12 Best Things to Do in Seychelles Beyond the Beaches

Seychelles is usually considered to be an ideal place to relax with its soft white sand, turquoise waters and gorgeous beaches. This island destination offers much more than just resting by the sea, but has an amazing coastline to be admired. There are so many things to do in and around the place instead of the beautiful beaches, lush nature trails, fascinating cultural experiences, island adventures and local food. Those who book Seychelles Tour Packages from Dubai will experience a harmony of nature, adventure, culture and relaxation throughout their travels.

Seychelles are a destination for every kind of traveller be it couples, family or adventure seekers, Seychelles have something for everyone. A glimpse of the natural beauty and lifestyle can make your vacation more meaningful and memorable. Seychelles has its beaches, but here are some of the Best Things to Do in Seychelles that you should incorporate into your travel plans beyond the beaches.

Here are the 12 Best Things to Do in Seychelles Beyond the Beaches

1. Explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

A Seychelles wonderland is the Vallée de Mai nature reserve on Praslin Island. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for ancient palm forest and the unique coco de mer palm. The forest is a serene and tranquil place, with tall palm trees and lush vegetation, as if one is walking through a wonderland. The reserve is also a great place to see rare birds and experience the pristine beauty of Seychelles' natural environment. This amazing place is a must-see while on an island getaway.

2. Hike Through Morne Seychellois National Park

Morne Seychellois National Park is a perfect destination for travellers who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. The park has extensive tropical forest and mountains on Mahé Island. There are a number of hiking trails that wind through stunning scenery with spectacular views of the Island and the surrounding ocean. The Morne Blanc Trail is particularly favored as it will allow the trekker to enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape. A few hours in the Seychelles national park are great fun to discover the "green and wild" Seychelles.

3. Visit Victoria and Discover Local Culture

The capital city of Seychelles, Victoria, is one of the world's smallest capital cities but is chock full of character and culture. Visitors to Victoria will be able to gain insight into the way of life and history of the islands. Stroll through the city, visit the historic buildings and significant cultural sites, and experience colourful markets. Victoria Market is a great place to experience fresh produce, spices and seafood being sold by locals. The visit to the capital will be completely different than a resort visit.

4. See the Famous Victoria Clock Tower

When you visit Victoria, be sure to see the Victoria Clock Tower (Lorloz). This is one of the most famous historical landmarks of Seychelles. It was inspired by the Vauxhall Clock Tower in London and has been in existence in that city for many years. The clock tower can be found in the centre and it's easy to make this a part of your city sightseeing itinerary. If you have time to find out its history, then you can make your Seychelles holiday more cultural.

5. Enjoy a Scenic Drive Around Mahé Island

One of the easiest and best ways to explore Seychelles off the beaches is by a scenic drive around Mahé Islands. Winding roads go through the green mountains and small villages and beautiful viewpoints, all of which are present on the island. Several scenic stops are available to enjoy the views and beautiful photos. Afterwards, moving around the island offers the opportunity to rest in the quietude of local communities and visit some of Seychelles which may be overlooked by the majority of tourists. The perfect getaway for couples and families seeking a casual adventure.

6. Explore the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Those who are fond of plants and nature will love the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, which are located in Victoria. It has a great diversity of tropical and exotic plants, flowers and famous palm trees. The highlight is the chance to witness the giant tortoises in a natural environment without any disturbances. Also, the gardens offer a peaceful and serene walk to enjoy the tropical ambiance. It is a good place for families and those seeking a peaceful holiday experience to visit that will avoid the crowds.

7. Meet the Giant Tortoises at Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island is home to giant tortoises of Aldabra. A trip to the island will allow you to witness these splendid creatures in their natural habitat. It is possible to stroll along nature trails, to hear about the conservation work on the island and the lovely surroundings. The red earth and the interesting landscape of Curieuse Island are also a characteristic. It's an amazing experience to be able to meet the giant tortoises and it is one of the Best Things to Do in Seychelles for wildlife lovers.

8. Discover Local Creole Cuisine

Seychelles has a great food culture that is inspired by the African, French, Indian and Asian food cultures. Don't just eat at your resort, but enjoy some Creole cuisine. The local cuisine includes fresh seafood, grilled fish, coconut dishes and aromatic spices. Local restaurants and food markets are open for travellers to enjoy the local flavors. Eating traditional food is a good way to learn more about the islands' culture and heritage.

9. Visit the Mission Lodge Viewpoint

Mission Lodge Viewpoint is located on Mahé Island, and is one of the most scenic spots in the Seychelles. This is a high elevation point that has a great vista of the ocean and the mountains around it. It also has historical significance and is linked to the island's history. It is a calm area with spectacular views and is a perfect place to make a stop on a sightseeing tour. Photographers will particularly love taking photographs of dramatic landscapes that feature mountains, greenery and ocean vistas.

10. Visit the Craft Village at Domaine de Val des Prés

The craft village Domaine de Val des Prés is a great place to get more information about Seychellois culture and traditional craftsmanship. Local art, handicrafts and traditional architecture are available for the visitors to the area. At the craft village, you can buy some one-of-a-kind souvenirs that show the Seychelles' culture. For travellers who prefer cultural tourism and wish to bring back more than just a touristic item, exploring this attraction is a great opportunity.

11. Go Island Hopping

Seychelles consists of numerous islands and island hopping is a great way to explore Seychelles' diversity. Each island is unique in its ambience, features and attractions. Depending on your travel plans you can visit Praslin, La Digue, Curieuse or smaller islands. The opportunity to travel between islands allows you to enjoy different environments and landscapes. Beaches aren't the only activity you can enjoy on the islands, island hopping lets you explore the forests, wildlife, villages, and cultural points throughout the archipelago.

12. Enjoy a Sunset Cruise or Nature Excursion

A sunset cruise is a peaceful and memorable way to end your day in Seychelles. Rather than staying at your hotel each night, you can unwind on the boat as you watch the colours shift across the Indian Ocean. There are also excursions that allow for the opportunity to observe marine life and take in the peaceful environment. Couples and families can have a wonderful experience on a nature-based boat ride. This is one of the Best Things to Do in Seychelles to make memories that people will cherish for a lifetime, and the surroundings are beautiful, peaceful and tranquil.

Conclusion

Seychelles isn't just a land of beaches! It features rich forests, towering mountains, exclusive wildlife, rich culture and mouth-watering cuisines which are endless to explore. Visitors can enjoy a variety of memorable experiences off the beach, such as walking through the Vallée de Mai and hiking in Morne Seychellois National Park, visiting the local markets, or meeting the giant tortoises. The islands are perfect for various kinds of visitors due to these activities.

When you start your next island getaway, you'll find it useful to use the Best Things to Do in Seychelles to make a travel itinary more exciting and complete. Your Seychelles vacation is about more than just a beach getaway - it's about nature, adventure, culture and local experiences. If you are properly planned, the islands can provide you with an unforgettable experience from the moment you get there to the end of your trip.