115 islands, one archipelago

Seychelles Travel Guide, island by island

Independent guides to Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and the outer islands. Where to stay, what to do, when to go, written for travellers, not brochures.

Choose your island

The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, and most trips combine two or three of them. Mahé is the main island with the airport and the best hiking, Praslin has the famous beaches and the Vallée de Mai, and car-free La Digue is the slow one. The best months to visit are April to May and October to November, when the seas are calm.

Things to do

Diving & snorkelling

Granite reefs, whale sharks in season, and easy shore snorkelling for beginners.

Island-hopping

Ferries, charters and 15-minute flights. How to link the islands without stress.

Beaches

Our shortlist of the 12 best, with the honest word on currents and seasons.

Hiking & nature

Morne Blanc, Anse Major trail, giant tortoises and the Vallée de Mai.

Health & safety

Paradise, with a plan B

The Seychelles is safe and welcoming — but it’s also 1,600 km from the nearest mainland hospital. Two local services cover you while you’re here.

Trip Cover from €4.95 a day

A pay-per-day medical membership for visitors. Doctor visits to your hotel, hospital treatment, ICU cover and emergency rescue transport, all arranged and paid directly, with nothing to claim back. It is not insurance; it works alongside your travel policy.
See Trip Cover plans on Seychelles Medical Services

Need a doctor while you're here?

Seychelles Medical Services sends a doctor and nurse to your hotel, villa or boat, usually within the hour, on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Video consultations for the outer islands.

Book a doctor on doctor247.sc

Plan your trip

When to go

April–May and October–November bring calm seas and the best visibility. June–September is breezier and great value.

Getting around

Cat Cocos ferries link the big three. Hire cars on Mahé and Praslin; bicycles rule La Digue.

Good to know

No visa needed for most nationalities. Euros widely accepted. Tap water is safe on the main islands.

FAQs

Which Seychelles island is the best to visit?

Most first-timers split a week between Mahé and Praslin, adding a night or two on La Digue. Mahé suits hikers and families, Praslin has the headline beaches, and La Digue is the car-free slow-down. The outer islands are for divers, anglers and honeymooners.

When is the best time to visit the Seychelles?

April to May and October to November, between the trade winds, when seas are calm and visibility is best. June to September is windier and better value; December to March is hotter and more humid.

How many days do you need in the Seychelles?

Seven to ten days covers the three main islands without rushing. A week splits well as three nights on Mahé, three on Praslin and one or two on La Digue.

Is the Seychelles safe for tourists?

Yes, it is among the safest destinations in the Indian Ocean, with no malaria and low crime. The main risks are sun and ocean currents, which vary by beach and season.

Do I need travel insurance for the Seychelles?

Travel insurance is recommended for every trip. Many visitors also add Trip Cover, a pay-per-day medical membership from €4.95 a day through Doctor247, which arranges and pays for doctor visits, hospital treatment and emergency rescue transport directly, with nothing to claim.