Explore the islands of Seychelles – your ultimate destination for adventure, relaxation, and romance. 

Dreaming of island life? Think Seychelles. These 115 islands in the Indian Ocean are everything you’d hope for from a tropical holiday – and then some. From the wild beauty of nature to exciting marine adventures, luxury resorts, and rich cultural heritage, Seychelles has earned its reputation as a world-class travel destination. 

But before you start browsing Seychelles packages, let’s break down what makes this paradise so special. 

Key Things to Know About the Seychelles: 

1. The marine life is out of this world! Coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles, and whales – it’s an underwater playground for snorkellers, scuba fans, and fishing pros. 
2. It’s made for romance. Many celebs have honeymooned here for a reason. With resorts that cater to your every need, it’s a top pick for couples. 
3. It’s rich in nature and culture. With two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, diverse flora and fauna, and trails through lush forests, it’s a nature-lover’s dream. 
4. Adventure awaits. Zip-lining, rock climbing, horse riding, and water sports keep the adrenaline going if you’re after more than just lazing on the beach. 

When’s the Best Time to Visit Seychelles? 

Seychelles is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different: 

May to October 
These months bring cooler temps and less humidity – ideal for lazy beach days, forest hikes, and breezy sailing adventures. The southeast trade winds kick in during this time, so expect windier conditions, especially along the coasts. 

April and November 
Known as the calm season, these two months are a sweet spot for underwater activities. The seas settle down, offering crystal-clear visibility for snorkelling and scuba trips. It's also a great time for island-hopping and exploring by boat. 

December to March 
The warmest and wettest stretch of the year, with a mix of sunshine, humidity, and short tropical showers (especially in January). But don’t write it off – this is a quieter season, perfect if you're after more privacy and lush, green landscapes. 

Quick Tip: 

If you’re planning a Seychelles holiday trip around marine life, April, October, and November are ideal months for spotting wildlife underwater and enjoying calm seas. 

The Islands of the Seychelles 

Seychelles isn’t just one island – it’s an archipelago. Here’s a quick guide to the main ones: 

• Mahé: The largest island and the entry point for most travellers. It’s where you’ll find the capital, Victoria, along with beaches, mountains, shopping, and nightlife. 
• Praslin: Home to the stunning Vallée de Mai (a UNESCO site) and Anse Lazio beach. A bit quieter than Mahé, with top resorts and excellent snorkelling. 
• La Digue: A relaxed environment, charming villages, no traffic, and beautiful beaches like Anse Source d’Argent. Rent a bike and explore at your own pace. 
• Outer Islands: These less-developed gems are great for privacy, nature escapes, and high-end luxury. They’re also amazing for diving and fishing trips. 

Getting around is fairly easy with a well-connected Seychelles transport system that includes ferries, domestic flights, taxis, and car hires. 

Marine Magic 

If you love the ocean, you’re in for a treat. Seychelles is known for its rich marine ecosystems, both around the granite and coral islands. 

• Snorkelling and Scuba: More than 800 marine species have been spotted on a single dive. Think rays, turtles, dolphins, and even whales. You’ll find professional dive centres and live-aboards offering everything from beginner courses to guided trips. 
• Sailing and Cruising: One of the best ways to explore the Seychelles coastline is by boat. Day trips or overnight cruises are a great way to discover hidden beaches and smaller islands. 
• Fishing: Fancy catching a marlin or yellowfin tuna? The waters here are legendary among anglers. Try your hand at fly-fishing, deep-sea fishing, or bottom fishing on modern boats with expert crews. 

Romance and Spa Days 

There’s a reason the Seychelles is called the ‘Islands of Love’. It’s where the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge honeymooned, and where A-listers like Angelina Jolie have spent time unwinding. 

• Weddings & Honeymoons: Many resorts in Seychelles offer complete wedding and honeymoon packages. Whether you want a barefoot beach ceremony or something more formal, local wedding planners have you covered. 
• Spa Experiences: From open-air massages to spa rituals inspired by island traditions, Seychelles knows how to do wellness the right way. 

Nature, Culture & Sustainability 

Seychelles has a fascinating mix of African, European, and Asian influences. You’ll taste it in the food, hear it in the music, and feel it in the welcoming spirit. 

It’s also a biodiversity hotspot: 

• UNESCO Sites: Visit Vallée de Mai on Praslin or Aldabra Atoll to see nature at its most impressive. 
• Rare Wildlife: There are over 1,500 plant species, including some found nowhere else on Earth. Bird watchers can look out for 13 endemic bird species and several rare subspecies. 
• Trails & Walks: Hike through jungles, climb granite peaks, or stroll coastal paths – each walk reveals something new and beautiful. 

The islands take conservation seriously, with many nature reserves and sustainability-focused resorts that help protect local ecosystems. 

Adventures for Thrill-Seekers 

If relaxing all day isn’t your thing, Seychelles won’t disappoint. 

• Zip-Lining: Glide above treetops on 80–120m lines – perfect for a new angle on the island scenery. 
• Rock Climbing: Seasonal rock climbing sessions are available on a 18-metre granite rock face. Safe, guided, and loads of fun. 
• Horseback Riding: West Mahé has an equestrian centre offering beach and forest rides, even romantic packages with champagne and photo sessions. 
• Beau Vallon Water Sports: This beach is the place for motorised fun – jet skiing, banana boat rides, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddle boarding. 
• Golf: Hit the greens at the 9-hole course on Mahé or go big with the 18-hole championship course on Praslin. 

What to Know Before You Go 

Do South Africans need a visa to visit Seychelles? 
No visa required! South Africans (and many other nationals) can enjoy visa-free entry for up to 30 days. 

What documents do I need? 
Just a valid passport, proof of accommodation, return/onward tickets, and sufficient funds. Seychelles also has a mandatory digital Travel Authorisation form you need to complete online before you travel. 

What’s so special about Seychelles? 
It’s the unique mix of raw nature, rich marine life, cultural diversity, and luxurious comfort that sets Seychelles apart. You can snorkel with turtles in the morning, hike through forests in the afternoon, and sip cocktails at sunset – all in one day. 

Plan Your Perfect Island Getaway 

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family holiday, or an action-packed adventure, Seychelles holiday packages with Thompsons Holidays make it easy to plan a trip that suits your style. From wallet-friendly hotels to all-inclusive resorts and five-star retreats, Seychelles has accommodation for every traveller. 

Ready to explore the Seychelles Islands? Book your package with Thompsons Holidays and let the adventure begin.