all about la digue island, seychelles
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La Digue Island in the Seychelles is known for its unique charm and natural beauty. Some of its most distinctive features include:
Anse Source d’Argent: Often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it is famous for its stunning granite boulders, crystal-clear waters, and soft white sand.
Bicycle Culture: La Digue has a laid-back atmosphere with minimal motor vehicle traffic. Bicycles are the primary mode of transportation, giving the island a quaint and peaceful vibe.
Traditional Ox-Carts: In addition to bicycles, ox-carts are still used for transporting goods and tourists, adding to the island’s traditional and rustic feel.
Pristine Nature: The island is home to lush tropical vegetation, rare wildlife species like the Seychelles paradise flycatcher, and stunning coral reefs, making it a haven for nature lovers and snorkelers.
Granite Rock Formations: The island’s unique geological formations, especially the smooth, rounded granite rocks that dot its beaches, are iconic and add to its picturesque landscape.
Creole Culture: La Digue offers an authentic Creole experience, from its architecture and local cuisine to its vibrant cultural festivals and friendly community.
Leisurely Pace: The island’s small size and emphasis on relaxation and nature mean that life moves at a slower pace, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.
La Digue’s blend of stunning natural beauty, traditional lifestyle, and relaxed atmosphere make it a unique and unforgettable destination in the Seychelles.
Table of Contents
facts you must know when planning to travel to seychelles
Capital | Victoria on Mahe island is the capital of Seychelles. |
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Currency | The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is good to have some cash for small purchases. |
Budgeting | Seychelles can be expensive, but there are options for different budgets. Plan for accommodation, food, activities, and transportation. You can look for the most popular and trusted website Expedia to book hotels, flights, cars, and packages. Refer to our detailed budgeting guidance in the below sections to have a high-level plan for your trip. |
Climate and Best Time to Visit | Seychelles has a tropical climate with year-round warm weather. The temperatures average between 24°C and 30°C. April to May and October to November are considered the best months due to calmer seas and ideal weather for outdoor activities. |
Visa Policy | Seychelles is visa-free for all nationalities. Visitors are granted a Visitor’s Permit upon arrival, valid for up to 3 months and extendable for up to 12 months. |
Health and Safety | Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health issues. No vaccinations are mandatory, but some are recommended, such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Check the latest entry requirements related to COVID-19, such as vaccination certificates or testing requirements. |
Major Travel Destinations
| Seychelles is renowned for its stunning beaches, many of which, are considered among the most beautiful in the world. Here are some of the most famous beaches in Seychelles: Anse Source d'Argent, Anse Cocos, Anse Severe, and Grand Anse in La Digue, Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, and Anse Volbert in Praslin, Beau Vallon, Anse Intendance, and Petite Anse in Mahé. |
Major Hotels | Four Seasons Resort Seychelles (Mahé), Constance Ephelia (Mahé), Raffles Seychelles (Praslin), Constance Lemuria (Praslin), Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa (La Digue), Le Domaine de La Reserve (Praslin), Six Senses Zil Pasyon (Félicité Island). |
Major Airports | Seychelles International Airport (Mahé), Praslin Island Airport (Praslin) |
Major Banks | Seychelles Commercial Bank, Nouvobanq, Barclays Bank Seychelles (now Absa Bank Seychelles), Bank of Baroda Seychelles, Mauritius Commercial Bank (Seychelles), Al Salam Bank Seychelles. |
Major Stock Exchange
| The major stock exchange in Seychelles is the Seychelles Securities Exchange, also known as Trop-X. |
Culture | |
Cultural Respect | Dress modestly when visiting local communities and religious sites. Beachwear is appropriate only at the beach. |
Cuisines | Enjoy local Creole cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and coconut-based dishes. Water Safety: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available. |
Languages | The official languages are English, French, and Seychellois Creole. |
Popular Folk Dance | The popular folk dance in Seychelles is the Moutya. This traditional dance, accompanied by rhythmic drumming and singing, reflects the cultural heritage and history of the Seychellois people. |
Transportation | Getting Around: Public buses, taxis, and rental cars are common on the main islands. Bicycles are popular on smaller islands like La Digue. Driving: Drive on the left side of the road. An international driving permit is recommended. |
itinerary for a 5 day trip to seychelles
La Digue Island in the Seychelles, known for its tranquil and serene environment, is a perfect place for yoga enthusiasts. While it is a smaller island with fewer commercial establishments compared to larger islands like Mahé or Praslin, there are still a few places and experiences where you can practice yoga:
La Digue Island Lodge: This popular lodge sometimes offers yoga sessions for guests. It’s worth checking with the lodge directly for their current schedule and availability.
Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie: This resort is known for its wellness facilities, including yoga classes. The beautiful natural surroundings provide a peaceful backdrop for a yoga session.
Local Instructors: There are occasionally local yoga instructors who offer private sessions. It can be a good idea to ask at your accommodation or check local notice boards for information on available classes.
Beach Yoga: While not an official center, many visitors enjoy practicing yoga on the beautiful beaches of La Digue, such as Anse Source d’Argent or Grand Anse. The serene environment and the sound of the waves create a perfect setting for a yoga practice.
Wellness Retreats: Occasionally, wellness and yoga retreats are organized on the island. These can be found through online searches or by checking with local tourism offices and accommodations for upcoming events.
It is always a good idea to inquire directly with your accommodation or a local tourism office for the most current information on yoga classes and wellness activities on La Digue Island.
A Sample Budget Calculation for One Person | Low Estimate for 5 days ($) | High Estimate for 5 days ($) | |
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Accomodation | $50 to $100 per night for a budget double room | 200 | 400 |
Meals | Breakfast: Often included in the accommodation or $5 to $10 per meal. Lunch: $10 to $15 per meal. Dinner: $15 to $20 per meal. | 150 | 225 |
Transportation | Airport Transfers: $25 to $50 one way.
Local Transport: Public buses, taxis, or car rentals.
| 100 | 250 |
Activities and Sightseeing | Beaches: Free National Parks: $10 to $20 entrance fee. Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: $50 to $100 per session. Boat Tours/Island Hopping: $50 to $100. | 100 | 200 |
Miscellaneous | Souvenirs: $20 to $50 Tips: $10 to $20 Snacks/Drinks: $20 to $50 | 50 | 120 |
Total ( as per exchange rate on 26.07.2024) | 600 (= 8200 SCR) | 1,195 (= 16,300 SCR) |
Local fashion in the Seychelles, including La Digue Island, is influenced by the tropical climate and the vibrant Creole culture. Here are some key elements of Seychellois fashion:
Lightweight Fabrics: Due to the warm and humid climate, clothing is typically made from light, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. These materials help keep people cool and comfortable.
Colorful Patterns: Bright, bold colors and patterns are common in Seychellois clothing. Floral prints, tropical motifs, and vibrant hues reflect the island’s natural beauty and lively culture.
Casual Attire: The overall dress code is casual and relaxed. On La Digue, you’ll often see locals and tourists alike wearing shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and sandals. The laid-back island vibe is reflected in the comfortable and easy-going fashion choices.
Sarongs and Pareos: These versatile pieces of fabric can be worn as skirts, dresses, or beach cover-ups. They are popular among both men and women and come in various colors and patterns.
Handmade Accessories: Local artisans create beautiful handmade accessories, such as jewelry made from shells, beads, and natural materials. Hats, bags, and other items woven from palm leaves or other local plants are also common.
Traditional Creole Wear: For special occasions and cultural events, traditional Creole attire may be worn. Women might don brightly colored dresses with flared skirts, while men could wear shirts and trousers in coordinating colors.
Flip-Flops and Barefoot: Given the island’s relaxed atmosphere and beach-centric lifestyle, flip-flops are a staple footwear choice. It’s also common to see people walking barefoot, especially on the beaches.
Hats and Sunglasses: To protect against the strong sun, hats and sunglasses are essential accessories. Wide-brimmed hats and caps are popular for providing shade.
Overall, Seychellois fashion is characterized by its practicality, comfort, and vibrant style, perfectly suited to the island lifestyle and tropical climate.
must try street foods in seychelles
Seychelles offers a variety of delicious street foods that reflect its rich cultural heritage and the abundance of fresh, local ingredients. Here are some of the best street foods you should try when visiting Seychelles:
1. Samosas : Deep-fried pastries filled with spiced vegetables or meat.
2. Boudin Creole (Blood Sausage) : Sausages made from pig’s blood, rice, and various spices.
3. Shark Chutney : A traditional Seychellois dish made from boiled shark, mashed and mixed with lime, bilimbi, and spices, often served with rice or breadfruit.
4. Grilled Fish : Freshly caught fish, marinated with local spices and grilled to perfection.
5. Banana Fritters : Ripe bananas battered and deep-fried, often served with honey or sugar.
6. Curry Dishes : Various curries, often made with fish, octopus, or chicken, served with rice or bread.
7. Octopus Salad : Fresh octopus mixed with lime, chili, onions, and other seasonings.
8. Banyan Snack : Deep-fried, doughy snacks often seasoned with local spices.
9. Fruit Bats : Fruit bats cooked in a variety of ways, often stewed or grilled with spices.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruits : A wide variety of fresh, tropical fruits such as mangoes, papayas, coconuts, and pineapples.
11. Coconut Water : Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut, a refreshing drink.
12. Breadfruit Chips : Thinly sliced breadfruit fried until crispy, similar to potato chips.
Exploring these street foods offers a great way to experience the local flavors and culinary traditions of Seychelles.
You may buy some merchandise so that you feel like a part of the local community and enjoy your trip.
Important numbers to keep handy while in Seychelles :
When traveling to Seychelles, it is important to have certain contact numbers saved for emergencies and essential services. Here are the key numbers to keep handy:
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 999
- Fire Brigade: 999
Healthcare:
- Seychelles Hospital (Victoria, Mahé): +248 438 8000
- Praslin Hospital: +248 423 2333
- La Digue Hospital: +248 423 4255
Travel and Transport:
- Seychelles International Airport (Mahé): +248 438 4000
- Praslin Island Airport: +248 423 3339
- Seychelles Public Transport Corporation: +248 428 0280
- Ferry Services (Cat Cocos): +248 432 2971
- Taxi Services: Numbers vary; ask your accommodation for the most reliable local taxi service.
Consular Services:
- British High Commission (Mahé): +248 428 3666
- French Embassy (Mahé): +248 428 2480
- US Embassy (Mauritius, also serves Seychelles): +230 202 4400
- German Missions In Seychelles: +248 2519090, +248 2617099 (Mobile) and +248 2718350 (mobile)
- Indian High Commission in Seychelles: + 248 4674110
Accommodation:
- Hotel Front Desk/Concierge: Keep the contact number of your hotel or guesthouse saved.
Car Rentals:
- Avis Seychelles: +248 422 4244
- Hertz Seychelles: +248 422 4277
Tourist Information:
- Seychelles Tourism Board: +248 428 6500
- Tourist Police (for assistance and safety): +248 428 8000
Miscellaneous:
- Local Friend/Contact: If you have any local contacts, save their numbers.
- Travel Insurance Helpline: Keep the contact number for your travel insurance provider handy.
Having these numbers saved on your phone will help ensure you can quickly reach out for assistance if needed during your trip to Seychelles.
A poem in syechelles..
On La Digue’s shore, where whispers meet the tide,
Lie ancient brown rocks, with stories deep inside.
Sculpted by time’s patient hand, they rise,
Majestic guardians beneath Seychelles skies.
Their surfaces, kissed by the sun’s warm embrace,
Hold the hues of twilight, an earthen grace.
Smooth and weathered, like wisdom set in stone,
Each curve is a testament to epochs they’ve known.
Beneath the azure sky and emerald sea,
They stand as timeless sentinels, wild and free.
Embracing the waves, their eternal dance,
A symphony of nature, a silent romance.
Amidst the whispers of the coconut trees,
And the gentle hug of the ocean breeze,
These brown rocks echo a silent lore,
Of love, of dreams, and so much more.
On La Digue’s shore, where earth and ocean blend,
These brown rocks, like old friends, extend,
An invitation to those who seek,
The secrets of the world, in their silent speak.
FAQs
The current Seychelles flag was adopted on June 18, 1996.
The diagonal stripes symbolize a dynamic country moving forward into the future.
No, Seychelles offers visa-free access to all nationalities. Upon arrival, you will be issued a Visitor’s Permit, which is valid for up to 90 days and can be extended.
Seychelles is generally a safe destination with no required vaccinations. However, it’s recommended to have travel insurance and to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.