Since that distant time when Seychelles’ 115 granite and coral islands became scattered over a secluded corner of the Indian Ocean, they have remained sanctuaries for much more than some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth.
As the highest peaks of the submerged remnants of the super-continent Gondwanaland, Seychelles represents the most ancient mid-ocean islands in the world, a true lasting legacy to the earth’s very beginnings.
Like an armada of Noah’s arks, these sparkling islands have safely cocooned not only their unique life forms, but a sense of belongings to a bygone age. One where tranquility and simplicity can still be found and innocence rediscovers, and where a diverse people share the warmth that only its young and tiny island communities can know.
Traditionally associated with the most beautiful beaches on the planet, framed by timeless granite boulders, the Seychelles islands are at the top of the world’s list of romantic destinations, perfect for that lazy tropical retreat for two. But the archipelago has even more to offer in addition to the ultimate sun, sand and sea holiday. For the modern traveler, these islands represent escape and an opportunity to recalibrate one’s soul in harmony with the primal essence of nature.
For those wishing to do and see it all, Seychelles offers superb sailing, diving and snorkeling where relatively few have ventures, excellent fishing and wonderful opportunities to discover the islands’ unique ecosystems on mountain hikes and nature trails, all enjoyable in a climate of almost perpetual summer. Island hopping by plane, boat or helicopter will allow you to discover each island’s individual character, as well as a cuisine to seduce the most demanding palate and the genuine, heartwarming welcome of the Seychellois people.
Seychelles’ 115 islands fall under two distinct groups. The tall granite, Inner Islands cluster mainly within the relatively shallow Seychelles’ plateau, 4° south of the equator and roughly 1800 km. distant from the east coast of Africa while the low-lying coralline cays, atolls and reef islands of the Outer Islands lie mainly beyond the plateau up to 10° south of the equator.
These Outer Islands are divided into five groups: the Amirantes group lying 230km distant from Mahé, the Southern Coral Group, Alphonse Group, Farquhar Group and finally the Aldabra Group, some 1150km from Mahé.
There are 43 Inner Islands in all — 41 granitic and 2 coralline and a total of 72 coralline Outer Islands.
The Seychelles’ climate is one which is always warm and does not reach extremes of heat or cold. The temperature rarely drops below 24°C or rises above 32°C. All but the remotest southern islands lie outside the cyclone belt making Seychelles’ a year round destination for sun worshippers and beach lovers.
