How to Turn a Seychelles Island Hopping Trip into a Child’s Dream Adventure

For travellers looking for destinations that have island hopping as part of their appeal, the Seychelles definitely stands out from the crowd. With over 100 islands floating on the Indian Ocean, this African archipelago is a must-visit for anyone in the region. The problem most people have with island-hopping adventures is whether the trip would suit kids. Fearing the worst, some families wouldn’t dare try to island hop, not knowing that with a little bit of planning, everything can be fixed. Planning a holiday with children can be a rewarding but demanding task. You want the right balance of relaxation and adventure, all while keeping the young ones entertained and engaged. Here’s how to organise an island-hopping adventure in Seychelles that’s exciting for the whole family, from the youngest toddlers to teenagers in search of Instagram-worthy views.

Where to Stay: The Perfect Family Base

Finding the right place to stay can make or break your family trip. For those seeking luxury, peace of mind, and family-centred service, Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas offers a standout experience. Located on Mahé’s west coast, this secluded retreat is set within 30 acres of forest and offers private villas with infinity pools, open-air gazebos, and direct access to the beach. It is not just about choosing the resort; whichever one you choose, make sure that they have a tailor-made stay for your kid. From dietary requirements to kids’ activities, and even babysitting services, some modern resorts are equipped to handle your bundles of joy, so make sure you select one of them.

Building Your Itinerary: Which Islands to Visit

The Seychelles are made up of over a hundred islands, but not all of them are equally suited for exploration, especially with small kids. With limited time, it’s best to focus on a few main islands that offer things like good transport connections, kid-friendly sites, as well as other experiences.

Mahé – Culture and Comfort

Your journey will likely start on Mahé, the largest and most developed of the islands. While often viewed as a jumping-off point, Mahé has plenty to offer families. Spend a day exploring Victoria, one of the world’s smallest capitals. Children will enjoy seeing the brightly coloured Hindu temple and the busy Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where tropical fruit and fresh fish add a splash of colour and energy.

Praslin – Nature and Exploration

From Mahé, take a ferry ride or even a short flight to Praslin. If your kids are really into nature and wildlife adventures, a number of interesting things to do in Praslin suddenly open up for you. The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, for example, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that feels like something out of a storybook and is a must-visit.

Getting Around: Transfers and Travel Tips

Seychelles has a very good ferry system that travels between islands, though flights between Mahé and Praslin are also available for quicker travel. It’s wise to pre-book tickets, especially if travelling during school holidays. To minimise travel fatigue, schedule longer stays on each island instead of rushing through multiple stops.

Keeping Kids Entertained and Engaged

While adults may be content to look at the beauty of a beach or lounge around on the sand, kids are a whole different story. The good thing is that Seychelles offers a variety of options beyond the usual sun and sand. Snorkelling and marine education are one such option, especially with many beaches having calm, shallow waters that are ideal for beginner snorkellers. Nature walks are another easy way to keep the youngsters occupied. Most islands have short trails through forests, often ending at secluded beaches or viewpoints. Wildlife encounters should definitely be on your itinerary to keep the kids thoroughly entertained.

Image via Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas

Practical Advice for Parents

• Packing the Essentials: Light apparel, reef-safe sunblock, mosquito repellent, and aquatic shoes are among the must-haves. 
• Food Availability: Most resorts and eateries offer regular, kid-friendly meals like pasta, grilled chicken, and fresh fruit.