Joanna James
Offering sweeping beaches fringed by protected forests, the archipelago of Seychelles is truly a beach destination unlike any other. In addition to enjoying snorkelling, scuba diving, surfing, hiking to mountain tops, meeting giant tortoises, and enjoying gourmet picnics on private beaches – things to do in this world-class destination are countless. Here are some must-do activities to work into your Seychelles travel itinerary.
Do you love good food that bursts with exotic flavours? Then you will be delighted to know that the mish-mash that is Creole cuisine is made up of many lively flavours that hark back to many European and West African cultures and influences. Consider joining a cooking class not only to learn how to make mouthwatering Seychellois dishes but also to gain insight into everyday life on the island. The class will include a tour of Victoria’s morning market to select fresh produce such as cinnamon, sweet potatoes, coconut, and cassava. Then a final stop at the seafood market to select the catch of the day and back to cooking class (usually at the home of a local family) to learn local recipes followed by a fun taste tasting.
Founded by brothers Richard and Bernard d’Offay 20 years ago, the Takamaka Rum Distillery today is a firm part of the archipelago's identity. The distillery is housed on a scenic 18th-century estate and is renowned for producing some of the best coconut rum infused with fragrant fruit extracts and local spices. Consider visiting during the weekend to enjoy a tour of the distillery and estate gardens followed by a tasting.
If you love nature and wildlife, then planning a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée De Mai Reserve is an absolute must, especially as it's among the best things to do in Praslin. Located within the lush confines of the Praslin National Park, this reserve happens to be the only place in the world to take in the country’s endemic coco de mer palm trees in a natural state. Apart from learning about these fascinating palm trees, you will also get to observe and learn about other flora and fauna endemic to the island of Praslin. Most resorts such as the likes of Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas will be happy to arrange for a tour upon the request of their guests.
Featuring shapely granite boulders delightfully fringed by gently swaying palms, the powdery white sand and the gin-clear shallows of Anse Source d’Argent are great for enjoying long lazy sessions of sunbathing, top not snorkelling and possibly even a gourmet beach picnic. This particular beach is best visited either early or late in the day!
A biodiversity hot spot, Aldabra is a remote UNESCO-listed atoll that is home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the world! Other notable species unique to this four-island atoll include the Aldabra drongo, frigatebirds and red-footed boobies.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
