Of granitic or coral origin, the 115 islands of the Seychelles archipelago stretch across a marine territory of more than a million km2. Diverse sites as well as a varied and approachable fauna await divers… with or without tanks!A multitude of islands and diving sitesEach island has its particularity: Bird Island and its endemic birds, Mahé and its spectacular viewpoints, Praslin and its Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site… For a total change of scenery, head to La Digue, known for housing some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including the legendary Anse Source d’Argent. With their marine parks and turquoise waters, the Seychelles offer breathtaking dives.
Beautiful colorful reefs, shipwrecks, an abundant fauna typical of the Indian Ocean ranging from nudibranchs to sharks to turtles… there is something for everyone. Whether they are granitic or coral, each island offers highly diverse spots. While novices can meet clownfish, parrotfish, and Napoleon wrasses among the peaks of Channel Rock in La Digue, experienced divers will enjoy Twin Barges Wreck in Mahé, two wrecks sunk in 1989 and completely covered in soft corals, gorgonians, and sponges.
Divers staying in the archipelago have two options. A stay in a guesthouse, hotel or luxury resort on one or more islands (knowing that some – such as Fregate Island or Desroches Island – are occupied by only one hotel); or an island-hopping cruise to dive on nearly untouched sites.
Out of the water, abundant nature and a strong culture
Endemic fauna and flora, lush vegetation, exuberant seabeds… 50% of Seychelles’ territory is classified as protected natural areas. The 43 inner islands are characterized by hills covered with tropical forests and fine sandy coves adorned with large granite boulders. The 72 outer islands (the Amirantes, Alphonse or Aldabra, for example), more distant and wild, are surrounded by coral barriers. Go hiking with a naturalist guide to observe the endemic species of the archipelago, such as the sea coconut palm (Lodoicea maldivica), the tiny Seychelles frog (Sooglossus gardineri) or the jellyfish tree (Medusagyne oppositifolia). In Victoria, the capital, stroll through the market brimming with spices and various artisanal products, then visit the Hindu temple with its colorful carved roof. And to immerse yourself even more in the local atmosphere, attend the Kreol festival held every year in October. Treat your taste buds with a multicultural cuisine full of flavors : coconut curry, rougail, octopus curry… the archipelago’s specialties highlight fish, seafood, and spices. This is also a paradise for tropical fruits: coconut, pineapple, mangoes, and other papayas are a staple at every meal.Time difference : +3h in winter, +2h in summer.Currency : the Seychelles rupee (1 euro = 14 SCR).Water temperature : 27°C on average all year round.The best periods for diving (calm sea and good visibility) are the interseasons: from mid-March to mid-May and from September to the end of November.Equipment : 3mm wetsuit.Diving level : from beginner to experienced.Getting there : Air Seychelles operates direct flights Paris/Mahé three times a week. Three other regular airlines reach Seychelles daily, and no visa is required.www.seychelles.travelOpening photo © Nicolas Barraqué