Seychelles
is a paradise of rare wildlife, ancient islands and rich Creole
traditions. Discover the surprising facts, hidden stories and unique
insights that reveal the deeper character of this extraordinary
Indian Ocean destination.
• Seychelles is home to the giant Aldabra tortoise, some living over 150 years.
• The Coco de Mer palm produces the world’s largest and heaviest seed.
• Only around 100,000 people live across the 115 islands.
• The national bird — the Seychelles black parrot — is found only on Praslin.
• Fruit bats are a common sight and a traditional local delicacy.
• Aldabra Atoll is one of the world’s best-preserved natural ecosystems.
• Seychelles pioneered marine conservation zones in the Indian Ocean.
• The islands host major climate research on coral bleaching and sea-level rise.
• Local sustainability programmes protect nesting sea turtles and seabird colonies.
• It is illegal to remove shells, corals or sand from protected areas.
• Modest dress is appreciated when visiting towns and religious sites.
• Public displays of affection are acceptable but kept subtle in rural areas.
• Littering carries strong penalties — environmental protection is serious.
• Photography of government buildings may be restricted.
• James Mancham was the first President of Seychelles.
• Sir James Mancham also became known internationally as an advocate for peace.
• George Camille is a renowned Seychellois artist celebrated for island-inspired artwork.
• Patrick Victor is one of the country’s most recognised musical voices.
• Seychelles lies outside the cyclone belt, offering stable weather year-round.
• The granitic islands like Mahé and Praslin are among the oldest mid-oceanic islands.
• The white-sand beaches are made of uniquely soft, weathered granite.
• La Digue’s Anse Source d’Argent is one of the world’s most photographed beaches.
• The islands sit close to the equator, giving consistent daylight hours.
• Seychellois Creole culture blends African, European and Asian influences.
• Life is relaxed, with strong emphasis on family and community.
• Locals enjoy fishing, beach gatherings and island-style home cooking.
• Music and dance reflect a mix of African rhythms and European folk styles.
• Creole food features fresh seafood, coconut milk and fragrant spices.
• “Moutya” is a traditional drum dance rooted in island history.
• Vanilla, cinnamon and tropical fruits are part of daily island flavours.
• Creole festivals celebrate art, music, food and cultural heritage.
• Seychelles was uninhabited until the 18th century.
• The islands became a melting pot through French and later British rule.
• Many colonial-era buildings still stand in Victoria on Mahé.
• The Vallée de Mai was once believed to be the original Garden of Eden.
• Anse Lazio on Praslin is consistently ranked among the world’s best beaches.
• Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of the Coco de Mer.
• Aldabra Atoll is one of the planet’s largest raised coral atolls.
• Curieuse Island is known for its free-roaming giant tortoises.
• Seychelles has 115 islands.
• Aldabra tortoises live over 150 years.
• Coco de Mer is the heaviest seed on Earth.
• Anse Source d’Argent is globally iconic.
• The islands lie outside the cyclone belt.
• Creole culture blends global influences.
• Fruit bats are common and protected.
• Seychelles has two UNESCO sites.
• Giant tortoises roam freely on Curieuse.
• Population is around 100,000.
• Beaches have uniquely soft granite sand.
• Marine life is among the richest in the world.