Seychelles is fast becoming a favourite destination among travellers wanting to discover Africa. Its capital, Victoria, is one of the world’s smallest capital cities. Victoria is a severely underrated city, it is the Seychelles’ main economic, political and commercial hub. It may not encompass fantasies of a tropical paradise, but scratch the surface and Victoria will reward you with warm hospitality and local culinary delicacies, as well as scenic landscapes, luxury of the Indian Ocean and a taste of its deep unique culture that is constantly evolving. Let’s take you on a brief Victoria travel guide to discovering and exploring the Seychelles capital.
Victoria Botanical Gardens
The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens is a must-visit while in Victoria. You’ll be glad to visit the botanical gardens, not many places in the world where will you find the diversity of fauna of flora. Interesting place for both locals and tourists to walk through and enjoy the nature offerings, there is a certain tranquility to the place. Beautiful and very well-maintained garden, you should visit this well-kept secret in the Seychelles capital, the place lush and relaxing to walk the trails. See the tortoises, for a small fee, you can feed them.
Victoria Clocktower
The Victoria Clocktower is a sightseeing and historical landmark in the Seychelles, a replica of a clock near London’s Victoria Station. Its deep history dates back to 1903, when the clock tower was installation in the City – in memory of Queen Victoria, who died in 1901. It is one of the most attractive features in the city, situated right in the middle of the beautiful little city of Victoria, on Mahé Island.
Visit the Sir Selwyn Clarke Market
Taste fresh produce and local culinary delicacies at the colourful and vibrant Sir Selwyn Clarke Market aka Victoria Market. The market sells everything from clothes and souvenirs to fresh fruits, vegetables and food items for cooking. Situated less than 30 minutes from Seychelles International Airport, it’s the right spot for tourists to do last-minute shopping and grab gifts before heading home.
Mission Lodge Lookout
Mission Lodge Lookout is one of the most spectacular view points in Victoria, and you really don’t have to hike up a mountain to get the spectacular views of central Mahé and the west coast Seychelles. There are a few interesting fact boards explaining area, nice place to spend few hours and get a scenic view of the Indian Ocean, the ocean is glowing with colours.
Trek the Morne Blanc
While Morne Blanc is not well-known for trekking and hiking, there are lots of great treks here that rewards with breathtaking views. Challenging but a lovely trek, beautiful forest surroundings – beautiful sights plants and mosses, birds and snails. A good way to get your morning started right for adrenaline junkies, worth the effort!
Tempio Hindu
The Hindu Temple is home far away from home – typical temple structure as the tamil temples in India. A must-visit temple situated in the capital city Victoria on Mahe island, Seychelles, it celebrates all Hindu festivals in the traditional way. Definitely worth a visit. The south Indian food is freely available at the temple, some of the best tasting Indian food. Taking photos is not allowed inside but from outside you can catch all the flicks.
Baie Ternay Marine National Park
Marine and beach life in the Baie Ternay Marine National Park includes whale sharks, sea turtles and moray eels, lots of underwater fauna. It offers excellent for snorkeling and scuba diving in the Seychelles capital and in and around Mahé Island. A very nice beach if you love to look under water, you can also take a boat cruise there and watch the sunset, amazing place.