Have you been imagining going to paradise in 2024? The Maldives and Seychelles are two perfect island getaways that meet the criteria. There are 2,000 kilometers of warm, clean sea separating these two peaceful nations. They are among the world’s most opulent holiday places and provide ideal locations for exclusive honeymoon getaways. Every single one of them has a lot to offer tourists, ranging from delicious food and vibrant cultures to amazing wildlife.
Selecting the ideal location for you can be nearly impossible to choose! The Maldives, which specialize in opulent all-inclusive vacations with private overwater villas and immediate access to vivid coral reefs, is a popular destination for milestone birthday celebrations. Famous beaches and a plethora of exciting activities await adventure seekers and animal lovers on vacations to the Seychelles.
Here is our professional analysis to assist you in resolving the apparently insurmountable question of which of these Indian Ocean beauties to visit next.
For Wildlife
For those who like to swim among fascinating marine life, the blue seas of the Indian Ocean provide the ideal playground, lapping both countries’ beaches. In terms of what animal lovers can get more out of a visit, it’s a very close call. Traveling to the Maldives offers you immediate access to reefs from luxurious overwater bungalows. Just outside your hotel, opulent establishments such as Hideaway Beach Resort provide amazing opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. The wildlife of the Seychelles, however, is far more diverse.
Visit Bird Island to witness the nesting hawksbill sea turtles or thousands of sooty terns soaring through the sky! Giant tortoises native to the Seychelles can also be found roaming freely in areas like the picturesque La Digue and the Victoria Botanical Gardens on Mahe. Visit Praslin to explore the stunning Vallée de Mai and see rich vegetation, such as the incredibly uncommon coco de mer tree.
Verdict: Seychelles
For Crowds
Our favorite pick for complete isolation is the Maldives because of its all-inclusive islands. Thanks to the country’s many little resorts, you’ll feel like you’re in your own little piece of paradise even during the busiest time of year, which runs from December to April. Take barefoot strolls on white sand beaches and stay in luxurious villas with private chefs and butlers and unhindered views of the sea. Even private jet rides from the airport to the property are provided by upscale resorts like the Lily Beach Resort and Spa.
Not that Seychelles is overpopulated, mind you. There are also small islands there where you may have a lot of seclusion. You may decide to take separate vacations from a few of them. On Mahe, you may get a taste of culture with visits to tea plantations and sightseeing in Victoria, the capital, before crossing the river to serene Sainte Anne or flying to the celestial Denis Island.
Verdict: Maldives
For Cuisine
The native cuisines of the Seychelles and Maldives are characterized by creamy coconut, succulent seafood, and delectable tropical fruits. Both of their local gastronomies share certain similarities and are greatly impacted by a diverse range of cultures.
Due to Sri Lanka’s and India’s close proximity, Maldivian cuisine has a unique Asian flair, with dishes like soft chapati, crunchy samosas, and aromatic curries available. In contrast, the local Creole cuisine of the Seychelles consists of grilled fish, such as fresh tuna or barracuda, whole-roasted breadfruit, and sticky bananas caramelized with sugar and coconut milk. Additionally, you might savor regional specialties like octopus or goat curry!
Having said that, a few resorts in the Maldives and Seychelles even whisk their visitors on a global culinary tour. One of the newest five-star resorts in the Maldives, Cora Cora, offers guests fresh Maldivian vegetables paired with delicacies from Southeast Asia, Japan, Italy, and the East. Whichever place you finally choose to go, you can be sure to come away from it with a very satisfied stomach.
Verdict: Maldives and Seychelles
For Adventure
The tiny isles of the Maldives may be an adventure to get to, but the Seychelles win this category hands down. Instead of basing yourself on just one island, a vacation to this tranquil area of the Indian Ocean lets you visit several. Spend half your time relaxing on the beach and the other half engaging in cultural activities, such as visiting the Seychelles Craft Village to meet local craftspeople or seeing Victoria’s lively markets and historical museums.
The Seychelles have a considerably more diversified terrain as well. Trek through the Valléee de Mai for a veritable Garden of Eden experience, or hike through ancient rainforests to high overlooks on Mahe with expansive views of the sea and sky.
Fantastic water sports activities are also available when vacationing in the Seychelles. At Beau Vallon Beach, enjoy jet skiing and parasailing, or go on a catamaran excursion to discover dozens of amazing snorkeling locations. Those with a wild side can also go whale shark diving, swimming, and fishing (but only from August to November).
Verdict: Seychelles
Best time to visit
Now you’re clued up on both destinations’ many allures, let’s dive into the best times to visit:
The Seychelles
All-year-round sunshine and warm temperatures make a vacation possible 365 days a year. Nevertheless, Seychelles’ rainy season tends to fall between November and March, with tradewinds causing the weather to be a little more unpredictable. It’s a more affordable time to go, though, with accommodation and flights usually discounted.
In general, the best time to visit Seychelles is between April and May or September and October. June, July and August can also be fine times for a getaway, although they fall within the country’s ‘winter’ season, meaning the average daily temperatures sit around 68°F/25°C.
The Maldives
Despite its relative closeness to Seychelles, the best time for a Maldives vacation is very different. In fact, peak season falls between December and April once the monsoon season has passed. May can also be a good time to go; although you might experience a few rain showers, you’ll find some resorts are often half the price.