SEYCHELLES
The world’s only granite islands in mid-ocean, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and a whole host of attractions make up what is surely the world’s ultimate tropical paradise. Internationally renowned for their exceptional beauty and their carefully preserved flora and fauna, the Seychelles archipelago lies just south of the equator, off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles are made up of 115 granite and coral islands, each with a distinct character and attraction of its own.
Although there are 115 islands, most are completely uninhabited. There are three main tourist destinations, all with spectacular beaches and each with a distinct character and attractions of their own. All visitors arrive in Mahé, the largest island, where the capital of Victoria is located, and which is often used as a base for island hopping. Praslin has a lush tropical forest, home to rare species of birds and animals. La Digue is a very laid-back, tranquil island that is easily explored by bicycle. Other visitors stay on one of the more remote islands which offer exclusivity, privacy, and luxury. These include North Island, Denis, Fregate and Desroches.
There is also a fascinating mix of cultures – French, English, and Creole, which can be experienced today in the local art, cuisine, music, dance and architecture. Seychelles is an easy addition to a safari in East Africa, and there is also a direct flight from Johannesburg, South Africa.