You've reached the greens, blues, and whites of the Seychelles, one of the world's premier destinations for romantic getaways! Located in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, about a thousand miles to the east of Africa, this small nation of island archipelagos is one of the classic island-hopping nirvanas for pleasure seekers and lovers of beauty.
Seychelles Climate and Geography
With a pleasant tropical climate, the Seychelles Islands are a great place to visit at any time of year. The country has two distinct monsoon seasons, and both are generally warm and a bit humid. The Southeast Monsoon, from May to September, is a bit cooler and wetter, while the Northwest Monsoon, from October to May, is a bit warmer and drier. In either case, you'll want to pack beachwear and light clothing, with a pair of light pants and a sweater or two for the cooler evenings.
The islands themselves are a mix of granite landmasses and coral reefs and atolls, formed by a giant upheaval of the African subcontinent over millions of years, with Mahé being the largest and most heavily populated. This uprising has led to the formation of breathtakingly unique rock outcroppings and some of the world's most extensive coral growth, and correspondingly all of the accompanying marine life and wildlife characteristic of islands of this type. Many of the Seychelles' species are not found anywhere else on earth.
Seychelles Lodging
Lodging in the Seychelles is plentiful, with numerous resorts operating on their own private islands. You'll find luxurious low-key bungalows, villas, and thatched-roof cottages with sea views, beach access, private patios, scented towels, gorgeous swimming pools, and all the other accommodations one would expect from a first-class island hideaway. What you won't find, however, are many commercial hotels or huge resorts - the Seychelles' accommodations are noted for their intimacy and personal touches!
Seychelles - What to See and Do
For those looking for a bit more than a week of stunning beaches and romantic evenings, the Seychelles offer some wonderful choices for adventurous activities. The island is home to gorgeous flora and fauna, including giant tortoises and over one thousand species of tropical fish. For birdwatching, the islands' coastal mudflats, freshwater wetlands, and native forests are your best bet.
If you've packed your hiking boots, be sure to check out Morne Seychellois, the nation's highest point, on the isle of Mahé. The Seychelles are also home to no less than three World Heritage Sites: the island of Aldabra, the Cousin Island Special Reserve, and the Vallée de Mai.
Aldabra
The island of Aldabra is home to the world's largest raised coral atoll, forming an enormous lagoon in which tiger sharks and manta rays are often seen. With hundreds of different kinds of tropical fish and over two hundred fifty species of coral, including sea fans and organ pipes, this spot offers some of the nation's most exciting opportunities for incredible snorkeling and scuba diving.
Cousin Island Special Reserve
This bird and marine sanctuary has won numerous awards for conservancy and ecotourism, and is considered the Seychelles' best opportunity for wildlife viewing. With over 300,000 avian creatures on an island just over half a mile in diameter, you can't help but be impressed by the beautiful movement of the birds. It is open to the public Tuesday through Friday.
Vallée de Mai
This spectacular palm garden is often referred to as "the Garden of Eden," and the comparison is an apt one. This is one of the few spots in the world where you can see the largest seeds on earth, hanging from the coco de mer palm trees. The suggestive shape of the fruit has given it the amorous moniker of "love nut" - perhaps these trees will spark some passion between you and your new husband or bride, as well!
Transportation and Travel Information
Seychelles International Airport is located on Mahé near the capital city of Victoria. Most travel between islands is by small boat. Car rental and bus service are available but often unnecessary, as many resorts will provide for your transportation upon arrival.
Travel to the Seychelles requires a valid passport, an onward or return ticket, and the local address of your arranged lodging. One-month visas may be secured upon arrival. The country charges an airport departure tax of US $40.
For a charming island paradise, few countries top the Seychelles. With a tropical climate, world class beaches, incredible snorkeling and scuba opportunities, pleasantly secluded accommodations, and a number of World Heritage sites, this small archipelago is sure to excite your romantic sensibilities as you take your first steps into married life.
