There are few places left that still speak to their ancient origins whilst offering an opportunity to rejoice in luxury. Seychelles is one of these remaining destinations, bursting with natural beauty and authentic charm.
SEYCHELLES
With towering islands jutting from sapphire waves, sweeping mountain landscapes bathed in lush emerald fronds, and granite boulders that look as if they’ve been heaved by long-forgotten giants, Seychelles is a destination that makes magic a liveable, tangible reality.
Comprised of 115 coral and granite islands, the archipelago is the definition of barefoot-island paradise, blanketed in natural beauty and allure.
Woven together with cultural threads from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean, Seychelles is one of the world’s most sought-after tropical holiday destinations, for understandable reasons. The archipelago is one of the few places left that still seems untouched by the hands of time and tides of mass tourism. With granite-encrusted coves, beaches layered in powdered sugar-like sand, ancient yet vibrant flora and fauna, and waters teeming with a kaleidoscope of life, Seychelles balances modernity with tradition masterfully.
Whilst there are endless options for relaxation and leisure, the opportunities for adventure, cultural immersion, and gastronomic delight are equally as thrilling. Although Seychellois blend influences from multiple origins, a mainstay in the local cuisine is fresh-from-the-net fish, with the national dish being a savoury and flavourfully complex fish curry.
The inner islands of La Digue, Praslin, and Mahé boast charming colonial-style architecture that juxtaposes elegantly against lush mangrove forests and cool green mountain landscapes. The many smaller outer islands offer an untamed, authentic side to nature that positions Seychelles as its most sustainable and true self.
Each island, no matter the size, is a reflection of the archipelago’s vast diversity, each distinct in its own way but contributing to the grand atmosphere of Seychelles as a whole.
The surrounding shimmering sea is a haven if you’re looking to scuba dive, snorkel, or just embrace your inner mermaid. The vibrant waters are home to graceful hawksbill sea turtles, spindly angelfish, soaring manta rays, and so many more bubbling creatures.
Embrace adventure, experience luxury, and entwine yourself in a world where primordial beauty thrives side-by-side with modern life. Seychelles is not just a destination for a holiday visit; it is a destination that will make you believe in the magic of the everyday.
Q&A WITH SHERIN FRANCIS, PRINCIPAL SECRETARY, TOURISM SEYCHELLES
With a vision of being a catalyst for sustained tourism growth in the archipelago, Tourism Seychelles is a strategy-focused tourism department committed to creating a conducive environment for the development and maintenance of an authentic and dynamic hospitality industry.
Encouraging visitors to experience all that Seychelles has to offer, from pristine water to exquisite flora and fauna, the department proudly delivers a value-for-money and unique experience through innovation, strategic partnerships, and expert coordination.
The archipelago generated approximately USD$1.2 billion in estimated tourism revenue with over 398,000 total visitor arrivals and an 89.7 percent visitor satisfaction rate across 2025 alone, and continues to grow these numbers. Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary, tells us more about Tourism Seychelles’ origins and plans for a sustainable future.
Since we last spoke in March 2024, what has Tourism Seychelles been up to?
Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary (SF): We’ve been very active and quite aggressive with our sustainability agenda, particularly through our new initiative, the Sustainable Seychelles Programme. To date, we’ve brought approximately 200 tourism operators on board at different levels, meaning they are practising sustainability across various businesses and properties.
This is extremely important for Seychelles, as we position ourselves as a sustainable tourism destination. Tourism is our livelihood and our bread and butter, and for the survival of the industry, we must continue to encourage more sustainable practices.
We’ve also been very busy on the marketing front. I’m happy to report that we closed the year with a 13 percent increase in visitor arrivals, with the majority still coming from Europe, accounting for around 70 percent. Over the years, however, we’ve also seen growth from non-European markets, which is important to our mission of diversifying our source markets. We’ve also introduced new product offerings.
One of our key goals for 2025 was to create more cultural experiences for visitors. Today, when people visit Seychelles, it’s no longer just about sand and sea. Visitors can learn how to cook traditional Creole dishes, take part in crafts and pottery, get their hands dirty, and even visit farms to learn how to make traditional cassava biscuits.
This is very much part of our sustainability objective – to connect visitors more closely with the local community. Last year, we also launched our hotel classification programme, which focuses on grading properties. It includes a star-rating system for larger properties and a programme called Seychelles Secrets for smaller establishments. This helps visitors understand the different categories of accommodation available in Seychelles, ranging from small boutique properties to large, luxury 5-star resorts.
Amongst the smaller properties, there are different levels of comfort, and that’s what the grading scheme is all about. For example, if a property is graded Seychelles Secrets Gold, guests can expect a higher-quality product and greater comfort.
Looking ahead to 2026, there will be major structural changes within the ministry. Currently, the ministry oversees marketing, product planning and development, international cooperation, and the tourism academy. By Q2, we aim to re-establish the Seychelles Tourism Board as the marketing arm of the archipelago. This entity will focus specifically on destination marketing and will be private sector-led. Whilst this will allow for more dedicated focus on marketing, our overall objectives will remain unchanged.
In 2026, we will also continue to prioritise sustainability and the development of cultural experiences. With the creation of the new Ministry of Tourism and Culture, which will oversee both portfolios, there will be a dedicated and stronger focus on cultural tourism in Seychelles.
Please can you reintroduce us to the origins of Tourism Seychelles and its initial vision?
SF: Tourism Seychelles has always focused on attracting higher-value, lower-impact visitors — in other words, more responsible travellers who are genuinely inclined to experience the destination.
This is how values are passed on. When visitors explore, take excursions, go on cultural tours, visit farms, or learn how to cook Creole dishes, they engage in more responsible tourism. It’s about creating value and allowing visitors to experience the destination in a more authentic way.
This has been our focus because Seychelles is not a mass tourism destination. We are a small group of islands, and there is a natural limit to how many visitors we can accommodate. That’s why we must focus on the right kind of tourism – prioritising value rather than just numbers.
In the same vein, we aim to build a pool of competent workers to deliver on our strategic priorities and, from a destination management perspective, continue diversifying product offerings across the destination.
Can you expand further on your current goals?
SF: Our goals are to keep Seychelles visible and top-of-mind for travellers, whilst ensuring it remains one of the preferred island destinations globally. We want to continue offering unique experiences, particularly cultural and outdoor activities that visitors can engage in during their stay.
The archipelago is one of the very last places on Earth that remains largely uncommercialised. It’s uniquely pure, and as our slogan says, it’s truly another world when you step into Seychelles.
“The archipelago is one of the very last places on Earth that remains largely uncommercialised. It’s uniquely pure, and as our slogan says, it’s truly another world when you step into Seychelles”
Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary, Tourism Seychelles
How does Tourism Seychelles act as a catalyst for sustained tourism growth and development?
SF: Our mandate is to give Seychelles strong and consistent visibility so we can continue growing our various source markets. At the same time, we work on developing and enhancing the destination’s products and offerings to ensure there is always a diverse range of high-quality experiences available – supported by exceptional service and good value for money.
How do you market Seychelles as a destination?
SF: We use a varied marketing mix, as there is no one-size-fits-all approach and each market has its own specific characteristics. We work closely with travel trade professionals and the media to build awareness, which is our first line of activity across all markets – even emerging ones where budgets may be limited. In more mature markets, we invest heavily in digital advertising and implement very selective above-the-line consumer campaigns. We also participate in key trade and consumer fairs where our destination has strong relevance.
How do you promote off-season travel for Seychelles?
SF: Off-season travel requires a different strategy, largely dependent on operators offering attractive packages during those periods.
During the off-season, we compete with other summer destinations that are closer and more affordable for travellers. For example, many European visitors may find it cheaper to travel to destinations like Greece or Spain. Those who choose Seychelles during this period often do so because they are getting a good deal or are looking for a specific experience.
This is why we strategically plan events such as the Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge in May and the Seychelles Sailing Challenge in July. We are positioning May, June, and July as a sports and events season, and we are currently in discussions with partners to introduce additional events or festivals during this period. We also target European seniors, as they typically have more flexibility and are not restricted by peak travel periods.
OT: Are there any interesting projects in the pipeline that you’d wish to highlight?
SF: The Seychelles Nature Trail Challenge and the Seychelles Sailing Challenge remain two major events on our calendar. We also have Festival Kreole, which runs throughout the month of October and is ideal for visitors who want to experience authentic Seychellois culture – from food and gastronomy to music, dance, and traditions.
Why, in your opinion, should someone visit Seychelles?
SF: Seychelles is one of the very last places on Earth that remains largely uncommercialised. It is uniquely pure, and as our slogan says, it is truly another world when you step into Seychelles.
Are there any specific experiences or natural wonders that you would recommend to visitors?
SF: The Vallée de Mai is a must-visit. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the iconic Coco de Mer, which grows in its natural state.
Visitors also fall in love with our giant land tortoises, which can be seen in various locations, including the National Botanical Garden. On islands such as Bird Island and La Digue, visitors can interact with some of these oldest living animals on Earth.
Of course, our spectacular beaches are another major draw. There are so many that it’s hard to choose just one. Beaches like Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, on Praslin consistently feature in top 10 rankings across major media and publications. Anse Source D’argent on La Digue, in particular, is one of the most photographed and Instagrammable beaches in the world, famous for its striking rock formations.
Seychelles is also known for its breathtaking nature, amazing sealife, lush vegetation, and scenic hiking trails, which are highly recommended for visitors.
“What the tourism industry and recent events have shown us is that there will be challenges, but if you’re agile, flexible, and quick to respond to changes happening, you can remain relevant as a tourism location and a top-of-the-list destination”
Sherin Francis, Principal Secretary, Tourism Seychelles
What challenges does the tourism industry in Seychelles currently face?
SF: Like many island destinations, our biggest challenge is climate change – rising sea levels, increasing temperatures, coral bleaching, and coastal erosion.
The second challenge is managing tourism growth. An increase in visitor arrivals puts additional pressure on infrastructure and the environment. This is something we manage very carefully to ensure visitors continue to enjoy a high-quality experience without being affected by destination challenges.
Maintaining the right balance between tourism development and protecting our fragile, pristine ecosystem is a top priority, and we continuously look for solutions to achieve this balance.
Finally, are you optimistic about the future of the tourism industry in Seychelles?
SF: I believe the industry has shown its resilience amidst very difficult and challenging times.
What the tourism industry and recent events have shown us is that there will be challenges, but if you’re agile, flexible, and quick to respond to changes happening, you can remain relevant as a tourism location and a top-of-the-list destination. It’s all about how you react. We know our strengths, and despite the challenges, the industry remains optimistic about the future.
VALLÉE DE MAI IN FOCUS
The ‘Garden of Eden’ is a nickname that only begins to cover the allure and tempting call of the Vallée de Mai – an ancient palm forest on the island of Praslin.
Having been under protection since 1966 and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, this 19.5-hectare forest is home to the remnants of the original palm jungles of Seychelles. As you walk through the soaring canopy of trees and listen to the chatter of endemic wildlife, you’ll feel transported back to a time of supercontinents and vast, undisturbed natural diversity.
Vallée de Mai remained largely unchanged for millennia, making it possible to follow the traces of prehistory in its pristine and geographically isolated landscape. It’s estimated that the emerald-tinged forest was formed as early as five million years ago, adding to its secluded and mystical nature.
Abundant with rare birds, mammals, and native vegetation, the most famous is the legendary Coco de Mer – the largest nut in the world.
The Coco de Mer only grows naturally on the islands of Praslin and Curieuse, with 1,400 of the trees falling under the protection of the Seychelles government due to their unique cultural and environmental significance. The female trees are known for producing a heart-shaped nut that can weigh upwards of 25 kilogrammes, making it the largest and heaviest seed in the world.
The nut once boasted a reputation in royal courts as a coveted treasure and remains today a precious commodity, with prices for a single seed ranging between €300 and €600.
Alongside the captivating Coco de Mer, Vallée de Mai is a birding hotspot, where visitors can watch for the endemic Seychelles bulbul, the blue pigeon, sunbirds, and the endangered black parrot, of which there are only between 520 and 900 left in the world. Lower your gaze from the skies to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles skink, Seychelles sheath-tailed bat, and Seychelles swiftlet, all of whom call the reserve home.
Conserved as a natural sanctuary, visitors can walk amid the massive fronds at leisure, partake in free guided tours that happen twice a day, or opt for a more in-depth experience with a private guide who will take you on an hour-and-a-half to two-hour walk through the unparalleled Vallée de Mai.
OUTLOOK RECOMMENDS
Eat:
For AN AWARD-WINNING, INTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE…
Offering exceptional Creole and seafood cuisine, Del Place Restaurant boasts an intimate connection with fine food, drinks, and the scent of Seychelles. Nestled in the picturesque Port Glaud with an unparalleled ocean-view backdrop, the restaurant is a sanctuary for locals and travellers alike, boasting an easy island atmosphere with an award-winning menu that’s simple, fresh, and flavourful.
FOR A CHARMING, FAMILY-OWNED ESTABLISHMENT…
Known for its decadent seafood and local curries, La Gaulette Restaurant is a family-run eatery that has made a name for itself through its fresh catch-of-the-day, friendly vibes, and genuine Seychelloise cuisine.
Overlooking the sea, the restaurant highlights simple, refreshing dishes that speak to the archipelago’s traditional flavours and origins.
Sleep:
FOR A VERDANT COCOON OF BLISS…
Offering the perfect pampering escape in Seychelles, the Constance Ephelia is the place to experience luxury coupled with tranquillity. With a variety of suites and villas boasting an unbeatable view of the shimmering Indian Ocean, this luxurious beach resort allows you to revitalise mind, body, and soul.
FOR THE JEWEL OF COTE D’OR…
With world-class facilities and amenities, Le Duc de Praslin is known as the jewel of Côte d’Or, with turquoise waters washing over the white sand of the beach found just a few steps away from the luxurious retreat. Offering a holiday of a lifetime with true Seychellois hospitality, Le Duc de Praslin makes your dream vacation a reality.
Do:
FOR AUTHENTIC CREOLE HOSPITALITY…
Truly Seychelles is the simplest way to book the most authentic accommodation in the archipelago. With the best stories being found between the pages of a passport, Truly Seychelles allows visitors to witness the beauty of the islands with ease through a single booking in competitively priced, licensed Seychelles-owned accommodations.
FOR THE NUMBER ONE LUXURY TOUR OPERATOR IN SEYCHELLES…
Established in 2017, Summer Rain Tours is a small boutique destination management company in Seychelles, proud to showcase the magic of the archipelago to visitors from across the globe. With a bounty of qualified experts in the tourism industry, the company holds places, people, and customs through professional guides, modern transportation, quality hotels, fine restaurants, and unforgettable charters.
Summer Rain Tours personalises each trip with experiences that are unique, authentic, and a million miles from mass tourism. The company prides itself on customer satisfaction and has built a reputation for quality and value backed by years of knowledge and a passion for all that Seychelles has to offer.
LANDMARK ATTRACTIONS
Sainte Anne Marine National Park
Located just five kilometres from the island of Mahé, the Sainte Anne Marine National Park is one of the best snorkelling and diving sites not only in the archipelago but in the world. Comprising five islands, the national park boasts the largest seagrass meadow in Seychelles, alongside the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with gliding sea turtles, witness firsthand the colourful coral gardens, and watch as bottlenose dolphins race through the waters.
Anse Source d’Argent
Widely considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Anse Source d’Argent, on the island of La Digue, is an unmissable visit for those venturing to Seychelles. With dramatic granite boulders juxtaposed by calm, crystal waters and sand so fine it feels almost plush, this beach is the perfect way to spend a day out. Grab a towel, sunscreen, and some fresh coconut water, and be ready to experience a new type of relaxation under the swaying palm trees.
Curieuse and St Pierre
What’s better than coming face-to-face with one of the largest land tortoises on the globe – meeting 300 of these colossal herbivores roaming free on one island? Curieuse and St Pierre is a small island off the coast of Praslin and boasts an abundance of natural wildlife and flora and fauna, the most famous of which are the giant tortoises, who can grow up to four feet long, weigh as much as 770 pounds, and live for over 100 years.
GETTING THERE AND AROUND
As Seychelles is approximately 900 miles off the coast of East Africa, the most common way for visitors to arrive is via plane to the Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on the island of Mahé. Depending on where you are originating your journey from, there are some direct flight options available from Germany, Johannesburg, India, and Nairobi – alongside others; however, many find that the easiest way to travel is to book a one-stop flight from a major airport and have a quick layover in connecting hubs such as Dubai or Doha.
Once arrived, there are plentiful transport options to choose from on the main islands. Rental cars are available, and plenty of taxi companies will take you to and from locations; however, bicycles are easily the most popular way to get about on La Digue, as they allow you to take in the beautiful landscape whilst nimbly manoeuvring across the islands.
Equally, don’t be afraid to slip on a pair of walking shoes and trek to your next destination – there’s no better or more intimate way to get to know all the ins and outs of Seychelles.
Island hopping is very common for visitors to the archipelago, and there are myriad ways to visit the different destinations. The most affordable options are taking a ferry or fast boat, with the main companies being Cat Cocos and Cat Rose Inter Island Ferry Services. Internal flights across the archipelago, via plane or helicopter, allow for the quickest way to travel, with flights averaging only between 15 and 30 minutes. For an even more private experience, there are catamarans and leisurely schooners available to jet between islands.
With Seychelles residing a mere seven degrees south of the equator, the climate is warm and sunny year-round, with the average temperature sitting comfortably at 30 degrees Celsius. Between April and May and October and November are traditionally the most popular times, as this is the dry season and the best time for snorkelling and diving due to supreme underwater visibility.
