Joanna James
Seychelles is more than just sun-soaked beaches and stunning turquoise lagoons! It’s also a place where adventure, history, and culture come together to create truly unforgettable experiences for its visitors. From underwater wonders to soaring high above the islands, here are five unique ways to explore this delightful tropical paradise that is a true treat for the senses.
Just a 20-minute boat ride from Mahé, the Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a dream for underwater explorers and marine enthusiasts. Visitors will find that snorkelling here feels like stepping into and swimming in a giant aquarium! Crystal-clear waters reveal coral reefs that are home to parrotfish, butterflyfish, sea turtles and other denizens of the deep.
The park also features six small islands, and while the shallow lagoons offer easy access for beginners, more experienced snorkellers can head deeper to spot stingrays and reef sharks. Visitors will want to pack a waterproof camera to capture everything beneath the waves.
For those who love history and learning about a country that they are setting foot in, a visit to such a museum is a must. The Seychelles National Museum in Victoria, Mahé, is housed inside a modest building, and its exhibits show how the islands were shaped by colonisation, trade, and culture.
The numerous exhibits range from pirate relics to intricate Creole crafts, giving visitors a glimpse of daily life through the centuries. One particular highlight is the collection of old maps, which chart the Seychelles’ importance on Indian Ocean trade routes. Another fascinating corner covers the islands’ natural history, while the botanical displays showcase how unique this ecosystem truly is. For travellers planning a holiday and looking for resorts in Seychelles, from which they can also visit this museum, options include the Mahé property of Avani Hotels & Resorts.
At over 3,000 hectares, Morne Seychellois National Park covers nearly one-fifth of Mahé, making it the largest and most diverse green space in Seychelles. A must for hiking enthusiasts, visitors will find dense jungle trails leading them through cinnamon trees, endemic palms, and plenty of flora and fauna, in addition to sighting some wildlife as well.
For an easier adventure, the Copolia Trail offers sweeping views of Victoria and the stunning ocean below after just a couple of hours of hiking. For seasoned trekkers, the climb to the summit of Morne Seychellois offers lush forest trails and a chance to experience Seychelles beyond just its beaches.
While Seychelles is absolutely stunning from the ground, nothing compares to the view from above. A helicopter tour around Mahé offers visitors a breathtaking perspective of its mountains and the sea that surrounds it. Flights often circle over iconic spots such as Beau Vallon Beach and the rugged interior of Morne Seychellois. Some tours may even extend to Praslin and La Digue, giving you a bird’s-eye view of Anse Lazio’s famous curve of sand or the shores of Anse Source d’Argent. While this helicopter tour may leave a dent in the wallet, it is a truly magical experience that cannot be missed!
Located in the capital, Victoria, the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, also known as Victoria Cathedral, is one of the Seychelles’ most striking landmarks. Constructed in 1874, it’s both a place of worship and a piece of history, standing as one of the oldest colonial-era buildings still in use today. The cathedral’s pale façade, arched windows, and calming interior offer a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of Victoria’s streets outside. Visitors can step inside to admire its simple yet elegant design or sit quietly to offer some prayers.
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.
