Now in its sixth year, the smallest capital in the world hosts the lively two-day parade every April in the buzzy streets of Victoria. This dynamic event sees each participating country raise its profile by showing off its own individual colours, culture and people to the world’s press.
Countries from all corners of the globe take part, adorning spectacular costumes and showcasing their heritage with singing and dancing. I was amazed to see how many countries took part. I had the pleasure to be invited to witness this show stopping spectacle where countries included were India, Kenya, North Korea, South Africa, Sweden, Notting Hill and Brazil among many other colourful nations entertaining the Seychellois locals and the many tourists that visit the beautiful island of Mahé.
The Seychelles Carnival is the brainchild of Alain St. Ange the Minister for Tourism and Culture. His vision is steadfast in bringing nations together, for unity and peace.
I certainly felt the vibe at the official opening ceremony and during the carnival.
It’s free to attend and plenty to do and see in the area once the carnival is over.
Top things to do around Victoria, Seychelles
Victoria Market to buy souvenirs, spices
See the famous Clock Tower (the mini Big Ben)
Casino fun at the Gran Kaz Entertainment Center
Go hiking and see the waterfall at Cassedent
Scuba diving and snorkelling at the many amazing beaches
Visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
Have lunch at Del Place Restaurant serving delicious and authentic Creole food by the sea
Catch an amazing view from Sans Souci at Mission Lodge Lookout
Where to stay?
Low Budget
Not to be confused with the Carana Beach Hotel, the Carana Hilltop Villa gives you breath-taking views over the ocean towards to the exclusive Silhouette Island. The hilltop retreat has ten air conditioned rooms, some with a private balcony. There’s a swimming pool and garden where you can help yourself to bananas.
From £81.00 per couple per night B&B.
Medium to High budget
The brand new Carana Beach Hotel on Mahe Island. A twenty minute drive from Victoria, the capital is perfectly situated to attend the Carnival and make a fantastic holiday base.
It has 40 chalets (12 of which have a plunge pool) overlooking Mahé’s most dramatic and picturesque beaches. The bonus about this accommodation is that it doesn’t skimp on all the luxuries you expect from the five star hotels on the islands, but it’s priced at slightly more affordable luxury rates. It caters for all with multiple dining options and it has a gorgeous beach-front swimming pool.
Chalets start from £366.00 for two people.
How to get there?
Fly with Etihad or Emirates to Dubai and catch a connecting flight with Air Seychelles/Emirates to Mahe, the mainland.
Flights from the UK are around £680 per adult.
How to get there?
Find out more about the Seychelles
