20-Day Ultimate Family Travel Guides Route in Seychelles
Embark on an unforgettable family odyssey across the granite and coral islands of the Seychelles. This 20-day journey is meticulously crafted for parents traveling with children, prioritizing comfort, safety, and a relaxed pace that allows for spontaneous naps and long afternoons by the turquoise shore. From the bustling markets of Victoria to the world-famous boulders of La Digue, every stop considers accessibility and engagement for all ages.
Forget the stress of rushed travel; our route focuses on the three main islands—Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue—with well-timed inter-island transfers and a selection of activities that range from educational nature walks to safe, shallow snorkeling. With a focus on self-catering options and local takeaways, we've optimized this guide to fit a comfortable budget while still enjoying the luxury of the world's most beautiful archipelago.
The Itinerary
Day 1: Victoria, Mahe - Arrival & Island Settling
Arrival at Seychelles International Airport
Touch down at the main gateway. Collect your bags and take a pre-booked transfer to your accommodation. Most family-friendly villas offer early check-in or a place to store luggage.
Lunch at Victoria Market (Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke)
A short drive into the capital. The market is vibrant but manageable with a stroller. Try some fresh tropical fruits and snacks.
Stroll through the Capital
Walk past the Victoria Clocktower (Little Ben). The streets are paved and relatively flat, making it an easy first outing for little legs.
Sunset Dinner at the Waterfront
Enjoy a relaxed meal overlooking the marina, where kids can watch the boats come in.
Day 2: Victoria, Mahe - Botanical Wonders
Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
A highlight for kids! The paths are wide and stroller-friendly. Don't miss the giant tortoise enclosure where you can feed them for a small fee.
Picnic Lunch under the Palms
The gardens have plenty of shaded grassy areas perfect for a family picnic with local snacks.
Natural History Museum
A small but air-conditioned museum in town featuring local wildlife and history, perfect for an educational hour.
Relax at Hotel Pool
Return to your base for a splash in the pool to cool off before dinner.
Day 3: Beau Vallon, Mahe - Beach Bliss
Beau Vallon Beach Morning
The most family-friendly beach on Mahe. The sand is soft, and the water is shallow with very few rocks, ideal for toddlers.
Lunch at a Beachside Shack
Grab a casual pizza or grilled fish. These spots are very welcoming to families with sandy feet.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Depart from the beach to see the coral reefs without getting everyone wet. It's a magical experience for young children.
Night Market (Wednesday)
If it's Wednesday, visit the Bazar Labrin for local crafts and street food. It's a lively atmosphere but safe for families.
Day 4: Eden Island, Mahe - Modern Comforts
Eden Plaza Shopping & Boardwalk
This man-made island offers very smooth, stroller-accessible boardwalks and a high-end supermarket for stocking up on baby supplies.
Marina Side Lunch
Choose from a variety of international cuisines with plenty of high chairs and space for kids to move around.
Aquarium Visit
Located within the plaza, this small aquarium showcases local marine life in a controlled environment.
Drive to Sans Souci Lookout
A quick drive up the mountain for a panoramic view of the islands. The road is paved all the way to the viewing point.
Day 5: Port Launay, Mahe - Marine Park Exploration
Port Launay North Beach
Located in a sheltered bay, the water here is like a swimming pool. Perfect for family snorkeling right off the shore.
Local Takeaway Lunch
Try the local "Creole boxes" from nearby stalls—affordable and delicious for a beach picnic.
Mangrove Walk
Explore the nearby boardwalk through the mangroves. It’s flat and offers a cool, shaded environment for a short hike.
Ice Cream at Port Glaud
Stop at a local shop for a cold treat before heading back to your accommodation.
Day 6: Bel Air & Mission Lodge - History & Views
Mission Lodge Lookout
A historic site with a very short, flat path to a spectacular viewpoint. It's the site of an old school for liberated slaves.
Tea Factory Tour
Located just down the road. It's a quick tour that shows how Seychellois tea is made—fascinating for older kids.
Bel Air Cemetery
A quiet, shaded walk through history where you can see the "Giant's Tomb." The paths are manageable with a sturdy stroller.
Sunset at Anse l'Islette
A calm beach where the water stays ankle-deep for meters, perfect for letting the kids play safely.
Day 7: South Mahe - Rural Charm
Anse Royale Beach
A beautiful beach protected by a reef. The southern end is particularly calm and shaded by Takamaka trees.
Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden
A bit of a climb, but the lower garden area is accessible. It smells incredible and has a small museum and tortoises.
Craft Village (Domaine de Val des Près)
A collection of traditional houses and workshops. It's flat, colorful, and great for buying authentic souvenirs.
Quiet Family Dinner
Use your villa's kitchen to prepare a meal with fresh fish bought from the morning catch at the beach.
Day 8: Mahe to Praslin - The Sea Voyage
Ferry to Praslin
Board the high-speed catamaran. Book the upper deck (Lazio Class) for more space and comfort with kids.
Check-in at Baie Sainte Anne
Settle into your new island home. Praslin is even more laid back than Mahe.
Afternoon at Cote d'Or
This beach is wide, flat, and perfect for building sandcastles. The water is very shallow for a long distance.
Beachfront Dining
Many restaurants here have tables right on the sand, so kids can play while you wait for food.
Day 9: Baie Sainte Anne, Praslin - The Jurassic Park Walk
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage site. Use a baby carrier rather than a stroller here as there are some steps, though many paths are flat.
Spotting the Coco de Mer
Kids will love seeing the world's largest nut. Look out for the rare Black Parrot in the canopy.
Lunch at the Reserve Cafe
A convenient and family-friendly spot right at the exit of the forest.
Relax at Anse Possession
A very quiet beach perfect for a late afternoon dip without the crowds.
Day 10: Praslin - Anse Lazio Beach Day
Morning at Anse Lazio
Often voted the best beach in the world. Arrive early to get a shaded spot under the trees. There is a small fenced area with tortoises nearby.
Lunch at Le Chevalier
Located right on the beach, it offers great views and a standard menu that usually includes kid favorites like pasta.
Exploring the Rock Formations
Let the kids climb (with supervision) the giant granite boulders that bookend the beach.
Sunset Drive
Drive back across the island as the sun sets over the lush hills.
Day 11: Praslin - Island Hopping to Curieuse
Boat Trip to Curieuse Island
A short boat ride away. This island is a sanctuary for giant tortoises that roam free.
Tortoise Feeding
Unlike the pens in Victoria, these giants are everywhere. It’s an incredible photo opportunity for the family.
BBQ Lunch on the Beach
Enjoy freshly grilled fish and fruit under a wooden pavilion. Very relaxed and kid-friendly.
St. Pierre Islet Snorkeling
On the way back, boats usually stop at this tiny rock island for snorkeling. Best for older kids or parents taking turns.
Day 12: Praslin - Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve
Fond Ferdinand Hike
A cheaper and less crowded alternative to Vallee de Mai. The trails are wider and slightly easier for walking.
Baie Ste Anne Exploration
Walk around the main jetty area. It’s a great place to watch the ferries and local life.
Beach Time at Anse Volbert
The water here is very shallow, making it safe for kids to play even far from the shore.
Italian Dinner
Praslin has some excellent pizzerias that are always a hit with younger travelers.
Day 13: Praslin - Art & Culture
Galerie de l'Artiste
Visit local artist galleries. Many are located in beautiful gardens where children can roam while you browse.
Lunch at a Local 'Snack'
Try some local samosas and chili cakes (not too spicy!) for a cheap and quick family lunch.
Black Pearl Ocean Farm
See how pearls are cultured and view the giant clams in the nursery tanks. Very educational.
Quiet Evening at Villa
Enjoy the peace of Praslin with a home-cooked meal and some star gazing.
Day 14: Praslin - Final Island Memories
Souvenir Shopping in Cote d'Or
Pick up local vanilla, tea, and crafts. The shops are all on one flat street.
Farewell Praslin Lunch
One last meal overlooking the Curieuse Marine Park.
Anse Consolation
Visit the unique rock pools at low tide. Kids will love finding small fish and crabs in the natural pools.
Pack for La Digue
Prepare for the short ferry ride tomorrow. Keep a small bag ready for the day's transition.
Day 15: La Passe, La Digue - The Bike Island
Ferry to La Digue
A quick 15-minute crossing from Praslin. This island is nearly car-free.
Bicycle Rental
Rent bikes with child seats or tow-behind trailers. This is how the whole island gets around!
Lunch in La Passe
The main village is charming and flat. Enjoy a burger or creole plate at a local cafe.
Anse Severe Morning
Just a short bike ride north. Excellent for snorkeling and very accessible.
Day 16: La Passe, La Digue - Iconic Shores
L'Union Estate Park
Pay a small entry fee to enter this historic plantation. See the old cemetery, traditional coconut oil mill, and giant tortoises.
Anse Source d'Argent
Accessible through L'Union Estate. This is the most photographed beach in the world. The water is extremely shallow and safe for kids.
Fruit Smoothie Break
Stop at one of the rustic beach bars for a fresh mango or pineapple smoothie.
Vanilla Plantation Walk
Explore the rows of vanilla vines within the estate—a flat and fragrant walk.
Day 17: La Digue - Grand Anse Adventure
Cycle to Grand Anse
A slightly hilly but paved road across the island. The scenery of lush jungle is worth the effort.
Grand Anse Beach
Beautiful but the water is deep with strong currents. Best for sand play and photos rather than swimming with kids.
Lunch at Loutier Cocotier
A rustic buffet restaurant at Grand Anse. Very casual and perfect for families.
Quiet Ride Back
Take your time cycling back, stopping to see the colorful houses and local gardens.
Day 18: La Digue - North Coast Exploration
Cycling the North Loop
The road follows the coast and is almost entirely flat. Stop at various small coves along the way.
Lunch with a View
Many small restaurants line the north road, offering views of Praslin in the distance.
Anse Patates
A tiny, picturesque cove with easy access from the road. Great for a quick dip.
Sunset at Anse Severe
Watch the sun go down with the local tortoises that often hang out near the beach bars.
Day 19: La Digue - Slow Island Life
Veuve Nature Reserve
A small, flat forest that is the last refuge of the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher. Very easy for strollers.
Last Local Takeaway
Visit Rey & Josh Cafe for some of the best-value creole food on the island.
Souvenir Hunting in La Passe
Final chance to buy island-themed clothing and jewelry.
Final Beach Splash
One last swim in the warm Indian Ocean.
Day 20: La Digue to Mahe - Farewell Seychelles
Early Ferry to Praslin/Mahe
Take the combined ferry back to the main island. Ensure you have plenty of time for your flight.
Last Minute Airport Shopping
The airport has a nice selection of local rums and crafts if you missed anything.
Lunch at the Airport Cafe
A simple meal before checking in for your international journey home.
Departure
Safe travels home with a lifetime of family memories.
Best Time to Visit Seychelles
The best time to visit Seychelles for families is during the transition months of April, May, October, and November. During these periods, the winds are calm, the water is clear for snorkeling, and the weather is warm but not excessively humid. This makes it easier for children to stay comfortable during outdoor activities. The Southeast Monsoon (May to September) brings cooler, drier weather but can make the seas choppier, which might be a concern for ferry travel with kids prone to seasickness.
Currency & Money
The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). While many large hotels and restaurants accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), it is essential to carry cash for small purchases at local markets, takeaways, and for bicycle rentals on La Digue. Tipping is not strictly mandatory as a service charge is often included, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for exceptional service is appreciated. ATMs are widely available in Victoria and at the airports on Mahe and Praslin.
Getting Around Seychelles
Inter-island travel is best handled by the Cat Cocos ferry (Mahe to Praslin) and the Cat Rose ferry (Praslin to La Digue). On Mahe and Praslin, renting a car is the most comfortable option for families, providing air conditioning and flexibility. Public buses are cheap but can be crowded and difficult with strollers. On La Digue, bicycles are the primary mode of transport; ensure you request a child seat or a trailer when booking. Taxis are available but can be quite expensive, so pre-booking transfers is often more budget-friendly.
