How many degrees are in the seychelles now. Holidays in the Seychelles, prices, hotels, how to get there, beaches. Beach season in the Seychelles

In the spring in the Seychelles, the wet season continues, but the air is not so hot anymore and there is much less rain. And in May, they generally stop. The temperature during the day reaches +30... +32°C, and at night - +25.. +27°C.

March is a great time for a relaxing holiday and observing the representatives of the local fauna. During this month, they begin to show their activity very rapidly.

April is a transitional month when the direction of the winds changes. During this period, there is almost no wind. April is good for diving and fishing. The ocean is already calm, the rains are very rare (in the third decade of the month they stop altogether), and there are no crowds of tourists yet.

May is the most popular month to visit. A light breeze from the ocean, warm water, comfortable temperature - make the month the peak of the high season.
Ahead - expects a "cool" winter of the southern hemisphere.

In summer, the cold and dry season begins. But still, it is very difficult to call it cold by our standards. The average temperature keeps within +26..+28°C. Humidity drops noticeably, and southeast monsoons begin to blow. Low humidity allows those who do not tolerate a high percentage of moisture content to feel good. Also, do not forget about protective creams while sunbathing.
Summer is a great time to visit Seychelles for those who don't like extreme heat. But it’s impossible to calmly soak up the ocean, during this period the waters of the ocean are very raging. But there is no precipitation at all, a cloudless sky will contribute to a beautiful tan. The Indian Ocean will delight bathers with a temperature of + 26°C.

June is the beginning of the local winter. The lack of rain and high temperatures is perfect for long walks around the area. During the rainy period, the air is cooler than during the wet period, but this does not affect the fact that you can have a great time on the beach.

July is the driest month of the year and the peak of the cold season. The southeast wind carries a minimum of moisture and makes the ocean very restless. This is perfect for surfing.
July is considered the month with the lowest tourist season. This means that the prices are significantly reduced.

August is the last month of tropical winter. Holidays in August can combine a variety of pastimes: lazy lying on the beach, sightseeing walks, water sports sports.

Autumn

Autumn is the gap between two seasons. The transition from southeast winds to northwest begins. The average temperature during the day reaches +31°C, and at night - +27°C. The water temperature in the ocean at this time fluctuates between +26...+29 °C. After a dry lull, the rains begin again.

There are very few rainy days in September, you can count them all on your fingers. Therefore, you can make various excursions without fear of heavy rains. The still low humidity is good for sensitive hikers. In September flocks of birds make their seasonal migrations. This is a very exciting sight. This month, due to its strong waves, attracts many surfers.

Warm waters, white sand, dense vegetation, beautiful scenery and a mild climate are ideal for a paradise pastime. Whatever the weather conditions, there is always something to do in the Seychelles. Complete relaxing holiday from the bustle of the city you will definitely be provided.

500 years ago, the journey of one navigator opened Eden exotic to people. Vasco da Gama showed the world a place of unprecedented beauty, thanks to which it is possible to see and visit a real paradise on earth! It is located in Indian Ocean and consists of 115 islands, only three dozen of which are inhabited. It's about Seychelles - a place of eternal summer, the sun, palm trees swaying over the warm azure water ... The location of the Seychelles gave them an amazing climate, which created a tropical paradise from this place, a place that cannot be found better ...

Climate zones of the Seychelles

450 square kilometers - the total area of ​​large and small Seychelles, scattered in the Indian Ocean near the equator. The state also owns the water area with total area over a million square kilometers!

The Seychelles are located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, a thousand kilometers from the huge Madagascar.

For the most part, the Seychelles are atolls, that is, coral, but there are also unique ancient pieces of land among them - granite islands. Granite is big islands(Mahe - here is the capital of the Seychelles Victoria, La Digue, Praslin, Silhouette ), coral - small islands.

Geographically, the Seychelles have subequatorial maritime climate with seasonal characteristics. Tropical climate characteristics are moderated by the action of the ocean. Monsoon winds have a significant influence on the formation of weather on individual islands.

The weather in the Seychelles can be divided into two seasons:

• wet hot(December-April - increased humidity due to northeast winds, air temperature + 28 + 31 ° C, water temperature in the Indian Ocean near island shores up to +30°C)
• Cold dry(June-October - low humidity due to the southeast monsoons, air temperature + 27 + 29 ° C, water - up to + 27 + 28 ° C, the ocean is restless)

There are no sharp temperature drops in the Seychelles, as well as a big difference between night and day temperatures (the gap is about 4 degrees).

Precipitation is mostly tropical showers. Often they are short lived. Up to 1500 m of precipitation falls per year on the lower coral islands, on the coast - more - up to 3000 mm / year. The driest month is July, the rainiest month is January. The “coldest” water in the ocean is in August (+26°C), the warmest is in April (+30°C).

There are no hurricanes and cyclones in the Seychelles - the islands are located at a fairly remote distance from the zone of formation of such phenomena.

Only one single case is recorded in history when a typhoon happened - it happened in 1862.

Tourist seasons of the Seychelles

The Seychelles are the islands of eternal summer. There is practically no bad weather here.

The Seychelles are immersed in green luxury - nature here is a tropical paradise. The water is azure, unusually clean and sparkling. The sand on the 70 picturesque beaches of the islands is coral dust, so fine that it resembles pinkish-white flour.

June-November is considered low season. as the weather is cooler, sometimes the ocean storms and there are short tropical showers.

And here The period from May to October is considered the best time to travel. to this heavenly place. The ideal months for a trip to the Seychelles are May and October - the so-called off-season - there is no precipitation, the temperature in the ocean is maximum, the air is warmed up to a comfortable + 28 ° C.

The air temperature in the Seychelles is never (!) lower than ideal for human comfort +25°C.

For active water activities, you should go to Grand Anse beach (northwest of Mahe). There are beautiful natural conditions for windsurfing - a good wind of the right direction and large swells. The best time for surfing is June-September. For diving and snorkeling, it is better to go to protected coral reef Anse Forbans and Anse Royal beaches. The best time for this is March-May and September-November.

What clothes to take with you

Here in short - everything you need for a beach holiday! Don't forget a pareo, sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen with maximum protection. To travel in the tropical jungle and to climb the mountains, you need boots, tight-fitting pants. Mosquito repellents will not be superfluous. In the season of tropical showers, it is worth having a long-sleeve sweater with you - during bad weather it becomes cool due to the wind.

The Seychelles is the only place in the world where the unique Coco de Mar palm grows. Its fruits (some weighing up to 20 kg!) Are protected by the state, and it is impossible to take them out of the island. Only as special souvenirs that are sold in stores.

Monthly weather in the Seychelles

March-May

In the spring, the Seychelles rage with vegetation. Birds arrive for nesting - it's time to go to Bird Island to admire these beautiful creatures, many of which live exclusively in the Seychelles. In March, the most comfortable conditions for recreation after winter are dry (rain is a rare occurrence). In April, the hottest period begins - up to + 32 ° C during the day, dry. Good time for underwater fishing. Water temperature +28+30°C. May 1st is Labor Day in the Seychelles.

Aldabra is the largest of the islands of the Seychelles archipelago. This place has the status of a reserve because of the giant tortoises living here.

June August

This is the period of least rainfall. A strong (up to six points) southeast wind raises storms, at this time there are strong waves in the Seychelles, which are great for experienced surfers. Southeasterly winds in June will delight windsurfers. In July, due to monsoon winds, it is better to choose beaches in the northwest of the islands for swimming. Water temperature +26°C. Most holidays fall in the summer: June 5 - Liberation Day, June 18 - National Reconciliation Day, June 29 - Independence Day.

The Seychelles is a mecca for young couples in love who dream of having a wedding ceremony on the shores of the Indian Ocean, as well as for fairly wealthy Europeans, since a tour to the Seychelles is quite expensive due to the great distance from the mainland.

September-November

The most favorable time to visit is coming - warm, sunny, precipitation towards the end of autumn brings less and less inconvenience - they are extremely rare. And the ocean is calm and warm. Water temperature +27+28°C. November is All Saints' Day.

Hotels in the Seychelles are often beach bungalows, houses located in the heart of the rainforest or bungalows on the water. Everything - no higher than the tallest palm tree on the island - the legislation provides for the preservation of the natural landscape, so building multi-storey buildings here hotel complexes forbidden.

December-February

The rainy season begins, the closer to January, the stronger the tropical downpours. The temperature is still high - up to + 27 ° C, which is why the humidity of 80% is difficult to tolerate. There may be thunder in January. Rain is possible more often after night and in the morning. Water temperature +28+29°C. On December 25, the Seychelles celebrate Christmas, and January 1 and 2 are celebrated New Year.

The best panorama of the Seychelles opens from the top of Trois Freres, and Anse Lazio is considered the most beautiful beach among the islands in the Indian Ocean.

Weather in cities and resorts by months

Victoria

The weather by months is presented in the temperature table and in the reviews of tourists, in February in Victoria 30°C, Praslin Island 26°C.

The Seychelles, to the delight of tourists, are far from cyclones that bring cold weather with them, characterized by constant summer throughout their territory. The Seychelles are characterized by a tropical climate, but close proximity to the ocean greatly softens tropical climate. Depending on how much precipitation has fallen, wind direction, and other factors, there are two main seasons in the Seychelles, this is the wet season and the dry season. The dry season in the Seychelles lasts from June to October, during this period tourists from all over the world visit the Seychelles.

During the dry season, the air temperature is cooler than during the rainy season. However, during the dry period, the air temperature is sufficient to spend time on the beach. The average air temperature is about +27+28°C, at night the air temperature drops by several degrees, to +24°C, which makes it possible to take a break from the heat of the day. The hottest month in the Seychelles is July, including July is considered the driest. In July, about 70 mm of precipitation falls. And the rainiest month of the year is January, with about 400 mm of precipitation per month. The period from November to May is a humid period, the air humidity is about 82%, and during the daytime during the humid period, the air temperature can rise to 31°C.

The water temperature is quite high all year round, in April the water temperature can be +30°C, and in August, the water temperature warms up to +26°C. The water temperature in the Seychelles varies depending on the season, dry or wet. Seychelles weather in March: Victoria 31°C, Praslin Island 27°C.

You can fly to the Seychelles all year round, always here good weather, of course, there are some small features about them, I will tell you in more detail.

January- this month it rains the most, but due to this, nature at this time is insanely beautiful, everything blooms around, very green. You should not be afraid of rains, they usually go at night for several hours in a row. At this time, prices for tours are lower than usual. It's not bad to use it. The daily temperature at this time is around 27 - 30 degrees. Humidity is high.

February- a good time to visit the Seychelles. The rains are already becoming much less, if they do, then for about 20 minutes and at night. The average air temperature is about 29 degrees. The water in the ocean is very warm - 28 C. By the end of the month it becomes already hotter. Humidity is very high.

March- in March, the weather is very good, but given that this month still falls into the wet season, not large short-term rains are not ruled out. Happy average temperature air is about 28 degrees, the water in the ocean is very warm, like fresh milk - 29 degrees. Swimming in the heat from 12 to 16 is almost impossible. But evening swimming, on the contrary, will bring a lot of pleasure.

April- By temperature regime same as March. Very hot and humid. However, it is in this month that the hot season ends and the best weather for tourism begins. Ticket prices are starting to go up.

May- the best time to visit the Seychelles is coming. Daytime air temperature is about 27 degrees. The ocean is very warm around 28 degrees with no waves. The rainy period ends, respectively, the high humidity recedes and the heat is transferred much lower.

June- the same comfortable month as May. The climate is moderately humid, rains are not expected during this period. Daytime air temperature is about 26 degrees, the ocean is warm - 27 C.

July- in the month of July, there may be small short-term rains, but they both start unexpectedly and end quickly. Daytime air temperature is about +27 degrees, water + 28.

August- a month for those who need high waves. In August, southeast winds come, it is in this month that you can feel a little coolness in the evening and at night. During the day, everything is as usual, the temperature is +27 degrees, the ocean is +26.

September- At this time, the hot humid climate returns again. During the day the air temperature is about +30 degrees. Showers are possible in the morning and at night.

October- a good time to visit the Seychelles. This is the last month before the rainy season. The winds are dropping and the ocean is very calm at this time, perfect for diving and snorkeling. The daily temperature is about + 28 degrees. Humidity is already getting high, the heat is felt strongly. Tour prices are starting to drop.

November- very strong humidity of about 85%. During the day the temperature will be around 30 degrees. The water in the ocean is the same, about +28. There are heavy showers almost every day. Sometimes a light breeze is possible, but it will not bring tangible coolness.

December- the time to visit the Seychelles is not bad, ahead of the New Year and prices are starting to rise again despite the fact that the rainy season is not over yet. During the day, the air temperature is about +29 degrees, the ocean is very warm. Those wishing to visit the islands at this time begins to increase due to the approach of the holidays.

Seychelles.

As you can see, the average air temperature in the Seychelles varies from +26 to +31 degrees. Two seasons can be distinguished here - dry from May to October and wet from November to April. But they are not as pronounced as, for example, in other tropical countries, so you can safely come to the Seychelles at any time of the year.

The Republic of Seychelles (French République des Seychelles, English Republic of Seychelles, Seish. Repiblik Sesel) is an island nation consisting of 115 islands of granite origin and coral atolls. The Seychelles are located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, south of the equator, about 1600 km east of the African continent and north of the island of Madagascar.

The area of ​​the Seychelles is 455 km². Most big Island- Mahe (142 km²), it is the capital of the state - the city of Victoria and the international airport. Other islands popular with tourists are Praslin, Silhouette, La Digue, Bird. The population of the state is about 88 thousand people (data for 2010).

The Seychelles were officially discovered at the beginning of the 16th century by the 2nd expedition of Vasco da Gama. However, earlier, in the 9th-10th centuries, Arab sailors visited the Seychelles. Until the 17th century, the Seychelles were uninhabited, then they served as a base for filibusters who hunted in the Indian Ocean.
In 1742, the governor of the island of Mauritius, Mahe de La Bordonnay, sent a ship to the archipelago, after which the largest island was named Mahe. At the same time, the islands were named after the French minister Moreau de Sechelles. Since 1756, the French settled on the islands, who in 1770 brought slaves and planted spice plantations - vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and also began to grow sugar cane, coffee and corn. At the end of the 18th century, the Seychelles attracted close attention of the British Empire, which did not fail to make them part of its territory, adding Fr. Mauritius in 1840. The state gained independence only in 1976.

The main article of the Seychelles economy is the tourism industry, from which the state receives about 70% of its income, followed by fishing. It is in the Seychelles that the largest tuna processing center in the Indian Ocean basin is located. In addition, the Seychelles is an offshore zone in which thousands of international companies are registered.

Virgin nature is the main wealth of the Seychelles, actively protected by the government and residents of the state.

Current time in Victoria:
(UTC+4)

Search tours in Seychelles

How to get there

Direct flights

You can fly directly from Moscow to the Seychelles by planes of the national island carrier - Air Seychelles. Also in the high season (in winter) Transaero charters fly to the Seychelles.

Connecting flights

In addition to direct flights, there are options to get to your destination with a connection at another airport. Often this option is cheaper. Below we list such flight options (cities of connections are indicated in brackets).

• Emirates (Dubai): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Air France (Paris): Moscow, St. Petersburg.
• Qatar Airways (Doha): Moscow.
• Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi): Moscow.

In addition, from Yekaterinburg, Mamara, Kazan and Ufa, you can fly to Dubai with FlyDubai (a subsidiary of Emirates), and then on the airliners of Emirates itself to the Seychelles.

All planes arrive at Pointe Larue International Airport, which is located on the island of Mahe, a few kilometers from the capital of the Seychelles - the city of Victoria.

Flight Search
to the Seychelles

Search flights to Seychelles

We compare all available flight options for your request, and then we direct you to purchase on the official websites of airlines and agencies. The airfare you see on Aviasales is final. We have removed all hidden services and checkboxes.

We know where to buy cheap air tickets. Plane tickets to 220 countries of the world. Search and compare prices for air tickets among 100 agencies and 728 airlines.

We cooperate with Aviasales.ru and do not take any commissions - the cost of tickets is absolutely the same as on the website.

Climate and weather in the Seychelles

The climate of the islands is subequatorial maritime. There are two main seasons: from December to May it is hot in the Seychelles, the average air temperature is + 29 ° C, and from June to November it gets cooler, the average temperature is about + 24 ° C. In addition, monsoons form two intermediate seasons - from June to October (southeast Suet monsoon) the dry season begins, and from December to April (northeast monsoon Norde) hotter weather sets in, and humidity rises. The best time for diving is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). Windsurfers and yachtsmen visit the Seychelles in May and October. The beach season on the islands lasts almost all year round.

Monthly weather in the Seychelles

Reviews of tourists about the Seychelles by months

Photos Seychelles

Cities and regions

The Seychelles is an island nation consisting of 115 islands of granitic origin and coral atolls. The largest island is Mahe (142 km²), it houses the capital of the state - the city of Victoria and the international airport. Other islands popular with tourists are Praslin, Silhouette, La Digue, Bird.

Mahe Island

There are about 70 beaches on the island of Mahe, the most famous of them are Beau Vallon and Grand Anse (quite big waves and excellent conditions for surfing); Anse Intendanse (part of which is nudist); Anse Forbans and Anse Royal (protected by a coral reef, a good place for diving). For lovers of secluded relaxation, the remote beaches of Anse Soleli and Anse Petit Polis are suitable. Victoria is the only major port in the archipelago. The city has many restaurants with Creole cuisine, souvenir shops and shops, fruit and vegetable markets as well as art galleries. Victoria is a very beautiful green city with traditional Creole architecture, spread among the hills of Signal, Crave Coeur and Niols. Nearby is the mountain "Three Brothers" (699 m). From all sides the capital of the Seychelles is surrounded by cinnamon plantations. Mahe Island is the largest island of the Seychelles archipelago, its area is 150 square meters. km. The island has a mountainous landscape, cut by rivers and covered with lush tropical vegetation. Here is the capital of the state of the Seychelles - one of the smallest capitals in the world - the city of Victoria. Seychelles International Airport is located 9 km from the city.

On Mahe, it is worth visiting the Seychelles Morne National Reserve, the Royal Spice Garden, the Mont Fleury Botanical Garden, the National Historical Museum, the workshop of the artist Michael Adams, and the village of artisans. Not far from the island of Mahe is a group of 4 small islands, declared in 1973 as a National Marine Park with unique marine flora and fauna.

Praslin Island

Praslin Island is the second largest island of the Seychelles, located 37 km northeast of the island Mahe. The landscape of the island is mountainous, the coastline is indented by large and small bays, there are wide sandy beaches. Praslin does not experience strong waves, as the island is surrounded by a coral reef. The small size of the island allows you to explore it on foot or on a rented bike, and you can also get to any part of the island by bus. The village of Grand Ance is the main settlement, it contains 2 monuments crowned with images of the fruits of the sea coconut palm "Coco De Mer" - the symbol of the Seychelles, which is even present on the coat of arms of the state.

Silhouette Island

Silhouette Island is the third largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. There are no roads on this island - only paths for hiking. The highest point of the island - Mount Dauban (740 m) - dominates the island. The island is surrounded by a ring of living coral reefs, the underwater world of which attracts lovers of diving, snorkeling, and fishing. There is only one hotel on the island - Labriz Silhouette 5 *, considered the most beautiful hotel archipelago.

La Digue Island

La Digue Island - very popular with tourists, the fourth largest island of the archipelago - 5 km long and 3 km wide, which is located 43 km from Mahe and 6.5 km from Praslin. The highest point is Mount Ni d'Aigle ("Eagle's Nest", 300 m). The island is famous for its magnificent landscapes and the opportunity to relax in seclusion. Bullock carts are the only mode of transport, and bicycles are also popular and can be rented at the pier and in hotels. Tourists are attracted by the beautiful bay of Source d'Argent and Cape Turcy. The beaches in the bays of Petit Ari, Grand Anse, Anse Coco, Reunion, Sever, Palat, Goulette, Gros Roche, Banana and Fourmi are also very good. The capital of the island is the village of La Passe.

The main attraction is the house where the film "Farewell Emmanuel" was filmed. The most famous hotels on the island are La Digue Island Lodge, L'Union Beach Chalets and Gregoire's.

Coastal waters are ideal for diving and fishing. The island is home to the world's largest elephant tortoises and the only surviving state-protected paradise flycatcher colony.

Felicite Island

Felicite Island, located 4 km from La Digue Island, is one of the most beautiful islands archipelago, its picturesque granite rocks are the hallmark of the Seychelles. The coastline is discontinuous, cut by cliffs, you can swim only in secluded bays with snow-white sandy beaches, which you need to get to by swimming or on foot, crossing low mountains.

The only one big beach on Felicite - La Penice, and the only hotel - Felicite Private Lodge 4 *, consisting of 2 small houses with roofs of palm leaves. The concept of rest in the hotel is such that guests, even booking only one room out of 8 available, find themselves completely alone on the island - no other bookings are accepted.

Alphonse Island

Alphonse Island is the southernmost of the islands in the archipelago. This is a private property, which is incredibly popular among divers. The island was named after Chevalier Alphonse de Pontives, an adventurer and treasure hunter whose frigate landed on the island in 1730.

Alphonse has the shape of a regular triangle with sides of 1200 m. This coral atoll bordering a large lagoon. The most popular form of transport is a bicycle. Tourists go to Alphonse to relax on 3.5 km of well-groomed beaches, get acquainted with the underwater life of the coastal waters inhabited by sea ​​turtles, giant crabs, fish of various colors. In October, sperm whales, bronze and humpback whales and killer whales come to the island. The Alphonse Diving School and Fishing Center are so popular that it is recommended to book the course and services in advance.

Anonymous Island

Small island Anonyme (Anonyme Island) with an area of ​​1300 sq. m lies to the west of Mahe, it was named after a sailing ship that sailed between the islands of the Seychelles archipelago. Anonymous - private property, it belongs to the daughter of the President of the Seychelles. The island is very picturesque: there are palm groves, emerald hills, caves and cozy bays with white sand, framed by heaps of huge granite boulders of gray and pinkish color.

The island has an exclusive resort Anonyme Island Resort 5 *, consisting of 4 villas. This hotel is unique in that it can be rented entirely for one family or company. For the duration of the lease, in agreement with the hostess, it is even possible to close the island for any outside visits.

Bird Island

Bird Island is the northernmost of the Seychelles. Its dimensions are 1500 m long and 650 m wide. The eastern and southern parts of the island are surrounded by a coral reef. A few kilometers from the island, the continental shelf ends, on which the Seychelles are located, and a deep ocean trench begins - the best place for deep-sea fishing. Bird Island got its name in 1776, when European travelers passing by saw "countless birds" on it. So the name appeared - Bird ("Bird"). Bird colonies that had left the island when cotton and papaya plantations appeared on it returned in 1967 - new owners began to restore the Byrd ecosystem. Now in October-November and April-May you can watch birds choosing Bird Island as a resting place during bad weather. Here you can see black terns, martins, swifts, white-tailed phaetons - about 100 species of birds in total.

Another attraction of Bird Island is the world's oldest tortoise, Esmeralda. She is about 170 years old, she is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the heaviest in the world: her weight is 304 kg.

After sunset, all the lights on the island are extinguished. This is done so as not to disturb the birds and turtles: disoriented by the light, the turtles may not find their way to the water.

Today Byrd is a member of the Green Globe International Ecotourism Association, and in 1994 he received the prestigious Tourism of the Future Award established by British Airways. On the site of an old plantation, a small cozy hotel Bird Island Lodge was erected. The only inhabitants of the island are hotel guests.

Denis Island

Coral island Denis (Denis Island) is quite small - 1.8 km long and 1.3 km wide. Runway strip crosses it from end to end, rising above sea level by only 3 meters. Denis was named after the French traveler Denis de Trobriant, who officially discovered the island in 1773. In Trobriand's logbook, there was an entry that, allegedly, a bottle with a document was buried on the island, according to which the island belongs to the French crown. The bottle has still not been found, but this mystery gives the island a romantic flair.

The main and only settlement of the island is a small settlement with 50 inhabitants. The only hotel on the island is Taj Denis Island Lodge 4 *, many celebrities choose it for their vacation.

The flora and fauna of the island has been preserved in its original form. Denis is an ideal place for lovers of deep-sea fishing: it was in its waters that 5 world records for catching dogfish were set. In addition, tuna and marlin are caught here in May, October, November and December.

Cousin Island

Cousine Island is an island of granite origin, its landscape consists of gentle hills and heaps of huge boulders. A wide beach with fine white sand stretches along the perimeter of the island. Kuzin is a private property, its owners strive to preserve the pristine nature of the island. Since 1992, the island has actually turned into a private reserve for many species of birds and plants. The island is home to the rare song robin and tailed warbler; here you can see a white-tailed tropical bird, which is a symbol of the island of Mauritius. Cousin Island is overseen by the International Committee for the Protection of Birds. Today, more than 40 environmental and scientific projects are deployed here.
Two old turtles, George and Georgina, also live on Cousin.

Coming to rest in the only Cousine Island hotel on the island, guests, thereby, contribute to the maintenance of the local ecology - all funds go to the Cousine Environmental Fund. Tourists on Kuzina should be prepared for the fact that it is forbidden to smoke, have picnics and collect shells here: nothing should violate the primordial nature. Today, the owners of the island are trying to implement a project to transfer the provision of the hotel to power from solar panels, in the future it is planned to transfer the entire island exclusively to solar energy.

Sainte Anne Island

The small island of Sainte Anne (Sainte Anne Island) served as a staging post for pirate ships and whaling ships until the 18th century. The first settlers-planters appeared on the island only at the beginning of the last century. The landscape of the island of Sainte-Anne is made up of beaches with white coral sand, lush tropical vegetation, and picturesque granite rocks.

The pride of the island is located in its coastal waters National marine reserve, created in 1973 one of the first in the Indian Ocean. More than 150 species of fish and other marine life are protected in the reserve. In the waters off the island of Sainte-Anne, the use of any motorized watercraft is prohibited, so as not to disturb the fragile ecosystem natural park.

In addition, Sainte-Anne is a luxury resort that occupies a leading position in many international hotel ratings. Here is the only luxury hotel on the island Sainte Anne Resort & Spa 5 *, belonging to the well-known hotel chain Beachcomber.

Frigate Island

Fregate Island, which is privately owned, is small in size: its length is 2 km, its width is 1 km. In the Middle Ages, the island was a haven for pirates. Pirate maps with the designation of treasures were allegedly found on Frigate by Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond novels. Treasures have not yet been discovered, and the island remains surrounded by a halo of mystery.

The frigate is located in the easternmost part of the archipelago. There are no roads and vehicles here at all: you can only move on foot or by bicycle along the paths. The nature of the island is unique: rare plants grow here (takamaka, filao, banana, mango, Indian almond trees and century-old baobabs) and unique birds live: Seychellois dials, coconut doves, song magpies, petrels and, of course, frigatebirds.

The landscape is dominated by gigantic, bizarre granite boulders surrounding 7 pinkish sand beaches. best beach- Anse Victorine is located directly in front of the only hotel on the island, Frégate Island Private 5 * - one of the most expensive hotels in the world, built in 1998.

Aldabra atoll

Aldabra Atoll is the second largest atoll in the world, belonging to the Seychelles archipelago, located in the Indian Ocean, 420 km northeast of Madagascar. Entry into the territory of the atoll is carried out strictly by passes, the presence of a person is reduced to an absolute minimum, since there is a unique natural reserve Aldabra, in 1982 included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The territory of the atoll and the islands in its lagoon is about 186 sq. km. Like other isolated islands and groups of oceanic islands, Aldabra has a high percentage of endemic plant and animal species. Aldabra is home to the world's largest population of giant tortoises, with an estimated 100,000 individuals. The coastal waters of the atoll abound in marine life, which attracts divers here. The Aldabra Natural Park has its own website.

What to see

Excursion program on the island of Mahe will not do without a walk through the capital of the Seychelles - Victoria.

The main street of Victoria is called Market Street, and in addition to numerous shops, souvenir shops and markets, there is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception (early 20th century), the Clock Tower (1903), a natural history museum and a small historical museum, the largest Seychelles supermarket , the size of which actually does not exceed the size of an average store in a small European town, as well as the only two traffic lights in the entire archipelago.

The buildings of the Bank of Seychelles, the National Library and the Parliament, a small Anglican church, a blue and white Hindu gopuram temple, a modest mosque and the Sir Selvin Selvin-Clark market may seem interesting.

The northern part of the island of Mahe, consisting of high hills of volcanic origin, overgrown with tropical forests, is part of national reserve Seychelles Morne, named after the largest hill that rises in the center of its territory. The eastern border of the reserve runs 1 km from the city of Victoria, the western border stretches from Port Loney Bay in the north to Grand Anse Bay in the south. The reserve has many hiking trails, relic species of trees and shrubs grow.

If you head from Victoria to Port Glaud Bay on the west coast of Mahe Island along one of the few asphalt roads, then, before reaching 2 km from the coast, you can find the Morne Blanc hill (667 m). On its slopes is the only tea factory in the Seychelles, founded here in 1962. Most of the tea produced is flavored with vanilla, sometimes lemon, orange, mint and cinnamon are added. You can climb the hill along the path past the tea terraces to the actual premises of the factory, where tourists will be shown all the stages of tea production. In the souvenir shop at the factory, for 10 rupees, you can buy various types of tea or a bag of citronella, a local plant whose properties can be compared to the invigorating properties of coffee. There is also a tea tavern at the tea factory, where you can taste all types of tea before buying.

The Royal Garden is located next to the Royal Bay, 18 km south of Victoria on the island of Mahe. The garden was founded in 1772 by French colonists who started growing spices here. The garden, exhaling spicy exquisite aromas, still exists, it is a private property, the owners of which have restored the estate in the center of the site and invite tourists on a tour. The estate has a small restaurant of Creole cuisine, a souvenir shop, a small museum of the life of the Seychelles planters of the XIX century. Each visitor to the garden is entitled to a small present - a seedling of one of the plants: avocado, patchouli, ginger, clove, pepper, nutmeg or vanilla.

The artisan village is located just north of King's Bay, next to Au Cap Beach on the island of Mahe. The village in the traditional Creole spirit was erected specifically to acquaint tourists with Creole crafts, architecture and cuisine. In the center of the village is a large restored manor house (Grann Kaz) in colonial style dated 1870. It is surrounded by 12 huts turned into craft workshops and souvenir shops, where you can buy historically accurate models of frigates, paintings, crafts from coconut.

In the Blue Hens Bay on the island of Mahe, there is a gallery of the most famous artist of the Seychelles - Michael Adams. He managed to achieve recognition not only in his homeland, but throughout the world. In a small traditional chalet there is a studio, an art gallery and a store that sells bright paintings on silk, watercolors, postcards and author's calendars. The cost of work is from 10 to 8,500 rupees.

The Botanical Garden of Mont Fleury was founded on the island of Mahe in 1901 by Mr. Dupont as an experimental plantation, which grew introduced to the island tropical plants. Today, about 200 species of exotic and local plants grow on the territory of the garden of 6 hectares. The main place is occupied by palm trees, of which there are several dozen species in the garden, among them is the famous sea coconut palm, which has been under state protection since 1978. In the garden, everyone has the opportunity to plant their own coconut palm, receiving a sprouted nut for a small amount.

Less than a kilometer from the village of Baie Ste Anne on the island of Praslin begins the territory of the famous May Valley - Reserve of sea coconut palms, included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The May Valley is a European idea of ​​heaven on earth brought to life; in the 19th century it was even called the Garden of Eden. A lot of endemic plants grow on the territory of the park of 19.5 hectares, the main wealth of the May Valley is the largest plantation (about 7,000 palms) of the sea coconut palm (Coco-de-mer) - Lodoicea maldivica, the fruits of an interesting form of which (distinguish between the fruits of female and male palms) considered a symbol of the Seychelles.

You can get around the May Valley on foot in 2-4 hours: 5 routes marked with arrows follow specially laid paths. The reserve is also interesting for ornithologists: lovers of birds can see the Seychelles nightingale, falcon, Indian myna, salanga, blue dove, rare black parrot (coracopsis nigra barklyi) here. The fauna of the May Valley is represented by geckos, chameleons, turtles, Seychelles flying foxes (huge bats, whose wingspan reaches 1 meter).

This attraction of Praslin Island is located on the Gold Coast beach. In the gallery you can get acquainted with the work of local artist George Camille , which has gained wide popularity in the Seychelles since the end of the last century, and has visited many European capitals with exhibitions. The paintings of George Camille are distinguished by a riot of colors of tropical nature, imbued with the festive spirit of the Creole worldview. The gallery features watercolors, pencil, pastels, silk-screen printing, engravings, acrylics and relief collages. Many works can be bought. The cost of work is from 300 to 10,000 rupees.

On the west coast of Praslin Island, near the local airport, in the village of Amitie, there is a Black Pearl farm. where black pearls are grown. Clams Pinctada margaritifera, producing black pearls (its shade may vary), were brought to the Seychelles 10 years ago as an experiment, and they have taken root well in warm tropical waters. Tours are conducted on the farm, during which tourists are introduced to the process of growing pearls, there is a jewelry store where you can buy black pearl jewelry set in 18 carat gold.

The Black Pearl Farm also breeds the giant multicolored clams Tridacna maxima, which are very popular with European and American aquarists. Clams Tridacna maxima are unpretentious, on the farm they feel great in four outdoor pools in the vicinity of tropical fish, turtles and other inhabitants of coral reefs.

Union Estate Park, in the village of Union on La Digue Island, is the main tourist attraction on the island.

The park was built on land that belonged to the aristocratic Hossen family in the 19th century. The master's house is still the central building of the complex; it is one of the oldest colonial buildings in the archipelago. Tourists are attracted by the fact that it was here that Francois Leterrier filmed some episodes of the famous film Farewell Emmanuelle. Today, this wooden building with a palm-leaf roof is the private property of the former President of Seychelles France, Albert René.

The natural landmark of the park is a granite mountain dating back 75 million years, it was formed by magma flows, which led to its bizarre shape. At the foot of the cliff there is an enclosure with giant land tortoises brought to La Digue from Aldabra National Park.

Where to go in the Seychelles

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Where to eat and drink

Parks and recreation areas

Leisure

Transport

Shops and markets

Things to do

Seychelles is located in the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar and is an ideal place for diving and underwater photography. It is in the Seychelles that SUBIOS, an annual festival of films shot underwater in the Indian Ocean, is held. In addition to diving, fishing is held in high esteem in the Seychelles. No less popular in the Seychelles are other water activities - snorkeling, water skiing, windsurfing, kiting, information about which can be obtained at any hotel. Here we will focus on diving and fishing in more detail.

Diving

A huge number of rare marine inhabitants live in the coastal waters of the archipelago: butterfly fish, razor fish, Picasso fish, stone fish, pterios rapiata, hammerhead shark, mademoiselle shark, nosed shark, blue marlin, cardinal fish, 17 varieties sea ​​urchins, swordfish, yellowfin and toothy tuna, brown and green moray eels, the oldest and largest turtles in the world.

Most dives are from boats and most dive sites are 10-40 minutes boat ride from shore. Diving centers employ professional instructors who speak several languages, it is possible to rent the necessary equipment.

Visibility in the open sea reaches 30 meters,

Water temperature+24-30С.

diving season limited by the monsoons, as the transparency of the water is significantly reduced. The underwater world of the Seychelles is presented in all its glory during the periods April-May and September-October.

Dive sites there are about 70 in the Seychelles, but the most popular and most frequently visited are those listed below.

It is possible to rent boats, catamarans and yachts in the Seychelles. This is mainly done by Charter Seychelles, Interya Chtcharter, Charter World.

A complete list of water transport rental companies is presented on this site.

Buses

SPTC buses run on the islands of Mahe and Praslin with an interval of 15 minutes on the main routes, and from 30 minutes to an hour on all others. On Mahe, bus service is carried out daily from 5:00 to 20:30, on Praslin - from 5:45 to 17:45. The schedule for both islands is usually available at the hotel reception. The fare is 5-10 rupees.

Taxi

Fixed fare taxis are available on the islands of Mahe and Praslin. Taxis are comfortable, operate 24 hours a day, and their stands are located near each hotel. The fare for the first kilometer is 15 rupees, then - 5 rupees per km. The fee for 1 piece of luggage is 5 rupees. Fares at night are higher than during the day. The taxi rank in Victoria is located on Albert Street, behind the post office.

Car rental

To rent a car, the driver must be over 22 years old, an international driver's license and a credit card are required. Car rental costs from 40 euros (640 euros) per day. The cost of 1 liter of gasoline is up to 15 rupees. There are few gas stations: on about. Praslin - 2 gas stations, Mahe - 6. They all work on their own schedule, so gas stations in Victoria are open from 5:00 to 23:00.

The maximum speed in the city is 45 km/h, outside the settlements - 65 km/h, on the highway to the airport - 80 km/h. Local population does not follow traffic rules. Driving in the Seychelles is on the left. Roads are mostly in poor condition.

One of the most convenient means of transportation on many islands (Praslin, La Digue) - rented bike. Bicycle rentals are usually located in hotels. Its rent will cost from 50 rupees per day.

Communication

You can communicate with the inhabitants of the Seychelles in English, which is the official language (it is spoken by 4.9% of the population) or in French, which formed the basis of the local Creole language (91.8% of the population), the so-called Seselva Creole.

culture

The culture of the Seychelles is multifaceted, it was formed under the influence of French and English colonists, as well as immigrants from Africa, India, Madagascar.

The applied art of the archipelago is represented by products made from palm fibers and tortoise shells, as well as products from the famous Seychelles coconut "sea palm" and its nuts.

The islands are famous for their colorful festivals, the most interesting and beautiful of which are the "Creole Language Week" and the "Creole Festival" held at the end of October. At this time, representatives of the Creole diasporas come to the Seychelles for a big holiday dedicated to all aspects of French-speaking Creole culture: literature, music, dance, theater, crafts, cuisine.

Kitchen

Seychellois cuisine is based on Creole culinary traditions, the main components of which are rice and seafood. The most popular dish is "pwason ek diri" - fish and rice. The menu always features typical fish delicacies such as the juicy red snapper (bourzwa), tuna steaks - the king of fish, shark shatini, and you can even find a rare parrotfish fillet. Smoked sailboat is the most common snack.

The local prawns are also excellent - either curried in a sweet sauce or fried in garlic butter. Also, tourists respect tektek soup, octopus, banana kat-kat, breadfruit stew, giramon puree, boiled cassava, coconut nougat, candied bilimbi, stewed banana Saint-Jacques. Another local delicacy is curried fruit bat (chauve-souris), which is quite bony but definitely worth a try.

Remember that Seychelles cuisine is very spicy. When ordering them, you can ask to add spices "in moderation". Seychelles restaurants also serve European cuisine.

The main alcoholic specialties are: "dite zitronel" - a tincture of lemon mint, "kalu" - fermented coconut juice, reminiscent of young wine, "baka" - fermented sugar cane juice, strong enough. The local beer is called Seybrew. Connoisseurs of good wines are advised to try South African wines, which are available in Seychelles bars.

Food in restaurants at hotels in the Seychelles is not cheap. In small cozy restaurants on the shore or in settlements, lunch or dinner will cost much less - 200-300 rupees.

Mahe Island Restaurants

An international restaurant with a pleasant interior and a chic terrace overlooking the ocean. The restaurant, in addition to dishes from various cuisines of the world, offers a large selection of cocktails for every taste. The cost of dinner - from 35 euros, each visitor - a glass of champagne.

The Creole restaurant is set in a large orchard by the ocean. The interior is designed in the style of a Creole village, using local natural materials - palm leaves, bamboo, granite boulders and large shells. The restaurant often hosts Creole themed evenings, weddings, and appointments. The restaurant is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00. For dinner, you need to book a table in advance - at least a day in advance.

A restaurant with stunning panoramic ocean views that serves Creole and international cuisine using the freshest, highest quality ingredients. In addition to the main menu, it is offered Buffet And entertainment programs on weekends. The cost of lunch or dinner is from 70 to 1200 rupees.

The Indian restaurant is popular with guests of the island: here you can try Indian dishes such as Tikka chicken, kebabs, Naan bread, Biryani chicken. Available vegetarian menu. The cost of lunch or dinner is 125-225 rupees. The restaurant is located on the territory of the Berjaya Beau-Vallon hotel Bay Resort&Casino.

Le Canton Chinese Restaurant

Chinese restaurant located at the Berjaya Beau-Vallon Bay Resort & Casino. The cost of lunch or dinner is from 100 to 400 rupees.

The pizzeria serves Creole, Italian and international cuisine. This small and inexpensive restaurant in the center of Victoria is well-deservedly popular, as the main dishes are cooked in a clay oven. The cost of lunch is 80-140 rupees.

Praslin Island Restaurants

Located in the Petit Les Lauriers hotel, this restaurant offers a wide selection of salads, curries and other Creole gastronomy. It also serves freshly caught grilled fish. Large selection of exotic cocktails. On Sunday evening, guests are waiting for The cultural program- national dances performed by local groups. The interior is decorated in a Creole style.

Small family run restaurant serving Creole cuisine. Most of the dishes are prepared from fish with the addition of breadfruit and vegetables. Account - from 250 rupees. Open from Monday to Saturday 11:45-14:30 and 19:30-22:00. Closed on Sundays.

Creole and international restaurant with a large wooden deck overlooking Curieuse Island. The menu is very varied, a large selection of coffee, refreshing and alcoholic drinks. The cost of lunch is 180-420 rupees.

La Digue Island Restaurants

Villa Authentic - best restaurant Creole cuisine in La Digue. Here you can have an inexpensive breakfast, dinner and lunch, enjoying cozy atmosphere, good service and a large selection of local dishes. It is better to book a table in advance by phone. The cost of lunch is about 300 rupees, the children's menu is about 200 rupees.

This restaurant specializes in Creole cuisine. The interior of the room is made in the national style: wooden furniture, sandy floor, a roof covered with palm leaves, a large outdoor terrace with stunning views of Praslin Island and, of course, magnificent sunsets. The cost of breakfast (buffet) - 180 rupees, lunch or dinner - 250 rupees.

Purchases

Prices in stores in the Seychelles are quite high, the assortment does not differ in variety compared to the European one. You can buy clothes made of light cotton fabrics, leather sandals, sportswear and shoes.

Schedule

The shop hours are usually as follows: on weekdays from 8:00 to 16:00 with lunch from 12:00 to 13:00, on Saturday - until 12:00. Sunday is a day off.

Souvenirs

You can bring a lot of interesting things as souvenirs from the Seychelles: men's straw hats and other wickerwork, local works of art (for example, the work of Seychelles painters), spices (Creole curries and chili), tea from the islands, local music CDs, jewelry, coral and mother-of-pearl boxes.

Coco de Mer

But the main present is the fruits of the Coco de Mer coconut palm, which cannot be exported without a special certificate. The most famous Seychelles endemic is the Maldivian fan palm (Lodoicea maldivica), or Coco de Mer, its fruit weighs about 20 kg and is considered the largest in the plant kingdom. Up to 3000 nuts are harvested per year in the Seychelles (one palm tree brings a maximum of 30 nuts). Each fruit is numbered - marked with a special sticker with a number, this number is indicated in the certificate when buying a nut from an authorized seller. The walnut is not cheap (from 150 to 250 euros, large specimens are more expensive), but the price includes the cost of an export permit. Caskets are also made from a whole walnut, and so-called "Praslin faience" - scoops, bowls, plates, flasks and other rather elegant crafts from small parts.

It is also impossible to export from the Seychelles without a certificate of official purchase of shells, corals, hawksbill turtle shell products. Prices for goods, especially for souvenirs, are fixed in the Seychelles, bargaining is usually inappropriate.

Currency and payment

In the Seychelles, the Seychelles rupee (SCR) is in circulation, the rate of which is approximately as follows: $ 1 ~ 12.5 SCR, 1 euro ~ 16 SCR.

Currency can be exchanged at banks, official exchange offices, at the airport, in hotels. Hand-held currency exchange is prohibited by law. Reverse exchange of rupees is possible only upon presentation of a certificate of currency exchange from the bank. Banks are usually open from 8:00 to 14:00 on weekdays, on Saturdays - until 11:00.

Large hotels and some shops accept credit cards MasterCard/Access and Visa. Less common are American Express and Diners Club. Traveler's checks can be exchanged at any bank, their exchange rate is more favorable compared to cash. The hotel can pay in both currency and rupees. Excursions and car rentals are usually paid only in international currency($ and euro).

Connection

Telephone

You can call in the Seychelles from pay phones, which are located in settlements, they work with magnetic cards (sold in kiosks and post offices). In some places, old-style pay phones have been preserved, working on coins (3 minutes of conversation - 1 rupee).

Cellular communication is the GSM 900 communication standard. Roaming is available to subscribers of the main Russian operators.
The telephone code of the country is 248. To call the Seychelles, dial: 00 - 248 - the subscriber's number.

Internet

On the larger islands (Mahe, Praslin) there are several Internet cafes, most hotels usually provide paid or free WIFI c. rooms, conference rooms or in the lobby. The cost of a paid Internet connection in hotels is approximately as follows: 1 day - 10 euros, 3 days - 25 euros, 5 days - 50 euros.

Mobile Internet is also available on the islands, the conditions are from local operators AirTel and Cable & Wareless.

When buying an Internet SIM card, AirTel will not immediately have a network, since the access point (APN) must be configured at the operator's offices. Experts can try to do it themselves according to the parameters: name - Airtel, APN - airtelgprs.com, everything else is by default.

Safety

In general, the Seychelles are safe for tourists. It is recommended to follow basic safety rules: do not take valuables with you to the beach, since the beaches are not guarded. Large sums of money and other valuables are best kept in a hotel safe.
Tap water on the islands of Mahe and Praslin is drinkable, on other islands it is better to use bottled water.
Although doctors recommend that tourists traveling to the Seychelles get vaccinated against hepatitis A, special vaccination is still not required, but only desirable - a certificate of vaccination and a health insurance policy are not required.

Mandatory use sunscreen with a high degree of protection (from SPF 30), a headgear, it is recommended to swim in a T-shirt in the first days of your stay on the islands so as not to burn yourself. Be sure to bring insect repellant with you.
While swimming in the sea, you should be careful: there are sea urchins, there are fragments of coral and granite.

Seychelles is considered the most medically developed country in the region. The central hospital is located in the city of Victoria, there are also clinics on Praslin and La Digue. An ambulance can be called around the clock from any hotel.

P. O. Box 632, Victoria, Mahe, Seychelles

Embassy:
Phone: (8-10-248) 26-6590, 26-6122
Fax: (8-10-248) 26-6653