The Seychelles are a tropical paradise getaway, isolated from the rest of the world and with its own unique ecology, culture and traditions. The Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands and coral atolls. It is located about 1,000 miles east of the African continent in the Indian Ocean.

With its glimmering white-sand beaches fringed by palm trees and clear, warm waters, Seychelles has no trouble attracting tourists.

Because of the islands' isolation, many rare plant species have been able to thrive in the tropical forests.

Travellers to the Seychelles invariably come here to relax. The unique flora and fauna have made it a prime ecotourism destination. It is popular for holidaymakers to take a tour out to one of the uninhabited island and nature reserves.

Surfing, snorkelling, and scuba diving are all favourite pastimes, along with bird watching and photography. Underwater photography is particularly good in the Seychelles, thanks to the crystal clear water and colourful marine life. There is even a three-week underwater photography festival in the Seychelles each year, which attracts professionals and hobbyists from all over the world.

Survival guide

The Seychelles has a reputation as a high-end holiday destination, and indeed there is an abundance of opulent resorts, hotels and villas.

Seychelles International Airport is located on Mahe near the capital, Victoria. Many travellers choose to stay in Mahe for a bit so they can explore the island and take in beautiful sights such as the Botanical Gardens, old plantations and elegant mansions built in the colonial style.

Many tourists opt to hire a car to explore the island further, but be prepared for poor driving conditions. There are few paved roads in the Seychelles and Mahe is home to some very twisty, narrow roads through the mountain area. Remember to drive on the left-hand side of the road and be careful on roads that have no safety barriers and little or no signage.

Travel between the islands is primarily by schooners and boats. There are regular sailings and connections, or you can charter your own boat.

The Seychelles is a year-round holiday destination thanks to its warm tropical climate. From November through April the weather is typically hot and humid with monsoonal rain. Cooler weather occurs from May through October when the trade winds pick up.