What is the best itinerary for visiting Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue?

For a standard 14 to 18-day trip to the Seychelles, the most efficient and stress-free itinerary follows the "Golden Triangle" circuit, but with a specific strategic order: **Praslin first, then La Digue, ending on Mahé.** This sequence ensures you are on the main island for your final days, eliminating the risk of ferry cancellations or rough sea conditions delaying your international departure from Seychelles International Airport (SEZ).

**Recommended Duration and Focus per Island:**

* **Praslin (5-6 days):** Start your journey here by taking a 15-minute domestic flight or the Cat Cocos ferry immediately after landing on Mahé. Use Praslin as your base for visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site **Vallée de Mai** (entry is **SCR 450**) and the world-famous **Anse Lazio**. It is also the best jumping-off point for day trips to Curieuse Island to see the Giant Tortoises. * **La Digue (3-4 days):** This island moves at a slower "island time" pace. Since cars are restricted, renting a bicycle is essential (**SCR 150-200 per day**) to visit **Anse Source d'Argent** and the wilder, scenic beaches of Grand Anse. * **Mahé (6-8 days):** As the largest island, Mahé requires the most time. Spend your days hiking the **Morne Seychellois National Park**, exploring the capital city of **Victoria**, and relaxing at the popular **Beau Vallon** or the quieter **Anse Royale** in the south. * **Cerf Island (Optional 1-2 days):** If you have 18 days, consider a "staycation" on Cerf Island within the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. It’s just a 10-minute boat ride from **Eden Island** and offers incredible snorkeling right off the beach.

**Inter-Island Logistics and Costs:**

Moving between islands requires planning, especially during the **South-East Trade Winds (May to September)** when the sea can be choppy. The Cat Cocos ferry from Mahé to Praslin costs approximately **SCR 900-1,100** per adult one-way. The "inter-island" hop between Praslin and La Digue via the Cat Roses ferry is a shorter 15-minute trip costing around **SCR 250-350**.

**Pro Tips for the Itinerary:**

If you are visiting between July and August, the sea crossing between Mahé and Praslin can be quite rough. We strongly recommend booking a flight with **Air Seychelles** for this leg (prices range from **SCR 1,500-2,500**) if you are prone to seasickness. Also, try to avoid "split stays" on Mahé where you spend two days at the start and four at the end; the transfer times to and from the jetty or airport will eat into your holiday time.

**Local Insights for Planning:**

Remember that Sunday is a day of rest in the Seychelles. Most shops in Victoria and many local "take-away" shops will be closed. Plan your grocery shopping for Saturday morning at the **Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market** to stock up on fresh fruit and spices. For budget-friendly meals, look for local take-away stands where a hearty Creole curry costs between **SCR 75-125**, compared to sit-down restaurant prices which usually start at **SCR 400-600** per person. Always keep some cash in **Seychelles Rupees (SCR)** for small purchases, as smaller vendors may not accept cards.