Seychelles
Africa's smallest country, a scatter of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean famous for granite beaches, giant tortoises and the coco de mer palm.
At a glance
| Capital | Victoria |
|---|---|
| Region | East Africa |
| Area | 459 km² (#54 of 54 in Africa) |
| Size vs Kenya | Kenya is about 1,264× bigger |
| Languages | Seychellois Creole, English and French |
| Currency | Seychellois rupee (SCR) |
| Independence | 29 June 1976, from the United Kingdom |
The capital: Victoria
Victoria, on the north-east coast of Mahé, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. Almost everything is within walking distance, from the market to the harbour, and green mountains rise straight behind the town.
The city was named after Queen Victoria during British rule and still shows its mix of French, British, African and Indian influences in its buildings, food and places of worship.
What to see in Victoria
The Clocktower
A small silver clocktower from 1903, modelled on one in London. Locals call it Lorloz.
Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market
Victoria's colourful market for fresh fish, fruit, spices and local crafts.
Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple
A brightly decorated Hindu temple, a reminder of the Indian community's long history on the islands.
National Botanical Gardens
Giant tortoises, coco de mer palms and tropical plants, a few minutes from the centre.
How big is Seychelles?
Seychelles covers 459 km², making it Africa's #54 largest country out of 54. Kenya (580,367 km²) is about 1,264 times bigger. One place above it is São Tomé and Príncipe (964 km²).
Places to visit in Seychelles
Anse Source d'Argent, La Digue
Granite boulders, turquoise water and powder-white sand on one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
Vallée de Mai, Praslin
A UNESCO-listed palm forest where the coco de mer grows wild.
Aldabra Atoll
One of the world's largest coral atolls and home to around 100,000 giant tortoises. It is a UNESCO site, open to a few visitors.
Morne Seychellois National Park
Mountain trails through forest on Mahé, with views over the coast.
Curieuse Island
Mangroves, giant tortoises roaming free, and a short boat ride from Praslin.
Did you know?
- Seychelles is Africa's smallest country by area and is home to the coco de mer, the world's largest seed.
- The coco de mer palm produces the largest seed of any plant in the world, which can weigh more than 20 kg.
- Seychelles has the smallest population of any African country, at around 100,000 people.
- Unlike most ocean islands, the main Seychelles islands are made of granite, left behind when the ancient supercontinent Gondwana broke apart.
Planning a visit
Seychelles is warm all year. April to May and October to November, between the trade-wind seasons, usually bring the calmest seas and clearest water for swimming and diving.
Visitors do not need a visa, but must apply online for a travel authorisation before arrival. Check the current entry rules before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What is the capital of Seychelles?
The capital of Seychelles is Victoria.
How big is Seychelles compared with Kenya?
Seychelles covers 459 km², making it Africa's #54 largest country out of 54. Kenya (580,367 km²) is about 1,264 times bigger.
Which part of Africa is Seychelles in?
Seychelles is in East Africa. It is an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about 1,500 km east of mainland Africa and north of Madagascar.
Areas and rankings are standard reference figures, rounded. Travel conditions change, so check your government's current travel advice before you go. Spotted an error? Tell us.