Seychelles is one of the world's most iconic destinations — an archipelago of 115 islands scattered over 1.4 million km² in the Indian Ocean, 100,000 inhabitants concentrated on 3 main islands (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue). Independent since 1976, Creole, 50% of territory in protected areas. Beaches among the world's most beautiful — Anse Source d'Argent at La Digue (regularly ranked #1 worldwide), Anse Lazio at Praslin, Beau Vallon at Mahé. Feature: granitic islands (ancient Gondwana fragments, 200 million years ago) display their characteristic rock formations on fine white sand and turquoise water. The Vallée de Mai (UNESCO 1983) houses the coco de mer, the world's largest seed. Aldabra Atoll (UNESCO 1982) has the world's largest population of giant tortoises. 7-10 days to discover the 3 main islands in luxury.
Duration : 10 days
Route : Mahé (3 nights, Beau Vallon or south coast) → Praslin ferry (3 nights, Vallée de Mai + Anse Lazio) → La Digue ferry (3 nights, Anse Source d'Argent) → return Mahé (1 night) → return flight
Duration : 10 days
Route : Mahé Four Seasons (3 nights) → North Island Wilderness private flight (5 nights, exclusive 11-villa private island) → Mahé (1 night) → return flight
Duration : 12 days
Route : Mahé (1 night) → 9-day yacht or catamaran cruise (UNESCO Aldabra, Cosmoledo, Astove, Assumption) → Mahé (1 night) → return flight
April-May and October-November are the best periods (inter-seasons, perfect 26-30 °C climate, calm sea, optimal diving visibility). May-October: southeast trade winds (constant wind, agitated east coast sea, ideal kitesurfing in Mahé). December-March: northwest trade winds, more humid, sometimes agitated west coast sea. No truly bad season (equatorial tropical climate at 4° south).
One of the world's safest countries (almost zero crime). No visa for French citizens (visit up to 3 months). Cards accepted everywhere (Visa, Mastercard). Tap water drinkable. English and French omnipresent (Creole is used between Seychellois, but they understand and speak French to Europeans). Tipping: 10% appreciated in restaurants, but not customary (service included). Marine turtles strictly protected (forbidden to buy scales, crafted shells). Corals protected (forbidden to touch, collect).
April-May and October-November (inter-seasons, perfect climate). No truly bad season.
10 days for 3 main islands (Mahé + Praslin + La Digue). 12 days with private island extension.
€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.
No for French citizens (visit up to 3 months renewable).
Yes, from age 6. Calm beaches (coral reefs protect), giant tortoises to observe, fun La Digue cycling.
Inter-island ferries (Cat Cocos Mahé-Praslin 1 h). Car in Mahé. Bicycle in La Digue. Air Seychelles domestic flights.
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.
YES, essential. Island has almost no cars. 100-SCR/day rental at port. Flat, easy island.
Yes: Seychelles + Mauritius (1 h 30 flight), Seychelles + Madagascar, Seychelles + Maldives, Seychelles + Reunion.
10% in restaurants appreciated but not customary (service included).