SEYCHELLES – where peace meets wildlife and untouched beauty

An island nation like no other—a scattered chain of 115 islands set like emeralds in the clear blue waters of the Indian Ocean.

Petite Anse, located on the southwest coast of Mahé in Seychelles, is a breathtakingly beautiful and relatively secluded beach known for its powdery white sand, lush green surroundings, and turquoise waters. It stretches around 500 meters in length and is framed by granite boulders and tropical forested hills, offering both privacy and stunning natural scenery. Though it is part of the luxurious Four Seasons Resort, public access is allowed via a steep path down to the beach. Visitors should be prepared for a short hike, but the effort is well worth it. Because of its exclusive location, Petite Anse generally sees fewer crowds than other popular beaches on Mahé, making it ideal for peaceful relaxation, swimming, and photography. The beach is best visited during the dry season (May to October), when the waters are calmer and the weather is more predictable. Swimming is possible year-round, but caution is advised during the southeast trade winds (May to September), when the surf can be stronger. Credit: seychelles.com

Known for its postcard-perfect beaches, lush tropical forests, and coral reefs teeming with marine life, Seychelles is a sanctuary for both nature and solitude. Its main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue offer not just stunning scenery but also a unique blend of African, French, Indian, and Creole influences, visible in everything from language and cuisine to music and architecture.

The country is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the legendary Aldabra Atoll, with its population of giant tortoises, and the Vallée de Mai, a primeval forest that harbors the rare coco de mer palm. Conservation is deeply rooted in Seychellois policy and identity—over 40% of its land is protected, and marine parks are among the best-managed in the world. With no major rivers or large cities, Seychelles offers a rare sense of space and stillness, making it a premier destination for eco-tourism, diving, birdwatching, and slow, mindful travel. Whether you're hiking through misty mountain trails, diving into coral canyons, or simply enjoying grilled fish on a quiet beach, Seychelles promises a rare kind of luxury: unspoiled nature and peace.

Victoria, the small yet vibrant capital of Seychelles on Mahé Island, is one of the world’s tiniest capitals, but it holds a deep cultural and historical significance. At its center stands the iconic silver clocktower—locally known as «Lorloz»—erected in 1903 to commemorate Queen Victoria, who died in 1901. It was modeled after the clocktower at Vauxhall Bridge Road in London and was brought to Seychelles in prefabricated parts from the UK. Despite its age, the clock is still fully functional today and has become a beloved landmark and meeting point for locals. Few visitors know that during the colonial period, the clocktower was one of the first mechanical timepieces in the islands and was initially met with skepticism by locals unfamiliar with such precision. It chimed regularly until the mid-20th century, when the chimes were silenced due to complaints about the noise—but its hands never stopped ticking. Surrounding the clocktower, Victoria offers colorful Creole architecture, vibrant markets like Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, and the nearby Botanical Gardens, home to giant tortoises and Coco de Mer palms. Though often overlooked in favor of beaches, Victoria is a cultural gem where time—literally and figuratively—still ticks to its own island rhythm. Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen, Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

General information

• Official name: Republic of Seychelles

• Location: Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar

• Capital: Victoria

• Languages: Seychellois Creole, English, French

• Ethnic groups: 97% Seychellois Creoles (of African, French, and Malagasy descent), 3% others (including Indian, Chinese, and Arab communities)

• Religion: 74.9% Christianity, 5.4% Hinduism, 2.4% Islam, 5.1% others, 12.2% unspecified

• Calling code: +248

• Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

• Total area: 457 km²

• Land area: Approximately 452 km²

• Water area: Negligible

• Climate: Tropical rainforest (Af); warm and humid year-round with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. Southeast trade winds prevail from May to November.

• Geographical features: Comprises 155 islands (granite and coral); notable features include Morne Seychellois (905 m) on Mahé, and the Aldabra Atoll.

• Environmental issues: Coastal erosion, coral bleaching, limited freshwater resources

• Biodiversity: Home to unique species like the Seychelles black parrot and giant tortoises; 42% of land designated for conservation.

Rising behind Port Victoria is Morne Seychellois, the tallest mountain in Seychelles at 905 meters. Part of the vast Morne Seychellois National Park, it’s covered in lush rainforest and home to rare plants, birds, and hidden trails once used by spice gatherers. Few know that ruins of old cinnamon distilleries still lie buried in the forest. At sea level, Port Victoria is Seychelles’ main harbor—handling cargo, cruise ships, and fishing fleets. Once a British naval post, it remains vital to the islands’ economy. Together, the port and the mountain show Seychelles’ unique blend of untamed nature and global connection. Photo: Patano, Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

• Conservation efforts: Significant land protection measures; UNESCO World Heritage Sites include Aldabra Atoll and Vallée de Mai.

• National dishes: Fish curry, ladob, shark chutney, coconut curry, saffron rice, dal, grilled fish, breadfruit, mangoes

• Highest point: Morne Seychellois (905 m)

• Lowest point: Indian Ocean (0 m)

• Largest island: Mahé (157.3 km²)

• Largest lake: No significant natural lakes

• Largest river: No major rivers

• Longest mountain range: Granitic hills on Mahé

• Largest desert: None

• Largest volcano: None

• Deepest ocean trench: No significant trenches within territorial waters

• Largest waterfall: No major waterfalls

• Largest coral reef: Aldabra Atoll

• Largest bay: Baie Sainte Anne (on Praslin Island)

• Largest canyon: None

• Largest gulf: None

• Longest coastline: Approximately 491 km

• Largest archipelago: Seychelles Archipelago

• Largest glacier: None

• Longest river delta: None

• Largest peninsula: None

• Largest national park: Morne Seychellois National Park

  

  Mahé is the largest island in Seychelles and home to the capital, Victoria. While known for its beaches and lush mountains, it hides many secrets—like the jellyfish tree, found nowhere else on Earth, and the misty tea plantations above Port Glaud. In forested hills, ruins of old cinnamon distilleries remain, and hidden springs supply much of the island’s water. Small coastal villages still preserve Creole fishing traditions and boat-building skills. Compact yet diverse, Mahé blends wild nature, rich culture, and island life in a way no other place in Seychelles does.Photo: Hotel Kaesong, Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0

Government & politics

• Government type: Unitary presidential republic

• Head of state: President Wavel Ramkalawan (since 2020)

• National day: June 29 (Independence Day)

• Political structure: Unicameral National Assembly with 35 members

• Corruption index: Data not specified

• LGBTQ+ Rights: Decriminalized homosexuality in 2016; anti-discrimination laws in place

• Gender equality: Progressive policies; women hold significant positions in government

• Press freedom ranking: Data not specified

• Foreign relations: Member of the UN, African Union, Commonwealth, SADC

• Historical timeline: Uninhabited until 1770; French colonization; British control in 1814; independence in 1976

• Disaster response: Active participation in regional disaster preparedness and response initiatives

  

  Baie Sainte Anne is a picturesque coastal village on Praslin Island, Seychelles. Known as the island’s main port, it serves as a gateway for ferries to La Digue and Mahé. Surrounded by lush hills and turquoise waters, it’s a peaceful hub blending local life with access to some of Seychelles’ most iconic beaches and nature reserves. Credit: www.seychelles.org

History

• First recorded landing in 1609 by British East India Company

• French colonization began in 1756

• British control established in 1814

• Gained independence from the UK on June 29, 1976

• Transitioned to a multi-party democracy in the 1990s Seychelles was uninhabited until the 18th century, although Arab and later European sailors had visited the islands for centuries. The first recorded landing was by the British East India Company in 1609, but the islands remained without permanent settlement until the French claimed them in 1756, naming them after finance minister Jean Moreau de Séchelles.

  
  

  The first settlers arrived in 1770, consisting of French colonists, enslaved Africans, and some Indians. Under French rule, Seychelles developed as a plantation economy using slave labor. After the Napoleonic Wars, the British took control of the islands in 1814 under the Treaty of Paris. Slavery was abolished in 1835, and the islands became a British crown colony in 1903, separate from Mauritius.

  
  

  During British rule, Seychelles remained relatively isolated, with a small population and an economy based on coconut, vanilla, and cinnamon plantations. The country gained internal self-government in 1970 and full independence from the United Kingdom on June 29, 1976.

  
  

  Post-independence politics were turbulent. A coup in 1977 installed France-Albert René as president, who ruled as a socialist under a one-party system for 16 years. In 1993, Seychelles transitioned to a multiparty democracy, with peaceful elections becoming the norm. In 2020, opposition leader Wavel Ramkalawan was elected president, marking the country’s first peaceful transfer of power since independence.

  
  

  Seychelles today is politically stable, economically focused on tourism and fisheries, and internationally respected for its environmental conservation efforts.
  

Attractions - A glimpse of wonders

Aldabra Atoll, one of the world’s largest coral atolls, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the remote outer islands of Seychelles. Largely untouched by humans, it is home to over 100,000 giant tortoises—more than anywhere else on Earth—and an ecosystem so isolated that it hosts species found nowhere else. Few know that Aldabra was once considered for a British-American military base in the 1960s, a plan abandoned due to environmental concerns. Photo: seychelles.com

Aldabra Atoll (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Aldabra Atoll is one of the most remote and ecologically significant natural wonders on Earth. Located over 1,100 kilometers southwest of Mahé, it is the world’s second-largest coral atoll and the largest raised atoll. It consists of four main islands that encircle a shallow lagoon rich in marine biodiversity. Due to its isolation and strict protection, Aldabra has remained virtually untouched by human development and is considered a living laboratory for evolutionary science.

Aldabra Atoll is home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises, with over 100,000 roaming freely across its remote coral islands. These ancient reptiles, some over 100 years old, play a vital role in the atoll’s ecosystem by grazing on vegetation and shaping the landscape. Unlike the Galápagos tortoises, Aldabra’s giants have thrived in isolation, making the atoll a living laboratory of evolution and resilience. Photo: seychelles.com/

A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, Aldabra is home to around 100,000 giant tortoises—by far the largest population in the world. These tortoises are direct descendants of species once found across the Indian Ocean islands but now extinct elsewhere. The atoll also shelters rare birds such as the Aldabra rail, the last surviving flightless bird of the Indian Ocean, along with green turtles, hawksbill turtles, coconut crabs, manta rays, and over 400 species of fish.

Access to Aldabra is highly restricted, permitted only for scientific and conservation purposes under the supervision of the Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF). Tourism is not allowed, which has helped preserve its fragile ecosystems. Because of its pristine condition and extraordinary biodiversity, Aldabra is often compared to the Galápagos Islands in terms of scientific value and ecological importance.

Aldabra stands not only as a jewel of Seychelles' natural heritage but as a global symbol of successful conservation.

Vallée de Mai ature Reserve (UNESCO World Heritage Site) Nestled in the lush interior of Praslin Island, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is one of Seychelles’ most iconic and mysterious landscapes. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the reserve protects a unique remnant of prehistoric palm forest that has remained largely unchanged for millennia. Often described as a “living fossil,” Vallée de Mai offers a glimpse into a primeval world that predates human presence on the islands.

The reserve is best known for being the natural home of the coco de mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica), which produces the largest and heaviest seed in the plant kingdom. Shaped in a way that has inspired legends and myths for centuries, the coco de mer was once believed by sailors to grow on the ocean floor. Today, it is a protected species and a powerful symbol of Seychelles.

Vallée de Mai also harbors five other endemic palm species found nowhere else on Earth, along with a dense, cathedral-like canopy of foliage that creates an otherworldly atmosphere. The forest supports rare and endangered fauna, including the Seychelles black parrot—the country’s national bird—and various species of geckos, snails, and chameleons.

Walking through the reserve is like entering an untouched world, where giant palm fronds rustle in the humid breeze and ancient roots twist through the forest floor. Carefully maintained trails allow for immersive exploration, while interpretive signs and guided tours provide insight into the reserve’s unique ecology.

As both a national treasure and a global conservation landmark, Vallée de Mai is one of Seychelles’ most celebrated natural attractions—an Eden-like sanctuary where visitors can witness evolution in its purest form.

Anse Source d'Argent beach on La Digue

Anse Source d’Argent, located on the small island of La Digue, is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world—and for good reason. With its shallow turquoise waters, soft white sand, and sculpted granite boulders rising dramatically from the shore, it is a setting that seems almost too perfect to be real.

The beach’s surreal beauty has made it one of Seychelles’ most photographed and internationally recognized locations, frequently featured in films, magazines, and travel campaigns.

Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, known for its pink granite boulders and shallow turquoise waters. What’s less known is that the beach is protected by a coral reef, making its waters calm year-round. It lies within the private L’Union Estate, once a colonial-era coconut and vanilla plantation, and visitors must pass through it to reach the beach—adding a unique historic layer to its natural beauty.Photo: Christoph Scholz, Flickr Public domain

What makes Anse Source d’Argent so unique is the way its natural elements come together in harmony: ancient pink-tinged granite rocks worn smooth by time, shallow lagoons protected by an offshore coral reef, and a backdrop of lush palm forests swaying in the trade winds. The tide and sunlight constantly reshape the scenery, creating different moods throughout the day—from tranquil sunrise reflections to glowing golden sunsets.

The beach lies within the privately managed L’Union Estate, a former coconut and vanilla plantation that now serves as a cultural and historical park. Visitors pay a small entrance fee to access the beach, which also helps support its maintenance and conservation. Despite its fame, Anse Source d’Argent remains unspoiled and surprisingly peaceful, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Swimming and snorkeling here are best during high tide, as the shallow reef can become rocky when the tide is low. The calm waters make it ideal for families and casual swimmers, and the area is rich with colorful fish, sea cucumbers, and rays.

Anse Source d’Argent is not just a beach—it’s a timeless natural masterpiece that captures the essence of Seychelles: beauty, serenity, and the magic of untouched island life.

Morne Seychellois National Park Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest and most ecologically diverse protected area in Seychelles, covering over 3,000 hectares—more than 20% of Mahé Island. Established in 1979, the park is named after Morne Seychellois, the country’s highest peak at 905 meters, which towers over the island’s interior and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, coral reefs, and neighboring islands.

The park is a mountainous, mist-covered wilderness of dense tropical forests, steep ravines, granite ridges, and mangrove swamps. It harbors a rich mix of habitats, from coastal plains to cloud forests, and is home to some of Seychelles' rarest and most iconic wildlife. Among the species found here are the Seychelles kestrel, blue pigeon, tree frog, sunbird, and pitcher plant, as well as a wide variety of endemic palms, ferns, and orchids.

Over 15 hiking trails wind through the park, ranging from gentle nature walks to challenging treks up rugged peaks. The Copolia Trail is one of the most popular, offering a moderately strenuous hike that leads to a panoramic granite plateau with sweeping views over Victoria and the offshore islands. The Morne Blanc Trail, on the other hand, takes hikers through misty tea plantations and moss-draped forests to a high-altitude viewpoint above the west coast.

What makes Morne Seychellois National Park especially remarkable is how close it lies to the urban center of Victoria, yet how wild and untouched it feels. Within just a few kilometers, visitors can transition from bustling market streets to ancient forest trails where giant snails inch along mossy tree trunks and the calls of rare birds echo through the canopy.

The park plays a vital role in watershed protection, climate regulation, and biodiversity conservation on the main island. It is managed by the Seychelles National Parks Authority, which works to balance tourism access with environmental preservation.

For nature lovers, hikers, and those seeking a deeper connection with the islands' inner landscapes, Morne Seychellois National Park offers one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences in all of Seychelles.

Sainte Anne Marine National Park Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a stunning marine reserve just 5 kilometers off the coast of Mahé, Seychelles’ main island. Established in 1973 as the country’s first national marine park, it encompasses six small islands—Sainte Anne, Moyenne, Long Island, Round Island, Île Cachée, and Île aux Cerfs—spread across 14.43 square kilometers of protected waters. This pioneering conservation area was created to preserve the region’s vibrant marine ecosystems and remains one of the best places in Seychelles to explore coral reefs and underwater life.

The park’s turquoise lagoons, shallow coral beds, and seagrass meadows host an incredible variety of marine species. More than 150 types of reef fish have been recorded here, including angelfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and moray eels. Sea turtles, eagle rays, reef sharks, and dolphins are also frequently spotted. The waters are calm, clear, and shallow, making the park ideal for snorkeling, glass-bottom boat tours, and scuba diving.

Each island in the park has its own charm and story. Sainte Anne Island, the largest, was the site of Seychelles’ first French settlement in 1770. Moyenne Island, perhaps the most famous, was privately owned by eccentric British journalist Brendon Grimshaw, who transformed it into a conservation haven and is now buried there. The island is also the subject of numerous pirate legends and is home to over 100 giant tortoises.

Visitors can reach the park by a short boat ride from Mahé, and several tour operators offer guided day trips that include snorkeling stops, island visits, and beach barbecues. There are strict rules in place to limit fishing, anchoring, and reef disturbance, and park fees help support ongoing marine conservation efforts.

Sainte Anne Marine National Park is more than just a snorkeling destination—it’s a living showcase of Seychelles’ deep commitment to protecting its coastal and marine heritage. With its kaleidoscope of sea life, lush island vegetation, and historic significance, the park is a perfect fusion of natural beauty and cultural depth.

10 lesser-known facts

No indigenous population: Seychelles had no native human inhabitants before it was settled by Europeans in the 18th century. Its entire population is descended from settlers, enslaved people, and migrants.

Home to the world’s heaviest seed: The coco de mer palm, found only in Seychelles, produces the largest and heaviest seed in the plant kingdom—up to 25 kg.

A former pirate hideout: Several of Seychelles' islands were used as pirate hideouts in the 17th and 18th centuries. Treasure is rumored to be buried on islands like Moyenne and Mahé.

Unique flightless bird:Aldabra Atoll is home to the Aldabra rail, the only flightless bird remaining in the Indian Ocean region after the extinction of the dodo and others.

A British recluse bought his own island: Journalist Brendon Grimshaw purchased Moyenne Island in the 1960s and lived there alone for decades, planting trees and reintroducing giant tortoises. The island is now a protected nature reserve.

One of the smallest capital cities in the world: Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is so compact that you can explore most of it on foot in less than a day.

A global biodiversity hotspot: Despite its small size, Seychelles is classified as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, with a high number of endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

Creole is a national language: Seychellois Creole (Kreol Seselwa), a French-based creole language, is one of the country's three official languages alongside English and French. It's widely spoken and used in schools and government.

More sea than land: Although the land area of Seychelles is only 457 km², its exclusive economic zone covers over 1.3 million km² of ocean.

Plastic bags were banned early: Seychelles was among the first African nations to ban plastic bags, doing so in 2017 to protect its fragile marine ecosystems.

Fascinating stories

The man who bought an island and created a nature reserve

Brendon Grimshaw, a British editor, bought the uninhabited Moyenne Island in 1962 for just £8,000. He moved there permanently and, with the help of a Seychellois companion, planted over 16,000 trees, built paths, and reintroduced giant tortoises. For decades he lived alone, turning the island into a paradise for wildlife. He refused multimillion-dollar offers to sell the island, insisting it remain a national park. Today, Moyenne is protected as part of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park and serves as a powerful symbol of private conservation.

The treasure of Olivier Levasseur

Legend has it that the notorious pirate Olivier Levasseur, also known as «La Buse» (The Buzzard), hid one of the largest pirate treasures in history somewhere in Seychelles—possibly on Mahé, Silhouette, or Frégate Island. Before being hanged in 1730, he is said to have thrown a cryptic message into the crowd, claiming it held clues to the treasure's location. Despite numerous searches and even modern expeditions, the treasure—rumored to be worth over $100 million—has never been found.

The forest that time forgot

The Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island was once believed by early explorers to be the true site of the Garden of Eden. Its eerie, untouched beauty and the mysterious coco de mer trees with suggestively shaped seeds gave rise to legends and spiritual awe. The Seychelles’ black parrot, found only in this forest, adds to the feeling that you’ve stepped into a prehistoric world untouched by time.

A coup attempt foiled at the airport

In 1981, a group of South African mercenaries led by «Mad Mike» Hoare tried to overthrow the Seychellois government. Disguised as a beer-drinking rugby team, they were caught with weapons at the airport. A gunfight broke out on the tarmac, but the coup failed. The mercenaries hijacked an Air India plane and escaped. The event shocked the world and remains one of the strangest coup attempts in modern African history.

Aldabra – the island that saved itself

In the 1960s, there were plans to build a British and American military base on Aldabra Atoll. The global scientific community protested loudly, arguing that Aldabra’s untouched ecosystem was of global importance. The plan was eventually scrapped, and the atoll was later designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today it stands as a landmark victory for international environmental activism.

La Digue Island, the third-largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, is a tropical retreat where time slows and nature takes over. With no cars and only bicycles and ox-carts for transport, it offers a peaceful escape framed by granite boulders, palm-lined beaches, and turquoise waters. Accommodations range from luxury resorts like Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie to charming Creole guesthouses. Dining on the island is a delight, with beachfront spots like Chez Jules and Fish Trap serving fresh seafood and authentic Creole flavors. Visitors can bike around the island, snorkel in coral-rich coves, hike to Nid d’Aigle for panoramic views, or relax on Anse Source d’Argent, one of the most photographed beaches in the world. La Digue is a place where nature, culture, and calm island life still thrive in rare harmony. Photo: Pascal Versaci, CC BY-ND 2.0

The lost French ship and sunken cannons Near Mahé’s Anse Forbans lies the wreck of the French frigate La Digue, which sank during a storm in the 18th century. Divers have discovered cannons and relics from the site, and local fishermen still tell tales of ghost ships and cursed waters in the area.

Economy & industry

• GDP (nominal): $2.2 billion (2024)

• GDP per capita (nominal): $21,875 (2024)

• Main industries: Tourism, fishing, agriculture, offshore financial services

• Unemployment rate: 3.7% (2017)

• Main exports: Canned tuna, frozen fish, petroleum products

• Tourism income: Significant contributor to GDP

• Ease of doing business index: Ranked 100th (2020)

• Cryptocurrency adoption: Data not specified
  

Cost of Living Index

Main groceries Most food items are imported and thus significantly more expensive than in many countries. Local produce such as breadfruit, bananas, coconuts, and fish is much cheaper and widely available in markets.

• 1 liter of milk: $2.00–$3.00

• 1 loaf of bread: $1.50–$2.50

• 1 dozen eggs: $3.50–$5.00

• 1 kg of local fruits or vegetables: $2.00–$4.00

• 1 kg of rice: $1.50–$2.50

• 1.5-liter bottle of water: $1.00–$1.50
  

Beer

• Local beer (e.g. Seybrew) in supermarket: $2.25–$3.75 (SCR 30–50 per bottle)

• In a bar or restaurant: $4.00–$6.00
  

Wine

• Imported wine in supermarkets: $10.00–$20.00 per bottle

• In restaurants: $25.00–$50.00 per bottle
  

Liquor

• International brands: $20.00–$40.00 per 750ml bottle

• Local rums and spirits are cheaper: $10.00–$18.00 per bottle
  

Accommodations

• Budget guesthouses: $50–$100 per night

• Mid-range hotels: $100–$250 per night

• Luxury resorts: $350–$1000+ per night
  

Restaurants, bars, and nightclubs

• Meal at a local takeaway: $5.00–$10.00

• Mid-range restaurant (3-course meal for two): $40.00–$80.00

• Street food or snacks: $2.00–$5.00

• Cocktails in a bar: $8.00–$15.00

• Entry to clubs: Often free or up to $10.00; drinks are extra
  

Long-term rent (monthly)

• One-bedroom apartment in Victoria or main towns: $600–$900

• Outside city centers: $400–$700

• Three-bedroom villa or house: $1200–$2500 depending on location and amenities
  

Rent a car

• Daily rental for compact cars: $40.00–$70.00

• Weekly rental: $250.00–$400.00

• Fuel cost per liter: Around $1.30
  

Transport

• Public buses: $0.50 per ride (flat rate on Mahé and Praslin)

• Taxis: Starting fare around $5.00, then about $2.00 per km

• Ferries between islands:

  Mahé to Praslin: $50.00 one-way (1-hour ride)

  Praslin to La Digue: $15.00–$20.00 one-way (15-minute ride)
  

Population & society

• Population: Approximately 121,355 (2024)

• Age structure: Data not specified

• Median age: Approximately 34 years

• Life expectancy: Data not specified

• Human rights: Generally respected; active civil society

• Crime rate: Relatively low

• Happiness index: Data not specified

• Education ranking: High literacy rates; education up to post-secondary level

• Healthcare system: Free primary healthcare; challenges include limited resources

• Alcohol consumption: Data not specified

• Tobacco use: Data not specified

• Education system: Compulsory education up to age 16; instruction in English, French, and Creole

• Top universities: University of Seychelles

• Healthcare challenges: Limited specialized medical services; reliance on overseas treatment for complex cases
  

Transportation & infrastructure

• Main airports: Seychelles International Airport (Mahé)

• Number of airports: Several, including domestic airports on Praslin and other islands

• Railways: None

• Main ports: Port Victoria

• Public transport: Bus services on main islands

• Traffic congestion index: Low to moderate

• Cycling infrastructure: Limited

• Waste management: Ongoing improvements; recycling initiatives in place
  

Culture & traditions

• National anthem: «Koste Seselwa» («Join together all Seychellois»)

• Cuisine: Fusion of African, French, Indian, and Chinese influences; emphasis on seafood and spices

• Popular festivals: Festival Kreol, Seychelles Carnival, Subios Underwater Festival

• Traditional clothing: Vibrant Creole attire

• Music and dance: Moutya, Sega, Kanmtole
  

Notable figures

James Mancham, the charismatic founding president of Seychelles, led the nation to independence from Britain in 1976. What many don’t know is that just a year later, while attending Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee in London, he was overthrown in a surprise coup led by his former prime minister, France-Albert René. Exiled for over a decade, Mancham became a global advocate for peace, writing extensively and promoting reconciliation. Upon his return in the 1990s, he remained a respected voice in Seychellois politics and international diplomacy, often praised for his commitment to democracy and dialogue. Photo: Seychelles News Agency, Wikipedia CC BY 4.0

James Mancham – First President of SeychellesJames Mancham was the founding president of Seychelles, taking office when the country gained independence from Britain on June 29, 1976. A lawyer educated in the UK, he led the Seychelles Democratic Party and favored continued ties with the Commonwealth. Less than a year into his presidency, he was ousted in a bloodless coup by Prime Minister France-Albert René while Mancham was abroad.

He spent 15 years in exile, becoming a global advocate for peace and democracy. After returning in 1992, he remained a prominent political voice and symbol of national reconciliation. Mancham died in 2017 and is remembered as a key figure in Seychelles’ path to independence.

Felicity Passon – Competitive swimmer Felicity Passon is one of Seychelles’ most celebrated athletes, a record-breaking swimmer who has brought international recognition to her island nation. Born in 1999, she has represented Seychelles in events like the World Aquatics Championships and the African Games, where she won multiple medals. Few know that Passon studied and trained in the United States, balancing academics with elite sport. Her success has made her a national role model, and she was chosen to carry the Seychellois flag at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Beyond the pool, she is an advocate for youth empowerment and ocean conservation.

Nigel Henri – Renowned artist Nigel Henri is one of Seychelles’ most prominent contemporary artists, known for his vibrant paintings that capture the rhythm, culture, and nature of island life. Born on Mahé, Henri’s work often blends traditional Seychellois themes with bold colors and abstract forms, drawing inspiration from the sea, creole music, and everyday life. He has exhibited internationally, from Europe to Asia, yet remains deeply connected to his roots, often mentoring young local artists. Lesser known is his background in design and his contributions to national identity projects, including stamps and public murals that reflect the soul of the Seychelles.

Sandra Esparon, one of Seychelles’ most acclaimed singers, rose to fame with the band Dezil' and their 2005 hit «San ou (La Rivière).» Starting her career at 16, she later launched a successful solo path with award-winning albums like Fanm Inik. Known for her soulful voice and Creole style, Sandra also plays drums and has represented Seychelles on international stages, including Paris. Few know she began singing in a church choir and sees criticism as key to her growth. Photo: Louis Toussaint, Seychelles News Agency, Wikipedia CC BY 4.0

Sandra Esparon - Internationally recognized singers

Sandra Esparon is one of Seychelles’ most internationally recognized singers, best known as the lead voice of the early 2000s group Dezil’. At just 16 years old, she rose to fame with the hit single «San ou (La Rivière),» which topped music charts in France, Belgium, and Switzerland. Born and raised on Mahé, Sandra later launched a solo career, blending Creole pop, reggae, and zouk influences with powerful vocals and emotional lyrics. Few know that she also writes much of her own music and remains committed to promoting Seychellois culture through her art. Today, she is seen as a cultural ambassador and a role model for young artists across the Indian Ocean region.

Joennise Juliette: The sega queen of Seychelles

Joennise Juliette, known as the «Sega Queen» of Seychelles, is a legendary singer who has dedicated her career to preserving traditional Seychellois sega music. Starting out with local bands in the 1980s, she rose to fame with albums like Lanmour Sove and Larenn Sega, known for their lively rhythms and Creole lyrics about love and island life. Her powerful voice and energetic stage presence have made her a cultural icon, representing the heart of Seychelles' music both at home and abroad.

Sports

• Popular sports: Football, basketball, volleyball, athletics, swimming

• International competitions: Indian Ocean Island Games, Commonwealth Games
  

Military & security

• Military expenditure: Data not specified

• Number of active personnel: Data not specified

• International alliances: Member of the African Union, Commonwealth, SADC

• Terrorism threat: Low

• Drug problems: Ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse

• Cybersecurity readiness: Developing infrastructure and policies

• Internet penetration: Increasing access across the islands

• AI & tech industry: Emerging sector with government support

• Patents & innovations: Data not specified

• E-commerce growth: Gradual increase in online businesses

• Research & development: Focus on environmental and marine studies
  

Official websites

• Government: https://www.egov.sc/

• Tourism: https://www.seychelles.com/