(Seychelles News Agency) - The Seychelles -- famous for its beaches and endemic flora and fauna -- is on many bucket lists of places to visit. The group of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean offer an array of activities and relaxation opportunities, as well as beautiful sights to add to your travel mementos. If it hasn’t made your list, SNA looks at 10 reasons that will persuade you otherwise.

1. Visa-free entrance

Having a valid passport brings you 10 steps closer to setting foot on Seychelles, as the archipelago is a visa-free country. No hustle, no payment and no waiting. You just have to meet the local criteria and you will be basking on a beach in no time. 

(Gatwick airport) Photo License: CC-BY-NC

2. Beaches

Speaking of beaches, the talcum-powder-sandy beaches lapped by warm, clear, azure waters are picture-postcard material. Most if not all the islands in the country are surrounded by beaches with some more secluded and private than others. You might have a whole beach to yourself if you head there during the week. Isn’t that excellent?

(Romano Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

3. Diving

You do not have to limit your activities to the seaside. Seychelles has a vast water territory filled with a diverse variety of marine life. With six marine national parks among various dive sites, one can get up close to coral reefs and swim the tropical fishes (while staying away from stingrays). Who knows, you might be lucky and spot a rare hawksbill turtle.

(Lara Kalisch) Photo License: CC-BY

4. Water-based sports

If you like your activities to be over the waves, try windsurfing, water skiing or paragliding. These are popular at major resorts and beaches such as Beau Vallon beach. Are you more of a fishing person?  Your hobby is here too (but it comes with a strict catch-and-release policy).

(Gerard Larose, Seychelles Tourism Board)  Photo License: CC-BY

5. Hiking

If you prefer to be on firm land and desire a more on-your-feet activity, hiking in Seychelles is for you. Grab a good pair of hiking shoes, pick a nature trail and make your way to the island mountains. Take you camera along to capture the picturesque view you will see.

(Seychelles News Agency)  Photo License: CC-BY

6. Unique flora and fauna

Seychelles is a rich ecological haven with an array of rare endemic plants and animals. From the giant coco-de-mer to the black parrot, many of these species can be observed in various national parks on the islands.

(Gerard Larose, STB) Photo License: CC-BY

7. Warm weather

All year round the Seychelles is blessed with warm weather, with temperature ranging between 24 to 32 degrees celsius. With no autumn or winter chill to speak of, the archipelago is a perfect destination all year round, ideal for swimming. (One note: During the Southeast monsoon (May to October) the waters are going to be rough at times and during the Northwest monsoon (December to March) it rains from time to time.

(Gerard Larose, Seychelles Tourism Board) Photo License: CC-BY

8. Culture and cuisine

Best observed during the Creole Festival in October, the Seychellois culture is mixed as our ancestors came from Britain, France, Africa, and China. It is for that same reason the islands are called a melting pot. The cuisine wasn’t left untouched by this. Based mainly on seafood, locals love to spice up their dishes.

(Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

9. Laidback, friendly people

The people of Seychelles, who by the way live a laidback lifestyle, are always ready to lend a helping hand. Warm and friendly, the Seychellois will welcome you to their paradise and even into their homes.

(Joe Laurence, Seychelles News Agency) Photo License: CC-BY

10. A small capital with everlasting charm

Victoria is one of the smallest capitals in the world. It can be thoroughly explored on foot in one day. You are sure to come across many souvenir shops and kiosks where you can buy a little something to remember Seychelles by. So what are you waiting for? Book your ticket.

(Gerard Larose, Seychelles Tourism Board)  Photo License: CC-BY