Visiting these pristine, isolated, white sand beaches comes with a heavy price tag. Seychelles is arguably one of most expensive travel destinations in the world, catering primarily to honeymooners, celebrities, and well-to-do families. You can find budget friendly accommodations, but expect to spend some serious money on restaurants and activities!
About Mahé:
Many of the Seychelles islands are uninhabited and tourists are usually drawn to three of the most well-known ones: Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Of those, Mahé is the largest and home to over 80% of the country’s population. Throughout history, Africans, Europeans, and Asians settled there, creating a lovely melting pot of cultures. The island is only 4 miles wide and 16 miles long, allowing visitors the opportunity to explore its entirety in just a few days.
Currency: Seychelles Rupee (SCR)
Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the island, but it’s definitely smart to carry a small amount of cash. There are plenty of ATMs scattered around the island.
Best Time to Visit:
In general, there is no wrong time to visit Seychelles; you can expect warm weather year-round. The average temperature is around 80°F with relatively consistent tropical afternoon showers. December through March are the rainiest months and attract smaller crowds. However, May through August is peak season when you can expect an influx of tourists and rising airfare and accommodation prices.
Traveling to Praslin or La Digue
Two ways to further explore Seychelles are by air and sea. Air Seychelles offers 30-minute flights between the islands of Mahé and Praslin. A more affordable option for those who don’t get sea-sick, is the the high-speed ferry from Mahe’s Victoria port to Praslin or La Digue.
Getting Around:
If your ideal vacation in the Seychelles is to plop down on a beach chair with an alcoholic beverage in hand and eat at the resort restaurants, then there is absolutely no need for a car. But if you’re the more adventurous type seeking to explore different beaches, eat at traditional restaurants, and visit the island’s national park, then I highly suggest putting your money towards a rental car. For the exact same price as our 25 minute (one-way!) taxi ride from the airport to our hotel, we were able to rent a car for $50 USD per day.
TRAVEL TIP: Roads in Seychelles are opposite of the United States, which can take some getting used to, unless you’re from the UK. The roads are sometimes tricky – although paved, they can be steep and narrow so follow the speed limit!
Where To Stay:
We chose to stay at Bliss Hotel, located on the northern shores of Mahé. This hotel is a step-up from the average beachside property, but retains a welcoming and unpretentious environment. It contains a private beach, spa, and restaurant with amazing sunset views.
Other beautiful hotel options include:
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa – STORY Seychelles – Kempinski Seychelles Resort
Top Attractions:
1. Visit Victoria
The colorful capital city of Victoria is so small you can easily dedicate one afternoon away from the beach and see it all. The city’s focal point is the Victoria clock tower, erected in memory of Queen Victoria during the colonial era. In this same downtown area, you’ll find dozens of businesses and restaurants. Stop by Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, named after a former English governor, to see where fisherman and farmers sell their daily products. You’ll also find local crafts, spices, and souvenirs.
2. Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
Located on the outskirts of Victoria, these gardens planted over 100 years ago showcase the endemic and exotic Seychellois wildlife. One of the main attractions is the iconic coco der mer palm, which grows the biggest nut in the world. The coco der mer naturally grows in Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin and was planted at the Botanical Garden back in 1956. The Botanical Garden admission fee costs 100 SCR and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Other highlights in the Gardens include feeding Aldabra giant tortoises, seeing the different fruits trees and spices, and relaxing in the Guangzhou Chinese Garden.
3. Takamaka Rum Distillery
If you plan on traveling to the south end of the island, be sure to stop by and learn about the only rum produced on the island, TAKAMAKA; made with locally grow sugar cane. Tours are relatively inexpensive and run twice daily.
4. Petite Anse at The Four Seasons
Petite Anse is a public beach located on the property of the Four Seasons Resort. All non-hotel visitors will have to check-in with an attendant at the main gate for access to the beach. After checking in, you’ll walk 10-15 minutes, mostly downhill, to one of the most gorgeous, jaw-dropping beaches I’ve ever seen. Unfortunately, the hotel only allows hotel guests to use their beach chairs, bar and restaurant. Throw a towel down and swim and snorkel in the crystal blue water.
5. Morne Seychellois National Park
Morne Seychellois National Park makes up 20% of the island. It’s comprised of a lush green rainforest, steep mountains, and breathtaking coastline views. The most popular trail amongst tourists is the Copolia Trail, which costs 100 SCR. It’s a 1.2 mile out-and-back trail with a moderately challenging uphill climb. The hike takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, and ends in a gorgeous panoramic view.
6. Dine at Marie Antionette
Due to its location, Seychelles has significant African, European, Indian, and Asian influence. The island’s authentic food is creole. A typical staple meal includes fish or meat cooked with curry spices and served over rice. Dine at Marie Antionette to experience one of the oldest and most famous restaurants on the island. It offers a fixed menu served buffet style where you can sample eggplant fritters, batter-fried parrot fish, tuna steak, fish stew with vegetables, chicken curry and rice, golden apple chutney, tuna steak, grilled fish and salad.
7. Explore the Beaches
Renting a car will give you access to all the gorgeous beaches all over the island! Here are some of the best beaches you will find:
- Beau Vallon: popular, well-developed area with bars, restaurants and hotels.
- Grande Anse
- Petite Anse: *a must-do while in Mahe
- Anse Royale
- Police Bay: secluded, white sand beaches; rougher current
I hope this guide gives you some helpful information for planning your trip to Mahé! It’s hard not to love this captivating, picturesque place.
