If you’re looking to trade city life for immaculate tropical paradise, this itinerary is for you. This journey takes you across the Indian Ocean, balancing the exotic culture of Zanzibar with the postcard-perfect beaches of the Seychelles. Over 13 unforgettable days, you’ll experience everything from swimming with wild dolphins to kayaking the world’s most photographed beach. This is the plan I’d recommend charting a perfect two-part island escape, starting with the vibrant East African coast and concluding in the idyllic granite island chain.
Day 1: Arrival in the Spice Island
Your journey begins as you arrive in vibrant Zanzibar. Upon arrival, you’ll pick up a rental car, a great way to explore the island on your own schedule, before checking into your resort. Whether you choose the boutique charm of Pongwe Beach Hotel or the stunning design of Isaraya Luxury Over Water Villas, getting settled is your only task for the day.
Day 2: Tropical Bliss
Take your whole first day to simply relax and adjust to the island rhythm. Spend the day unwinding at the beach or pool. The waters here are famously warm and clear. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the perfect time to rent a jetski and zoom along the coast.
Day 3: Mnemba Atoll and Dolphin Swim
It’s time for the first big marine adventure! In the morning, you’ll head out for a Mnemba atoll boat trip. An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef, and Mnemba offers incredible marine life. You’ll get to snorkel in the vibrant coral gardens, where the clear waters allow you to spot schools of tropical fish. Make sure to keep an eye out for beautiful starfish. Best of all, you’ll have the chance to see and swim alongside wild dolphins– a truly magical experience! As a bonus, snack on the provided fresh, exotic fruit. The rest of the day is free for some relaxation back at your hotel.
Day 4: Sea Turtles and Spices
Start your morning by swimming with rescued sea turtles at a natural lagoon like the Salaam Cave. These are often green and hawksbill turtles who are being rehabilitated before release. In the afternoon, dive into the island’s rich history with a spice and village tour. Zanzibar was historically essential to ancient trade routes, so a spice farm tour is an absolute must! You’ll get to see, smell, and taste fresh cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper, along with tropical fruits like vanilla and ginger, all growing naturally right there.
Day 5: Seychelles Transit
Time for the next phase of your island escape! You’ll drop off your rental car and head to the airport for your flight to the Seychelles. Your destination today is Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, famed for its beautiful beaches and unique flora. After landing, check into one of the incredible resorts, such as Coco de Mer Hotel, Acajou Beach Resort, or the luxurious Chateau de Feuilles.
Day 6: Giant Tortoises and Marine Parks
Today is dedicated to exploring the Seychelles’ unique natural treasures with a day trip excursion to Curieuse and St. Pierre. You’ll visit Curieuse Island first, which is a dedicated nature reserve famous for its population of giant Aldabra tortoises. Hundreds of these fascinating creatures roam the island freely! After exploring the island, you’ll head to the protected waters of St. Pierre Marine Park for some world-class snorkeling. The incredible rock formations here create a sanctuary for diverse fish species.
Day 7: Iconic Praslin Beaches
Today is all about soaking up the beauty of Praslin’s famous coastline. Start with Anse Lazio, which consistently ranks as one of the best beaches in the world, known for its flawless white sand, granite boulders, and clear turquoise water. If you’re feeling up for it, hike about an hour and a half to reach the equally stunning, more peaceful and secluded Anse Georgette, which is well worth the effort for the magnificent views.
Day 8: Vallée de Mai and La Digue
Start your morning at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This prehistoric forest is the only place on earth where the famous Coco de Mer palm grows in its natural state. This tree produces the largest, heaviest seed in the world! You can also spot the endangered Seychelles Black Parrot here. After a spectacular morning, you’ll take the short, scenic ferry ride to La Digue. This island is the true soul of the Seychelles, famous for its slow pace of life and lack of cars. Check into a beautiful accommodation like Le Nautique or Le Domain de L’Orangerie and settle into the ultimate island rhythm.
Day 9: The World’s Most Photographed Beach
Wake up early! You’ll grab a bike, the main mode of transportation here, and cycle to the jewel of the Seychelles: Anse Source d’Argent. This beach truly looks unreal! Going early in the morning allows you to avoid the crowds and capture photos of the famous smooth granite formations and perfect sands. After spending some time on the beach, you’ll experience the pure waters up close with a crystal kayak tour. This tour takes you along the stunning coast, through the lagoon to see the reef nursery, and to Anse Pierrot– a secluded beach, only accessible by sea, where you can enjoy swimming and exploring the caves. You’ll get the opportunity to take a small hike to an unbelievable viewpoint before the excursion finishes with a coconut opening lesson!
Day 10: La Digue’s Hidden Coastline
Spend the day dividing your time between La Digue’s three adjacent, quieter beaches. You’ll bike down to Anse Grande. From there, you can walk or hike along the coast to find the next two stunning, less-traveled beaches: Anse Petite (about a 15-minute hike from Anse Grande) and Anse Cocos (about 25 minutes hike further). This day is all about wandering and discovering these three gorgeous beaches.
Day 11: Return to Mahe
If you feeling up for one more beach this morning, Anse Patates is a beautiful option. In the afternoon, you’ll take the ferry to Mahé, the main and largest island of the Seychelles. Mahé is home to the capital city, Victoria, and offers the widest variety of dining and activities. Check into a resort like Constance Ephelia or Savoy Seychelles, or choose Laïla Seychelles for its convenient location to activities.
Day 12: Rum and Relaxation
Start your final full day experiencing a quintessential tropical treat with a visit to the Takamaka rum distillery. You can tour the distillery, learn how the cane is processed, and sample the unique local flavors. The history of rum-making on the island dates back to the days of French settlers in the 1700s! The rest of the day is dedicated to a final beach day, soaking up the sun before heading home.
Day 13: Journey Home
After a final tropical breakfast, you’ll head to the airport for your flight home, grateful to experience the colorful sealife and crystal clear waters of these islands.
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