The Seychelles has positioned itself as a premier destination for families. According to Christine Vel, Director for Africa at Tourism Seychelles, there are plenty of reasons why the archipelago is appealing to families.
“Seychelles delivers everything anyone could want for a memorable family-friendly holiday from natural beauty, safety and various activities that appeal to families.
“Its picture-perfect beaches, warm weather, and calm, protected waters are especially ideal for child-friendly watersports, as well as snorkelling and swimming,” she said.
Vel also highlighted that Seychelles is much more than just the beaches as the islands also provide opportunities for hiking, adventure tourism and cultural experiences, perfect for creating a well- rounded family holiday destination that sets it apart from other locations in the Indian Ocean Islands.
“Seychelles is especially attractive to South African travellers due to good flight access – plus, it’s visa-free,” adds Vel.
So if you’re intrigued by the archipelago of islands in the warm Indian Ocean, here are 6 reasons why the Seychelles is an ideal destination for your next family holiday.
A safe haven
According to Vel, one of the archipelago’s major drawcards is its exceptional safety record. She said no vaccinations are required for visitors, dangerous animals are non-existent, and natural disasters are rare.
“Additionally, many bays are sheltered by offshore reefs, creating shallow, child-friendly swimming areas. Parents can relax, knowing their little ones are free to explore safely,” said Vel.
Nature’s classroom
The travel expert also said that Seychelles offers a living, breathing classroom where every outing becomes a learning adventure.
“Families can spot some of the diverse bird species that call the islands home, including the endemic Seychelles Blue Pigeon and -Black Paradise Flycatcher.
“Family-friendly spots abound, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin Island, home to the rare coco de mer palm and the Seychelles black parrot,” said Vel.
She also added that Anse Lazio Beach is a popular go-to, known for its calm waters, and guided tours of the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens provide a glimpse into the islands’ flora and fauna.
“For families with older children, boat trips to the Sainte Anne Marine National Park and hikes in Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé are more adventurous options.
“Other popular family-friendly destinations include Curieuse Island with its giant tortoises, the charming La Digue Island and the nature reserve of Cousin Island,” she added.
Vel noted that the Seychelles’ also has educational programmes about marine conservation which designed specifically for young visitors, combining fun with learning experiences unique to the archipelago.
“Kids can even pick up local customs and traditions, learning to greet locals with ‘bonzour’, good morning, and ‘bonswar’, good evening.
Food to please even the pickiest eater
“There’s plenty of Creole cuisine at family-friendly restaurants, giving kids the chance to expand their palates while parents tuck into authentic local flavours.
“But if your children prefer the tastes of home, most resort restaurants serve up global fare and flavours they’re bound to know and love,” said Vel.
Multigenerational appeal
Seychelles also caters to the rise in multigenerational travel.
“Properties like Four Seasons Resort Seychelles and Constance Ephélia are well-regarded for their family amenities.
“They offer facilities and activities suitable for all ages, from grandparents to toddlers, ensuring a memorable experience for the entire family,” she noted.
Sustainable travel
The focus on sustainable tourism in Seychelles aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendly family travel and many appreciate the archipelago’s pioneering efforts in eco- conscious initiatives.
She said that the new Sustainable Seychelles label recognises properties excelling in areas like energy use, water conservation and waste management.
“We’re always excited about our smaller sustainable properties, like guest houses and villas. These more homestay-type, local options are great for families that prefer an authentic, sustainable experience and perhaps more flexibility and independence than they’d get when staying at a hotel,” said Vel.
New experiences set to enhance family visits to Seychelles
The archipelago also has new experiences on offer for families.
“The Grandma Savoir Faire cultural experience offers interactions with local culture. Visitors can learn all about Seychellois traditions by participating in live activities with local grandparents, such as learning dances, crafting traditional items like coconut leaf baskets and embroidery, and cooking authentic Creole dishes,” said Vel.
She also added that the new Mize Koko ‘coconut museum’ celebrates the importance of the coconut tree in Seychellois culture and daily life.
“As the first museum of its kind in the Indian Ocean Islands, crafted entirely from coconut wood, it’s a special cultural attraction. Families can explore informative exhibits, photographs and artefacts crafted from various parts of the coconut tree,” she said.