A paradise on earth as it is, Seychelles offers everything one possibly dreams of from a vacation. From serene beaches and colourful reefs to eye-catching locations and upscale water villas, this is a destination that surprises you at every step.
In fact, there are many things to do in Seychelles that travellers look forward to.
Having recently travelled there, thinking of this beautiful country conjures up images of natural, white, sandy beaches, blue ocean views, swimming, snorkelling and diving.
However, if you are not a water baby like me, you might think twice about booking a trip to a country surrounded by water because, after all, what else is there to do in Seychelles but enjoy the ocean?
Well, the options are plenty. Below is a list of what I did during my time there as a non-swimmer and non-diver.
Visit HH Farm
Located in Val den D’Or in Mahé, HH Farm is Seychelle's largest cassava plantation. Cassava is one of the leading food and feed plants of the world and here you can learn about the harvesting of this plant and get a taste of the cassava biscuit which is made in-house.
The cassava is loved for its wholesome, gluten-free goodness. Beyond biscuits, they produce cassava powder; this versatile powder is utilised for its medicinal properties, aiding in the treatment of nappy rash and bed sores.
Upon arrival, you will be welcomed with a cup of citronella tea which amazed me with its balanced combination of spicy ginger and fresh citrus notes.
After an informative walk through the farm garden learning about how the cassava is harvested, its many health benefits and how the biscuit is made, you will be served the treat, which you can enjoy with butter and jam and a refreshing cold juice.
After snacking, you then get a chance to pack and label your own biscuits to take home.
Visit the craft village
Also located in Mahé in Domaine de Val des Prés, this is a cute little village with lovely souvenirs. The people are very friendly and sell handmade products.
A great experience was especially that the people there let you have the time to overlook everything and don’t harass you to buy anything.
Take a guided tour of the Vallée de Mai nature reserve
If you are in Praslin Island, you can take a guided tour of the legendary Vallee de Mai nature reserve. This nature reserve is so remarkable that it was once believed to be the original site of the “Garden of Eden”.
This is also where the legendary Coco de Mer, the world's heaviest nut, grows high on ancient palms in a primaeval forest.
The Vallée boasts six endemic palm species as well as many other indigenous trees and is also the last habitat of the endangered black parrot.
The nature reserve trails are also breathtaking for people who love hiking.
A full experience of the Curieuse Island
On this relatively small island, there is an intriguing and unique biodiversity. Curieuse is home to a significant collection of Seychelles’ endemic species, from giant tortoises introduced from Aldabra and endemic birds to the world’s biggest nut, the legendary Coco de Mer.
The island is the only other place, apart from Praslin, where the Coco de Mer Palm grows naturally. After all the watching and feeding of tortoises and some people swimming, local tour operators offer a delicious lunch of grilled fish and chicken served with rice and salads.
The tour does not end there as, after lunch, there is the last activity, which is snorkelling. But since you are a non-diver and/or non-swimmer you can opt this one out.
Workshop with Roots Seychelles
Located in Beau Vallon in Mahé, Roots Seychelles is a textile and lifestyle brand run by Ras Tony and Sister Stephannie.
Inspired by the traditional Creole techniques used by their ancestors, they are passionate about preserving the rich history of Seychelles and its old-age customs and traditions.
At the workshop, we (along with the other visitors) were taught how to make pareos which you take home after you are done making them. I never realised how easy it is to make this clothing item until I attended the workshop.
Although working under the heat was a mission, the end results were beautiful. I can't get enough of my pareo and just knowing that I made it myself is just something more exciting.
4x4 adventure
On my last day in Seychelles, I went for a thrilling off-road 4x4 adventure with White Sand Tours. On the adventure, you get to discover the breathtaking beauty of Mahé, unique trails, and multiple amazing high points of view.
∎ Lutho Pasiya was in Seychelles for five days during a trip hosted by Tourism Seychelles.