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Basic information

  • Area: 451 km² (174 sq mi)
  • Calling Code: +248
  • Currency: Seychellois rupee (SCR)
  • Population (EST): 84,000
  • Official language: French, English, Creole
  • Time Zone: SCT (UTC+4)

Seychelles – Overview

Seychelles comprises of an archipelgo of 115 granite and coral islands that lie scattered across the shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar.

The majority of the islands remain uninhabited, with most of the Seychellios population living on the main islands of Mahé, Praslin or La Digue. With their seductive blend of powdery white sands, azure seas and swaying coconut palms, it is no surprise that Seychelles has become a hot spot for honeymooners. Beyond beautiful beaches, each island offers it’s own unique treasures, whether they be found exploring the vibrant capital of Victoria, walking with giant tortoises in Aldabra, watching flocks of nesting birds on Bird Island, or diving the reefs off Praslin.

Seychelles is also known for its sensational sea food which is caught fresh from the ocean and basted in a mouth watering fusion of Creole spices. Food lovers shouldn’t miss sampling rich coconut curries, cooked with tender octopus or Tec Tec, a tasty pumpkin and shell fish soup. Bread fruit is another delicacy to be savoured. Boiled, barbequed or deep fried, once eaten by a traveller it is believed by locals to ensure your return to the islands.

Accommodation in the Seychelles has diversified in recent years offering visitors a superb selection of places to stay. Choices range from large hotels, spas and luxury resorts to self catering chalets and simple family run guesthouses. If money is no object, then one of Seychelles most exquisite hideaways lies on the private Island of Cousine. Part nature reserve and part 5 Star eco lodge, this enchanting island provides guests their very own slice of paradise at one of its four elegant colonial style villas. Alternatively visitors can cast themselves further afield to the shores of Bird Island, a magnificent conservation area that is a sanctuary to native birds, turtles and tortoises. The island’s lodge features a charming collection of beach side bungalows, simple yet stylish, all solar powered and without the distractions of modern technology.

The Seychelles islands are blessed with an all year round warm, tropical climate. Temperatures hover between 24°C and 32°C with high humidity and opposing trade winds that dictate the weather pattern. Although there is no distinct dry season, during the months of May to September, south east trade winds bring cool and drier weather, though choppier seas. In November the winds start to change and bring rains that get steadily heavier between December and March. Seychelles is very wet in the monsoon season, but still enjoyable as a mixture of heavy showers and hot sunshine transform the islands lush vegetation.

Seychelles main islands all have the modern conveniences needed for easy trip, including numerous ATM machines, car rental companies and tourist information offices. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport on arrival or in bank branches. Be aware that by law, visitors must pay for all accommodation, food and drinks at hotels, car hire, entrance fees etc in a major foreign currency, so ensure that you bring plenty with you. The local currency used is the Seychelles Rupee.