Seychelles consists of 115 islands located around 1,600 kilometers off the east coast of mainland Africa. Despite its small size, Seychelles is one of the most developed countries in the African region. The islands are known for their beautiful nature, crystal-clear waters and rich biodiversity.
The 115 islands are divided into two groups according to their geological composition. The Inner Islands can be characterised as granitic and mountainous with altitudes of up to 999 meters above sea level. The largest island is part of the Inner Islands and is named Mahé, home to the smallest capital city in the world, Victoria. Praslin and La Digue, along with Mahé form the main islands of Seychelles. The Outer Islands are low-lying and coralline.
The population of Seychelles is approximately 100,000 citizens, making it one of the smallest countries in Africa by population. The population is ethnically diverse, with African, European, Indian, and Chinese influences. The official languages are Seychellois Creole (Seselwa), English, and French. The most popular religion is Roman Catholic. Seychellois culture reflects a blend of its diverse ethnic roots, which can be experienced especially in music, cuisine, and festivals.
Seychelles has its own national currency with the Seychellois rupee (SCR). The main contributor to GDP and employment is tourism followed by fishing, in particular tuna. Due to the islands topography allowing only little farming and industry Seychelles is a highly dependent on imports.
With protecting more than 50 % of its nature and marine life as nature reserves and marine parks environmental conservation is of high importance to Seychelles. The island nation is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Aldabra Atoll, which hosts the world’s largest population of giant tortoises, and the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin. Seychelles is known for its rare plant species, diverse birdlife, coral reefs, and marine ecosystems. A variety of endemic animals and plants can be found on the islands offering a unique biodiversity.
With its geographical location between -4° and -7° south the equator the climate in Seychelles is tropical, with warm, humid weather year-round. The differences between the rainy and the dry season are not specifically remarkable. From November to April it is on average hotter and rainier than in the months of May to October where it is considered to be the dry season. During the winter months of June, July and August stronger winds from South and East with up to 25 knots may occur.
Seychelles also has a public healthcare system that provides accessible medical services to both residents and visitors. The overall health and education standards are relatively high compared to many countries in the region.
Seychelles International Airport on Mahé Island is the main point of entry with many airlines flying to it from Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia. SPTC is the official public transport offering its bus routs on Mahé and Praslin. On these two islands it is possible to rent a car to explore to islands on your own pace. Establishments are often offering pick-up services from the airport or the jetty to the accommodation. On La Digue the main transport of mean is clearly the bicycle. Additionally buggy services or taxis are also available. Between the islands, there are several options to cross the distance. A public ferry runs daily connecting the three main islands by sea. Several small boat charters offer private transfers giving a more personalised option to.