Seychelles is over 99% water ( with a marine area of 400,000 km) and the landmass constitutes only 0.03%. Majority of the population lives in Mahe, Praslin and La Digue islands.
The Seychelles archipelago was first discovered by Portuguese explorer Vasco Da Gama.
Seychelles is the smallest sovereign country in all of Africa and Victoria, the capital city of this island nation is one of the smallest capitals in the world.
The Seychelles is the only mid-ocean granite islands in the world. Their spectacular natural beauty features the most stunning beaches in the world’s set against the dramatic granite formations.
In the Seychelles
(a) National animal is the Giant Tortoise.
(b) National bird is Black Parrot.
(c) National Tree is Coco de mar (sea coconut).
(d) National Flower is Tropicbird Orchid.
Aldabra is the world’s second-largest coral atoll.
To ensure conservation of Seychelles unique biodiversity, about 47.06% of its landmass, almost half of the country is protected by government law.
The 'Bird Island' in Seychelles is home to ‘Esmeralda’ the heaviest land tortoise alive in the world. It weighs 304 kg.
Sea coconut (Coco de mar) is the heaviest nut found in the world.
The 'Curieuse Island' an uninhabited bio-reserve has red color soil giving it the nickname 'Red Island'.
Visitors can view flying mammals like giant fruit bats ( flying foxes) cruising above the forest at sunset at the remote island 'Silhouette island'.
Seychelles is one of the best diving destinations in the world.
Seychelles is home to the largest 'Land Crab – The Coconut Crab' found mostly on Aldabra Coral a toll.
Seychellois society is matriarchal where women play a dominate role in the household.
The Seychelles cuisine has been influenced by French, Indian, Chinese and African cuisines.