Seychelles on the map. Seychelles (islands). Turtles on La Digue

Today I am opening a new and long-awaited column about Seychelles - a truly heavenly place on Earth and a tropical resort located off the eastern coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. Seychelles is one of the most prestigious destinations for beach tourism, a place that will be appreciated not only by sunbathers, but also by fans of outdoor activities. The unique beauty of the Seychelles resorts attracts tourists from all over the world and travelers from Russia, who are happy to spend their long-awaited vacation in the Seychelles. So I will share everything I know about these incomparable islands: what kind of state is the Seychelles, where is it located, whether you need a visa for a visit, what language they speak, what money is used, how much to fly there and what prices on air tickets, when it is better to relax there and what islands and hotels are in the Seychelles. In general, my article is about how best to prepare for a trip to the Seychelles and what is worth seeing there so that your vacation in the Seychelles will be remembered for a long time.

I will begin my story, of course, with the definition and brief description Seychelles, where they are on the world map and what constitutes a vacation there.

Seychelles Is an island state (its full name is the Republic of Seychelles), located below the equator line in the southern hemisphere in East Africa, in the western waters of the Indian Ocean, with a population of about 90 thousand people and an area of ​​only 455 km 2. According to the form of government, the country of Seychelles is a presidential republic, which gained independence from Great Britain on June 29, 1976. The Seychelles flag has 5 colors radiating from the lower left corner and was approved on June 18, 1996.

basic information

Judging by where the Seychelles are located on the map - a little south of the equator, about 1600 km east of the African mainland, their affiliation with Africa can be called very conditional, especially given the unique fauna of these islands. Nevertheless, the Seychelles are geographically located closest to Africa, next to another famous island - Madagascar.

Seychelles on the map

The capital of Seychelles is the city of Victoria, the largest city in this country. It is located on the largest island of the Seychelles archipelago - Mahe (its area is 142 km 2). There is also international Airport Seychelles with a runway just 3 meters above sea level.

The territory of the Seychelles is formed by the islands towering 4-8 meters above the ocean, which in the Seychelles are of two types: granite and coral. It is very simple to distinguish between them: people live and rest on granite (inhabited) ones, but coral, similar to, are mostly uninhabited and can only be visited as part of excursions.

Want to know how many islands there are in the Seychelles? Compared to other island states, there are not so many, only 115 islands. At the same time, only 33 of them are inhabited. Moreover, most of the tourists rest in the best hotels, such as Four seasons and Hilton seychelles on the largest Seychelles islands - Mahe, Praslin, La Digue, Silhouette - or on small and private islands with exclusive hotels - North, Frigate, Felicite, Denis and a number of other resorts.

Flora and fauna of Seychelles has a large percentage of endemics - birds, reptiles and plants that are found only in this archipelago of islands and nowhere else in the world. Seychelles palms grow here, the fruit of which weighs up to 20 kg and is considered the largest in the plant world. And also rare species of birds live - Seychelles small black parrot and nightingale bulbul.

Here is an interesting overview video about the Seychelles:

It's important to know: For detailed background information about Seychelles, see Wikipedia, and I will continue to share with you practical information about this country and holidays in it.

I would compare Seychelles with Hawaii: there are also several large islands, each unique in its own way. Therefore, when preparing travel to Seychelles the most important thing is to choose the right island on which you will rest. If we compare it with the Maldives, then everything will be completely different, because it is not so important (in essence they are almost all the same) how to decide whether you want to relax.

Here are the top three hotels in the Seychelles:

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles 5 * - a real paradise lagoon and stunning ocean views. The hotel is conveniently located in the southwest of Mahe Island in a separate bay, Petit Anse. It can be reached from the airport in just half an hour. Accommodation in spacious villas with expensive interiors and a swimming pool. It features two restaurants serving Creole and international cuisine, a hilltop spa with panoramic views and the best yoga center in the Seychelles. Price per room - from $1000 per day. Book hotel Four Seasons 5 *

Raffles Seychelles 5 *- relatively new hotel with a magnificent design of rooms, an excellent sandy Takamaka beach without pebbles and an incredible level of staff. This truly fabulous place is located on the island of Praslin. It offers romantic and family villas and apartments with superior interiors and a private pool, a yoga room and a kids club. For the convenience of guests, there are as many as 3 restaurants on site, which often host themed evenings. An ideal holiday destination in the Seychelles. The hotel speaks Russian, there is a Russian manager. Price per room - from $1100 per day. Book hotel Raffles 5 *

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa 5 * Is the only hotel on Silhouette Island. It is one of the top best hotels in the Seychelles and is the wildest, which will especially appeal to nature and ocean lovers. The well-groomed area of ​​the hotel is suitable for a romantic and family holiday or a retreat in comfortable privacy. Everything is blooming around like in paradise, and birds are singing, and the comfortable beach is well suited for children. Among the staff there are very literate Russian-speaking people, they will not tell everything about the island - a real reserve with a clean atmosphere and beautiful landscape. Complete relaxation is guaranteed! Price per room - from $450 per day. Book a hotel Hilton 5 *

Seychelles on the map

Legend on the map:

• Burgundy - Seychelles airports and ferry piers;
• Blue - islands in the Seychelles;
• Yellow - the most famous beaches in Seychelles;
• Green - Seychelles National Parks.

Holidays in the Seychelles

So, I told you the basic information about the Seychelles, and now let's talk about what the Seychelles are like as the best place for a beach and romantic getaway. It is no secret that the Seychelles constantly compete with the Maldives in these two prestigious nominations, and tourists choose where it is better to relax - in the Seychelles or the Maldives. And at the same time, Seychelles slightly bypasses the competitor as the best wedding destination for holidays and honeymoons in terms of overall experience and price for two.

If you do not know what language in the Seychelles, then keep in mind that there are three official languages ​​in the Seychelles - Seychelles Creole, French and English. All residents speak mainly Creole, which is a form of French. However, the staff in Seychelles hotels and most of those employed in the tourism sector speak English, because tourism accounts for about 30% of the country's GDP.

Why go to Seychelles

• Romantic getaway and wedding... If you want to play there a wedding with a Seychelles flavor and live music, spend your honeymoon in a luxurious environment, renew your vows for a family anniversary, spend a quiet and expensive vacation on the beach with your loved one and do a lot beautiful photos... In general, any category of romantic getaway is available in the Seychelles;
• Vacation with children . Family people with children also fell in love with holidays in the Seychelles. Many hotels have children's clubs where your child will be busy with interesting games with other little travelers, and will also be able to explore the Seychelles in an informative way with experienced mentors;
• Diving... Since the Seychelles have many coral islands and rich underwater life, diving here is the same five-star as in the Maldives. In addition, do not forget that everything is unique in the Seychelles: there are fish, birds and animals that are not found anywhere else on Earth. This is why experienced and novice divers come to the Seychelles and go snorkeling in one of the best places on the planet for this;
• Trekking in nature and outdoor activities... This category is the most suitable for me. I don't like to just relax on the beach and do nothing. At least for a long time. And I definitely need to go somewhere, see the beauty of the surrounding world, climb higher up the mountain. So the Seychelles are just perfect in this regard: I came and rested for a couple of days on the beach, and then you can go to the jungle for trekking, visit tea plantations, study the local flora and fauna, visit small towns and villages. And when he got tired of knowing the world, he returned to the beach again. Moreover, the beaches here are truly heavenly!
• Beach vacation. And, finally, if you are just tired of everything and you want to coolly relax on secluded beaches and swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and you have already been to the Maldives, then why not visit the Seychelles this time?

Tour to the Seychelles or a trip on your own?

There are two easy ways to relax in the Seychelles:

• Buy a ready-made tour to the Seychelles;
• Organize your own vacation on your own.

Both are expensive. But going to the Seychelles is, nevertheless, the best gift one can give. Unlike the Maldives, where today there is a large selection, in the Seychelles, budget holidays are still underdeveloped. And there is no direct flight from Moscow to the Seychelles yet, even the ubiquitous one does not fly there. So you will have to get there with a transfer, but it will be much more exotic and interesting, won't it?

• So, if you prefer to entrust your vacation to trusted travel companies and pay more for it, then you can familiarize yourself with their offers and see tours to the Seychelles for the dates you are interested in on the website.
• And if you, like me, solo traveler, then you just need to buy inexpensive air tickets (on the Aviasales website), book the hotels that suit you on the Booking and order online. That's all you need to travel to the Seychelles yourself!

Seychelles Map (from seychellesbookings.com)

Direct flights from Russia to the Seychelles have not yet been launched. Therefore, the best way to fly to the Seychelles from Moscow is to buy air tickets with a transfer in one of the Arab countries, for example, in the UAE or Turkey. Tourists also often take a flight from Moscow to Seychelles with a small connection in Europe (usually via Serbia).

How long to fly to Seychelles? It all depends on the choice of airline and the number of connections. If you take inexpensive tickets Moscow - Seychelles at a price of 500-600 dollars, then the travel time will be from 18 to 24 hours. But air tickets to the Seychelles from Russia with a short connection in Dubai will cost more, $ 600-800 per person, and the entire flight will take only 13 hours.

It's important to know: If you want to fly to the Seychelles, keep in mind that the time difference with Moscow is only +1 hour, which is not so much. Remember to set your watch forward after landing in the Seychelles so that it shows the exact time in the Seychelles.

Upon arrival in the Seychelles, you find yourself on the island of Mahe, in the center of which is the Seychelles International Airport. Then tourists need to think about transfer to the hotel:

• Vacationers on the island of Mahe can simply order a transfer: anywhere on the island can be reached in 30-40 minutes by bus from the hotel.
• To Praslin Island with Mahe you can fly with domestic airlines - Air seychelles or take a ferry. Many expensive five-star hotels organize a private helicopter transfer from the airport directly to the hotel - usually it costs from $ 600.
• The island of La Digue can be reached by ferry from Mahe, the journey time is about 3 hours. Or use the combined method: first get to Praslin (plane or ferry), and then take the ferry to La Digue (it takes only 20 minutes). It is convenient if you choose both islands for recreation and take turns living on each of them.
• To Silhouette Island tourists are brought exclusively by helicopter, since there are only two hotels, one of which, the Hilton, organizes this transfer.

To get to other private islands, such as Providence, where Dom-2 Seychelles is being rented, hotel guests usually order a helicopter transfer. But some of them, for example, Fregat Island, can be reached by ferry. This is due to the fact that Frigate is an important tourist destination and is interesting to many travelers from the point of view of history.

As I said, in order to have a great vacation in the Seychelles, first you need to choose an island, and then a hotel and a beach on it. For the most curious travelers, I recommend visiting all three main islands, especially if the number of days of your vacation allows you to do this.

So what is the difference islands in the Seychelles?

• Mahe Is the central and most big Island in the Seychelles, where the international airport and capital Victoria are located. At the same time, the city of Victoria itself is a small copy of London (after all, the Seychelles used to be an English colony) and at the same time competes with, for the title of the smallest capital in the world. There are awesome beaches along the banks of Mahe, there are a lot of them - only about 70! Despite the fact that Mahe is a lively island, its western part is very quiet, and it is here that the most prestigious and expensive hotels are located. There is also a nature reserve on Mahe - national park Seychelles Morne (Morne Seychellois National Park), in the middle of which is the most high mountain in the Seychelles - Morne Blance (907 meters) and the jungle around. Among other things, there are tea plantations on Mahe - the heritage of the British. An almost perfect island for relaxation, both beach and active, right?
• Praslin- a beautiful island, which is unique for its unusual palm trees, for which a national park was even organized here. Seychelles was called the leader among honeymoon travel, because the coconuts of local palm trees are like a heart! So Praslin is the island of love in the Seychelles. The beaches are as beautiful as those on Mahe Island, but on Praslin they are quieter. Moreover, in small towns you can find and nightlife- bars and discos. Divers who dream of exploring the underwater world in local waters also go to Praslin. So if diving is your dream too, be sure to include Praslin Island in your Seychelles itinerary.
• La Digue- this is the smallest among the granite islands, and at the same time there are the largest rocks. If we continue to compare the islands, and call Mahe an island-city, and Praslin a small-town, then La Digue is undoubtedly a village. At the same time, the village is cozy and fantastically beautiful. This is a way to break away from everything and everyone, live among tropical beauty, relax on white beaches and relax in silence. There are also attractions here, such as Mount Eagle's Nest and Union Estate Park. And it was on the island of La Digue that the cult film Farewell Emmanuel was once filmed, and there you can even see the surviving planter's house from this movie. By the way, it will be important for budget travelers to know that hotel prices on La Digue island are much lower in comparison with other Seychelles islands, with both the most expensive room categories and simpler accommodation.
• Silhouette Is a wild island in the Seychelles. Yes, after the village you can call an island with only two hotels in the middle of the jungle - wild. So if even the rustic atmosphere is too crowded, welcome to Silhouette, where there are very few people.

Sandy and beautiful beaches in the Seychelles

Everything beaches in Seychelles sandy and located in small coves (you will immediately notice their names in French - anse, which means cove). That is, if the name contains the words Anse, it means a bay, and therefore a beach. Another feature of the beaches in the Seychelles is that they are all municipal. That is, everyone can come to rest, even if you settled in a five-star hotel.

Tourists who come to the Seychelles inexpensively are quite satisfied with this situation. Since sun loungers and umbrellas on the beach are free, you can book a cheaper hotel on the second line, and go to the beach of expensive hotels and not deny yourself anything.

Useful advice: What if you want to relax on a beach where there are few people? There is a way out - to choose a hotel away from settlements, then there will be no one to come to the beach except for tourists.

Many beaches in the Seychelles are waveless, as the bays are surrounded by breakwaters and special fortifications. One of these beaches is the most popular and partying Beau Vallon Beach, which is located near the capital of Victoria. This means that the Seychelles is ready for the arrival of families with children and those tourists who do not swim very well. But there are also places with good surfing waves and diving spots - especially on the islands of Denis, Felicite, Alphonse and Silhouette.

Intendance beach - the most beautiful in the Seychelles

Which beach to choose in the Seychelles?

Do I need insurance in Seychelles

Insurance in the Seychelles will be needed, especially if you plan to engage in active sports. And to everyone else who just wants to relax on the beach just in case it is better to take care of their health, and not leave it to chance. I also recommend buying health insurance if you are going on vacation with the kids.

Compared to the total cost of a holiday in the Seychelles, insurance is not expensive at all. However, if you have to use medicine in the Seychelles, it will greatly help in saving on medical care costs.

Don't forget, Seychelles is Africa after all! But at the same time, you do not need to do any special vaccinations before the trip.

Seychelles visa

For tourists Seychelles visa not required if the period of stay in the Seychelles does not exceed 30 days (as well as).

So if you are flying for two or three weeks, feel free to take your passport and tickets, and at the Pointe Larue International Airport (Mahe Island) upon arrival you will be stamped with an entry stamp and - welcome to the Seychelles! You just have to go through customs.

By the way, before the flight, check out the list of what you cannot bring to the Seychelles and what you cannot take out, as well as how much cash you can bring in and take out with you to the Seychelles.

Currency in Seychelles and what money to take with you

Official currency in Seychelles Is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). In 1 rupee - 100 cents. Bills in denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100, 500 rupees and coins of 1 and 5 rupees, as well as cents - 1, 5, 10 and 25 are used.

Despite the fact that prices in the Seychelles are indicated in rupees, in the territory of the Seychelles you can officially pay with other money - US dollars and euros, which are in circulation here along with the rupee. So you can take both dollars and euros with you to the Seychelles, but cash rubles must first be exchanged for currency.

• The exchange rate of the Seychelles rupee to the dollar is quite stable and does not change significantly. It averages Rs 14 per US dollar. 1 rupee = 4 rubles, 1 euro = 16.5 rupees.
• It is not difficult to exchange dollars for local currency. This can be done at the airport, at many exchange offices in the city, bank branches or right at your hotel.
• It is important to know that the reverse exchange of money - from rupees to dollars or euros - is only possible with the original currency exchange check. So don't throw it away unless you plan on leaving with rupees. Moreover, it is generally prohibited to export more than 2 thousand rupees per person from the country.
• It is better to pay for services in hotels and restaurants by credit card. And in transport, small shops and cafes, cash is preferable - local rupees, dollars or euros.
• Tipping in Seychelles is usually 10% and is already included in the bill. Unlike and, all taxes that must be paid for accommodation are usually already immediately included in the prices that are shown in the hotel booking system. That is, this is the final price and there is no need to additionally count anything and figure out how much more will have to be added.

When is the best time to fly to the Seychelles - weather and seasons for holidays

Seychelles climate- tropical, at the same time very soft. The temperature during the year varies slightly from month to month. We can say that the weather in the Seychelles is approximately the same all year round: the average daytime air temperature is + 26..29 ° С, and the water temperature is + 25..28 ° С. There are no strong winds, and it rains in winter much more often than in summer.

Seychelles seasons not as pronounced as in the Maldives. This is not to say that there is a time when you shouldn't even think about flying to the Seychelles. You just have to keep in mind that there is more rainfall during the winter period from December to February. At the same time, the rainiest month in the Seychelles is January, and quite a lot of precipitation also falls in December and February. Therefore, it is better not to go to the Seychelles in winter. Although you can take a chance if you are not a big fan of walking in the jungle or going on excursions to watch nature. It rains in the mountainous regions of the Mahe and Silhouette islands. In this, the Seychelles are similar to Hawaii. It may rain in the mountains, but the sun is on the beach. The rest of the year - spring, summer and autumn - the Seychelles has a great vacation!

Conventionally, the seasons in the Seychelles are usually divided into two:

• hot from December to May, with rains from December to February;
• cool - from June to November, when the temperature is quite pleasant and there is little rain.

In this way, when is the best time to fly to the Seychelles? That's right, in the summer! But it is also possible in spring and autumn.

You ask, how new year holidays, and is it really not worth going to the Seychelles in winter? You can take a chance and try to go, because the weather in the Seychelles at this time is generally good, but if you still want to guarantee yourself a 100% sunny vacation on the beach, then it is better to choose from December to March.

Transport and car rental in Seychelles

Seychelles is an island nation, but developed enough to intelligently arrange transport links between its islands.

There are several ways to travel between the Seychelles using different types of transport:

• Domestic airlines Air Seychelles fly between the two largest islands in the Seychelles, Mahe and Praslin. In addition, this company connects the Seychelles with other islands and countries in the Indian Ocean - Madagascar and Mauritius, as well as mainland Africa - Tanzania, Kenya and others.
• Public ferries also go between the islands, and this type of transport in the Seychelles is the cheapest. In just an hour, you can get from Mahé to Praslin. It will take another twenty minutes to cross between Praslin and La Digue. And in two hours get from Mahe to Frigate.
• It is most convenient to get by helicopter not only to private islands or to Silhouette, but also directly on the territory of the most prestigious hotels on all islands, including Mahé, there are equipped helipads.

Land transport on the islands:

• Local transport is also well developed on Mahe and Praslin. There are clear and convenient ground transportation routes with the option to buy a full-day pass for as little as Rs 5 (about 40 US cents). Buses run from early morning until evening. There are also minibuses (minibuses) that connect Mahe International Airport with the capital of Victoria.
• Taxis in the Seychelles are also a great way to get to a hotel, shop or visit attractions, and at a very low cost. Taxis are paid by the meter. Landing (or rather the first kilometer) costs 15 rupees, and then another 5 rupees is added for each next one. For example, during the day you can get from the airport to the capital for only 75 rupees (it will be more expensive at night).

Car rent- this is the most convenient way to see the island of Mahe or Praslin on your own. If you are planning to see nature or a trip to the mountains, then it is better to immediately take an all-wheel drive car, and be an experienced driver at the same time. Traffic in the Seychelles is left-hand, and the roads in the mountains are narrow and in places like a serpentine.

• To rent a car in Seychelles, you will need an international license (IDL), and driving experience must be more than 3 years.
• There are not so many gas stations in the Seychelles: only 6 gas stations on Mahe Island and 2 more on Praslin. It is better to know their location in advance in order not to be left without gasoline when you rent a car in the Seychelles.
• It is also worth remembering the maximum permissible speed in the Seychelles - 65 km / h, and in the city in general it is only 45 km / h.

Bike rental will be most useful on the island of La Digue. But on other islands, you can also try to travel on a bike, if you have experience and desire.

Diving, surfing - things to do in the Seychelles

- it is interesting not only for those who already own this skill, but also for beginners who just want to try scuba diving. The Indian Ocean is a very beautiful snorkeling spot. In addition, various unique fish and giant Aldabrian turtles are found near the Seychelles.

• The visibility in the water near the Seychelles is up to 30 meters;
• The best time for diving in the Seychelles is from September to October and April to May.

The best places for snorkeling are along the coast of the islands (ride by boat for about 10-40 minutes). Don't miss the UNESCO-protected Aldabra Island and the wreck of the English tanker Ennerdale Rocks, now home to turtles and a variety of deep-sea fish. Other recommended dive spots are Mammel Islands and Trofeus Rocks.

Surfing in the Seychelles is also popular, especially on the islands of Mahe and Praslin.

Where to surf in the Seychelles:

• On the island of Mahe, the best beaches are Grand Anse, Beau Vallon and Anse Bougueville. In the west of the island, the waves are more unpredictable, and in the east they are quieter;
• On the island of Praslin, Anse Lazio beach is ideal;
• On Silhouette Island - Anse Lascar.

Beaches in the Seychelles for surfing by skill level:

• Beaches for beginners in surfing: Beau Vallon and Karana (Mahe);
• Beaches only for pros: Anse Bougainville, Anse Royal, Barbaron and Misfit Bay (Mahe);
• Beaches for people of all skill levels: Anse Gulette (La Digue), Bel Ombre and Anse Intendance (Mahe).

Brief history and culture of Seychelles

Seychelles history closely related to European discoveries. There is practically no information left about the time that was until the moment when the Europeans first landed in the Seychelles. Except that the Arab pirates used some of the islands (Silhouette, Frigate) for their base. Also, Malays from Borneo could replenish water and food supplies in the Seychelles on their way to Madagascar.

But as for the written history of the Seychelles, it begins from the moment when the great navigator Vasco da Gama at the very beginning of the 16th century (in 1502) sailed past them on his way to India. For some time it was nobody's land, but the British first declared their territory of the Seychelles when they, already in the footsteps of Vasco da Gama more than a century later (in 1609), sailed to India and fell into a storm. Seeing the land, the British landed in the Seychelles and immediately decided that this piece of paradise land is now in the possession of the English crown. However, since the resort islands were not in vogue then, it was not entirely clear how these lands in the middle of the ocean could be useful. And the British left them alone, but first described them in detail.

Then a little more than a century later, the French became interested in the islands and founded the first settlements there. They arrived in the Seychelles in 1756, looked around, and decided that, together with Mauritius, the Seychelles would become an excellent base for them (Mauritius is a source of sugar cane). Then they brought here people from Madagascar and East Africa, turning them into slaves. The name Seychelles did not appear immediately. The Seychelles began to be called so in the second half of the 18th century in honor of the French finance minister, Jean Moreau de Sechelles.

During the wars with Napoleon, which took place not only on land, but also at sea (many remember Nelson's victory), battles were also fought in the distant Indian Ocean. In 1794, Britain drove the French out of the Seychelles and began to cultivate huge coconut plantations there with the help of slaves.

In 1814, the Seychelles became a colony of England under the Treaty of Paris. Life became better under the British. If only in the sense that in 1835 they finally abolished slavery. But at the same time, they began to encourage the import of hired workers - Arabs and Indians. It was necessary to work, and someone also had to conduct trade.

The independence of Seychelles was declared rather late (compared to India), only in 1976, when the Seychelles became a Republic ruled by the President.

Interesting Seychelles Facts:

The history of the Seychelles is rather short in comparison with world history. Nevertheless, the tangle of events formed an unusual historical cocktail here.

• Despite the fact that most of the time the islands were owned by the British, the name of the country itself and all its objects are French.
• The slaves brought in mastered French culture. Now it is called Creole - that is, African and French, born of mixed marriages and a common economy. Now the language here is Creole, that is, it seems to be similar to French, but not quite, Creole cuisine, religion and that Creole: all Catholics, but with their own African flavor.
• The fact that the British brought in Arabs and Indians did not make much of a difference. Hindus, Arabs and other peoples in the Seychelles are in the minority. Their culture is officially recognized, but does not greatly affect the general state of affairs, the absolute majority are still Creole.

Attractions in the Seychelles

The main attraction of the Seychelles- this is their fantastic nature, which is definitely worth seeing. Since most of the tourists come here for a beach holiday, the picturesque beaches on the islands for them are the best in the Seychelles. In general, the beaches here are also important attractions, and they are all different - rocky or sandy, with white or pink sand, with a calm sea or high waves suitable for surfing. In general, if you have the time and desire, you can personally visit many beaches of the Seychelles and be convinced of their unique diversity.

In the meantime, I will briefly tell you about the most interesting sights of the Seychelles:

• Source d'Arzhan Is the most photographed beach in the Seychelles. More precisely, this is the most photographed beach in the whole world! It is found on the island of La Digue and is famous for its granite boulders. You've probably seen this photo on the internet. It was precisely because of this photograph that I learned about the Seychelles and wanted to go there.
• Aldabra island- This is one of the most famous outer Seychelles, which is located in a region specially protected by UNESCO. It does not consist of granite, but coral, and is geographically closer to Africa, next to the Comoros. The peculiarity of this island, in addition to its extraordinary lagoon, where divers come to dive, is that Seychelles giant turtles live there - unique marine inhabitants. In general, it is worth paying a tidy sum to see them in their natural habitat and get to know them.
• Bird island, which is a half hour flight from Mahé, is especially popular from May to September. From the name it is immediately clear that this island is the abode of birds, black terns. In the summer (winter for the Southern Hemisphere) there are so many of them that you can become deaf from their conversations.
• Curieuse island part of national park in the Seychelles, has also become home to giant tortoises. But as far as I understand, they were transported there from Aldabra.
• Kuzin Island near Praslin is home to some endangered animals. The Seychelles is a unique place, and the animals here are endemic. And here are some of them, unfortunately, are on the verge of extinction.
• Vallee de Mee Is another Seychelles National Park on Praslin Island, where you can admire the sea palms and their coco de mer nuts. I love all palm trees and always find time to visit such unique places as the California palm garden in Joshua Tree Park. So for the sea palms in the Seychelles, I will definitely allocate an hour or two.
• Victoria Is the most Big City and the capital of Seychelles. Compared to the world's capitals, this town is quite small, but here you can see in detail how the British settled on an island in the middle of the Indian Ocean, far from rainy London.

Here are some other things to do in the Seychelles besides sightseeing:

• Diving
• Surfing
• Fishing
• Island tours
• Trekking on Mahe and Silhouette. Why not?
• Beaching is undoubtedly the most important point of the rest program.
• Acquaintance with local cuisine.

Holidays

Seychelles is a Catholic country. Therefore, the main holidays here are also Catholic, and their celebration does not differ much from the usual European holidays.

Generally, holidays in the Seychelles can be divided into two types:

1. Religious
2. Associated with the independence of the Seychelles Republic from Great Britain (all of them occur in June).

The following days are declared public holidays in the Seychelles (national holidays):

• New Year(January 1-2)
• Good Friday
• Easter
• Labor Day (May 1)
• Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ (June 3)
• Liberation Day (June 5)
• National day(June 18) is the main holiday in the Seychelles.
• Independence Day (June 29)
• Dormition of the Virgin (15 August)
• All Saints Day (November 1)
• Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary (December 8)
• Christmas (December 25)

Cuisine and restaurants

The cuisine in the Seychelles has its own special - Creole. What does it mean? Creole cuisine in the Seychelles took the insular position and traditions as a basis, added European culinary delights (mostly French) on top and mixed it all with Indian spices. The result is an original tropical mix, which should definitely be tasted by all tourists.

The basis of Creole cuisine is, of course, seafood. Also, rice, curry and coconuts are constantly used. What do you think is the most common dish in the Seychelles? Of course, rice with fish. Yes, not just, but with spices and coconut sauce.

And since there are quite a lot of fish in the Seychelles, fish dishes are also in abundance here. Those who love seafood will not get bored in the Seychelles either - octopuses, crabs, lobsters and so on. Besides, expensive hotels always have European or other Asian restaurants. So it's impossible to stay without pizza and sushi.

As for inexpensive food, the Indians, as always, help out. If you want something local, colorful, you can always go to an Indian restaurant or buy food right on the street. It is inexpensive and adds an interesting variety to the diet.

As for drinks, the locals love different types of fermented coconuts, sugar cane, and mint infusions. And of course, wines are imported - French and South African.

Tours to Seychelles and prices

Trip to tour seychelles Is a rather expensive pleasure, but almost every tourist can go there. The price of the tour depends on the cost of the flight, the luxury of the hotel and the distance of the island from the airport (transfer fees), as well as your special preferences. Since there are practically no experienced tour operators in the Seychelles, a trip to the Seychelles will have to be done with them for a very long time. It is much more convenient to organize your trip on your own, especially since it is not at all difficult. In this case tour to the Seychelles for two will cost significantly less as you will not pay a large commission to the travel agent.

Tour price to Seychelles strongly depends on the season (in summer from June to August - the high season and the highest prices, and it can be very expensive for the New Year), as well as on your ability to save money and your desire to understand the peculiarities of rest in the Seychelles before the start of the trip. Because you can immediately book the most expensive hotel and quickly spend all the money in a few days on expensive entertainment, as in the Seychelles Heads and Tails program. But it would be much more rational to calculate in advance an approximate budget for a tour to the Seychelles, taking into account your own wishes, choose a good hotel on the beach or in nature, plan a cultural program and sightseeing in order to see the maximum possible.

For example, I will give information about Seychelles price for two- the cost of air tickets and double rooms in hotels, if you book a room yourself on the website Booking.com:

But how much are ready-made tours to the Seychelles with a flight from Moscow - the price for two, taking into account fuel surcharges and all surcharges (no meals, only breakfasts or all inclusive):

Types of tours to Seychelles	Price for two
Tour to the Seychelles (7 nights) - 3 * hotel on the island of Mahe, no meals	160 thousand rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (7 nights) - 3 * hotel on the island of Mahe, breakfast included	180 thousand rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (7 nights) - 4 * hotel on the Praslin island, 2 meals a day	360 thousand rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (10 nights) - 4 * hotel on the island of Praslin, all inclusive	500 thousand rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (7 nights) - 5 * hotel on the island of Praslin, breakfast only	650 thousand rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (7 nights) - 5 * hotel on the island of Mahe, all inclusive	1 million rubles
Tour to the Seychelles (10 nights) - 5 * hotel on the island of Praslin, all inclusive	1.4 million rubles.

What else you need to know about Seychelles

The best hotels in the Seychelles, where Russians most often go, are the following:

• On the island of Mahe - Kempinski Seychelles 5 * and also Savoy Seychelles 5 *
• On the island of Praslin - Raffles Seychelles 5 *
• On the island of La Digue - Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie Resort & Spa 4 *
• On Silhouette Island - Hilton Seychelles 5 *

In general, Russians are not often found in the Seychelles, but some wealthy people here have their own villa, registered in the Seychelles offshore. A few years ago, when local authorities did not disclose information about the owners of companies, many preferred to buy real estate in the Seychelles in order to optimize the payment of their taxes. However, now that all the data has become open, keeping money in the Seychelles has ceased to be as profitable as it used to be.

Seychelles is a collection of more than 150 islands, the largest being the Mahe Island (according to other sources, Aldabra). The administrative center of the archipelago is the city of Victoria, the total area of ​​the islands is 450 square kilometers. Of the 150, only 33 islands are inhabited. Seychelles is famous for its picturesque landscapes and amazing lagoons with a truly fabulous underwater world.

Where are the Seychelles?

The Seychelles are scattered in the Indian Ocean closer to the equator. The archipelago is located a little to the west of Tanzania, Kenya and Zanzibar, and the closest island to it is Madagascar. The Seychelles chain stretches from the shores of the African continent.

What attracts tourists to the Seychelles?

Why do many tourists seek to relax in the Seychelles?

• comfortable climate all year round;
• picturesque views of the surrounding nature;
• magnificent beaches;
• excellent service;
• a huge variety of marine entertainment: fishing, yachting, surfing and;
• the Seychelles has amazing flora and fauna.

When is the best time to go to Seychelles?

• Winter... In winter, little rain falls in the Seychelles, mainly in the evenings. But the moisture evaporates quickly and no trace remains from the rains. At sunset, the sea water is warm, but the air is stuffy, which disappears in the morning.
• Spring... At this time, the island becomes much drier, clear weather sets in with dawn, and the plants begin to bloom profusely. The rainy season ends in March, but there is little rainfall at night. There may be winds, but by May the weather will stabilize.
• Summer... June in the Seychelles begins with storms, attracting surfers from all over the world. But on land it is relatively dry and cool, the evening sea near muffles the sweltering heat of the day. It is best to relax on the beach after a hot afternoon.
• Autumn... This season is the period of the new rainy season, in September rainstorms can rage here. But there is not much cloudy weather in autumn here, in October the precipitation comes to naught, and the most fertile time for a comfortable rest of travelers comes.

Weather in Seychelles by months and water temperature: table

The best months for rest are December, May and October.

Seychelles Holidays and Festivals

• Creole Festival... It takes place every year in October and is accompanied by national songs and dances. This is a musical event that attracts creative people from all over the planet.
• Fishing tournament... The participants of the event are fishermen who prefer to fish with trolleys. The festival begins at night and ends before sunset. The prize is the fish caught and the traditional prizes.
• Deepavali... This festival is dedicated to the goddess of fortune, Lakshmi, and celebrating it means joy and happiness will soon come to your home. If you believe the legend, then a person who worships this Indian goddess will soon achieve recognition and success.
• Seychelles carnival... This holiday is second only to the famous Brazilian carnival in scale. The three-day celebration in the Seychelles is accompanied by vibrant colors, songs and fancy dress.
• Sailing regatta... This is a nautical competition in which all comers, professionals and amateurs, take part. The regatta lasts eight days and takes place in the autumn.

How to get to Seychelles?

Tourists wishing to visit Seychelles for a month do not need a visa, they need a passport and a return ticket.

There are two ways to get to the Seychelles:

• European airlines (from Moscow, first fly to Rome, Milan or London);
• Through Asia.

Nuance: service charge on arrival in the amount of forty dollars.

But there is no direct flight from Moscow to the Seychelles.

Estimated prices for flights from Moscow to Mahe

Prices are valid for 2016 based on two round trip:

• Etihad airways: price - from 45,000 rubles, with a transfer in Abu Dhabi, travel time - 25 hours
• Emirates: price - from 60,000 rubles, with a transfer in Dubai, travel time - 20 hours 20 minutes
• Air Berlin: price - from 65,000 rubles, with two transfers in Munich and Abu Dhabi, travel time - 21 hours 25 minutes
• Air seychelles: price - from 65,000 rubles, with two transfers in Belgrade and Abu Dhabi, travel time - 2 days 3 hours

Useful information for tourists

• Transport... Traffic in the Seychelles is left-hand. The roads on the islands are not in the best condition, so it is recommended to rent a bicycle or use a taxi to get around. Although the beaches can be reached by buses.
• Vaccinations... Doctors recommend getting vaccinated against hepatitis A before traveling to Seychelles, as there is a risk of contracting this disease in this archipelago.
• Shopping... The Seychelles are home to many souvenir and craft shops. As a keepsake, you can bring bright T-shirts and poreos, crafts made from shells, jewelry made of pearls and coral, and even paintings by local craftsmen.
• Water... It is believed that the water in the Seychelles is safe to drink, but it is better not to drink it from the tap. It is best to buy bottled mineral or bottled water.
• Tips... Employees of restaurants, cafes and bars must be sure to leave a tip in the amount of ten percent of the total amount. The same goes for the maids at the hotel.

Seychelles landmarks

Moe Beach (Beau Vallon)... This picturesque beach is considered one of the most popular with tourists. There are clean places, clear water and picturesque sunsets. It is suitable for a family holiday and for romantic couples in love.

Morne National Park... This Seychelles nature reserve is located near the capital of the archipelago Victoria and is of volcanic origin. There are many picturesque paths and paths, flowering parks.

Mount Morne Blanc... This majestic peak is located on the main island of Mahe and attracts tourists. the most beautiful views... There is a convenient observation deck and places for picnics and family vacations.

Bird island... You can enjoy the bird fauna in the Seychelles all year round. But the best place to do it is on the island: Mahe. It is truly an amazing sight when hordes of birds nest on a small island, you must see it with your own eyes.

Artisan village. Interesting place which attracts many tourists. Here you can see ancient huts, where antiquities are still preserved. Today, artisans work in the village, making souvenirs of those times.

Clock tower... This architectural monument of the Seychelles was erected at the beginning of the 20th century. The tower is made in the shape of a cone and is equipped with an observation deck, from which a gorgeous view of the surroundings opens.

Muayen island... It is a popular island for travelers. It is a natural reserve. According to legend, pirate treasures are buried here.

Farquhar Atoll... It is a paradise for snorkeling and fishing enthusiasts.

Workshop... Showcased here are the works of artist Michael Adams, the famous Seychelles painter. It conveys the scenic beauty of the Seychelles in detail.

It is possible to notice the small Seychelles on the world map only with a detailed examination. Modern travelers have become more choosy, so they choose the most attractive and exotic places... Among tourists, there is an increase in the popularity of beach holidays in the Seychelles, ignoring the fact that a few years ago the average Russian did not even know where they were. Geographically, the Republic of Seychelles is considered an island state in East Africa, which is locally located near the equator in the Indian Ocean. More precisely, the archipelago is located on the side of Kenya, 1,600 kilometers from the African mainland.

To understand where the Seychelles are located, you can also focus on a fairly large island called Madagascar, which is located a little to the south. Not far from the Seychelles, also on the southern side are the island of Reunyuk and Mauritius, in the northeast - the Maldives, and in the southwest - the Comoros. The republic has a total of 115 islands, with a total area of ​​455 square kilometers. Of the total, only 33 islands with a granite structure are inhabited. Their relief is very varied, there are more hills and mountains. The rest of the territories are not suitable for year-round living, but tourists often stop there, who want to temporarily reunite with the pristine nature. They are coral atolls of various shapes. Some of them are covered with various tropical vegetation, some are completely deserted.

The area of ​​the largest island, Mahe, is 142 square meters. The capital of the republic, the city of Victoria, is located on it. The large size of the granite plot of land made it possible to locate the airport of the Seychelles of international importance here.

Tourists come here from all over the world all year round. The proximity of the equator makes itself felt. The archipelago, surrounded on all sides by water, has a mild, warm climate, despite the fact that most tropical countries are characterized by high humidity and sultry heat. Sunny days prevail here, when the sky is absolutely cloudless.

How to get to the Seychelles

After tourists understand where the Seychelles are located on the world map, they start looking for options on how to get there. It should be noted right away that there are no direct flights either from Moscow or from any other city in Russia, so travelers, as a rule, first go to:

1. London.
2. Milan.
3. Paris.

From the listed European capitals, you can get to the capital, where guests are received by the main airport of the country. If tourists intend to vacation on another island, they need to book a ticket with local airlines. It is also possible to travel within the republic by steamer, a ticket for which can be bought upon arrival. In addition, you can get to any resort by helicopter, but this method is considered the most expensive.

As a rule, the capital of the Seychelles hospitably welcomes its guests. There is no need to apply for a visa before traveling, it is placed upon arrival and is a seal depicting the fruit of the local coco de mer palm tree. This plant, like the currency of the Seychelles, is an exclusively local symbol, which is depicted not only on the visa seal, but also on the coat of arms, as well as most postcards and souvenirs. The tourist does not have to pay taxes. To cross the border without additional questions, it is enough to show the passport control officer a printout confirming the hotel reservation, as well as return tickets. There are usually no serious interrogations.

Seychelles weather

Seychelles is considered one of the paradise places where tourism thrives all year round. The main reason is the excellent weather conditions, which, combined with the unique fauna and flora, make any trip to the island republic an unforgettable experience. The proximity of the equator to the archipelago does not affect the local weather in any way. The local climate, logically, should be subequatorial, but it can rather be called tropical. The strongest impact on it is exerted by the waters of the Indian Ocean. Thanks to them, the Seychelles do not know what excessive moisture is, as well as exhausting heat.

If we consider the weather in the Seychelles by months, it is worth noting that the temperature indicator of the air rarely rises above +35 degrees and falls below +23. It must be remembered that the republic is located in the southern hemisphere, so the seasons there do not quite coincide with ours. For this reason, it is difficult to divide the weather by months adequately, it is easier to distinguish two main seasons, each of which is comfortable for rest:

1. The dry season, characterized by a lack of precipitation and a decrease in air temperature, lasts from early June to early October.
2. The hot season with high humidity lasts from November to April. It is characterized by frequent showers. Precipitation mainly falls in the area of ​​the uplands of the granite islands.

There are also two interim periods, October and May. These are the months that are considered ideal for a vacation. The off-season is characterized by the absence of rainfall and temperature fluctuations. In addition, not only the weather of the Seychelles is pleasing, but also the ocean, the waters of which are calm and clear. In winter, the resorts are influenced by the northwest trade winds blowing from the ocean. Hot streams of air blow from the African continent. However, it is worth noting that most of the rains are quickly replaced by bright sunshine.

The months can be characterized as follows:

1. December is the hottest period. Tropical showers make it easy to weather the heat. Humidity can rise to 80 - 100 percent, but it is not felt, does not bring discomfort.
2. January is considered the wettest month with more than 400 mm of precipitation.
3. February is great for sightseeing walks. After intense rains, the local landscapes are overgrown with lush vegetation.
4. March is characterized by increased activity of the local fauna, whose representatives are accustomed to tourists and are not afraid of them.
5. April is considered a period when the winds change, and the season in the Seychelles also changes, which becomes calm. The month is ideal for fishing or diving, as it rains very rarely and the ocean is completely calm.
6. May becomes the peak of the season when the influx of tourists is highest.
7. June is the first month of the local winter. The water temperature is almost the same as the air temperature and is +26 degrees.
8. July is considered the driest and coldest month, and is also characterized by the turbulent state of the ocean. This time is ideal for surfing enthusiasts. The flow of tourists is minimal, so prices are significantly reduced.
9. August ends the tropical winter.
10. September is the period when flocks of birds migrate, which looks very impressive.
11. October belongs to the off-season, so it is ideal for swimming and beach holidays. There is practically no difference between night and daytime temperatures, the ocean waters are calm.
12. November is considered the start of a hot, humid season with daily showers, but half an hour after the rain ends, the sun is shining brightly.

Warm ocean waters, abundant vegetation and a mild climate make for the perfect vacation. Therefore, you can choose when it is better to go to the Seychelles to rest without taking into account the season.

Seychelles beaches

The coastline is almost entirely occupied by the world-famous Seychelles beaches, where there are all conditions for a first-class vacation, as well as practicing various sports. All necessary sports equipment can be rented at the hotel or directly on the beach. On the island of Praslin there is the Cote d'Or beach, which is also known as the "Gold Coast". Here vacationers can visit the diving center. Enjoy a fabulous sunset on Mahe Island's Beau Vallon Beach. The coastline of Anse Lazio Bay is especially beautiful; on the island of La Digue you can observe such an unusual phenomenon as pink sand; various fish live near Denis, therefore deep-sea fishing is developed here. The abundance of places where tourists can spend time by the water is very wide, therefore it is noted that crowds are almost completely absent.

The beaches of the republic are the main attractions of the Seychelles, so most vacationers go there to enjoy the tropical sun near the ocean. To make your vacation as successful as possible, it is recommended to choose the right time for your vacation, for example, to travel in October or May.

Where to go Russian tourist? Seychelles is one of the increasingly popular destinations. Many of our citizens can already find them on the world map. You don't need a visa to visit this country, and the trip itself promises to be very exciting. Here are the basic facts about this wonderful place.

general information

Visa regime for Russia

For Russians, visiting the Seychelles does not require a visa (for up to 30 days). To enter the country, you need a passport valid for at least 3 months from the date of the intended departure, an air ticket back, as well as a confirmation of solvency at the rate of $ 50 per day.

Upon arrival at the airport, you will need to pay a tourist tax of $ 40. Children can only enter Seychelles if accompanied by their parents. If one of them is traveling, then a power of attorney is needed from the second.

Customs

The state customs legislation does not restrict the import and export of currency. You cannot enter the country with weapons (including pneumatic ones), fruits and vegetables, meat products. Particularly strict policy of the authorities regarding the import of drugs. In the arrivals halls of the airports, warnings are posted for tourists - if someone tries to import drugs, he faces a term of imprisonment of up to 30 years.

Some species of marine life cannot be exported (if there are no official certificates).

Geology

The geology of the country is represented by two types of landscape - granite (in particular, the largest island of Mahe belongs to them) and coral. The bulk of the population lives precisely on the granite islands. In the central regions of some of them there are forests where palms, ferns, pandanuses grow. The coastal area is dominated by coconut palms and artificial plantations. by the way, they are also located mainly on the granite part of the archipelago.

Coral Islands are atolls, their height above the sea level is 4-8 meters. They are arid because coral limestones hardly retain air moisture. Of the flora, there are mainly coconut palms.

Unique fauna

Lives in the Seychelles a large number of endemic bird species. The reason for this is their rather long life in isolation relative to other world ecosystems. Among the most recognizable birds of the Seychelles is the frigate. Its wingspan is up to 3 meters, it can stay in the air without interruption for up to 7 days in a row!

On the island of Birds, a variety of bird species gather for nesting, arriving in winter from other parts of the world. Another attraction of the island is giant turtles. Some individuals weigh up to 250 kg.

Story

How did the world know about the existence of a paradise on earth called the Seychelles? Where they are and what they are, sailors from Portugal told at the beginning of the 16th century. Then the archipelago was practically uninhabited. Over the next centuries, the islands were occasionally visited by sea pirates.

The first settlements appeared there in the middle of the 18th century - on the islands of Mahe and Praslin. They were founded by immigrants from France, who began to grow here some types of crops. These lands got their name in honor of Moro de Séchelle, the country's foreign minister. The colonists brought slaves here from Africa. At the end of the 18th century, the military seizure of the archipelago was carried out by Britain, which some time later began to stimulate the settlement of the territory by immigrants from India. At the end of the 19th century, Chinese from the British colony of Mauritius began to settle in the Seychelles, and at the beginning of the 20th century, immigrants from Arabia. In 1976, the Seychelles gained independence from Great Britain, and in 1977 the Frans-Albert René party came to power, following the ideology of Marxism. In 1993, democratic reforms took place in the country.

State structure

Seychelles is a country with a republican form of government. The President and Prime Minister are elected by the people for a term of 5 years. Each of the representatives of the executive branch can hold office for up to three consecutive terms. The main legislative body is the Parliament, where 34 deputies sit (25 are elected directly by citizens, 9 - from parties).

The largest political associations are the Progressive Front and the National Party.

The Seychelles Army is represented by ground forces, a naval patrol, as well as a national guard. Service - on a contract basis. The state budget spends about 3% on the needs of the army.

Economy

The basis of the Seychelles economy is tourism (70% of foreign exchange earnings, 30% of employees), fishing (the basis of export is frozen and canned fish). Agriculture is slightly developed (the main crops are coconuts, cinnamon, sweet potatoes, bananas. Poultry is raised in households).

The culture

The place where cultures of the whole world are intertwined is the Seychelles, where there are samples of the heritage of the national color of Europeans (French, British), Africans, Indians, residents of Madagascar. On the islands, women are especially revered - many play a leading role in household management, family bookkeeping, and raising children. The role of men in family life is sometimes secondary. In some families, a rule is practiced: the more a man earns, the more rights he has.

In the Seychelles, it is customary to leave a tip of 10%, to give small amounts to the maids. Taxis are usually paid by the meter, but tips are also welcome (especially if the trip is long).

It is illegal to take out some of the Seychelles indigenous household items (such as spears to catch fish).

Strong winds and cyclones bypass the Seychelles. The island of Mahe, however, is characterized by frequent torrential rains, therefore, when planning a visit, you can grab an umbrella.

The main part of the archipelago is coral formations (133, out of a total of 155).

The granite islands of the Seychelles are considered the oldest existing on Earth.

The island of Aldabra, which is recognized by many geologists as the largest in the archipelago, is protected by UNESCO.

The main area of ​​the Seychelles is occupied by the National Park.

The administrative center - the city of Victoria, is considered one of the smallest capitals.

The citizens of the Republic of Seychelles often travel to other countries, despite the local beauty and wonderful climate.

This wonderful country got its name in 1756 in honor of the French statesman and politician - Jean Moreau de Sechel. In those days, the Seychelles belonged to the French East India Company.

Where are Seychelles on the map

It is an island state in the Indian Ocean, located south of the equator, thousand six hundred kilometers east of the African continent, northeast of Madagascar. For a detailed look and find out where the Seychelles are located, you can see on the map below.

The area of ​​the state is small - 455 km2. The largest island is Mahe. It also houses an international airport. In total, the state includes 115 islands, but most of the islands are coral, and there are only a few large ones with paradise resorts. These are islands such as Praslin, Silhouette, La Digue and others. All of them are distant from about. Mahe for 50-70 km.

The official language of the state is Creole. However, they also speak English and French. The state currency is the Seychelles rupee. One rupee equals one hundred cents. As of 2009, the population of the paradise state is about 90 thousand people, which is 193 people per square meter.

The climate on these paradise islands is subequatorial marine. The weather here is beautiful all year round (26-28 ° C) - bright sun, light breeze, which, thanks to the ocean, contribute to the absence of heat. In general, everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.

Nature in the Seychelles

Due to the long island isolation in the flora of the country, there are a lot of different animals, reptiles, birds, plants found in this archipelago. In the inner part of the large islands, unique forests have survived, in which rare species of palms, ferns, and ramps grow. On small coral islands, flora has long been replaced by coconut palms due to the drought brought on by the monsoons.

One of the main natural attractions of the archipelago is the Seychelles palm. Its fruit can weigh up to 20 kg and is by far the largest fruit in the plant kingdom. On the island of Praslin there is a wonderful park "Valle de Mae", where you can see a whole grove of such palms.

Also in the Seychelles, you can meet giant turtles. Some of them can weigh up to 250 kg and live up to 150 years. There are also many rare birds, such as the black cockatoo and the nightingale bulbul.

More photos can be found by looking at the article. If you want to visit this country on a working visit, then you need to know. Have a good trip!