Vegetation and fauna
The islands are a paradise for animal life, but particularly for tropical birds and fish. They are rich in vegetation, although it is not very varied (different types of palm trees).
There are virgin forests in the higher areas of Mahé and Silhouette (reaching a maximum altitude of 500 meters), as well as in the Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island, the second largest in the Seychelles where the extremely rare Coco-de-Mer giant palm tree, it is also possible to see carnivorous plants hidden among authentic bouquets of orchids, bougainvilleas, hibiscus and gardenias, Here we find abundant tropical forests, exotic flowers such as the vanilla orchid, or endemic fauna such as the black parrot or the Bulbul of the Seychelles.
The scarcity of mammals in the Seychelles (the indigenous giant rhino looks more like a reptile) is rewarded with an abundance of insects, but even more surprising is the profusion of birds. You can also see bats.
The Seychelles have four marine national parks, and more than 150 species of tropical reef fish. It is the only country in the world with two areas declared Natural Heritage of Humanity, and despite the fact that the English and French conquerors carried out a laborious massacre of giant tortoises, there is still an important colony in Curieuse.
Climate
According to bridgat, the climate is tropical, with little variation in temperature, influenced by monsoon winds. The seasons of the Seychelles are defined by the beginning and end of the southeastern winds, which normally blow from May to October. The rest of the year, the islands are visited by the monsoons, with their rains, especially in January. It is in Mahé and Silhouette where it rains the most. January is the wettest month, while July and August are the driest, but each month the temperature fluctuates between 24 ° and 31 ° C, and the humidity is around 80%.
Places of interest
- Victoria: Located on the island of Mahé, it is one of the smallest capitals in the world, and the only port in the Seychelles. This charming colonial city offers, despite its tiny dimensions, several interesting visits, such as the Museum of Natural History, in the center of the city, which exhibits the bones of extinct animal species; the National History Museum; or the Museum of the United Party of the Seychelles People. Highly recommended is the Victoria Botanical Garden for a pleasant walk under the shade of native trees. The suburbs of Victoria represent one of the most interesting places in the city, with cheap restaurants and markets.
- Mahé Beaches: Among the Mahé beaches, Beau Vallon is one of the longest and most popular in the Seychelles, with soft, clean and relatively rock-free sand. The town of Beau Vallon has a gas station, a bank, and some gift shops. The beach is about three kilometers from Victoria, and you can go either on foot or by bus.
The beaches in the south of the island are usually prettier and quieter than those in the north. The best area for swimming and snorkelling is the Ile Souris, on the east coast. On the west coast, Anse Soleil and Anse Petite Police are extremely secluded (you need a jeep to get there), but the effort is worth it, since on only one beach you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe under the sun. palm trees and contemplate one of the best marine shows.
- Sainte Anne National Marine Park: This park comprises six islands near Victoria, of which Moyenne is the most suggestive. The island is famous for its hidden treasures and its ghosts. Giant tortoises can be seen roaming freely, and it is the best place for snorkeling. On Round Island is the restaurant (formerly a colonial chapel) with the best Creole food in the country.
- Vallée de Mai: On the island of Praslin, Vallée de Mai has the highest concentration of Coco-de-Mer palm trees (more than four thousand). The prehistoric forest of this valley is a World Heritage Site, and offers breathtaking views (don’t miss the black parrot, unique in the whole country).
- Anse Lazio: Anse Lazio is the best beach in Praslin, and one of the best in the whole country, which is located on the northern tip of the island. The beach is glorious white, velvety sand, with the magic of turquoise water, warm and safe. There is a protected area to practice the best of snorkelling at the end of the beach. The place also has exquisite restaurants. Buses leave from Grand Anse.
- Silhouette: The island of Silhouette, about 20 kilometers from Mahé, is perfect for those looking for something different. It is said to be a mysterious island, full of dark caves that according to legend hide magnificent treasures. It is one of the only granite islands in the world, but its beaches are equally paradisiacal. And the more adventurous can climb Mont Pot à Eau to see the strange carnivorous plants, monstrous centipedes and snails
