Discover The Seychelles: A Guide to Island Hopping in the Indian Ocean

19 November 2025

Imagine a place where pristine white sand beaches stretch as far as the eye can see, turquoise waters sparkle in the sun, and lush green mountains rise majestically from the shoreline. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, welcome to the Seychelles — a tropical paradise that seems like it’s straight out of a postcard. If you've ever daydreamed about a perfect island getaway, it's time to turn that dream into reality with an island-hopping adventure across the Seychelles.

From the main island of Mahé to the powder-soft beaches of La Digue and the remote, otherworldly Aldabra Atoll, island hopping in the Seychelles offers a bit of something for everyone—from adventure seekers to those who simply want to relax under a swaying palm tree with a cocktail in hand. Let me take you through everything you need to know to discover the Seychelles in all its glory.

What Makes the Seychelles So Special?

Before we dive into the details, let’s address the obvious: What makes the Seychelles so special? Why should it be at the top of your travel bucket list?

Well, picture this: The Seychelles is an archipelago made up of 115 islands, each offering its own unique charm. Whether you're into snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, hiking through tropical forests, or simply lazing on a deserted beach, these islands have it all. Plus, the Seychelles is home to some of the rarest species of flora and fauna in the world, making it an absolute must-see for nature lovers.

But perhaps the best part? The Seychelles feels like a hidden gem. Sure, it has luxurious resorts and tourists, but it’s nowhere near as crowded as other tropical destinations like the Maldives or the Caribbean. So, you’ll still find plenty of secluded spots to discover.

When's the Best Time to Visit the Seychelles?

Timing is everything, right? Luckily, the Seychelles is blessed with a year-round tropical climate—meaning there's really no "bad" time to visit. However, depending on what you’re planning to do, certain months might be better than others.

The months between April and October are ideal for activities like island hopping, snorkeling, and beach lounging. These months offer drier weather with pleasant temperatures and a bit of a refreshing breeze. If you’re more into diving or birdwatching, November to March is when the islands see more rain but also more wildlife activity — a great time to spot rare bird species or catch underwater action.

Pro tip: Avoid the peak holiday season (December to January) if you want the beaches more to yourself and a bit more peace and quiet!

The Must-Visit Islands for Your Seychelles Island-Hopping Adventure

1. Mahé – The Gateway to the Seychelles

Any island-hopping journey through the Seychelles will likely start with Mahé, the largest island and home to the country's capital, Victoria. Think of Mahé as your launchpad to the rest of the archipelago. But don’t make the mistake of rushing through—this island deserves its own time to shine.

Things to Do in Mahé:
- Visit Beau Vallon Beach: One of the most beautiful beaches on Mahé, Beau Vallon is the perfect spot to kick off your island adventure. It’s spacious, lively, and has plenty of water sports activities, from jet skiing to snorkeling.
- Explore Victoria: This pint-sized capital city is full of charm and worth exploring on foot. Don’t miss the Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, bursting with local produce, spices, and souvenirs.
- Hike Morne Seychellois National Park: If you’re into hiking, you’ll love the trails that take you through lush tropical forests up to Morne Seychellois, the highest peak in the Seychelles. The views from the top? Unforgettable.

_Insider Tip: If you’re there on a Wednesday, check out the night market at Beau Vallon for some local street food!_

2. Praslin – A Natural Wonderland

Next up is Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles and a short ferry or domestic flight away from Mahé. This island is known for its breathtaking beaches and stunning nature reserves. If you’re into nature, you'll find Praslin to be a haven of tranquility.

Top Attractions in Praslin:
- Anse Lazio Beach: Regularly listed as one of the best beaches in the world, Anse Lazio is a must-see. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a wallpaper background with crystal-clear water and powder-soft sand.
- Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient palm forest is home to the Coco de Mer, a rare coconut species that grows only here. Walking through this reserve feels like strolling through a prehistoric jungle.
- Cousin Island: Just a boat ride away, Cousin Island is a birdwatcher's paradise. It’s a designated nature reserve, so be ready to spot everything from giant tortoises to rare Seychelles warblers.

_Insider Tip: Be sure to try some fresh seafood at one of the beachside restaurants. You can’t go wrong with a grilled red snapper dinner!_

3. La Digue – Slow Down and Enjoy

If Praslin is laid-back, then La Digue is practically on island time. This tiny island is so relaxed that the main mode of transport here is bicycles—yes, really! Time seems to move slower on La Digue, making it the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Why You'll Love La Digue:
- Anse Source d’Argent: Arguably one of the most Instagrammable spots in the world, this beach is famous for its pink-tinged granite boulders and shallow, calm waters. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’re in a surreal tropical dream.
- Veuve Nature Reserve: If you're a bird lover, you’ll want to visit this small reserve, home to the rare Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher.
- Hire a Bike: The best way to explore La Digue? On two wheels. Renting a bike will cost you just a few bucks and allows you to freely explore the island's beaches and inland trails.

_Insider Tip: Visit Anse Cocos for a more secluded beach experience. It requires a bit of a hike, but trust me, it’s totally worth it!_

4. Aldabra Atoll – A Remote Paradise

Let’s say you’ve visited Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. What now? Ready to go off the beaten path? Enter Aldabra Atoll, one of the most remote and untouched islands in the Seychelles. Part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site, this coral atoll is truly another world.

What to Experience in Aldabra:
- Giant Tortoises: Aldabra is home to the world's largest population of giant tortoises. Imagine hundreds of these gentle giants roaming freely!
- Snorkel or Dive: The waters around Aldabra are teeming with marine life. It’s renowned for its exceptional snorkeling and diving opportunities — expect to see colorful coral reefs, manta rays, and even sharks.
- Totally Remote: Getting to Aldabra isn’t easy (it involves chartering a flight or boat), but that’s part of the magic. Few tourists make it here, so you’ll likely have the incredible landscapes all to yourself.

_Insider Tip: Pack light for this part of your trip and be prepared for a real adventure. There are no facilities here, so it’s just you and nature!_

How to Plan Your Island-Hopping Trip

You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get between all these stunning islands, right? Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. Here’s a quick breakdown of how to island-hop in the Seychelles:

- By Ferry: Ferries are the most common way to travel between the main islands (Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue). Services are frequent, and the rides are scenic.
- By Plane: Air Seychelles operates domestic flights between Mahé, Praslin, and some of the outer islands. It’s fast, convenient, and the aerial view is a bonus!
- By Private Yacht or Catamaran: Want to do it in style? Chartering a catamaran or yacht is a luxurious way to hop between the islands. Plus, you can anchor in secluded bays for some serious privacy.
- By Helicopter: If you're feeling really extravagant, several companies offer helicopter transfers between islands, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the sparkling Indian Ocean.

Final Thoughts

Island hopping in the Seychelles is a surreal experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're exploring the vibrant markets of Mahé, sunbathing at Anse Lazio on Praslin, cycling around La Digue, or marveling at the giant tortoises of Aldabra, there’s something for everyone in this tropical wonderland.

So, are you ready to pack your bags and discover the Seychelles? Trust me, it’s the adventure of a lifetime!