Nature and Conservation in the Seychelles

Seasons make little difference to the plants, but if you are travelling mainly for the wildlife, find out beforehand when each species is most likely to be seen. The best time for birdwatching, for example, is April to October.

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the world, yet harmless to humans. They feed mainly on plankton, which rises to the upper layers of the water during the season. The movements of these animals are monitored and recorded in the Seychelles, so boats can reach them quickly. You can join the whale shark observers and swim or dive with the animals. The income from participation fees benefits the programme. When sightings are most frequent varies from year to year, so ask about the current window when you book. For general advice on the weather, see Best time to travel, and for outings, see Boat trips and Diving and snorkelling.

For nature lovers, the following islands are of particular interest: Aride, Cousine and Curieuse, as well as North Island (North), Cousin, Frégate, Silhouette and Bird. Here animal and plant species are preserved, new or originally native species are even being reintroduced or replanted, and traces of earlier human interference with nature have been removed.

You do not necessarily have to make a trip to a small island or stay there overnight. The main islands of Mahé and Praslin also offer fascinating glimpses of the unique fauna and flora, including some very rare species.

In the high-lying Morne Seychellois National Park you will find species that exist nowhere else. The park covers 30 km² and takes in a large part of the mountain region in the north and west of Mahé, including the highest peak, the 905-metre Morne Seychellois, after which it is named. Access to the park is along the Sans Souci Road: at Mission Lodge and via the trails to Morne Blanc, Copolia and Trois Frères, all of which are waymarked. Bring sturdy footwear and rain protection, as it rains more often in the mountains than on the coast. For route suggestions, see Hiking.

The Vallée de Mai (Maital) on Praslin is very easy to explore on foot. The valley, with a stream running through it, is served by several waymarked paths that allow both short and longer circular walks. At the entrance you receive a leaflet with information and route descriptions when you pay the admission fee, and the shop in front of the entrance sells more detailed literature. According to the SIF, the leaflet also includes a trail map and a species list. Allow at least two hours.

According to the Seychelles Islands Foundation, admission is SCR 450 per person (as of November 2026). You can pay in rupees, euros, US dollars or pounds, in cash or by credit card. The fee also helps fund the running of Aldabra, which lies more than 1000 km from the inhabited islands. Current opening times and guided tours are listed on the SIF website. The foundation also looks after the Fond Ferdinand nature reserve on Praslin.

A side trip to Aldabra is much more difficult. Travellers basically have two ways to visit the atoll: on a larger cruise that offers a landing here, or on a small cruise from Mahé, for example with the expedition ships Indian Ocean Explorer or Maya's Dugong. Check the offer and dates with the operator before booking. The atoll consists of four islands enclosing a lagoon of about 155 km². Because it was unsuitable for human settlement, a unique habitat has remained largely intact here.

No visit is possible without permission from the SIF. On organised trips the operator usually applies for it. On land, foundation staff accompany visitors. There are no hotels, restaurants or other visitor facilities on the atoll.

You will find more rules of conduct under Do's and Don'ts, and information on exporting natural products under Customs regulations.

That depends on the area. In the Vallée de Mai, admission is SCR 450 per person (as of November 2026). For island reserves and marine parks, fees are usually charged through the tour operator or on site. Ask when you book what is included.

No. Access is restricted and requires permission from the Seychelles Islands Foundation. The usual way is to join an expedition cruise, whose operator submits the application.

Not in small accommodation with 1 to 24 rooms. For medium-sized and large establishments, island resorts and yachts, the rates in the note above apply. Children up to 12 years are exempt.

Best between April and October.