Seychelles islands where are the map. Deniz: exciting diving. What is the Seychelles

Impeccable sandy beaches and fabulous natural landscapes combined with amazing national traditions make Seychelles a favorite holiday destination for many tourists.

In the eighteenth century, the Seychelles was one of the most fertile French colonies, where all kinds of spices, spices and exotic fruits were grown. Today, this independent country has become a major tourist center.

Seychelles on the world map

Seychelles is not just considered one of the most beautiful corners of our planet. This island state is located in the west of the Indian Ocean, one and a half thousand kilometers from the mainland called. In total, there are about 115 islands in the Seychelles, but only a third of the island territories are inhabited by people (33 inhabited islands). South of the Seychelles is the famous island. The total area occupied by the republic is no more than 455 square kilometers.
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The largest island is Mahe, its area is more than 140 kilometers. Actually, the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, is located on it, as well as a huge international airport, which annually receives millions of tourists from all over the world. Other major islands include Praslin, Silhouette and La Digue. However, most travelers are especially attracted to small secluded coral islands. The total number of the local population is 88 thousand people.
According to their geological structure and origin, the islands can be divided into two groups: coral and granite. Of all 115 islands, only 42 belong to the granitic group. Among them, you can list all the largest island territories and Mahe. In this part of the country there are small areas of fertile land that are used by the local population to grow a wide variety of crops. In addition, palm forests and thickets of tree ferns are a characteristic natural feature of the granite islands. Many types of plants growing on these lands are unique in their kind and create an indescribable fairy-tale atmosphere.
As for the coral islands formed from limestone rocks, their flora is much poorer due to frequent droughts. Almost the only representative of the flora of such lands are coconut palms. The fauna of the Seychelles is represented by dozens of endemic species of birds and reptiles.
Almost all representatives of the local population are fluent in English or French, so most tourists do not experience a language barrier when traveling through the archipelago. Travelers are attracted not only by marvelous local legends, but also by natural sights. Many islands of the Seychelles archipelago were formed on the basis of volcanic rocks. Including the highest point in the country - the Seychelles Morne. The height of this mountain is 907 meters above sea level. This island country is not rich in rivers and lakes. There are no permanent rivers here at all, but they always appear after the onset of the rainy season.

Seychelles flag

Outwardly, the national flag of the Seychelles resembles a small colorful rainbow. On a rectangular panel there are five multi-colored sectors, originating in its lower left corner. They occupy almost the same size space on the flag. The color scheme includes five bright and saturated colors: blue, red, green, white and yellow.

Each of these shades holds an exceptional symbolic meaning. The blue sector represents the clear sky and transparent sea surface, while the yellow sector represents the warmth and light of the sun over the Seychelles. The red sector expresses the desire of the people of this island nation for unity, independence and peace. The green color has become a symbol of the nature of the islands, and the white sector shows the justice and supremacy of the laws in force in the Seychelles.
As you know, this country gained its independence only in 1976, and the official state flag of the Seychelles in its modern form appeared already in June 1996.

Climate features in the Seychelles

The location of the Seychelles near the equator has almost a key influence on the weather in the country. That is why travelers can enjoy local free beaches, warm sea and unsurpassed tropical landscapes all year round. As a rule, the sun always shines brightly in the Seychelles, and a warm light breeze gently envelops the shoulders, but during the rainy seasons, a pleasant stay can be briefly deprived of many charms. The most successful time to travel to the Seychelles is the period from late spring to early summer or the first autumn months.
In winter, the Seychelles are subject to the powerful influence of the monsoons, so the sun is hidden behind the clouds almost all the time. However, even at such a time, tourists will have something to admire on the islands of the archipelago. It is always warm and cozy here in summer, but strong gusty winds can make things a little worse. Do not believe those who talk about frequent tropical hurricanes in the Seychelles, as they usually bypass them.

Holidays in the Seychelles

Impeccable white sandy beaches, alluring singing of exotic birds, fascinating history and magnificent comfortable apartments simply cannot but please the guests of the Seychelles. Divers from all over the world come here for a fabulous underwater journey along the coral reefs, which have become homes for hundreds of unique inhabitants. Transparent, calm sea surface, as in the palm of your hand, reveals all the secrets of the ocean depths and expanses.
Tourists highly appreciate the quality of service in local hotels and inns, as well as the variety of national dishes. Real gourmets will definitely find something interesting here. It is known that in addition to natural beauties and impeccable service, the Seychelles also hide many fascinating attractions:

• Botanical garden called "Victoria". In appearance, the shape of this natural complex resembles appetizing female buttocks, which is especially pleasing to tourists. In the summer, it is definitely worth a visit for the amazing flowering trees. No less interesting for visitors will always be giant turtles and pretty fruit bats.
• Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
• Islands are held every spring in April.
• Historical Museum of the Seychelles.
• Domaine de Val des Pres. A wonderful cultural attraction that carries the historical heritage of the Seychelles since the reign of France over them. Dozens of colorful craft workshops work there, where you can buy a lot of interesting inexpensive souvenirs.
• Exotic Garden Flower. The exotic tropical flowering plants of this garden will certainly delight you with their colorfulness and unforgettable aromas.

There are many more interesting and surprising things in the Seychelles. Here you can even watch the huge whale sharks. Rest assured, the Seychelles is deservedly called an earthly paradise! So, have a good trip!

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Basic moments

The Seychelles consists of 115 islands, of which 43 are internal and 72 are external islands located between 4 and 10 ° south latitude and between 46 and 54 ° east longitude. Their total area is only 455 km², they are located on 1,400,000 km² of the Indian Ocean. Only 30 are inhabited, where about 92 thousand people live. The inner islands, which include Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, are located about 1600 km east of Africa. These are the oldest oceanic islands in the world, about 750 million years old, and the only islands that were not formed as a result of the action of underwater volcanoes or the activity of corals.

Despite the small territory, the sunny archipelago remains a favorite vacation spot for tourists from different countries, including Russians. At the same time, not everyone can afford a vacation in the Seychelles, given that here, in comparison with many other world resorts, staying can not be called cheap. However, such peace and idyll reign in the Seychelles that travelers are ready to pay even big money, just to be away from the centers of civilization, where the bustle and sometimes exhausting rhythm of life dominate.

Lovers of relaxation and exclusive beach holidays are not the only category of tourists who choose the Seychelles for relaxation. Among those who came here on vacation, one can single out people who are in love with the ocean, because there are many beautiful dive sites around the archipelago, and its coast is washed by waves of any size, which is very appreciated by surfers. Lovers of yachting and sea fishing are drawn to exotic islands with all their hearts. We will not specify that all of them are at least wealthy people.

So, the Seychelles is the center of peace and order, incredibly beautiful landscapes and excellent service. In a word, everything that is ideal for a good rest for both body and soul. And on these paradise islands ... they start a new life. I mean family: holding romantic wedding ceremonies in the picturesque tropics, lost in the ocean waters, has become a good tradition. And very fashionable. Couples in love who decide to seal their relationship with the bonds of Hymen flock here like moths all year round. Paradise is expensive, but after all, a wedding is one and for life - what can you not do for the sake of great and bright love?

It is difficult to find words to convey all the beauty of this truly divine corner on our restless planet. Islands covered with greenery, a luxurious coastline and an underwater world teeming with diverse wildlife, a striking landscape, exotic fruits and delicious national cuisine - you can appreciate all the exclusivity and originality of recreation in these places, only when you get here. And don't forget to take your camera with you, because the beaches of the Seychelles are the most photographed in the world!

Geography and climate

The Seychelles are located east of Africa and north of Madagascar. The equator line runs higher, so the small resort republic belongs to the southern hemisphere. The most famous and at the same time the largest island of the archipelago is Mahe. Smaller: Praslin, La Digue, Deroche, Silhouette, Saint Anna, Bird, Denis and others. According to geological features, the islands are divided into granite and coral. The first group includes 42 islands, all of them are only 50-70 kilometers away from Mahe. Most of the country's settlements are concentrated on their coast and the main economic activity is carried out. In the interior regions of the "granites" there are forests where tree-like ferns, rare species of palm trees, and pandanuses grow. But the coral islands are flat atolls, rising above sea level by only 4-8 meters. They consist of limestone, but practically do not retain moisture, so droughts are not uncommon in this part of the Seychelles. Limestone soils are considered thin, so nothing else but coconut palms grows here.

The climate is significantly affected by the fact that cyclones do not pass through the islands. Thanks to this, the Seychelles is not only one of the most favorable, but also the safest places for recreation on the planet, and all year round. The wet and dry seasons here alternate without significant temperature fluctuations, and the average humidity is rarely below 80%.

From December to April, the country is under the rule of the rainy season. Showers are a frequent occurrence at this time, often very strong, but they quickly pass. January is considered the rainiest. Most of the precipitation falls in the mountainous regions of the islands of Mahe and Silhouette. At the same time, the northwest monsoons are blowing, the air temperature rises to 30 degrees with a plus sign.

The dry season starts in June and lasts until October. It cannot be said that during this period there is no rain at all, only the level of humidity is still significantly lower. The average air temperature is kept at +25 °C. There are winds, but already south-easterly. The sea at this time is restless, although the wind force, if it exceeds 6 points, is rare. The driest months of the year are July and August.

You can go to the resorts of the Seychelles all year round, but only two months are considered the most favorable for a good rest - May and October. Why are they so remarkable? Those that do not belong to any of the local seasons, representing a kind of off-season. May and October weather is characterized by pleasant warmth, the ocean is so calm that it seems to have dozed off. The wind blows weakly, and the rains, if they happen, end quickly. Tourists interested in ornithology should definitely visit Cousin and Bird Islands in May, when countless flocks of birds flock to them.

Seychelles nature

Seychelles is mainly covered with tropical forests, the local flora and fauna is represented mainly by endemic plant and animal species. The policy of sustainable tourism has led to the fact that the Seychelles managed to preserve their natural heritage. The archipelago has many national parks under the protection of UNESCO, as well as a number of protected areas. Although the latter do not have the status of a reserve in the traditional sense, this does not mean at all that tourists can behave here as they please. While on vacation - even if you are outside the territory of any national park - you must be prepared to face many prohibitions that may even seem strange, but you cannot ignore them.

One of these prohibitions applies on the island of Mahe: you can’t fish here, as well as collect shells and corals. If the restrictions associated with fishing are still somehow understandable, then how to explain the taboo on collecting coral and shells? Such a ban seems ridiculous to many. But Cousin Island is so carefully guarded by the International Committee for the Protection of Birds that it is forbidden to visit it without a guide. Birds of rare species nest right on the paths, and there is a risk that lone tourists can harm them. The deserted beaches of the island have long been chosen by sea turtles that lay their eggs here. For this reason, it is very difficult to visit not only Kuzin, but also other uninhabited regions of the country.

Even entire islands are national parks. For example, Praslin is the second largest in the Seychelles. In its center is the Vallee de Mai nature reserve, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has become home to dozens of endemic species of local flora and fauna. It is here that the black parrot, the Bul-Bul nightingale, the fruit dove live - the three rarest species of birds in the world. Here, in the reserve, you can also see the exotic palm tree Coco de mer, or sea nut, which has become recognizable thanks to its unusually shaped fruits. This unique endemic is a symbol of the Seychelles and is under state protection.

The best example of a secluded tropical paradise is Aldabra. This is the largest coral atoll in the world, home to over 150,000 giant tortoises that thrive on these inhospitable shores. Here lives the last flightless bird of the Indian Ocean - the Cuvier shepherd. Aldabra has the second largest frigate colony in the world. Flamingos nest on the atoll, as well as a dozen endemic bird species. Sea turtles, rays, sharks and many exotic fish swim among the reefs. More than 2,000 turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of Aldabra. Since 2001, dugongs have been seen here four times - previously these sea cows were considered extinct. Sea and land turtles, birds and millions of fish live and breed in peace in the 34 km² lagoon. Even now there are almost no people on the island - a few scientists, a caretaker and his assistants come here. They settle in small houses, collect data and protect this unique corner of the earth. Aldabra is the most remote and rarely visited island of the Seychelles archipelago. The only footprints that can be seen on the white sandy beaches are those of birds and turtles.

The people of the Seychelles do their best to keep the ocean and the islands clean. In the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, you will not see garbage anywhere. Wherever you go: to the famous beaches of Anse Lazio on Praslin, Anse Source d "Argent on La Digue, or to some nameless cove - you will not come across a single tin can or plastic bottle, and even in the trash. Those Those who relax on the Seychelles beaches take all the garbage with them, leaving the coast exactly as nature created it.

An interesting fact: the famous director Roman Polanski in 1986 released a film called “Pirates”, which was appreciated by film critics. This painting was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. The second award, the César Award, was for costumes and set design. If not for the magnificent natural landscape of the Seychelles, where Polanski carried out location shooting, the film would hardly have received the second award.

History of the Seychelles

Initially, the Seychelles were part of the Indian-Eurasian continent. A strong sub-oceanic current separated this part of the continent, and it ended up in the middle of the ocean. Then the Seychelles was a lifeless granite rock about the size of Great Britain. Over millions of years, water and wind have divided the rock into many islands. Due to rising sea levels and the weight of the carbonate platform that supports the coral reefs, today the area of ​​granite rocks is just over 110 km², that is, a thousandth of its original size.

But the decline in sea levels, which occurred several thousand years ago, exposed the outer coral islands. Sandbanks appeared, forming bizarrely shaped coral islands with internal lagoons. At low tide, the lagoons become almost completely shallow, and fish can be collected by hand.

Basking under the gentle sun and half asleep listening to the soothing whisper of the ocean, it is hard to believe that such an idyll did not always reign in the Seychelles. The islands have such a turbulent past that it could form the basis of the plot of more than one adventure movie.

The expedition of the famous navigator Vasco da Gama, who visited the area back in 1502, was the first to notice the archipelago. He was an admiral by rank, so he called the found islands Admiral's. For the first time, the island of Mahe, which was then called Ilya Ganaa, was put on the compass maps of the Portuguese. Evidence has survived to this day that the Seychelles were visited before by Arab sailors. Rock inscriptions on Frigate and graves dated to the 9th-10th centuries on Silhouette Island serve as confirmation. In those distant times, the archipelago was uninhabited. Then it was made their haven by pirates, who ruled here for more than two centuries.

The very first of the Europeans landed here the ubiquitous British. In 1609, the expedition of Captain A. Sharpay not only examined the Seychelles in detail, but also compiled a detailed description of them. The first settlements on a permanent basis on the islands of Mahe and Praslin were founded by the French. They had a predominantly economic interest: starting in 1756, the colonialists set up entire plantations for growing cinnamon, vanilla and cloves. Then the islands got their current name - by the name of Jean Moreau de Sechelles, the French finance minister during the time of Louis XIV. Slaves imported from Madagascar and the eastern regions of mainland Africa were used as cheap labor.

And the British, apparently, could not come to terms with the fact that the French were able to seize the strategic initiative from them, the pioneers, and in 1794 became the new masters of the archipelago. The policy of the British in the middle of the 19th century, after slavery was abolished in 1835, was to encourage the migration to the Seychelles of Indians from among workers in coconut plantations, as well as persons engaged in trade. From the point of view of the then international law, the presence of the British in the archipelago was regarded as an occupation: after all, it belonged to the French East India Company. However, in 1814, under the terms of the Treaty of Paris, Great Britain officially became the owner of the Seychelles. In 1840, they officially became part of another British colony in the Indian Ocean - Mauritius, from which representatives of the Chinese ethnic group began to move to the archipelago. In 1903, the Seychelles received a new administrative status - a separate crown possession. Around the same time, immigrants from the Arabian Peninsula began to appear on the islands.

In 1965, such islands as Desroches, Aldabra, Farquhar and some others were withdrawn from the administration of the Seychelles and turned by Great Britain into independent possessions in the Indian Ocean. On June 28, 1976, the United Kingdom granted independence to the Seychelles. In the same year, the first elections to the country's parliament took place, in which the Democratic Party won the majority. The post of the first prime minister of the new independent state was received by James Manch.

A year later, an armed coup took place in the Seychelles, as a result, the opposition United Party of the People, which shared the Marxist and socialist ideology, came to power. In 1978, this political force was renamed the People's Progressive Front (NPF), the same socialism remained at the heart of its ideology. According to the Constitution of 1979, a one-party system was established in the republic. Agricultural lands were requisitioned from their owners, and agricultural and fishing collective farms were created on their basis.

Throughout the existence of the independent Republic of Seychelles, many more attempts have been made to change power by force. In the first two and a half years of independence alone, three such attempts were thwarted. Similar actions were also taken by opponents of the regime in 1981-1982 and 1986-1987. In 1991, France-Albert René, the Seychelles ruler since 1977, and his Popular Progressive Front party agreed to hold free democratic elections and proclaimed the rejection of Marxism. Two years later, a new Constitution of the republic was adopted, officially establishing a departure from the previous policy, a multi-party system, a market economy, privatization and offshore companies. In 2004, President René voluntarily stepped down from office, handing over the reins to Vice President James Michel. The latter was re-elected as head of state in 2006 and 2011.

Cities and resorts

If you are going to spend your holidays in the Seychelles, you must decide where to stay. From the granite islands of Mahe, Praslin and La Digue to the coral atolls of the outlying islands, 18 islands offer eco-friendly accommodation, ideal for lovers of nature, the sea and romance.

The capital Victoria is the only city in the country in the usual sense. It is located on the island of Mahe and immediately attracts attention with its colonial architecture, dispersed in cozy streets. The heart of the city is Market Street and Long Pier, where all the capital's attractions are located, from a small copy of London's Big Ben to a very neat St. Paul's Cathedral, which looks like a big toy. The best hotels are located on the first coastline of Victoria, and modest "kopeck piece" perched a little further away.

Mahe

In addition to the capital, on the largest island of the archipelago, Mahe, you can enjoy hiking in the mist-shrouded mountains of the Morne-Seychellois National Park, shopping and excellent beaches, of which there are about 70. The most visited, where there is simply nowhere to step in the high season, is Beau Vallon . Life on the beach is in full swing not only during the day, but also at night. Well, the tourist infrastructure in its development is at the highest level. Vacationers who cannot stand the fuss should go to the west coast of the island for relaxation, where it is not so crowded.

Another popular beach on the main island is Grand Anse. Surfers claim that this place is unique for activities, which is facilitated by excellent waves. For diving, the beaches of Anse Forban and Anse Royale are excellent. Divers get an indescribable impression from the crystal clear and calm waters of the Indian Ocean - it seems that there are no such beaches that are conducive to activities anywhere else. The most beautiful beach of Mahe is Anse Intendance. Everything here is like on the cover of a glossy magazine or in a Bounty advertisement: gentle sun, turquoise water, snow-white sand and coconut palms.

Praslin

On Praslin, you can imagine yourself as a real Robinson Crusoe on the best beaches in the world or take a fascinating walk through the mysterious forest, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The island is the second not only in size, but also in terms of attendance. It is famous for the fact that only here grows the national symbol of the Seychelles - coconut Coco de mer. The territory of Praslin is small, it can be bypassed in just a few hours. On the ocean side, the island is surrounded by coral reefs. The most popular beaches are Anse Lazio and Côte d'Or.

La Digue

Tourists are fascinated at first sight by the small island of La Digue, most of which is occupied by Ni d'Aigle. On the island, you can ride a bike or an ox-cart through the jungle. Or you can just indulge in a thoughtless beach holiday. The Bay of Source d'Argent is the main tourist area of ​​La Digue. Interestingly, in the morning it turns pink, and in the evenings, when the sun sets, fiery red. Such a play of colors is possible only thanks to the granite rocks. Travelers also visit another bay - Coconut, as well as two beaches: Grand and Batat. The sand on them, thanks to the same granite boulders, has a pink tint. Breadfruit trees grow on the island, coconut plantations are broken here. You can see paradise flycatchers and giant tortoises.

Silhouette

The third largest granite island in the archipelago is Silhouette, located about 20 km from Mahe. This is a real gem of the Seychelles - an emerald that has not been cut. Wild nature reigns on the island, unaffected by civilization. For ecotourists, these places become a real paradise. There are no roads laid here, and there are no cars themselves. You can get around either on foot or by bike.

Silhouette's visiting card is a huge equatorial forest, which remains an incomprehensible mystery not only for travelers, but also for scientists conducting research here. The order on the island is monitored by the inhabitants of a small village, on the territory of which the five-star hotel Hilton Seychelles Labriz is located. Among the local attractions, we can also highlight the Doban family crypt, the turtle farm and the old house of planters.

Frigate

Frigate Island, which is only 2 km long and 1 km wide, is inhabited by the frigate bird, which gave the island its name. This is an ideal place where you can immerse yourself in a calm and measured holiday, reunited with nature. The island is privately owned and was opened to holidaymakers only a few years ago. There is a hotel where every guest is welcome: you will be received warmly, cordially and in a family way.

According to an old legend, pirates buried their stolen treasures on Frigate. If you like adventure, you can try to find this treasure, and suddenly luck will smile on you - what the hell is not joking!

curiosity

Curiosity Island is just 2 km northeast of Praslin and is home to endemic birds and hundreds of turtles brought from Aldabra Atoll. It got its name in honor of the ship that first moored to its shores. The curiosity is chosen by diving enthusiasts, which is favored by the vast riches of the seabed.

Arid

Considerable wealth, but already lying on the surface - gardenia gardens and citrus forests - attracts travelers to the small granite island of Arid. Here you can meet the largest pink terns in the world and an incredible number of various reptiles, which you don’t need to be afraid of, since they pose no danger to humans.

Gigolo

The most remote island in the Seychelles, located in the southern part of the archipelago, is Alphonse. He, like Frigate, private property, but open to tourists. Those who want to completely disconnect from the bustle of the city, and people who are prone to stress and depression rush here. The absence of cars in this context is perceived as a great advantage, the alternative to them is bicycles. For a good rest, there is everything that your heart desires: a tennis court, a fishing school, a yacht club and paradise beaches stretching for more than 3 km.

Desroches

If you want to completely forget about civilization, go to Desroches. Here you can feel like a time traveler. On the island you can see how coconuts are harvested and copra is harvested in the traditional way. Desroches is 6 km long and only 1 km wide. There is only one Desroches Island Resort on the island, with twenty suites. Desroches has been called "a jewel in a tropical setting".

Aldabra

The largest coral atoll in the world, Aldabra, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This is one of the few places on our planet where gigantic turtles are found, dominating the terrestrial fauna. Entry to this unique nature reserve is tightly controlled. The Czech documentary Aldabra. Journey to the mysterious island.

Recreation and entertainment

One of the most favorite entertainment for tourists in the Seychelles is, of course, diving. And it is impossible not to dwell on it in more detail.

Even those who have never thought about it before are striving to dive into the ocean depths. It is simply impossible to refuse such an opportunity when the water is so clear that visibility in it reaches about 30 m, and the temperature for diving is more than comfortable! The seabed is generally a separate world, from the curiosities of which the eyes literally run up. Either some unusual fish will swim in front of you, or a snow-white shell will sparkle like a diamond. Or a coral of an unprecedented color will pinch on the heel. Acquaintances with a manta ray, a turtle, a white shark and will never be forgotten at all. Almost all Seychelles dive sites are located at least 10, maximum 40 minutes from the coast. There are two seasons a year for diving: September-October and April-May. The best place for diving is the UNESCO-protected island of Aldabra. A “visit” to the ocean depths is not a free pleasure: the cost, including equipment, is 800-850 Seychellois rupees. A training course for beginner divers costs between 6500-7000 rupees.

While some tourists are conquering the depths of the sea, others are happy to tame the board - go surfing. The period from November to April is considered the best season for surfing, because in the summer months this activity can be dangerous due to very large waves. The islands of Mahe and Praslin are considered the most suitable for surfing. We have already called the Grand Anse beach, which is located in the northwest of Mahe, and Anse Lazio on Praslin. The list of beaches popular among the “dosochniks” is by no means limited to them. Let's also name such as Karana Beach, Anse Bougainville, Barbaron, Anse Royal, Misfit Bay, Anse Goulette and Bel Ombre. On average, a surf lesson with an instructor will cost a tourist 1,200 rupees, and a board rental will cost 500 rupees per day.

Fans of quiet hunting, that is, fishermen, will not be left idle. For them, fishing in the Seychelles is the ultimate dream! After all, not some crucian or perch are caught here, but exotic tuna, barracuda, mako shark, tiger shark, which, before arriving in the Seychelles, could only be seen on TV. The most coveted trophy for experienced fishermen is the blue swordfish, also known as the blue marlin. The weight of this marine life exceeds 400 kg! The best time for fishing is early morning, when you need to have time to dig up worms and get to deep water in order to catch small fish - in fact, real prey is lured to it. The best season for fishing in the Seychelles is October-April. Inveterate fishermen can order a boat to remote water areas, for example, to the Cosmoledo and Farquhar atolls. The ship is usually designed to carry several people, and you can rent it from morning to afternoon or for the whole day. The rental price depends on the comfort. A speedboat will cost from 9,000 to 20,000 Seychelles rupees, including the cost of a full set of equipment. A trip with a fishing rod on a boat with more modest characteristics will cost 2,000 rupees. But what to do with the catch, you ask? Right on board or in a restaurant on the shore, your trophies will be turned into real gastronomic masterpieces - you will lick your fingers!

So, the underwater world has been explored, the board has been tamed, a big fish has been caught, and now the evening has quietly come. Is it really just going to bed? But what about the nightlife? In the Seychelles, of course, it is not as stormy as in many European or Thai resorts, so those who like to have fun after dusk will be somewhat disappointed. However, those tourists who are not looking for adventure, but simply would like to relax and have fun, will be satisfied. There are several nightclubs on the island of Mahe, the most popular of them are the Lovant Club in the center of the capital and the Katiolo disco, which looks like the famous hut from Ethel Lilian Voynich's work about Uncle Tom. The rural discotheque, where music of the 80-90s sounds, the small "Club 369" and the inexpensive institution "Barrel" (in everyday life - "Barrel") does not remain without visitors. In the latter, mainly the local public likes to relax. There are also casinos on the island of Mahe, there are only three of them: the first is Berjaya Beau Vallon, the second is at the Plantation Club hotel, and the third is Eden, which was recently opened, but has already gained popularity among gamblers. There is a casino on the island of Praslin, it is the only one here, at the Lemuria Resort.

The Seychellois love to gather and dance folk dances to show the guests of the islands folk culture. On the beach of Beau Vallon, dancing is held on Wednesdays after sunset, and on Sundays around six in the evening. On weekends, local musician Keven Valentin performs at the Kaz Kreole restaurant. If you find yourself in the Seychelles in October, then do not miss the Creole Festival. The festival of music, culture, food and street parties lasts a whole week. Many events are held in hotels.

The liveliest restaurant in Beau Vallon is The Boat House. Every evening, tourists and locals gather here, who are offered a Creole buffet at a fixed price of 450 rupees. The Pirates Arms restaurant and bar in Victoria is very popular. It is worth coming here to listen to musicians performing modern and traditional Seychellois music.

Your hotel may host themed nights, but you'll likely be entertained by local musicians who occasionally do the sega dance. Such dances are quite common in the western Indian Ocean. The dancers shuffle their feet and wiggle their hips to the accompaniment of electric guitars and drums, while the singer recounts everything that happened during the day. Depending on the enthusiasm of the audience, you may be invited to take part in the dance.

National cuisine

Gourmets consider the Seychelles a real paradise - it is especially good here for those who love fish. Everywhere you go, you will be offered morning catch fish with herbs and spices, wonderful curries and delicious fruits and vegetables like you have never seen before.

The local cuisine is based on the traditional recipes of the islanders, adjusted over time under the influence of European, and especially French, culinary traditions. The Indians also had a certain influence on the gastronomic preferences of the inhabitants of the Seychelles. The local Creole cuisine is somewhat reminiscent of the Mediterranean, as rice and seafood are widely used in cooking. And only the use of coconuts and curries, which also form the basis of traditional dishes, allows us to speak of Seychellois cuisine as something original.

One of the most popular dishes in the Seychelles is fish and rice called pwason ek diri. Under the funny name "tek-tek" lies an original and very tasty soup made from sea shells. “Saint-Jacques” is bananas, they are stewed in the French style, and “kat-kat” is coconut and banana pudding, one of the most delicious local desserts. You will surely like stewed breadfruit. The unique taste of bat stew can be appreciated only by extreme gourmets who are not afraid of culinary impromptu.

The Seychelles, as we have already said, is an expensive resort, but even here you can find places where you can dine without much damage to your wallet, for example, in small cafes that serve national cuisine, and Indian restaurants and pizzerias. A full meal will cost you 300-500 SCR per person. You can also eat on the beaches, which will be even cheaper. The so-called street food - octopus salad or a portion of grilled fish - here costs only 75-100 rupees. Wealthy tourists prefer exclusively fashionable restaurants overlooking the ocean, where dinner costs 800 rupees and more for one person. Tipping in the Seychelles is not expected from you, since the service in most establishments is already included in the bill, but if you want to thank the staff in addition, they will only be happy to do so. Please note that restaurants often take orders only until 22:00. After that, you will have to finish what you managed to order. At best, you can take more drinks. Many restaurants close after 10 pm. Exceptions are bars that are open until late at night.

culture

The Seychelles are multinational islands. The descendants of African and Malagasy slaves, French settlers, British colonizers and Asian immigrants live here. What unites them is a short history of only 250 years, and a special Seychelles identity, which manifests itself in music, language, folklore and traditions. With a surprisingly diverse ethnic composition, the Seychelles is much closer to the Western way of life than other islands in the region. However, Westernization did not lead to the destruction of the unique local culture. Free lifestyle, lack of racial tension, political stability, low crime rate and picturesque nature - all this makes tourists come back to the Seychelles again and again.

music and dancing

Seychellois love to sing and dance. They are equally happy to go to modern nightclubs and dance traditional dances around fires right on the beaches. Motya dance combines African and Malagasy rhythms. This erotic dance is performed just like that, and at organized performances. During such performances, you can hear traditional stringed musical instruments - zez, bonm or makalapo. However, the main instrument is still the tom-tom drum. Curious mask dances and kosez are original variations of the waltz and quadrille. Apparently, they come from the dances of the first French settlers.

Language

The Seychelles has three official languages ​​- English, French and Creole. Many people speak and understand English well. This language is widely used in business. Although French is also common, most Seychellois prefer to speak English with tourists and Creole among themselves. The Creole language has its roots in French. It was the language of the masters, which the African and Malagasy slaves adapted for themselves. It has been the official language of the Seychelles since 1981 and is treated with the same respect as English and French. English-speaking tourists do not experience any difficulties in shops, hotels, banks and restaurants. But a few Creole expressions will still be useful. If you know French, you will be able to learn some words and phrases. However, the Creole language is quite accessible to anyone. French J has become Creole Z, no French gender rules apply, no French accent needed. Words are pronounced the way they are written.

Folklore and legends

Over the years, superstition and folklore have been closely intertwined. Myths still envelop the rituals of black magic - gris-gris. Black magic was brought to the Seychelles by African slaves who always dreamed of love or revenge. Although black magic rituals were banned in 1958, they are still practiced today. Old people still consult not with doctors, but with bonhomn dibwa - local shamans.

Slaves knew the properties of herbs and plants well. This knowledge has been passed down from generation to generation. Even today, on those islands where there are no hospitals, people rely on nature. Lemongrass helps with stomach pains, other herbs treat liver, sore throats and headaches. Even a harmless palm spider finds application in traditional medicine. Any Seychellois will not be slow to tear off his legs and throw the little body into some unappetizing, but very healing brew!

national character

To get to know the people of the Seychelles and feel their natural joy of life, head to the Labrun market, which takes place on Wednesdays and on the last Saturday of the month in Beau Vallon. Here you can feel the symbolism of the national flag, the stripes on which correspond to the Seychelles character. Blue is the color of the sky and the sea, yellow is the color of the sun, which gives light and life, red symbolizes the willingness of the people to work for the future, unity and love, white is social justice and harmony, green is the land and nature of the islands.

Money

The official currency in the Seychelles is the Seychellois rupee, which is divided into 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes in denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 rupees and coins in denominations of 5, 10 and 25 cents, 1 and 5 rupees. As of 2017, one Seychelles rupee is approximately equal to 4.5 Russian rubles.

There are enough ATMs in the country, instructions are given in English. Most restaurants and shops accept major credit cards such as MasterCard and Visa, but it's best to check in advance.

Transport

Since the Seychelles is an island state, the most convenient way to travel between different regions is by air. Domestic flights are operated by Air Seychelles. You can fly, for example, from Praslin to Mahe in just 20 minutes, spending 102 euros on a 1-way ticket. Another local air carrier, ZilAir, offers its customers, including foreign ones, sightseeing flights around the country and exciting helicopter tours. In addition, those who wish can use the services of an individual transfer between the islands offered by this company.

Communication between the islands of the archipelago, including the most remote ones, is also provided by ferries and schooners, of which there are a lot. Ferry travel is usually included in the price of the tour, or you can buy the ticket yourself. You can get acquainted with the ferry schedule and prices by clicking on the link.

It may seem strange to some, but the bus network is quite well developed in the Seychelles - as you understand, not between the islands, but within them. For example, regular passenger services are carried out on Mahe and Praslin. On both islands, buses start running at 5:30 am. Only on the first one flights are carried out until 20:30, on the second - until 18:20. Buses usually leave every 15 minutes, but sometimes it happens that you have to wait half an hour or an hour for your flight. The fare is collected by the driver, so it is better to have some change with you. A journey for any distance costs 7 rupees. You need to remember that buses are designed for the needs of local residents, and not for the convenience of tourists. Minibuses run between Victoria and the airport. Such a transfer will cost you only 3 rupees.

All over the world, wealthy, business and busy people usually do not like to use public transport and prefer taxis. There are also checkered cars in the Seychelles, namely Praslin and Mahe. Local taxis are comfortable, but quite expensive. For a trip lasting 10 minutes, be prepared to pay about 15 euros. Transfer from the airport to the popular resort of Beau Vallon will cost about 50-60 euros. However, you can bargain, it is quite possible to drop the price by 10-20 percent.

Many tourists reject not only passenger transport, but also taxis. They prefer to travel in a rented car, prices for which start from 40 euros per day. To be entrusted with a car in the Seychelles, you must be at least 21 years old, have a national or international driver's license, as well as a driving experience of at least 3 years. "Just?" - perhaps, one of our readers thought now. But do not rush to rejoice. Before renting a car, weigh the pros and cons. Firstly, it should be noted that the traffic here is left-handed, which may seem inconvenient to some. Secondly, there are many mountain roads in the Seychelles, the quality of which cannot be said, and if you do not have driving experience in such difficult conditions, then it is better not to risk it. In order to make an introductory trip around some island, it is better (and safer!) to bargain with any taxi driver. As practice shows, this is not too expensive. And, most importantly, there are no risks.

Well, if you all have already decided to travel on your own, then rent a jeep - this vehicle is the best suited for local roads. But it's better not to experiment with speed. In the city, you can only accelerate to a maximum of 40 km per hour, outside the settlements the maximum permissible speed is 60 km per hour. If you are driving along the highway leading to the airport, you are allowed to race at a speed of 65 km per hour. Most Seychellois drive quite slowly, although some bus drivers imagine themselves on the narrow roads as if on a track. Always give way to buses. Where can you go? If you rent a car on Mahe Island, there are only 6 gas stations at your service. On Praslin, the choice is even less - there are only 2 gas stations.

And one more thing: a good alternative to taxis and rented cars is an ordinary bicycle. There are many rental points in the Seychelles where you can pick up a suitable "iron horse". There are sometimes so many who want to get a two-wheeled friend - after all, this is the most convenient means of transportation in the conditions of this archipelago - that there are often not enough bicycles for everyone.

Communication and Wi-Fi

For many Russian tourists, especially those who go to the Seychelles for the first time, this paradise, literally woven from the sun, warmth and beaches, is perceived almost as the "end of the world." It is quite natural that our compatriots are worried about how they will call home and, in general, stay in touch with the rest of the world.

The international code of the Seychelles is 248. You can call abroad and send faxes to any phone in the Seychelles. Even the outer islands have satellite communications. Be prepared for high prices, especially when calling from hotels.

For calls within the Seychelles and access to the Internet, it is most profitable to buy SIM cards from such mobile operators as Cable & Wireless and AirTel. You can buy them both at branded points of sale and in souvenir shops. They are also sold in hotels, moreover, with a surcharge. Some tariff plans include free calls within the country. For international calls, AirTel offers special vouchers ranging from Rs 30 to Rs 100. Communication with Russia will cost the subscriber 5.99 rupees per minute of conversation. Cable&Wireless services are somewhat more expensive: a starter package costs 100 rupees, calls abroad, including in the Russian Federation - 9.50 rupees per minute.

Local post offices and newsstands sell magnetic cards for calls from payphones. The latter are installed on the streets of local settlements. From some you can call without a card, for this it is enough to drop a coin: a three-minute conversation with a local subscriber will cost 1 rupee. If you need to call abroad, the card is required. The cost of an international call is estimated at 17 SCR/min. Night rates are cheaper.

As for the World Wide Web itself, it is poorly developed here. Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available in Victoria and elsewhere on the country's main island. Some travelers are frankly frustrated by the lack of an accessible Internet, while others are glad to have the opportunity to take a break from the virtual, which, and this has already been proven by scientists, often causes pathological addiction.

shopping

There are no supermarkets and large shopping centers in the Seychelles, which are always very noisy due to the large crowds of people. However, the lack of shops familiar to us does not mean at all that you will leave home empty-handed. There are a lot of souvenir stalls and galleries in the Seychelles, and in them you can buy a large number of exclusive things as a keepsake. By the way, shopping on the islands is especially piquancy due to the fact that here they often sell directly under the open sky.

The main shops of the sunny archipelago are located in Victoria. There are also several shops on the islands of Praslin and La Digue. Local outlets usually open at 8 am and work until 5 pm, with a lunch break from noon to one. On Saturdays, shops are open only until lunch, weekends - Sundays and major holidays. Souvenir shops, which, of course, are aimed at tourists, fall out of this general rule. Many of them are open all Saturday, and some are open on Sundays.

The most popular souvenir that tourists bring from the Seychelles is Coco de mer, whose unusual shape and size invariably delight travelers. You can buy this nut in specialized stores and shops, and only in them. Why? It's all about the presence of a certificate available at these outlets and giving official permission to export the Seychelles symbol outside the country. Depending on the weight, the cost of this local palm fruit will vary from $200 to $250. To many, such a purchase may seem expensive, but there is always an alternative: if you cannot or do not want to buy the coconut itself, purchase products from its shell. Other tourists are trying to be cunning in order to save money: they buy coconut from private traders who do not ask for it dearly. But it’s better not to risk it, because such “savings” will come out sideways. At the airport, you will definitely be required to have a certificate allowing export, and if you do not have it, you will have to pay a fine.

We advise you to buy aromatic soaps and toiletries made with local essential oils, handmade beachwear, baskets and bags, tea bags and spices. Expensive souvenirs are made not in the Seychelles, but in South Africa and other countries of the world: pay attention to diamonds and precious stones, bags from Melvil & Moon and hats from Panama.

Typical Seychellois souvenirs are colorful paintings and prints that can be bought from artists. Check out the work of Michael Adams, Egbert Marday, Colbert Nurris and Barbara Jenson. The works of Les and Sharon Masterson are interesting - tropical birds and fish made of colored glass. Tom Bauer will offer you bronze sculptures.

Check out Camion Hall, a tourist arcade on Albert Street in Victoria. There are souvenir and bookstores here. Interesting souvenirs can be bought at the Fiennes Esplanade next to Francis Rachel Street. Wander the streets near the market, where you can buy interesting t-shirts and dresses, vanilla, cinnamon, curry spices, unusual wooden turtle figurines and even rosaries, as well as shell jewelry. Prices in stores are fixed, but bargaining with street vendors can get a small discount.

Hotels and accommodation

The hotel chain covers all major islands, but local hotels do not have an official classification. Tour operators themselves assign them a conditional number of "stars" - as they say, by eye. But small bungalows, the level of comfort of which is also not the same, are distributed mainly on small islands of the coral group. But be sure: regardless of whether you settled in a hotel, bungalow or lodge (Lodge), you will be guaranteed a service that meets international standards. For those who do not know what lodges are: these are specially equipped places for tourists to stay in the wild, sometimes called ethno-hotels.

The most budget option for living are guesthouses and apartments. In the capital of the Seychelles, you can rent such housing for only 1,150 rupees per day. A room for two in a three-star Victoria hotel will cost from 1630 SCR, and in a luxury five-star hotel - at least 3400 rupees per day. For comparison: a double room in a guesthouse on Praslin Island costs 815 rupees, and in a fashionable lodge - at least 3,000 rupees per night. A similar "kopeck piece" on the island of La Digue will cost tourists 1000 SCR. Of course, you can also rent a three-story villa with a private pool, but then you will have to pay 13,000 rupees per day. Well, a one-day vacation on the Frigate - it is often called an island hotel - will ease your wallet by 50 thousand rupees.

If money does not bother you at all, and you have been dreaming of your own island all your life, then 18 such islands are at your service. They operate on a "one island - one hotel" system. All of them are owned by private individuals and are designed for a very limited number of guests (the only exception is Sainte Anne Island Resort, which has more than 80 villas). Here you can always meet representatives of royal families, movie stars, football players and famous industrialists.

There are very few large hotels in the Seychelles. By Seychelles standards, if the hotel has more than 25 rooms, it is already a large hotel. Small hotels are always well equipped and not always cheap. The rooms have air conditioning, private terraces, TVs and telephones. Some hotels are designed for those who appreciate the home environment.

Accommodation in mid-range hotels is of a high standard. The staff is hospitable and always ready to help.

The less formal hotels have a 1960s feel to them, although they are gradually being renovated as well. These hotels don't have as many restaurants, not as big a pool, less spacious grounds, and no room service. But you can always count on a great beach, a comfortable room with a hairdryer, an electric shaver socket, a telephone, a TV, air conditioning, a kettle with a set of tea and coffee. There may also be Internet access. Larger hotels offer babysitting, and children have their own pools.

Another option is to charter a yacht and spend the entire vacation on board. The cost of the freight can be divided among the whole group, which makes such a holiday less expensive than if you decide to go alone.

There are no campsites in the Seychelles - this is prohibited.

The voltage in the local power supply is 240 volts, the connector for connecting electrical appliances complies with the British standard, that is, it is equipped with three square plates. If you brought a domestic kettle, iron, hair dryer or other electrical appliance with you, then ask the receptionist for an adapter. Otherwise, you will not be able to connect them to the network.

Opening hours

Offices are open: Mon-Fri 8.00-16.00, some work Sat 8.00-12.00.

Banks are open: Mon-Fri 8.30-14.00, Sat 8.30-11.00.

Shops are open: Mon-Fri 8.00-17.00, Sat 8.00-12.00.

Passports and visas

If you are a citizen of the Russian Federation and plan to stay in the country for no more than 30 days, then a visa is not required. You need to obtain a 30-day residence permit, which you must carry with you at all times and present to immigration upon departure. Tourists must have a valid passport, return ticket, accommodation documents and sufficient funds.

Time

Time in the Seychelles is ahead of Moscow by an hour. When it's noon in the Seychelles, it's 8:00 in London, 3:00 in New York, 4:00 in Montreal, 20:00 in Sydney, 21:00 in Wellington and 22:00 in Cape Town.

Health and safety

Nothing threatens your health in the Seychelles. There is no malaria, yellow fever, cholera and other tropical diseases here. No vaccinations are required unless you have been in a country with yellow fever in the past six days. Travelers from South America or Africa (excluding South Africa) will need a vaccination certificate.

Tap water is drinkable. Mineral water is sold in shops, hotels and restaurants. Hygiene standards in hotels and restaurants comply with Western requirements. Be guided by common sense, as at home, and your stay in the Seychelles will pass without problems. The main dangers are sunstroke, overheating and indigestion. Avoid spending too much time in the sun, use sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and always wash fruits and vegetables before eating.

Many medicines can be found in a private pharmacy in Victoria, but under different names. Hospitals and health centers have their own pharmacies. All medicines are dispensed by prescription. If you are taking any medications, take a sufficient supply with you. Contacts of doctors and dentists are listed in telephone directories. The pay is reasonable and the service is usually good. The hotel will help you to contact a specialist.

The Seychelles has a low crime rate. True, things left unattended, especially on the beach, can be stolen. Beau Vallon beach has a black currency market. It is illegal, and detainees face heavy fines.

How to get there

There are several air harbors in the Seychelles, but only one airport serves international flights - Pointe Larue, located on Mahe Island near the country's capital, Victoria.

The cheapest way to get from Moscow is with two transfers, but this is not very convenient. Air Serbia and Etihad Airways fly from the Russian capital to the Seychelles. They depart from Sheremetyevo, connections are made in Belgrade and Abu Dhabi. On the way you will spend a total of 25.5 hours. Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines depart from Vnukovo, flights are operated with 1 change in Istanbul. The flight will take 13.5 hours, but will cost more.

Flights from Moscow to the Seychelles are also carried out by Qatar Airlines, and also with a transfer. Departure from Domodedovo, fly less, only 19.5 hours, via Doha. The fastest connecting flights through the capital of the Russian Federation are operated by the Emirates air carrier: passengers will spend only 12 hours and 50 minutes in the air. Transfer in Dubai.

It is more economical to fly from St. Petersburg with one connection: Turkish Airlines operates a flight through Istanbul, travel time is 18 hours 40 minutes. But faster, again, the already mentioned Emirates, which departs from Pulkovo and arrives at Mahe in 12 hours and 45 minutes. Transfer is also in Dubai. With two connections, Qatar Airlines and Es Seven deliver from the northern capital. It will take 27 hours, or even more, to fly through Moscow and Doha. But the ticket is cheaper. But "Russia" and "Turkish Airlines" will take you from St. Petersburg in 17.5 hours (via Moscow and Istanbul).

It is possible to notice the small Seychelles on the world map only upon detailed examination. Modern travelers have become more picky, so they choose the most attractive and exotic places for their holidays. Among tourists, there has been an increase in the popularity of beach holidays in the Seychelles, ignoring the fact that a few years ago the average Russian did not even know where they were. Geographically, the Republic of Seychelles is considered an island state of East Africa, which is locally located near the equator in the Indian Ocean. To be more precise, the archipelago is located on the side of Kenya, 1,600 kilometers from the African mainland.

To understand where the Seychelles are located, you can also focus on a fairly large island called Madagascar, which is located a little south. Not far from the Seychelles, the island of Reyunuk and Mauritius are also located on the south side, the Maldives in the northeast, and the Comoros Islands in the southwest. The republic consists of 115 islands, the total area of ​​which is 455 square kilometers. Of the total number, only 33 islands with a granite structure are inhabited. Their relief is very diverse, there are more hills and mountains. The rest of the territory is unsuitable for year-round living, but tourists often stop there who want to temporarily reunite with pristine nature. They are variously shaped coral atolls. Some of them are covered with various tropical vegetation, some are completely deserted.

The area of ​​the largest island of Mahe is 142 square meters. The capital of the republic, the city of Victoria, is located on it. The large size of the granite plot of land made it possible to place the Seychelles airport of international importance here.

Tourists come here from all over the world all year round. The proximity of the equator makes itself felt. The archipelago, surrounded on all sides by water, has a mild, warm climate, despite the fact that most tropical countries are characterized by high humidity and hot heat. Sunny days prevail here, when the sky is absolutely cloudless.

How to get to the Seychelles

Once tourists understand where the Seychelles is located on the world map, they begin to look for options on how to get there. It should be noted right away that there are no direct flights either from Moscow or from any other city in Russia, so travelers, as a rule, first go to:

1. London.
2. Milan.
3. Paris.

From the listed European capitals, you can get to the capital, where guests are received by the country's main airport. If tourists intend to vacation on another island, they need to book a ticket with local airlines. You can also move within the republic on a steamboat, a ticket for which you can buy upon arrival. In addition, you can get to any resort by helicopter, but this method is considered the most expensive.

As a rule, the capital of the Seychelles hospitably welcomes its guests. Before traveling, there is no need to apply for a visa, it is placed upon arrival and is a seal depicting the fruit of the local Coco de Mer palm tree. This plant, like the currency of the Seychelles, is an exclusively local symbol, which is depicted not only on the visa seal, but also on the coat of arms, as well as most postcards and souvenirs. The tourist does not have to pay tolls. To pass the border without additional questions, it is enough to show the passport control officer a printout confirming the hotel reservation, as well as return tickets. There are usually no serious interrogations.

Seychelles weather

Seychelles is considered one of the heavenly places where tourism flourishes all year round. The main reason is the excellent weather conditions, which, combined with the unique fauna and flora, make any trip to the island republic unforgettable. The proximity of the equator to the archipelago does not affect the local weather in any way. The local climate, logically, should be subequatorial, but it can rather be called tropical. The strongest influence on it is exerted by the waters of the Indian Ocean. Thanks to them, the Seychelles do not know what excessive moisture is, as well as exhausting heat.

If we consider the weather in the Seychelles by months, it is worth noting that the air temperature rarely rises above +35 degrees and falls below +23. It must be remembered that the republic is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons there do not quite coincide with ours. For this reason, it is difficult to divide the weather adequately by months, it is easier to distinguish two main seasons, each of which is comfortable for recreation:

1. The dry season, characterized by a lack of precipitation and a decrease in air temperature, lasts from early June to early October.
2. The hot season with high humidity lasts from November to April. It has frequent showers. Precipitation mainly falls in the area of ​​uplands of granite islands.

There are also two intermediate periods, which fall in October and May. These months are considered ideal for holidays. The off-season is characterized by the absence of rains, as well as temperature fluctuations. In addition, not only the weather of the Seychelles pleases, but also the ocean, the waters of which are calm and clean. In winter, the resorts are under the influence of the northwest trade winds blowing from the ocean. Hot air currents blow from the African continent. However, it is worth noting that most of the rains are quickly replaced by a bright sun.

Months can be described as follows:

1. December is the hottest period. Tropical showers help to easily survive the heat. Humidity can rise to 80 - 100 percent, but it is not felt, does not bring discomfort.
2. January is considered the rainiest month with over 400 mm of precipitation.
3. February is great for sightseeing walks. After intense rains, local landscapes are overgrown with lush vegetation.
4. March is characterized by increased activity of the local fauna, whose representatives are accustomed to tourists and are not afraid of them.
5. April is considered the period when the change of winds takes place, as well as the season in the Seychelles, which becomes windless. The month is ideal for fishing or diving, as it rains very rarely and the ocean is completely calm.
6. May becomes the peak of the season, when the influx of tourists is at its highest.
7. June is the first month of the local winter. The water temperature is almost the same as the air temperature and equals +26 degrees.
8. July is considered the driest and coldest month, and is also characterized by the turbulent state of the ocean. This time is ideal for surfers. The flow of tourists is minimal, so prices are significantly reduced.
9. August ends the tropical winter.
10. September is the period when the migration of flocks of birds takes place, which looks very impressive.
11. October belongs to the off-season, so it is ideal for swimming and beach holidays. There is practically no difference between night and day temperatures, the ocean waters are calm.
12. November is considered the beginning of the hot, humid season, when showers are daily, but half an hour after the end of the rain, the sun shines brightly.

Warm ocean waters, abundant vegetation and a mild climate make for the perfect vacation. Therefore, you can choose when it is better to go to the Seychelles to relax, regardless of the time of year.

Seychelles beaches

The coastline is almost completely occupied by the world-famous Seychelles beaches, where there are all conditions for a first-class holiday, as well as various sports. All necessary sports equipment can be rented at the hotel or right on the beach. On the island of Praslin is located the Cote d'Or beach, which is also known as the "Gold Coast". Here vacationers can visit the diving center. Enjoy a fabulous sunset at Beau Vallon Beach on Mahe Island. The coastline of Anse Lazio Bay is especially beautiful, on the island of La Digue you can observe such an unusual phenomenon as pink sand, various fish live near Denis, so deep-sea fishing is developed here. The abundance of places where tourists can spend time near the water is very wide, so it is noted that crowds are almost completely absent.

The beaches of the republic are the main attractions of the Seychelles, so most vacationers go there to enjoy the tropical sun near the ocean. To make your vacation as successful as possible, it is recommended to choose the right time for your vacation, for example, go traveling in October or May.

Seychelles is one of the few countries that can be safely called a true paradise on earth. The reason for this is primarily a luxurious combination of incredibly beautiful nature, exotic birds and animals, snow-white beaches and crystal clear water.

In addition, absolute peace and idyll reign in the Seychelles, which is a rarity in our hectic world. Thanks to such excellent conditions, the Seychelles are especially popular with couples and honeymooners. In addition, it has become quite a fashionable trend to hold romantic weddings here.

Thus, the Seychelles offer absolute peace, incredibly beautiful landscapes, excellent service and a measured pace of life - in short, ideal conditions for a great vacation.

Climate and weather

The Seychelles has a tropical climate, which means that the weather here is warm and mild, and the exhausting heat is practically absent. Significant temperature fluctuations on the islands are extremely rare, while the average annual air temperature is +26..+31° C. Conventionally, the year is divided into two seasons: cool (from June to November) and hot (from December to May). The greatest amount of rain falls directly from December to May, and although they are quite intense, they are not long at all. In general, it is worth noting that short-term tropical downpours can occur here at any time of the year. The most favorable months for a trip to the Seychelles are May and October, during which the weather is literally perfect.

Nature

The Seychelles is an island nation that consists of 115 islands, of which only 33 are inhabited. The Seychelles archipelago is located just south of the equator, in the western part of the Indian Ocean. All Seychelles are of coral or volcanic origin. Of these, the largest are Mahe, Silhouette, La Digue and Praslin.

Due to the rather long isolation, the Seychelles is home to unique birds, reptiles and plants that are found only in this archipelago, such as Aldabra tortoises and Seychellois palm trees.

Attractions

The Seychelles is rightfully considered one of the most magnificent places on Earth, which boasts of its amazing flora and fauna, as well as endless sandy beaches. The main attractions of this heavenly place are the pristine unique nature, the purest waters of the ocean and the sand with a pinkish tint.

The main island of the Seychelles archipelago is mae, on which the capital of the country is located Victoria. The island is notable for a large number of coconut palms and cinnamon plantations, as well as fantastic views of other islands. Among the city attractions it is worth highlighting:

• Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception;
• clock tower;
• Museum of the United Party;
• museum of natural history;
• Botanical Garden;
• St. Anne's National Marine Park;
• artisan village.

The second largest island in the archipelago is Praslin. He is primarily remarkable Valley de May National Park where palm trees grow "coco de mer" and black parrots live. Cousin Island is a nature reserve and is home to several rare species of animals and sea birds, as well as turtles, two of which are 150 years old. Bird Island is famous for being a haven for black terns and other unique birds. Arid Island serves "gathering place" pink terns and red-tailed tropical birds. In addition, it is the only place on earth where the lemon tree grows. Island of La Digue is considered the most friendly and comfortable, and the island of Moyen belongs to a private person and is a real hotel on the water.

Nutrition

Almost all local menus are based on the recipes of the islanders, which are greatly influenced by French and Indian traditions. The basis of the national rural cuisine is a variety of seafood, rice, exotic fruits and curry, and the most popular dish here is "pwason ek diri"(sea fish with rice). Also noteworthy are culinary delights such as sea shell soup, lobsters in lemon sauce, octopus in coconut curry, banana leaf pork and bat stew. Moreover, rice serves as a side dish for all these exotic dishes. Also in the Seychelles, dishes quite unusual for Europeans are common: cucumbers "patoli", stewed breadfruit, broth from young sprouts and flowers, fried Chinese cabbage, etc. In addition, local fruits are very popular, from which magnificent desserts are prepared. Of these, most often you can try coconut nougat, stewed bananas "Saint Jacques", pancakes with fruit fillings, candied bilimbi and pudding "how-to" from bananas and coconuts.

Among the drinks, the most popular are vanilla tea and imported coffee, as well as freshly squeezed juices. Well, from alcohol you can most often find "kalu"(fermented coconut juice) "baku"(fermented sugarcane juice), beer "Sabrew" and French wines.

It should be borne in mind that almost all Seychelles restaurants are open only until 22:00, but they work until the last client.

Accommodation

In the Seychelles, which are rightfully considered a real paradise, literally all the flora and fauna have been preserved in their original form, so here all the facades of hotels are in harmony with the environment and do not exceed the height of palm trees. official "starry" Local hotels do not have classification, so tour operators themselves assign conditional categories to them. On the large islands, there are mainly luxurious expensive hotels, as well as small hotels and loggias. And here, literally anywhere, excellent conditions, cozy rooms and excellent service are guaranteed. In addition, on small islands there are stylish bungalows of different levels of comfort.

Entertainment and recreation

In the Seychelles, one of the most popular types of entertainment is excursions to the islands, where you can enjoy the incredibly beautiful nature, as well as watch rare birds and animals. In addition, romantic cruises at night are in great demand.

However, the most common pastime here is a beach holiday. This is not surprising, because each island has many magnificent sandy beaches and small bays, and each hotel has its own beach area. Among the active forms of entertainment, diving is the most popular, as the underwater visibility here is just perfect, and the local waters contain more than 1000 species of marine life and corals. The best dive sites, chosen by divers from all over the world, are St. Anne's National Park on the island of Mahe Aldabra Atoll, Praslin Island and shark place near La Digue Islands. In addition, in the Seychelles you can go surfing, fishing, windsurfing, snorkeling and water skiing.

It is worth noting that time in the Seychelles flows slowly and measuredly, and nightlife is not very diverse and rich. On the islands, of course, there are discos and casinos, but most of them are located on the island of Mahe. The lack of entertainment facilities is covered by numerous festivals, holidays and sports competitions, which are famous all over the world. Of these, the brightest and most colorful are Creole Festival and Grand Regatta.

Purchases

Large shopping centers and large shops are only on the island of Mahe, and on the other islands there are only small grocery stores and small shops. It is worth noting that the prices in Seychelles stores are quite high, and the assortment is not very diverse.

As souvenirs from Seychelles usually they bring men's straw hats, works of local artists, fragrant spices, exotic teas, discs with national music, jewelry and original caskets made of mother-of-pearl and corals. You should also pay attention to T-shirts with country logos, pareos, various shells and pearls. Well, the most famous Seychelles souvenir, without a doubt, is coconut palm nuts. "Coco de mer" which are prohibited from being exported without a special certificate. They weigh about 20 kg and are considered the largest in the plant kingdom. It must be borne in mind that such a nut is not cheap at all. (from 180 to 300 $), although the export permit is already included in its price. Also, boxes, scoops, cups, plates, flasks and other crafts are made from these nuts. In addition, it is forbidden to export corals, shells and products from the shell of local turtles from the Seychelles without a certificate of purchase.

When shopping, keep in mind that Seychelles all shops are open from 8:00 to 17:00, although small shops that are owned by Indians are open until late in the evening.

Transport

The Seychelles is an island state, so you can travel between cities here on state-owned airlines. (Air Seychelles and Seychelles Helicopter), ferries and private helicopters.

Asphalt roads are available only on the islands of Mahe, La Digue and Praslin. There, the main means of transportation are buses, which are distinguished by a very high quality of service. The fare depends on the distance traveled and varies by area. from 0.36 to 0.55 $. In addition, there is a public taxi service on the island of Mahe, all cars of which are equipped with meters. (about $0.6 per km). Well, on small islands it is customary to travel by bicycle or bullock cart.

Connection

In the Seychelles, all settlements have pay phones that operate on magnetic cards. Such cards are sold in post offices and kiosks, as well as in some hotels. In addition, you can make any call from a restaurant or hotel, however, it is worth considering that in this case you will have to significantly overpay.

Cellular communication in the Seychelles is carried out in the standard GSM 900, and roaming is available to subscribers of all major operators.

Internet access is available in most hotels. In addition, there are Internet cafes on large islands. Mobile Internet is also available on all islands, which is provided by mobile operators. Cable&Wareless and AirTel.

Safety

There is practically no crime in the Seychelles, and the natives here are harmless and friendly. This is explained primarily by the fact that in fact the country lives off wealthy tourists, so everything is done here that is necessary for their comfort and safety. In addition, the streets of large cities are patrolled by the police, so you can safely walk there even at night. Well, on the islands-hotels there are no dangers at all. However, it is worth noting that petty thieves sometimes still come across, so it is advised to follow the most elementary security measures.

It is worth noting that sea urchins can cause some troubles, which can hurt your leg. However, on almost every beach there are safe places where these marine life are not found. In extreme cases, you can buy special slippers for swimming.

Business climate

The Seychelles economy is based on tourism and fishing (mainly exports). In addition, Seychelles is a member of the International Organization of Nations ACT . Moreover, the country's legislation allows the registration of offshore companies (international business companies) throughout the islands. It is worth noting that the Seychelles economy is highly dependent on external factors and is quite vulnerable. So, any downturn in the tourism business leads to a sharp drop in GDP and budgetary pressures.

Real estate

Despite high prices, Seychelles real estate is in very high demand among foreign investors. The most demanded here is luxury housing on the islands of Mahe or Praslin. To purchase any property, you must obtain permission from the Ministry of Land Management, and the transaction amount must be at least one million Seychellois rupees (about $80 thousand). It should be borne in mind that real estate owned by foreigners can only be used for personal residence, and it is prohibited to rent it out.

It is not recommended to even try to exchange currency anywhere, except at a bank, hotel or casino, as exchanging money for "black market" is strictly prohibited here. It is also worth considering that the export of corals and nuts "coco de mere" an export permit must be obtained, otherwise a heavy fine is imposed. In addition, in the Seychelles you should not buy souvenirs from turtle shells. The fact is that local turtles are an endangered species, so the export of products from their shells is strictly prohibited.

Visa information

Today, Russian tourists are more picky, so they try to choose the most exotic and attractive places for recreation. One such place is the Seychelles, which are becoming increasingly popular. And if, until recently, many Russians did not even know where the Seychelles are located, now most Russian tourists can easily show them on the world map.

Where are they located?

Many peoples on earth have legends about the once-existing paradise on earth. Some of them can be considered completely fictional, but some are still worth paying attention to. Especially if this applies to some regions located closer to the equator, where people have not yet been in charge. Such a place is the Seychelles, which are often called so - "Paradise on Earth".

When the word "Seychelles" is used, it should be borne in mind that this is actually not one island, but an entire archipelago, which is located in the vast ocean expanses.

It will be quite difficult to describe their location in words, because the Indian Ocean is quite large. It is best to pick up a visual aid and see where the Seychelles are located on the world map - it will be the best assistant in resolving this issue.

Generally speaking, we can immediately say that these islands located in the Indian Ocean near the equator. And to be more precise, this is the western part of this ocean, approximately 1600 km from the eastern part of the African mainland, from Kenya. The next most significant landmark is the large island of Madagascar, a little further south. In relative proximity to the Seychelles are such quite significant objects as the islands of Mauritius and Reyunuk, which are located further south. Further to the southwest are the Comoros, and to the northeast -.

What are the Seychelles?

Seychelles is a republic, which includes 115 islands with different areas. For those tourists who want to temporarily become modern Robinsons, there is an opportunity to fulfill their dream, because among all the Seychelles, only 33 of them are inhabited and they have a granite structure. They have many mountains and hills. All the rest have long been known, but no one lives on them, so you can become one with nature there, settling for the entire period of your vacation, or at least for a few days. They are small coral atolls; some of them are completely deserted, and some are covered with tropical vegetation.

The area of ​​all these islands is 455 km². There are both small coral islands and quite large ones. The largest island of this archipelago is Mahe. Its area is 142 km² and it hosts the capital called Victoria. Due to its large size, the island also has an international airport. Other large islands include:

• Silhouette,
• Praslin,
• Aldabra
• La Digue.

Some researchers believe that in fact the largest island is not Mahe, but Aldabra. The population of the Seychelles is not too large, only about 90 thousand people.

What attracts tourists to the Seychelles so much?

Many people who find out where the Seychelles are located want to visit here. And this is just not surprising, since visiting a resort where the sun shines almost all year round and you can swim in the ocean is the dream of any tourist. Here is an exotic nature that cannot be found in any region on the planet. Travelers from all over the world come here; and not only from Europe or America, but also from Asia.

Due to the beautiful natural landscape with quite exotic flora and fauna, the Seychelles occupy a leading position among all other islands in the world.

The most remarkable plants that are quite common in the archipelago are the Seychelles palm and sea coconut - its fruits can weigh up to 20 kg. One of the best is Silhouette Island, so many tourists prefer to choose it for their holidays. This choice is influenced by the fact that here the natural landscape is practically not affected by the hands of man, and we can assume that people here live completely far from the benefits of civilization.

These islands are especially attractive for divers, because here you can find some of the most beautiful underwater lagoons. Here the water is so clear that even at a distance of several tens of meters from the coastal strip, you can clearly see the seabed. The fish here are not at all afraid of a person who has plunged into the water, so during such dives you can admire hundreds of different species of fish, corals, and bizarre seaweed. Here is a very wonderful cuisine that can amaze any gourmet.

How can you get to the Seychelles?

Those Russian tourists who find out where the Seychelles are located immediately try to figure out which way to get there. There is no direct flight to the Seychelles from Moscow or from any other Russian city. In most cases, tourists fly first to:

• Zurich

and from there they take a ticket for one of the flights of national airlines. Only in this way you can get to the island of Mahe, where the main airport of the country is located.

If you need to get to any other large island of this archipelago, then you need to book a ticket for a local airline. But you can also get to the islands by ferry - here you need to buy a ticket only upon arrival in Mahe. There is another rather interesting option to get to the resort, located on one of the islands - by helicopter.

In order not to waste as much of your time as possible searching for the necessary air carrier, you should buy tickets in advance. And to the very destination, as it will cost less. Moreover, it is best to draw up the entire route, where you should indicate not only significant destinations, but also the time of arrival and departure, as well as all dates. Only in this way it will be possible not to waste time on the road.

When is the best time to visit the Seychelles

You can relax here all year round, because due to the proximity of the equator and the environment on all sides with water, the climate on all the islands is very mild and warm. Although tropical countries are distinguished by suffocating heat and high humidity, there are no such negative factors in the Seychelles. The climate here can be called not just tropical, but monsoonal, so the bright sun shines here almost all year round.

This resort has 2 distinct seasons. The first one is from May to September. At this time, coolness is felt and humidity subsides. At this time, it rains quite rarely and the average temperature is +25 degrees Celsius. The second season - from November onwards is distinguished by the period of monsoons that come from the northeast. At this time it rains, but the air temperature rises to +30 degrees. If you choose the most convenient time for rest, then it will be the months of May and October. During these two months, it rains very rarely, the ocean becomes calm and a weak warm wind blows.