Seychelles Uncovered: Beaches, Rum, and Wild Beauty in the Indian Ocean

If you're craving a destination that feels raw, remote, and remarkably untouched, the Seychelles should be at the top of your list. Nestled in the Indian Ocean off East Africa, this 115-island archipelago offers far more than postcard-perfect beaches. From giant tortoises and world-class diving to local Creole culture and hidden jungle hikes, Seychelles delivers the kind of adventure that stays with you long after the tan fades.

Iconic Beaches (And Hidden Ones Too)

The beaches in Seychelles aren’t just beautiful, they are surreal! The granite boulders that dot the coastline give each cove a prehistoric, cinematic feel. Anse Lazio (Praslin) and Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue) are the headliners, and for good reason. But lesser-known spots like Anse Georgette, accessible via a hike or hotel access, felt like stumbling into a private paradise, especially with a bottle of rosé!

Tip: Most beaches are public, but some are tricky to access. Research hiking paths or get permission from hotels to enter via their property.

Takamaka Rum Tasting and Distillery Tour

On Mahé, make time for the Takamaka Rum Distillery. Tucked into a lovely colonial estate, the distillery offers tastings of their entire range, from spiced and coconut rum to limited reserve editions. You’ll learn about the fermentation process using local sugarcane and how Seychelles’ tropical climate shapes the flavor. This was hands down the best rum tasting I have ever done!

Try This: The “dark spiced rum” with vanilla and cinnamon notes. The airport lounge also serves up full tastings if you run out of time to visit the actual distillery!

Wildlife Encounters You Won’t Find Anywhere Else

Aldabra giant tortoises roam freely on Curieuse Island and several other nature reserves. You’ll feel like you've stepped into Jurassic Park.

Cousin Island Special Reserve is home to rare endemic birds and lizards. The conservation team leads short, guided hikes to help protect fragile habitats.

You can also visit Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, where the famous coco de mer palm (with its suggestive shape and giant seeds) grows in prehistoric-looking jungle terrain.

Bonus Tip: Bring insect repellent, the hikes can get quite buggy!

Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Highlights

Seychelles is a diver’s dream. Coral reefs, drop-offs, wrecks, and crystal-clear visibility make it perfect for all experience levels.

Highlights include:

• The Ennerdale wreck, a haunting, coral-covered site near Mahé

• Shark Bank, known for eagle rays and reef sharks

• Aldabra Atoll (if you can get there), one of the most isolated and pristine marine ecosystems on Earth

Snorkeling? Just steps off the beach at Port Launay or St. Pierre Islet, you’ll see angelfish, turtles, and corals teeming with life!

More Unique Things to Do

• E-bike around La Digue – No cars allowed, and cycling past palm-lined paths to quiet coves is unforgettable.

• Climb Morne Blanc – A moderate hike with panoramic views over Mahé’s west coast. Bring water and enjoy the misty rainforest on the way up.

• Visit the capital, Victoria – One of the smallest capitals in the world. Check out the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market for spices, fruit, and handmade souvenirs.

• Try Creole food – Grilled fish with curry sauce, coconut lentils, and banana chutney are local staples. Don’t skip the street food!

  
  

What to Know Before You Go

• Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR), but euros and credit cards are widely accepted

• Weather: Warm year-round; April–May and October–November are best for diving and fewer crowds

• Language: English, French, and Seychellois Creole are all spoken

• Getting Around: Flights or ferries between islands, and taxis or car rentals on Mahé/Praslin

• Internet: Service is spotty on smaller islands—download offline maps and important docs ahead of time

• Eco-Conscious: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles to help protect the islands’ fragile ecosystems

The Seychelles is more than just a beach vacation, it’s a rare combination of natural beauty, ecological richness, and slow island living. Whether you're sipping rum beneath palm trees, diving coral reefs, or watching a 150-year-old tortoise plod across a path, this is a place that changes you.

For those chasing meaningful, unplugged adventure, the Seychelles isn’t just a destination—it’s a revelation.