The Seychelles archipelago may look like a single tropical paradise, but each of its islands has its own rhythm, personality, and travel charm. Whether you’re after rainforest hikes, powder-white beaches, or slow island living, here’s what to expect on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue — so you can pick your perfect match (or mix them all!).

Mahé — Where Culture, Comfort, and Coast Collide

Best for: First-timers, culture seekers, luxury lovers, and adventurers

As the largest and most connected island, Mahé offers the perfect mix of nature, local life, and modern comfort. It’s where you’ll land (via the international airport) and where you’ll find a range of experiences — from high-end beach resorts to forest-covered mountains and buzzing markets.

Expect to spend mornings hiking up Morne Seychellois National Park or relaxing at popular beaches like Beau Vallon, and afternoons tasting rum at the Takamaka Distillery or wandering through Victoria’s market for Creole spices and fresh fruits. Mahé is perfect if you like diversity in your travel — one day you’re diving with turtles, the next you’re enjoying a spa and sunset dinner at a clifftop villa.

Vibe: Active, vibrant, and diverse — a complete Seychelles starter pack.
Stay for: 3–5 nights for a full, flexible experience.

Praslin — The Island of Quiet Elegance

Best for: Beach lovers, honeymooners, and nature buffs

Praslin feels like a soft sigh. It’s smaller, quieter, and slower-paced than Mahé, but still offers a good range of stays — from chic resorts to eco-lodges. It’s home to two of Seychelles’ most iconic natural wonders: the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed forest said to be the original Garden of Eden, and Anse Lazio, consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches.

The island’s west coast has peaceful beaches and sunset-facing hotels, while the east coast offers easy access to ferry ports and island-hopping day trips. The vibe here is barefoot elegance — wake up late, swim in turquoise lagoons, visit a vanilla plantation, or hop over to Curieuse Island to meet giant tortoises. Perfect for couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to unplug and reset.

Vibe: Laid-back luxury and soft adventure — ideal for slow, sensual travel.
Stay for: 2–4 nights, or longer if you’re skipping Mahé.

La Digue — A Bike, A Beach, A Breeze

Best for: Off-the-grid seekers, romantic getaways, and beach wanderers

If you’re looking to trade taxis for bicycles and Wi-Fi for waves, La Digue is your island. The third-most visited island, La Digue has no airport, no traffic, and no stress. Most people get around by bike or foot, and everything feels like it’s wrapped in a timeless glow. Think rustic charm with a deep soul.

This is where you’ll find Anse Source d’Argent, arguably the most photographed beach in the world, with its dreamlike granite boulders and calm lagoons. Visit the Union Estate for a look into colonial-era coconut farming, sip fresh juice at beach cafés, and sleep in cozy guesthouses with garden patios. It’s ideal for couples or anyone who wants to slow down and tune in to nature and simplicity.

Vibe: Earthy, romantic, and soulful — island life at its purest.
Stay for: 2–3 nights for full immersion.

Island-Hopping Tip:

You don’t have to choose just one. The Mahé–Praslin–La Digue trio is easily done with ferry or flight connections, giving you a full taste of Seychelles’ many moods — from lively to luxurious to laid-back. Each island has a distinct rhythm, but together, they form the perfect travel symphony.