magnificence.

Location: East coast of La Digue.
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm (timings may vary depending on the climate conditions)
Entry Fee: Free. Note: swimming conditions vary; check local conditions before entering the water.

For those willing to venture along the rough coastal track south of Grand Anse, Petite Anse and Anse Cocos are two of the most secluded and spectacular beaches on La Digue and among the most beautiful in the entire Seychelles. Petite Anse is a small, steep-sided bay with dramatic rocks and powerful surf, while Anse Cocos, reachable by continuing south along an unmarked path through coastal scrub, is a wider bay with calmer conditions and remarkable natural beauty. These beaches are essentially undeveloped, with no facilities, which is precisely what gives them their extraordinary appeal.

Location: South coast of La Digue. Accessible on foot or by bicycle from Grand Anse (approximately 30–45 minutes walk).
Timings: Accessible daylight hours only. Bring water and sun protection.
Entry Fee: Free.

At 333 metres, Nid d'Aigle (Eagle's Nest) is the highest point on La Digue, and the hike to its summit is rewarded with what many consider to be the single finest view in the entire Seychelles archipelago. From the rocky summit plateau, the entire island of La Digue spreads below its coconut groves, granite rock formations, and turquoise lagoons revealed in one breathtaking panorama, while the neighbouring islands of Praslin, Felicité, Marianne, and the distant mountains of Mahé appear across the gleaming sea. The trail begins near Belle Vue and takes approximately 45–60 minutes to ascend at a comfortable pace.

Location: Nid d'Aigle summit, La Digue. Trailhead near Belle Vue, accessible by bicycle from La Passe.
Timings: Accessible daylight hours. Best light for photography: early morning.
Entry Fee: Free.

La Digue offers perhaps the most authentic experience of traditional Seychellois Creole culture of any of the main islands, simply because modernisation has arrived here more slowly and less completely than elsewhere. The island's small villages retain their historic character, with traditional timber Creole houses, community churches, small family-run grocery stores, and the easy, friendly sociability of island life evident at every turn. Chatting with local fishermen repairing their nets at the jetty, watching an ox cart laden with coconuts trundle along a sandy track, or sitting on a veranda listening to the evening sounds of the village, these quiet, unmanufactured activities are among the most genuinely memorable experiences the islands offer.

Location: Throughout La Digue Island La Passe village, L'Union area, Belle Vue.
Timings: Accessible at all times.
Entry Fee: Free.

La Digue's extraordinary granite rock formations, the result of billions of years of geological history, glacial action, and oceanic erosion, are among the most visually dramatic natural features in the entire Indian Ocean. The rocks at Anse Source d'Argent are the most celebrated, but equally spectacular formations can be found at Anse Patates on the north coast, at the rocky headland of Pointe Source d'Argent, and along the eastern coast beaches. The pink-tinged granite takes on warm golden tones at sunrise and a deep rose blush at sunset, creating photographic opportunities of extraordinary beauty. Serious photographers will want to be at the beach well before sunrise and return at golden hour.

Location: Anse Source d'Argent (primary), Anse Patates, east coast beaches, La Digue.
Timings: Best light: sunrise (approximately 06:00–07:00) and golden hour before sunset (approximately 17:00–18:00).
Entry Fee: SCR 150 for Anse Source d'Argent (L'Union Estate). Other locations are free.

Snorkelling in the warm, clear waters of Seychelles is among the most accessible and rewarding of all activities, requiring minimal equipment and no prior experience. The Sainte Anne Marine National Park, Curieuse Marine National Park, and the reefs around Praslin's Anse Lazio and La Digue's Anse Source d'Argent offer exceptional snorkelling with visibility often exceeding 20 metres. Hawksbill turtles, eagle rays, moray eels, lionfish, and hundreds of species of reef fish inhabit these protected waters. Swimmers can explore vibrant coral gardens just off the shore, making this one of the easiest ways to experience the rich underwater biodiversity of the islands.

Location: Sainte Anne Marine National Park (Mahé), Curieuse Marine Park (Praslin), reef beaches on all main islands.
Timings: Best snorkelling conditions: April–May and October–November (calm-sea seasons).
Price: Snorkel hire: approximately SCR 150–SCR 300 per day. Guided snorkel tours: SCR 500 – SCR 1,200 per person.

Seychelles offers some of the finest scuba diving in the western Indian Ocean, with dive sites ranging from shallow reef gardens to deep granite sea mounts and underwater caves. The diversity of marine life is extraordinary: whale sharks (seasonally), hammerhead sharks, manta rays, barracuda schools, and huge populations of reef fish make every dive an adventure. Established dive centres operate on all three main islands, offering guided dives for all certification levels. Divers can explore dramatic underwater topography shaped by ancient volcanic activity, discovering hidden crevices filled with colorful macro life, resting sea turtles, and vibrant soft corals across the archipelago.

Location: Dive centres at Beau Vallon (Mahé), Anse Volbert (Praslin), and La Digue.
Timings: Dive trips typically 08:00 and 13:00 daily, weather permitting.
Price: Single guided dive: approximately SCR 1,500 – SCR 2,500. PADI Open Water course: approximately SCR 9,000 – SCR 14,000.

The deep waters surrounding the Seychelles are among the most productive sport fishing grounds in the entire Indian Ocean, home to massive populations of sailfish, marlin, yellowfin tuna, dogtooth tuna, wahoo, and giant trevally. Full-day and half-day deep-sea fishing charters depart from Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, with fully equipped boats, experienced skippers, and all tackle provided. Both catch-and-release and catch-to-keep options are available. Anglers can test their skills against powerful game fish while enjoying the open ocean views, with many charters offering the chance to have local restaurants prepare your fresh catch for dinner.

Location: Departures from Beau Vallon (Mahé) and Baie Ste Anne (Praslin) primarily.
Timings: Full day: 06:00–16:00. Half day: 06:00–11:00 or 12:00–17:00.
Price: Half day: approximately SCR 4,500 – SCR 7,000 per boat (up to 4 guests). Full day: SCR 8,000 – SCR 14,000 per boat.

Sea kayaking offers one of the most peaceful and intimate ways to explore the coastal landscapes of Seychelles, allowing paddlers to navigate mangrove channels, explore sea caves within the granite formations, and access beaches inaccessible by land. Single and double kayaks are available for hire on all main islands, with guided kayak tours taking in the mangroves of Curieuse Island or the sea caves of Mahé's southern coast offering particularly memorable Seychelles activities. Paddling at your own pace provides opportunities to spot coastal birds nesting in the trees and small rays gliding through the shallow, translucent waters near the shore.

Location: Available at Beau Vallon (Mahé), Anse Volbert (Praslin), and La Passe (La Digue).
Timings: Hire typically available 08:00–17:00.
Price: Kayak hire: approximately SCR 300 – SCR 600 per hour. Guided tours: SCR 800 – SCR 1,500 per person.

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) has become one of the most popular activities in recent years, and the calm lagoons and protected bays of Seychelles provide ideal conditions for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Early morning sessions on the glassy waters of Beau Vallon or Anse Volbert, with the granite mountains of the islands reflected in the still sea, is particularly beautiful. Most water sports operators offer board hire and beginner lessons. This low-impact activity offers a fantastic full-body workout while allowing you to gaze directly down into the reef flats to spot colorful fish swimming just beneath your feet.

Location: Beau Vallon (Mahé), Anse Volbert (Praslin), La Passe (La Digue).
Timings: Available 08:00–17:00 daily.
Price: Board hire: approximately SCR 300 – SCR 500 per hour.

Beyond sunset cruises, Seychelles offers an exceptional range of full-day and multi-day catamaran sailing adventures connecting the main islands and their outlying neighbours. Day charters to Curieuse Island, the Cousin Island Special Reserve, Cocos Island Marine Park, and the outer island atoll of Aride offers extraordinary experiences that combine sailing, snorkelling, wildlife watching, and fresh Creole barbecue meals on remote beaches. Travelling by catamaran provides a smooth and stable ride across the open ocean waves, giving passengers plenty of space to sunbathe on the front nets while looking out for dolphins swimming alongside the vessel during the journey.

Location: Departures from Beau Vallon (Mahé) and Baie Ste Anne (Praslin).
Timings: Day charters: typically 08:00–17:00.
Price: Day charter: approximately SCR 1,800 – SCR 3,500 per person, including meals and snorkelling equipment.

Seychelles is not a classic surf destination, but several spots on the outer coasts of Mahé and Praslin produce rideable waves during the southeast trade wind season (May to September). Anse Intendance and Police Bay on the south coast of Mahé are the most consistent breaks, attracting local surfers when swell is running. Board hire and beginner lessons are available through select operators on Mahé. Surfers can enjoy uncrowded lineups and beautiful tropical backdrops, though strong undercurrents mean these spots are best suited for those with some experience who understand how to handle powerful, breaking beach waves safely.

Location: Anse Intendance and Police Bay, south Mahé. Season: May–September.
Price: Board hire: approximately SCR 400 – SCR 700 per day.

The consistent trade winds of the southeast season make Seychelles an excellent destination for windsurfing, with Beau Vallon and Anse Volbert offering the most reliable conditions and equipment hire. If you are putting together a list of things to do in Seychelles, beginner and intermediate lessons for windsurfing are easily available through water sports operators at both locations. The northwest monsoon season (November–March) brings lighter, more variable winds more suited to beginners. Gliding across the turquoise bays with the wind in your sail provides a thrilling mix of speed and scenery, making it a favorite choice for active beachgoers visiting the islands.

Location: Beau Vallon (Mahé), Anse Volbert (Praslin).
Price: Equipment hire: approximately SCR 600 – SCR 900 per hour. Lessons: SCR 1,200 – SCR 1,800 per session.

Kitesurfing is a growing sport in Seychelles, with the trade wind conditions of the SE season providing powerful and consistent winds for experienced kitesurfers. Anse Gouvernement on Praslin and certain exposed bays on the east coast of Mahé are the most popular spots. Beginners should note that kitesurfing instruction facilities are limited in Seychelles; those new to the sport may prefer to learn in calmer conditions elsewhere before bringing their skills here. Riders who bring their own gear will find wide-open coastal spaces and ideal thermal breezes, allowing for incredible sessions over the shallow, reef-protected waters.

Location: Anse Gouvernement (Praslin), east coast bays (Mahé).
Price: Introductory lessons (where available): approximately SCR 3,000 – SCR 5,000 for a beginner course.

For those seeking a fast-paced adrenaline rush on the water, jet ski hire is available at Beau Vallon Beach on Mahé. Guided tours take riders along the coastline past the granite boulders and coves of the northern shore, offering high-speed thrills combined with spectacular scenery. Minimum age requirements apply, and life jackets are mandatory. Speeding across the gentle ocean swells gives you a unique viewpoint of the forested hills rising directly from the shoreline, making this a popular option for visitors who want to add an exciting, high-energy excursion to an otherwise relaxed and peaceful day at the beach.

Location: Beau Vallon Beach, Mahé.
Timings: Available approximately 09:00–17:00.
Price: Approximately SCR 800 – SCR 1,200 per 30 minutes.

Parasailing over the turquoise bays of the Seychelles offers a perspective on the islands that is available no other way: rising silently above the water on a colourful parachute, the extraordinary colour gradations of the Seychellois sea are visible in every direction, and the granite mountains of Mahé rise dramatically behind. Parasailing operations are based at Beau Vallon Beach on Mahé. The gentle liftoff from the boat deck leads to a peaceful flight high above the coastline, where you can easily spot coral formations and large marine life moving through the clear shallows far below your feet.

Location: Beau Vallon Beach, Mahé.
Timings: Available 09:00–17:00, weather permitting.
Price: Approximately SCR 900 – SCR 1,400 per flight (approximately 10–15 minutes airborne).

Glass-bottom boat excursions are among the most family-friendly activities, allowing children and non-swimmers to experience the extraordinary richness of the Seychellois underwater world without getting wet. Multiple operators offer tours over the reefs of Sainte Anne Marine National Park and around the granite sea gardens near Beau Vallon, providing clear views of coral formations, reef fish, and on lucky days, sea turtles and rays. These trips often include a stop for fish feeding from the deck, giving passengers a closer look at the marine environment while the friendly local crew shares helpful details about the current ocean conservation initiatives.

Location: Departures from Beau Vallon and Victoria Jetty, Mahé.
Timings: Multiple departures daily: approximately 09:00, 11:00, 14:00.
Price: Approximately SCR 500 – SCR 900 per adult; SCR 250 – SCR 450 per child.

For an adrenaline-fuelled perspective on the Seychellois jungle, the zipline course at Constance Ephelia Resort on the northwest coast of Mahé offers a thrilling canopy-level experience above the forest. Cables run between elevated wooden platforms set high in the trees, with views over the treetops to the ocean below. The experience is open to both resort guests and outside visitors, making it one of the more accessible land-based adventure activities on Mahé. Fully trained instructors carefully manage the high-quality safety harnesses, providing a safe yet exciting glide through the dense tropical canopy that appeals directly to thrill-seeking outdoor enthusiasts.

Location: Constance Ephelia Resort, Port Launay, northwest Mahé.
Timings: Sessions by appointment; approximately 09:00–15:00.
Price: Approximately SCR 1,200 – SCR 1,800 per person for the full course. Contact the resort directly for current pricing.