Seychelles, with its vast expanse of beaches and crystal clear waters, offers many adventure opportunities for thrill-seekers and all kinds of travellers looking to explore something more. If you want to dip your toe in exciting water sports or other adrenaline-pumping activities, the Seychelles is the ideal vacation spot for you. Beyond being a haven for the romantics, this archipelago is an ideal playground for friends seeking diverse experiences. From thrilling surfing escapades to stunning underwater explorations and invigorating hikes, Seychelles unveils a variety of adventures that cater to varied tastes and preferences.
Best Time for Surfing: October to December
Seychelles offers a wave-riding haven for surf enthusiasts, particularly from October to December. Anse Lazio in Praslin, Grand Anse Beach, Anse Forbans, and Anse Gaulette in Mahe, as well as Anse Patate in La Digue, stand out as prime surfing hotspots. The archipelago's azure waters and consistent swells provide the perfect canvas for surfing enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush.
Diverse Dive Sites on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Seychelles' underwater realm through scuba diving. From Mahé and Praslin to La Digue, each main island boasts unspoiled dive sites teeming with diverse marine life. Dive into the legendary Shark Bank, an Inner Island site renowned for massive flat rocks and vibrant schools of fish, creating an underwater spectacle for seasoned divers.
Crystal Clear Waters, Ideal for Marine Exploration
For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, Seychelles' crystal-clear waters beckon snorkelers. With 12 hours of sunlight, the archipelago's marine parks offer an array of shallow-water snorkelling experiences. Sainte Anne Marine National Park is one of the most popular places to snorkel- one can find over 150 species of marine life and the corals including reef sharks, bottlenose dolphins, 6-foot long stingrays and many fishes.
Diverse Hiking Trails for Nature Enthusiasts
Seychelles, with its diverse landscapes, unfolds numerous hiking trails catering to nature enthusiasts. Embark on the Morne Blanc trail to Seychelles' highest peak, Morne Seychellois, for a challenging three-hour trek through dense forests, moss-covered jungles, and granite boulders, culminating in breathtaking views of Mahé's west coast. Alternatively, take a nature walk through Vallée De Mai in Praslin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore a dense palm forest and encounter unique endemic flora, including the iconic 'Coco De Mer.' Another very interesting and unique thing to see in Vallée De Mai is the black parrot, endemic to the island and the national bird of the Seychelles.
Although this unique type of parrot can only be spotted inside the natural reserve, you have to be really keen and vigilant in order to see it. Along with geckos, tree frogs, snails and of course the Coco de Mer, you might get distracted, but listen closely for a high-pitched whistle that will indicate that the bird is nearby. With its dark grey-brown feathers the bird easily camouflages itself against the many trees in the reserve and you have to be really observant to spot it.
Adventure Activities in Mahé's Forested Terrain
For thrill-seekers, Mahé offers an adrenaline-packed playground with ziplining, rock climbing, and abseiling activities. Soar through the forest canopy on ziplines, offering panoramic views of moss-covered landscapes. Experience the unexpected thrill of rock climbing on an 18-metre granite cliff face, adding extra excitement to your Seychelles adventure.
Leisurely Exploration of Praslin, La Digue, and Desroches
Discover the charm of Praslin and La Digue by exploring their palm-lined streets on a bicycle. Absorb the relaxed vibes of these islands while admiring Creole architecture reminiscent of eighteenth-century Parisian neighbourhoods. La Digue is the ideal place to indulge in cycling with its picturesque coastal landscapes. The small island could be explored on bicycles or electronic buggies since it is a car-free zone. Desroches Island, too, offers exciting cycling routes through its lush forests, providing a delightful challenge for cycling enthusiasts.
Best Time for Sailing: December to March and May to September
The scenic beauty of Seychelles is ideal for many adventure activities and sailing is one of them, particularly during the north-westerly winds from December to March and the south-easterly winds from May to September. Explore hotspots like Cerf Island, St. Anne Marine National Park in Mahé, La Digue Island, and Praslin. To try your hand at sailing, you can take advantage of guided tours to the Moorings that promise an immersive sailing experience, allowing you to bask in the allure of the archipelago.
Seasonal Winds from October to March and May to September
Feel the exhilaration of kitesurfing at Anse aux Pins, where seasonal winds create ideal conditions. From October to March, enjoy warm and humid weather, while May to September brings cooler temperatures. Anse aux Pins, with its narrow beach and protective coral reef, offers fantastic kitesurfing opportunities with waves ranging from 1m to 3m.
Windy season from June to October, after which it is less challenging to kayak
Go for crystal kayaking and admire the surreal granite boulders framing the beach. The clear waters of the beach let you glimpse various fishes and marine creatures. You can rent the transparent kayaks at the beach, where there will be an instructor to ensure you are safe in the water. The best spot for enjoying the surreal experience of crystal kayaking is the Anse Source D'Argent beach on La Digue, the most photographed beach in the world and rightly so, an experience that was first introduced in Seychelles by Crystal Water Kayaks. Rent and enjoy the breathtaking sights of the granite boulders that make for a stunning view as the blue waters guide your transparent kayaks.
