La Digue Island is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Seychelles. It is smaller and less developed than Mahé and Praslin, making it a great destination for those who want to escape crowds. The island has stunning beaches, quiet nature spots, and a relaxed atmosphere. With no airport, visitors arrive by ferry from Praslin. Bicycles are the main way to get around, giving the island a slower pace. La Digue is also a good choice for cheap travel compared to Seychelles’ more expensive islands.
Free Things to See and Do
La Digue has many free activities for travelers on a budget. Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most famous beaches in the world. It has smooth granite boulders, clear water, and soft sand. While there is a small entrance fee to enter L’Union Estate to access the beach, visitors can stay all day. Anse Severe is another great beach that is free to visit. It has shallow, calm waters and is perfect for swimming.
For those who enjoy hiking, the trail to Anse Cocos is worth the effort. It leads to a quiet beach with natural pools and fewer visitors. Another good viewpoint is Belle Vue, also called Eagle’s Nest. It is the highest point on the island and offers a panoramic view of La Digue and the surrounding ocean. The climb is steep, but the view makes it worthwhile.
Main Attractions
L’Union Estate is one of the most important sites on the island. It is a former coconut and vanilla plantation that shows a bit of La Digue’s history. Visitors can see an old plantation house, a traditional copra mill, and giant tortoises. Anse Source d’Argent, located inside the estate, is the main highlight.
Veuve Nature Reserve is another must-visit spot. It is home to the rare Seychelles paradise flycatcher, a bird found only on La Digue. The reserve has walking trails through tropical forest, where visitors can try to spot this endangered species.
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Off the Beaten Path
For those looking for cheap travel and quieter places, La Digue has hidden gems. Anse Marron is a secluded beach that can only be reached by hiking with a guide. The journey takes visitors through thick vegetation and over rocks, but the reward is a remote beach with natural pools.
Nid d’Aigle, or Eagle’s Nest, is not as well-known as Belle Vue, but it offers an even higher viewpoint. The hike is challenging, but at the top, visitors can see almost the entire island. The best time to go is early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
The northern part of the island has less tourist development. Visiting small villages and watching local fishermen at work gives a glimpse of traditional island life. Some guesthouses allow visitors to join fishing trips, offering a chance to experience the local way of catching fish.
Other Things to Do
Snorkeling and diving are popular activities. The waters around La Digue have colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular snorkeling spots include Anse Patates and Anse Severe. For diving, there are several sites nearby, including Ave Maria and Shark Rock. Dive shops on the island offer equipment rental and guided trips.
Boat tours take visitors to nearby islands such as Félicité, Coco, and Grande Soeur. These islands have stunning beaches, excellent snorkeling, and fewer tourists. Some tours include a beach picnic, making for a full day of exploring.
For those interested in local food, trying Creole cuisine is a must. Small takeaway shops sell grilled fish, octopus curry, and coconut-based dishes at lower prices than restaurants. La Digue also has a few local markets where visitors can buy fresh fruit and snacks.
Seasons Info
La Digue has warm weather all year. The peak season is from May to October. This is the driest period, with less rain and lower humidity. It is the best time for hiking, beach activities, and outdoor exploring. However, it is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
The shoulder seasons, from March to April and November, are a good time for cheap travel. The weather is still good, but there are fewer tourists. Prices for accommodation and activities are often lower than during peak season.
The off-season, from December to February, is the rainy season. Rain showers are frequent but usually short. The island is quieter, and prices drop, making it the best time for budget travelers. The downside is that some outdoor activities may be limited due to weather conditions.
Conclusion
La Digue is a perfect destination for those who want a quiet and scenic island experience. With its beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and local culture, it offers something for every traveler. It is also a great choice for cheap travel, especially during the off-season. Whether exploring hidden beaches, hiking to viewpoints, or enjoying Creole food, La Digue provides a unique and unforgettable experience.
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Prices info
In terms of prices, Seychelles can be relatively expensive compared to Western countries. The cost of accommodation, dining out, and transportation can be higher than expected, so it’s important to plan and budget accordingly.
Food and water safety
Tap water in Seychelles is generally safe to drink. When dining out, it is advisable to choose reputable establishments. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be enjoyed after washing them thoroughly with clean water or peeling them. Additionally, seafood is a popular culinary choice in Seychelles, but it is recommended to consume it from trusted sources and ensure that it is properly cooked.
Customs, laws, safety
Customs and laws in Seychelles can be different than in EU and US so do your research before your stay.
Seychelles is considered a safe destination for travelers.
– Seychelles is relatively LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Important information
– Safety – US Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
– UK, and US citizens need visa upon arrival, EU nationals do not need VISA to visit Seychelles
– Tetanus vaccinations is recommended (consult with your doctor)
– Read our Cheap travel tips
– You can find weather by month, difficulty level, and LGBT friendliness in our Data tables.
– You can join Couchsurfing for free accommodation
– Follow us on social media for every day suggestions:
Digital nomads
For digital nomads, Seychelles provides a peaceful and picturesque setting to work remotely. While internet access is generally reliable, it’s advisable to check with accommodations beforehand to ensure they offer suitable connectivity for your needs. Co-working spaces are also available in major towns like Victoria.
Seychelles is less affordable than other western cities.