Custom travel to Seychelles

Seychelles is one of the world's most iconic destinations — archipelago of 115 islands scattered over 1.4 million km² in the Indian Ocean (1,600 km east of Mombasa, Kenya), 100,000 inhabitants concentrated on 3 main islands. Independence 1976 (former British colony, French 1756-1814 before). 50% of territory in protected areas (one of the world's highest rates). Beaches among the world's most beautiful — Anse Source d'Argent at La Digue (regularly ranked #1 worldwide by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Condé Nast), Anse Lazio at Praslin, Beau Vallon at Mahé. Unique feature: granitic islands (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, ancient fragments of Gondwana supercontinent 200 million years ago) display characteristic rock formations (large pink-orange granite blocks polished by time) on fine white sand beaches surrounded by turquoise water. Vallée de Mai (UNESCO 1983, in Praslin) — sanctuary of coco de mer (Lodoicea maldivica, world's largest seed in plant kingdom, 25 kg, endemic to Seychelles, fruit shape evoking female pelvis). Aldabra (UNESCO 1982, distant atoll in southwest, one of the world's largest coral atolls, 100,000 giant tortoises — world's largest population, accessible only by 8-10-day cruise). Bird Island (bird island, 700,000 terns in season). 7-10 days to discover the 3 main islands in luxury — one of the world's most exclusive beach destinations.

Highlights

  • Anse Source d'Argent (La Digue, world top)
  • Vallée de Mai (UNESCO, coco de mer)
  • Anse Lazio in Praslin
  • Mahé: capital Victoria and beaches
  • Aldabra giant tortoises (UNESCO)
  • World-top diving and snorkeling

Frequently asked questions

When?

April-May and October-November (inter-seasons, perfect climate). No truly bad season.

How long?

10 days for 3 main islands (Mahé + Praslin + La Digue). 12 days with private island extension.

Budget?

€4,500-€6,500 per person for 10 days in comfort, excluding flights. Premium: €8,500-€12,000. Exclusive (private island): €18,000+. Flights: €800-€1,200.

Visa?

No for French citizens (visit up to 3 months renewable).

Family?

Yes, from age 6. Calm beaches (coral reefs protect), giant tortoises to observe, fun La Digue cycling.

How to get around?

Inter-island ferries (Cat Cocos Mahé-Praslin 1 h). Car in Mahé. Bicycle in La Digue. Air Seychelles domestic flights.

Coco de mer: can we buy it?

Yes, but with official CITES certificate on exit (protected species). Buy ONLY at Vallée de Mai or official shops. $200-$500/nut depending on size.

La Digue: need a bicycle?

YES, essential. Island has almost no cars. 100-SCR/day rental at port. Flat, easy island.

Combine?

Yes: Seychelles + Mauritius (1 h 30 flight), Seychelles + Madagascar, Seychelles + Maldives, Seychelles + Reunion.

Tips?

10% in restaurants appreciated but not customary (service included).