10-Day Seychelles Itinerary: Ultimate Guide to the Best of the Islands
If you’re planning a trip for 10 days in Seychelles, you’re in for a treat. The Seychelles surely is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. This tropical paradise is a cluster of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, with pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and lush greenery.
With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a Seychelles itinerary. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a 10-day itinerary for Seychelles that will take you to some of the most beautiful spots on the islands.
I just went on a 10-day trip (actually, it was a 10-night and 11-day trip) and I am pretty sure, it is one of THE MOST BEAUTIFUL islands in the world.
I want you to also have an incredible 10 days in the Seychelles, and this is why I share my favorite places with you. And as if that was not enough, you will also find more travel tips to have a smooth and amazing trip.
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PLACES TO VISIT IN 10 DAYS IN SEYCHELLES
- DAY 1-4: Arrive on Praslin Island
- DAY 5-6: Get to La Digue Island
- DAY 7-10: Depart to Mahe Island and stay there for the rest of the time
PLACES TO VISIT IN 10 DAYS IN SEYCHELLES
Okay, let´s talk about where to go and what to see in 10 days.
DAY 1: ARRIVE IN PRASLIN
If your flight connection is good, try to get directly to Praslin.
Praslin, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is a tropical paradise. You´ll find lush greenery, exotic beaches, and coral reefs. Its pristine white sandy beaches, such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, are often listed among the world’s most beautiful.
The island is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, which boasts the unique Coco de Mer palm trees and rare bird species like the Seychelles Black Parrot.
I suggest staying in Praslin for around 3-5 days if you have 10 days in Seychelles.
DAY 2-5: EXPLORE PRASLIN
HOW TO GET AROUND PRASLIN: Since I have problems with driving on the left side, I used public transportation (and booked a guided tour once). Overall, guided transport in Praslin is okay.
Buses get you to most places and each line runs several times a day. However, you still need to do a bit of walking (e.g. to Anse Lazio) and, even though the buses are supposed to be on time, they are not always.
So, if you can rent a car at least for one day in Praslin and get to the spots that you cannot get to by public transport.
Praslin’s Must-See Spots
Anse Lazio: Anse Lazio is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it’s easy to see why. With crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
You can also go snorkeling or swimming. Or do as I do and just be busy with taking thousands of pictures of this absolutely gorgeous (yet busy) beach.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve: The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the famous Coco de Mer palm tree. Take a leisurely walk through the lush forest and marvel at the unique flora and fauna. You might even spot the rare black parrot, which is endemic to Seychelles.
Anse Vollbart/Cote D´Or: Anse Vollbart exudes tranquility with its untouched natural charm. Its golden sands merge seamlessly with crystal-clear azure waters, creating a haven for relaxation and swimming. Surrounded by lush greenery, this gem remains relatively secluded, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist spots.
Anse Georgette: If you’re looking for a secluded beach, head to Anse Georgette. This hidden gem is only accessible by foot or boat (or for hotel guests at the nearby hotel by a golf caddy), so it’s usually not crowded. The beach is surrounded by granite boulders and lush vegetation, making it a picturesque spot for a picnic or a swim.
INFO: To get access to this beach, you need to register at the Constance Lemuria Praslin Resort. Since all beaches in Seychelles are public beaches, people who do not stay at the luxury property with direct access to the beach can spend time at Anse Georgette (or any beach for this matter).
Curieuse Island & Boat Island Trip: Take a day trip to Curieuse Island, located just off the coast of Praslin. This small island is home to giant tortoises (which roam freely), which you can observe up close. You can also go hiking, snorkeling, or simply relax on the beach.
Curieuse Island is another location where the Coco de Mer naturally grows.
I visited Curieruse Island on a guided boat tour and had the chance to see some other gorgeous spots as well, like Ava Maria. This day trip was worth every $ and if you do a guided trip, I highly suggest doing this one.
CHECK OUT THE BOAT CRUISE I DID WHICH I CAN HIGHLY RECOMMEND
With so much to see and do in Praslin, you’ll not get bored with a few days in Praslin. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this island has something for everyone.
DAY 6-7: LA DIGUE
After exploring beautiful Praslin, it’s time to relax and unwind on the picturesque island of La Digue. With its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, lush greenery, and laid-back atmosphere, La Digue is the perfect destination for any Seychelles itinerary.
HOW TO GET TO LA DIGUE: There are several ferries a day operating from Mahe/Praslin to La Digue. A ferry ride from Praslin is just about 20 minutes and a one-way ticket costs about 12 €/$ 13.
HOW TO GET AROUND LA DIGUE: Rent a bike and explore the island’s many hidden gems. Renting a bike for a day is around 150 RS (about 10 €/ $11) and there are plenty of bike rentals on the island.
You could also hop on a taxi (there are no private cars allowed on the island) if you have luggage or just do not want to or cannot ride a bike/walk.
La Digue’s Top Attractions
Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss during your 2-day stay in La Digue:
Anse Source d’Argent: This stunning beach is one of the most photographed beaches in the world, and for good reason. With its granite boulders, crystal-clear waters, and powdery white sand, Anse Source d’Argent is a paradise on Earth.
While the watercolor was not as stunning as at other Seychoilois beaches (in my opinion), this beach is still a stunner!
Many small stalls along the beaches sell drinks and snacks. However, they are overpriced and the “fresh pineapple juice” I ordered for about 7 Euro consisted of one small piece of pineapple, tons of added sugar, and water.
INFO: To get to the beach, you must pay an entrance fee for the L’Union Estate Park, which is about 150 Seychelles Ruppee (around 10€/$11 ).
L’Union Estate Park: This historic estate is a must-visit attraction in La Digue. Here, you can see traditional Creole houses, a vanilla plantation, and a giant tortoise pen. You can also take a walk through the estate’s lush gardens and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean.
Grand Anse: If you’re looking for a quieter beach, Grand Anse is the perfect spot. This beautiful stretch of sand is less crowded than Anse Source d’Argent and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Anse Patates: Let´s talk about my favorite beach: Framed by lush palm trees and pristine white sand, Anse Patates stands as a breathtakingly picturesque beach in northern La Digue. Conveniently accessible by various means – whether on foot, cycling, or a short taxi ride – Anse Patates is situated adjacent to a roadway, ensuring plentiful bicycle parking options.
This beach is distinct due to the absence of a barrier reef, leading to a quick deepening of the ocean and larger waves. At high tide, the beach can become completely submerged, significantly altering its appearance.
DAYS 8-10: MAHE
Welcome to Mahe! With three days to explore, you have plenty of time to see the highlights of this beautiful island.
Mahé Island, the largest in the Seychelles archipelago, is known for its lush, mountainous landscapes and stunning beaches. As the economic and political hub, it houses the capital, Victoria, and offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural richness you might be surprised to hear that Mahe also has some incredible beaches where you can relax and unwind.
HOW TO GET TO MAHE: From Praslin/La Digue, you can get back to Mahe by ferry/plane. The ferry from La Digue to Mahe takes almost 2 hours and from Praslin, it takes about 75 minutes. The one-way ticket from La Digue is around 72 € /$78).
HOW TO GET AROUND MAHE: Public transportation is more or less working well, at least some routes. Bus line 22 takes you to the most beautiful beaches in the north and it works fine. With other lines, I have had some issues but overall, it is an option to get around if you are on a tight budget, or cannot drive (on the left) in Mahe.
Renting a car is probably the best option as public transportation is NOT AMAZING (even though the bus company claims otherwise, lol). Mahe is much busier than Praslin and many roads are very narrow (especially with oncoming buses) – you should feel comfortable with driving in these conditions.
Renting a driver for a day or two (or longer) could be another option – it is not cheap (220 Euro + for a day) but good for anyone who does not want to drive and yet does not want to give up flexibility and freedom for their 10-day Seychelles itinerary.
Highlights of Mahe
Victoria: The capital city of the Seychelles, located on Mahé Island, is renowned for its vibrant blend of cultures and stunning natural beauty. This small yet bustling city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Victoria Clocktower, a replica of London’s Vauxhall Clock Tower, and the colorful Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market.
Beau Vallon Beach: Spend a day at Beau Vallon Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Seychelles. You can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby.
INFO: Do not visit after a heavy day of rain – since the water from the river flows into the beach here, the water gets kind of brownish and it is less gorgeous. The same goes for some other beaches.
Morne Seychellois National Park: Take a hike in the Morne Seychellois National Park, which covers more than 20% of Mahe’s land area. You can see rare birds, endemic plants, and breathtaking views of the island from the mountain peaks.
Eden Island: This artificial island is a luxurious residential marina development featuring elegant homes and a wide range of leisure facilities. Located just off the main island of Mahé, it offers an exclusive lifestyle with stunning views, private beaches, and a bustling commercial center, making it a unique blend of privacy and convenience.
Takamaka Rum Distillery: Experience the local rum culture at the Takamaka Rum Distillery, where you can taste different kinds of rum and learn about the distillation process. Don’t forget to buy a bottle or two to take home!
North Coast: The northern coast of Mahé in Seychelles is adorned with some of the most picturesque and serene beaches. This area is celebrated for its white sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Machabee Rock Pool and the Carana Public Beach are just some of the hidden gems that are less busy, yet incredibly beautiful.
Anse Major: This beauty is nestled on the northwestern coast of Mahé Island in Seychelles – a hidden gem offering a serene and unspoiled beach experience. Accessible by a scenic hiking trail or by boat, Anse Major is a secluded bay known for its crystal-clear waters and tranquil environment, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
I would plan one day for the north coast, one day for central Mahe and the west coast, and then one day for a boat tour to below-mentioned destinations near Mahe.
Saint-Anne Nation Marine Park
The Sainte Anne Marine National Park, located off Mahé Island’s northeast coast, encompasses six islands renowned for their stunning beaches, and upscale resorts.
The surrounding waters boast dive sites with vibrant coral reefs and expansive seagrass beds, frequented by dolphins and hawksbill turtles. There was one spot where I was blown away by the prettiest blue water I had ever seen. That alone made the boat excursion so worth it.
Moyenne Island features historical sites like pirate graves and ancient settlers’ ruins and depending on the exact tour you will book, this might be the place where you will have a BBQ lunch at the beach.
CHECK OUT THE BOAT CRUISE TO STE ANNE MARINE NATIONAL PARK HERE
With so much to see and do in Mahe, you won’t be bored for a moment. Enjoy your three days on the island and get ready for more adventures in Seychelles!
Where to Stay in Mahe
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles: Located on the picturesque island of Mahe, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles offers luxurious villas surrounded by lush tropical gardens and stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The resort boasts a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options. It’s the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring the island.
Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino on Mahe Island is a great choice. The resort is located on one of the most beautiful beaches in Seychelles and offers a range of amenities such as a casino, multiple dining options, and a spa. The rooms are comfortable and spacious, with stunning views of the ocean.
Hilltop Boutique Hotel: I stayed in Victoria, not far from the hustle and bustle of the city, which allowed me to be at the main bus station within a few minutes. This was a good choice for me as getting around with no car was quite easy and I booked one of the biggest rooms with a nice view. The staff was friendly and I highly recommend this hotel to anyone, if staying at the beach is not your highest priority.
PLAN YOUR SEYCHELLES ITINERARY FOR 10 DAYS
There are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most out of your vacation.
BEST TIME TO VISIT SEYCHELLES
The Seychelles enjoys a warm, tropical climate year-round, but there are some variations in weather and activities throughout the year:
April to May and October to November: These periods are considered the best times to visit Seychelles. They are transitional months between the two trade winds that affect the Seychelles’ weather, bringing calmer seas and clearer water. This makes it an ideal time for swimming, snorkeling, and diving due to better visibility underwater.
December to March: This period is the northwest trade winds season. It’s usually warmer and more humid, with more rainfall, especially in December and January. This is also the peak tourist season, coinciding with the holiday period. So, if you asked me, I would say, do not visit during these months.
May to September: During these months, the southeast trade winds bring drier, cooler weather and windier conditions. This is a great time for sailing and windsurfing. The seas can be a bit rougher, which might affect water clarity for snorkeling and diving. It’s also a less crowded period.
While Seychelles is often a beauty, I have to admit that I experienced a few rainy days in between. And then the beaches and the water looked less incredible. While we never can 100% rely on the weather, sunny days with clear skies made the Seychelles the most beautiful place on Earth.
As you can see in the picture below, you will not even need filters/editing when the weather is on your side.
HOW TO GET TO SEYCHELLES
Most flights get you to Mahé Airport (Seychelles International Airport), from big airports like Dubai, Istanbul, Nairobi, etc. Mahe is the main island of Seychelles.
GET FROM MAHE TO PRASLIN
You have several options to get to Praslin from Mahe.
If you arrive in Mahe later in the day, I suggest staying in Mahe for the first night. Flights can be delayed and you cannot be sure if you will catch the ferry/flight to Praslin on time. However, if you have a few hours between the arrival at Mahe Airport and the departure of the flight/ferry, then you could get to beautiful Praslin on the first day of your trip.
To get from Mahé Airport (Seychelles International Airport) to Praslin Island, you have two primary options: by air or by sea.
By Air (Domestic Flight):
- The fastest way to reach Praslin from Mahé is by taking a domestic flight.
- Air Seychelles operates frequent flights between Mahé and Praslin, with the journey taking approximately 15 minutes.
- The flights depart from the domestic terminal of Seychelles International Airport, which is easily accessible from the international terminal.
- It’s advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
By Sea (Ferry Service):
- An alternative is to take a ferry from Mahé to Praslin.
- The ferry terminal is located at the Port of Victoria, which is about a 15 to 20-minute drive from the airport. Taxis are readily available at the airport to take you to the ferry terminal. Though, the distance is short, prices are high. Expect to pay 30-40 Euros (33-44$) for that short drive.
- The ferry ride to Praslin takes approximately 1 hour.
- There are a couple of ferry services available, such as Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry, offering regular trips throughout the day.
- Booking your ferry tickets in advance (a few days prior should be fine) is recommended, particularly during high season.
- I read some horror stories about the ferry ride – I am not prone to seasickness but felt dizzy after this ferry ride. The stories I read/heard about included heavy sea sickness. So, keep this in mind when deciding whether to take the ferry/plane.
Both methods have their own charm: flying offers a quicker journey and aerial views of the islands, while the ferry provides a chance to enjoy the ocean breeze and scenic beauty of the Seychelles waters. Depending on your schedule, budget, and preference for travel, you can choose the option that best suits your needs.
HOW TO GET AROUND
Here are my thoughts on how to get around Seychelle to help you navigate the islands during your 10-day itinerary for Seychelles.
Public Transportation / Buses
Seychelles has a reliable (well, kind of) and affordable (yes, it is) public transportation system. Buses are the most popular mode of transportation for locals. They run regularly and cover some of the island’s major attractions (at least in Mahe and on Praslin) and are an experience in itself.
While I loved using buses most of the time, it was less reliable in Mahe, but I made it somehow work out for me. I think it is a great alternative if you do not want to drive in Seychelles but also do not have the budget to pay $ 200 + a day for a driver.
If you want to use public transportation you need to know two things:
- You must not bring Luggage (except backpacks).
- No cash on the buses. You need to buy a travel card before you go onto the bus.
You need to buy travel tickets at designated shops, which are especially for tourists. They are available for 1, 4, or 8 days. The one-day pass is about 9€ ($10) and the 8-day pass is about 22€ ($24). This will give you unlimited bus rides on Mahe and Praslin Island (there are no buses on La Digue).
Taxis
Taxis are also widely available but are, of course, more expensive than buses. Actually, they are quite expensive. A trip from the Mahe airport to the Mahe ferry station can be around 30-40€ (for a 10-15-minute ride). Negotiate the fare before getting in the taxi to avoid any surprises. Taxis are a good option if you’re traveling in a group or need to get somewhere quickly, but if you are on a budget, you might avoid taking taxis whenever possible.
Uber does not exist in Seychelles.
Car Rental
Renting a car is another popular option for getting around Seychelles. It gives you the freedom to explore the islands at your own pace and on your own schedule. There are several car rental companies on the islands, and prices start at around SCR 550 (40 Euro/ $44) per day.
It’s important to note that driving is on the left side of the road in Seychelles. Also, some of the roads can be narrow and winding and challenging for some.
Bicycle Rental
If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly and active way to explore Seychelles, consider renting a bicycle. It’s a great way to see the islands up close and at a slower pace. However, since Mahe is rather big and very hilly, I would not recommend a bike for exploring the main island.
For Praslin, it could be a good option and for La Digue, it is actually the best (and almost only option).
There are several bike rental shops on the islands, and prices start at around SCR 150 (10€/ $11) per day.
Boat Tours
Seychelles is made up of several islands, and a boat tour is a great way to explore them. There are several boat tour operators on the islands, offering everything from snorkeling and fishing trips to sunset cruises. Prices vary depending on the length and type of tour.
Since I traveled solo in Seychelles, I did not rent private boats (let alone yachts), but booked a couple of group tours where we got around by boat – and I loved this mode of transport.
Boat tours are also a great way to explore the islands and see the stunning scenery from a different perspective.
Ferries
The main ferry routes in Seychelles connect islands, such as Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. A ferry ride from Mahe to Praslin is around 75 minutes and costs around 60 Euros ($65) for a one-way ticket. So, not a bargain.
There are three different classes – I opted for the business class from Mahe to Praslin. And got disappointed. The business class does not include any service, the seats might have been a bit bigger and you could embark/disembark earlier, but there are no drinks, etc. served. So, it was not worth it, in my honest opinion, and so booked the regular class for my other ferry rides.
VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR SEYCHELLES
Visitor’s Permit on Arrival: Most nationalities receive a visitor’s permit upon arrival in Seychelles, provided they meet certain criteria.
Requirements for the Visitor’s Permit: To obtain the permit, you usually need a valid passport, return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for the duration of the stay.
HOWEVER – there is one info, I hardly found online and which cost me a lot of number. You need to obtain a travel permit before your arrival which costs 10 euros per person. You can apply online for this permit.
I did check out some sites, including the official site of Seychelles that said, the country is visa-free and you get a “visa on arrival”. The info about the travel permit was almost hidden.
I was asked at the airport in Mauritius (where I was before) about a permit for Seychelles – when I said no, I was told it would cost money but it would be 70 Euro whether I do it now or on arrival. Either way, there might have been a misunderstanding or just wrong info, but DO IT PRIOR, so you just pay around 10€.
COCO DE MER
I really have to get that off my chest: Seychellois obsession with Coco de Mer :). You´ll notice one thing almost everywhere in the Seychelles: The Coco de Mer.
The Coco de Mer is a symbol of the Seychelles and plays a significant role in the islands’ ecology and cultural heritage. This unique palm tree is famous for producing the largest seeds of any plant in the world. These seeds, often referred to as sea coconuts, have a distinctive shape and are highly valued for their rarity and unique appearance.
These trees and their seeds are protected, and it’s illegal to collect or export the seeds without a special license. So, you can buy one of them (they are not cheap though and cost several hundreds of US $).
Yes, the nuts look like…
FINAL THOUGHTS ON SEYCHELLES ITINERARY
Seychelles, a breathtaking archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is a dream destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.
Seychelles totally blew me away – it is surely one of the most beautiful places in the world. And it is, to my surprise, more than just beaches.
This 10-day itinerary for Seychelles allows you to explore the stunning diversity of this island nation. In 10 days in Seychelles, you can traverse from the lush tropical forests to the pristine white-sand beaches, and from the vibrant local markets to the serene mountain trails.
Seychelles in 10 days provides an unforgettable journey.