A popular destination for honeymooners, take a family trip to the Seychelles and discover its unsuspected riches.
Located off the coast of Africa and northeast of Madagascar, the Seychelles archipelago comprises no fewer than 115 islands, the main ones being Mahé, La Digue and Praslin. In the heart of theIndian Ocean, this leading honeymoon destination is also ideal for a family trip.
A little wild paradise, the Seychelles offers a multitude of activities to enjoy its lush vegetation and heavenly beaches. Kayak, snorkel, hike, observe the unique and preserved flora and fauna… With the kids, disconnect from everyday life and enjoy an extraordinary family trip to the Seychelles.
Why go to the Seychelles with children?
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
An ideal vacation destination for families, the Seychelles benefit from a relatively short time difference with France. Count on 2 to 3 hours, depending on the season, to avoid sleep problems. Another advantage is the warm tropical climate. Temperatures hover around 30 degrees and are more or less the same all year round. Protected by reefs, the beaches enjoy shallow waters with few waves, ideal for enjoying your family trip to the Seychelles.
The archipelago is also a safe place! Firstly, this exotic destination has good health conditions: no tropical diseases and no compulsory vaccinations. In terms of safety, it’s a little haven of peace, where it’s nice to wander around. Finally, as far as wildlife is concerned, there are no dangerous animals, with the exception of the stonefish, which can only be found in certain areas.
A wide range of activities lets you enjoy this lush, rich and unspoilt vegetation. Discover a multicultural island, warm-hearted inhabitants and an exceptional heritage. On land or at sea, observe the endemic flora and fauna of the Seychelles. As a family, take a stroll along one of the many family-friendly hiking trails. Believe us, you’ll be putting glitter in your lives and stars in your children’s eyes. You can also discover Seychellois culture, local cuisine and dance, and visit museums, markets and cultural heritage sites.
Family activities in the Seychelles
Observe dolphins, turtles and fish in their natural environment
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Are you dreaming of a family trip to the Seychelles to observe dolphins in their natural environment or to swim with turtles? In the archipelago, visit one of the many national parks that protect underwater flora and fauna, such as Sainte-Anne, Coco Island or Port Launay, on a boat cruise. To keep the kids entertained, opt for glass-bottom boat excursions, to explore the seabed without getting wet!
Visiting the King’s Garden with children in the Seychelles
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Also known as the spice garden, the Jardin du Roi is located in Mahé, on the heights of Anse Royale. This tropical spot is home to the endemic flora of the Seychelles. As a family, all your senses will be awakened. Can you smell? Take a stroll along the paths through plantations of vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom.
There are also many fruit trees, including mango, lemon and the famous coco de mer. This species of palm is also known as the cocofesse, because of its indecently shaped fruits. Observe the many exotic birds, as well as giant tortoises, geckos and chameleons. There’s even a children’s park with goats and turtles.
Family cycling tour of La Digue island
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Danio Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
To the south-east of Praslin, take a family cycling trip to the must-see island of La Digue. This small, relaxed island offers the ideal setting for family cycling, with few cars and quiet, safe roads. But beware, your calves are going to get hot with the unevenness present on a large part of the island. I promise, it’s worth the effort to discover the most beautiful panoramas of La Digue. On the other hand, if you prefer flat roads, especially with smaller children, pedal towards Anse Source d’Argent.
Snorkeling in a turquoise lagoon
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Ennio Maffei – Tourism Seychelles
Enjoy snorkeling with your family in the Seychelles, in one of the many spots of this vast archipelago. Port Launay, Coco Island, Saint-Pierre, Sainte-Anne, Desroches or Denis Islande… Put on your mask and snorkel to explore these granite and coral islands. Numerous marine parks protect the coral reefs and underwater fauna. Dive into the crystal-clear waters to encounter schools of brilliantly colored fish, astonishing rock formations and colorful reefs.
Visit the Vallée de Mai, on Praslin Island
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai is also known as the Garden of Eden. In the heart of Praslin National Park, discover 19 hectares of lush jungle. In this unspoilt green setting, we raise environmental awareness and protect endangered species endemic to the Seychelles. Take a family hike with a guide who will tell you all about this natural environment, its tales and legends.
Numerous hiking trails await you for family outings at your own pace. Take the kids for a stroll through this primitive rainforest, devoid of human activity, and discover its exceptional biodiversity. The Seychelles black parrot, Gardinier’s frog (the world’s smallest), stick insects, chameleons… And above all, palm trees!
Glass-bottom kayaking in the Seychelles
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Fancy an unusual family excursion to the Seychelles to observe the seabed? We’ve come up with an eco-friendly experience that’s more immersive than stand-up paddling and less sporty than diving! Take a family outing in a transparent kayak on the crystal-clear waters of the Seychelles. Alone on the water, you can observe coral life and aquatic fauna.
Family trekking in the Seychelles
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Nadine Shah – Tourism Seychelles
Fancy a family hike during your trip to the Seychelles? Explore the surrounding area and discover magnificent panoramas as you walk along the hiking trails of the Seychelles. Discover easy trails such as Glacis Noir, Vallée de Mai, Nid d’Aigle, Glacis la Réserve, Salazie or Union Estate. Wind your way through varied landscapes, lush nature and rich biodiversity.
Looking for an amazing adventure? We suggest a hike to Anse Marron beach on La Digue. Accompanied by a local guide, you cross granite rocks, white sand beaches and exotic jungle to reach a cove accessible only at low tide.
Discover the flora and fauna of Curieuse Island
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
For turtle-watching, head to Curieuse Island! A small paradise of dense nature, it’s a veritable sanctuary for giant tortoises and sea turtles, who come to lay their eggs on the island’s beaches. The island’s flora and fauna are rich and dense. You can explore the island on foot and discover the mangroves, a typical Seychelles landscape. Book a day trip by boat: no accommodation, no roads. Disconnection guaranteed!
Family outings on the Seychelles’ most beautiful beaches
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
The beaches of the Seychelles are among the most beautiful in the world. For a family swim in the Seychelles or a nice stroll, discover three fabulous beaches. At Anse Source d’Argent, in La Digue, enjoy a white-sand beach with translucent waters. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Access is subject to a fee and includes the Union Estate nature park, a coconut grove home to giant tortoises and a fragrant vanilla plantation. Anse Georgette, in Praslin, near the golf course of theConstance Lemuria hotel, is bordered by lush vegetation and surrounded by granite rocks bathed in turquoise water. A real postcard! Côte d’Or, in Praslin, is a long, lively beach for diving and snorkeling. It’s a favorite spot for Seychellois sunset watchers.
Practical advice for a family trip to the Seychelles
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Getting around Seychelles
Family travel to Seychelles from France
To go on vacation in the Seychelles with your family, you need to fly. ✈️ Direct flights from Paris arrive atMahé international airport. Other French airports also offer flights with stopovers. Allow 9 to 14 hours for flights. This is a bit long for children, so it’s best to plan a few activities: reading, games…
Getting around the archipelago
For inter-island travel, you can choose to fly. The main airport is on Mahé, and offers inter-island connections. Boats run between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Beware: rough seas at certain times of the year can make crossings difficult. For a bit of a splurge, take a helicopter to some of the islands. If you travel a lot: always carry your essentials! Just in case you run into problems.
Getting around the islands
Several companies offer car rental to get around Mahé or Praslin. Driving in the Seychelles is on the left-hand side of the road, and all you need is your driving license. Roads are in good condition and the speed limit is 80 km/h at best. If you prefer, you can also travel by cab or bus. On Praslin and La Digue, bicycles are your best ally.
Practical information
Photo credit: ©Image courtesy of Michel Denousse – Tourism Seychelles
Pack a small tropical survival kit for your family trip to the Seychelles. On the archipelago, the sun beats down hard. So don’t forget sunglasses, hats and caps, sun cream and even UV protection T-shirts. For mosquitoes, take the essential repellent. Take a first-aid kit with you, including medicines, sunburn cream and a boo-boo kit.
Don’t forget your water shoes, so you can walk in the sea without injuring yourself on the rocks and coral. You’ll also need good walking shoes for strolls and hikes. Beaches are often shaded, so there’s no need for umbrellas. As far as safety is concerned, take the usual precautions: avoid walking in isolated areas in the middle of the night, and avoid displaying valuables.
Farniente, adventure, discovery… Find what you’re looking for for a family holiday in the Seychelles. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, lush vegetation and colorful fauna, the archipelago offers a peaceful setting for unforgettable vacations with the kids. Visit the Office de Tourisme website for an exceptional family trip to the Seychelles.