Victoria, Seychelles a must visit

Nestled on the northeast coast of Mahé Island, Victoria is where vibrant urban life meets the stunning tropical landscape. Sheltered by emerald hills and kissed by the sparkling Indian Ocean, this charming city is more than just a capital—it’s the pulse of paradise. Its was given its name by the British, after Queen Victoria.

Attractions in Victoria

Victoria offers a plethora of fun activities and attractions for travelers of all ages. Discover the vibrant culture and history of Mahe island by visiting the following places:

Clock Tower, a charming replica of London’s Big Ben, stands tall as Victoria’s most recognizable landmark. Whether you’re meeting friends or snapping a photo, this historic monument serves as a timeless reminder of the city’s colonial past.

Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market Built in 1840, the market was named after a French governor. is the heartbeat of Victoria’s daily hustle. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and aromatic spices fill the air as vendors offer a window into the culinary soul of the islands. It’s a must-visit for those looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant Seychellois culture

Bicentennial Monument This statue can be found in Freedom Square, at the eastern end of Independence Avenue. The statue consists of three pairs of extended white wings, and was built in 1978 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Victoria

Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception: The largest Catholic church in the Seychelles, built in 1892 and renovated in the mid-1990s, is located in a slightly elevated position at the edge of the city.

National Museum of History discover more about the history and development of the city. Prehistoric maps, old firearms, and other commodities are among the exhibits on show in the modern building of the National Library.

St. Paul’s Cathedral This church is located on Revolution Avenue, opposite the Clock Tower, and is the oldest and largest Anglican church in the Seychelles, and considered the second landmark of the archipelago.

Victoria Botanical gardens Also known as Mont Fleuri Botanical Garden, the garden was established in 1901. There are more than 500 species of indigenous and exotic plants. The botanical garden also has several fishes, reptiles, amphibians, insects, mammals and caves. 

Transportation

The Seychelles International Airport is located on the island of Mahé, the largest island in Seychelles. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to your hotel. Several airlines fly to the Seychelles, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Edelweiss, Air Seychelles, Turkish Airlines, Kenya Airways, Condor and Aeroflot. I strongly advise visitors to consult the website of these respective airlines for updated flight information and schedules.

Another option is to take a ferry from the neighboring countries of Madagascar, Mauritius, or Réunion. Victoria is a tiny, town and you can easily take a walk in the streets. However, there are several transport options available. There are bus services which are cheap and satisfy the daily requirements of the locals. At times, you may have to wait longer at the stop as sometimes the services are irregular. In such cases, you can take a taxi. There are metered taxis in the city – taxi drivers are friendly, and they will be your tour guides. Make sure to negotiate the price before taking the service. Since Victoria is small, a bike is probably the best option and also popular among the people living there. There are shops where you can rent a bike and can take a bike tour of the city. Renting a bike here is cheap.  

Visas and Accommodation

Seychelles greets you with simplicity Every non-citizen visitor to Seychelles must apply for the digital Travel Authorisation. This is mandatory as per the Immigration Act. Seychelles is a visa-free country, which means that there are no visa requirements for any persons wishing to travel except for passport holder from Kosovo as Seychelles does not recognized the State of Kosovo therefore entry will not be permitted

Here are some of the best areas to stay in Mahe: –

Beau Vallon: This area is perfect for travelers who want to be close to the beach and enjoy a lively atmosphere. It offers a range of hotels, guesthouses, and apartments that cater to different budgets.

Anse Royale: This area is ideal for travelers who want a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a range of hotels and guesthouses that are perfect for families and couples.

Victoria: This area is perfect for travelers who want to be close to the city center and enjoy easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. It offers a range of hotels and guesthouses that cater to different budgets.

Eden Island: This area is perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a luxurious and exclusive experience. It offers a range of high-end villas and apartments that are perfect for families and couples.

What to eat in Seychelles

Seychelles has a unique cuisine that is a blend of African, European, and Asian influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Seychelles:

Fish curry – This is a popular dish in Seychelles, made with fresh fish cooked in a rich curry sauce.

Octopus salad – This salad is made with fresh octopus, vegetables, and a tangy dressing.

Coconut milk dishes – Seychelles is known for its coconut milk-based dishes, such as coconut curry and coconut rice.

Takamaka Rum – This is a locally produced rum that is made from sugarcane and is a must-try for rum lovers. 

Seybrew – This is a locally produced beer that is perfect for a hot day on the beach.

Healthcare

In the event of any mild or serious illness there is world-class healthcare at Seychelles Hospital in Victoria. Their facility offers a wide range of medical services, cutting-edge technology, and a team of experienced professionals dedicated to your well-being.

Important notes

• Pack light – Seychelles is a tropical destination, so pack light and breathable clothing. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
• Respect the local culture – Seychelles has a rich culture, so it’s important to respect the local customs and traditions
• Book your hotel in advance – Seychelles is a popular destination, so it’s best to book your hotel in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Try the local cuisine – Seychelles has a unique blend of flavors and spices, so make sure to try the local cuisine.
• Learn a few basic phrases in Creole, the local language, to help you communicate with the locals.