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Seychelles Vs Maldives
Sweltering beaches with stretches of soft sand and sometimes muted – sometimes playful ocean waves. Profuse tropical verdure. Subdued islands. Extravagant experiences. If all this sounds like your ideal vacation then you’ve reached the right place.
Discover the ultimate showdown between the Maldives and Seychelles in the Indian Ocean archipelagos to determine the ultimate winner.
Read the blog to discover the winner and key details to help plan your upcoming vacation.
About The Destination
Seychelles has a myriad of different topographic features that would be interesting to explore. Meanwhile, the Maldives has eye-catching islands and akin geography. Hence, it is Seychelles that rank slightly higher among the Maldives Vs Seychelles debate.
Maldives
The Maldives is an island nation that comprises 26 atolls floating on the Indian Ocean. Meet the Republic of Maldives, our first contender in this tropical holiday showdown, nestled in the world’s third-largest water body.
Introducing the Republic of Maldives, our first contender in this tropical holiday showdown, nestled in the world’s third-largest water body.
Suggested Read: Maldives Honeymoon Packages
Seychelles
Seychelles, rich in diverse natural beauty, stands as the opponent to the Maldives archipelago in the Seychelles vs. Maldives debate.
Dispersed in the Indian Ocean, east of mainland Africa is a country that is formed by a group of 115 islands also referred to as the ‘Republic of Seychelles’.
Famed for its mind-blowing beaches blanketed by powdery sand and turquoise sea waves that merge seamlessly, lush hillsides scattered with tropical verdure. all the above limpid moanas abundant with a rare and thriving marine life that serve as the faultless snorkelling and diving sites.
Thus, in the past couple of years, Seychelles has emerged as a new haven for romantic vacationers, attracting travelers seeking unforgettable experiences offered by Seychelles tour packages.
Weather and Best Time To Visit
The Maldives and Seychelles have tropical climatic conditions and that’s why you can visit either or both at different times of the year. Also, this round of the Maldives Vs Seychelles would be a tie.
Maldives
Being close to the equator, the Maldivian climate is what can be described as ‘tropical monsoon’ with only two major seasons – dry and wet and no significant drop in the temperatures all year long.
Located in South Asia the country experiences hot and humid monsoons starting from May till October with an average recorded rainfall of 150-200 mm.
Next up is the cool and breezy season that starts from November and lasts till April, having sunny days and comfortable evenings averaging the temperature at around 30 degrees celsius.
And thus, the best time to consider a vacation in the Maldives is November till April.
Seychelles
The climate conditions in Seychelles is pretty much like the Maldives, having the same ‘tropical monsoons’ with just two seasons and almost unhinged temperatures averaging between 25-30 degree celsius.
The dry season brings along warm afternoons and cool evenings with salty breezes, and the wet season has ample downpour and humid atmosphere that can leave you damp and sweaty.
And though one can visit all year long, in the end, the best time to plan a trip to Seychelles is during the transition months of April – May, and October – November.
Getting There and Visa
The point for this one would go to Seychelles regarding the Maldives Vs Seychelles discussion. It isn’t as much about travelling to these countries but more to do with the in-land commute. It would be convenient and less expensive to go around Seychelles than in the Maldives due to the dispersed atolls and islands, especially the sparsely inhabited islands.
Maldives
The most viable option to travel to the Maldives is by a flight, although many cruises also sail from India, so if you’re someone on a long vacation then definitely consider a luxury voyage.
Going back to the air travels, regular and direct flights are operational from all the metropolitan cities in India to the International Male Airport (MLE) in the Maldives with many commercial carriers like – Emirates, Air India, Spice Jet, Sri Lankan Air etc.
One can expect to spend on an average of 20000 -25000 INR per person for one way on the airfare.
Apart from that, you would not require a pre-approved Tourist Visa to gain entry in the Maldives and an on-arrival Visa is granted after showing a valid passport with 6 months of validity, photos and other necessary documents which would let you stay in the country for 30 days.
Suggested Reads: Places to Visit in Maldives
Seychelles
Firstly, Seychelles again bears similarity with the Maldives and does not require a pre-approved tourist visa to get entry to the country.
All you have to do is show valid documents, a passport with 6 months of remaining validity on it along with the proof of your onwards journey to get a visitor’s permit for up to 30 days.
Now speaking of getting there. There are direct flights to the primary Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) in Victoria, Mahe Island from Mumbai and connecting flights from Delhi.
Several commercial carriers like Air Seychelles, British Airways, Emirates Airways etc. are available with a flying duration of 4.5 – 5 hours.
The cost of airfare for a one-way trip can be anywhere between 20,000 – 25,000 INR per person.
Expenses
The Maldives Vs Seychelles comparison around expenditure falls alike with not a significant difference, hence we are tied for this round.
Maldives
The paradisiacal land of The Maldives can be a bit daunting on the pocket, especially if you are planning a trip on a budget.
And while the beauty of the islands and atolls may surpass all your expectations, it is also important to keep in mind that on an average the per day expenses on accommodations, meals, and a few activities for one person can range anywhere between 70- 100 USD, plus there are additional taxes.
Also, this does not include the domestic flight fare or other in-land commutes that one might have to do between the different isles.
Moreover, if you are looking for a more luxuriant vacation experience then the average costing would spike up to a generous 1000 – 1500 USD for all the earlier mentioned necessary facilities, for one.
Book Best Maldives Tour PackagesSeychelles
No one does luxury quite as Seychelles do and you will know why. Similar to the Maldives, but a bit on the hefty side, on an average one, can expect to splurge a good 125-150 USD per day. on menial expenses like food, accommodation, local commute and miscellaneous outlay during your Seychellois sojourn.
And if you want to go even bigger, then the best of indulgent-necessities can be yours with a price tag of 1000 USD and above every day.
Tip: Vacationing to either of the two places during the off-season would result in big saving, primarily if you are designated to a budget.
Advanced bookings for flights and accommodation would also help manage finances better.
Food
The cuisines offered in both Maldives Vs Seychelles are predominantly focused on seafood, spice and curries with flavour profiles from other countries. Therefore, this section would end on a tie.
Maldives
The food scene in the Maldives bears much likeness to its neighbouring countries of India and Sri Lanka. And while the flavours and options are diversifying with the heavy influx of tourism, one would still be able to taste the authentic Maldivian cuisines that are full of spices, coconut, seafood, and fresh ingredients.
Moreover, the island country is predominantly Islamic and hence the foods offered here are also halal-friendly.
Besides, if you are a vegetarian or vegan there are still many available options in the Dhivehi dishes. That either don’t contain meat or can be made as per your dietary requirements at the resorts and several hotels.
Though, there might be some inconvenience if you are staying at the lesser developed islands.
Now, here is a list of some of the best dishes that you cannot miss out on during the trip to the Maldives:
Dishes:
- Boshi Mashuni – Banana Flower Salad
- Saagu Bondibai – A Milky Pudding with Tapioca (sabudana)
- Curries with Seafood, Meats and Vegetables
- Gulha – Fried Dough with Fish and Spice Filling
- Zileybee – The Maldivian Take on Jalebi/Funnel Cake
Seychelles
The Creole or Seychellois cuisine is a colourful and appetizing mix of spiced curries, fresh seafood, locally grown produce and a burst of tantalizing flavours.
With a fuse of Indian, British, French, Chinese and African influences, the food offered in Seychelles is the second best thing about the country, right after the much-talked-about beaches.
The brave-hearts and experimentalists may want to try out the bizarre dishes like -octopus curry, shark chutney etc. And on the other hand vegetarian and vegans with pesky dietary requirements would also find a variety to gorge onto.
Here is a list of some of the best dishes that must check-out when holidaying in Seychelles:
Dishes:
- Kalou and Buka – not technically eatables, but the former is a locally fermented wine made using a part of coconut trees. And the latter is brewed sugarcane rum.
- Breadfruit – It is a native fruit that smells like freshly baked bread and is made in a tonne of different ways.
- Grilled Fish
- Rousettes – It is a fruit bat curry
- Different Curries
Where To Stay
Maldives
The Maldives is one of the world’s most geographically dispersed countries and has separate atolls and islands. These are divided into roughly three sections – North Atolls, South Atolls and Central Atolls.
And based on this, we have prepared a list of the different accommodations that you can choose from, ranging from luxurious to economical.
North Atoll: This part of the country experiences lesser rainfall, meaning that it stays sunny almost all year. The more prominent atolls here are the Baa and Raa, located adjacent to each other. They also have the most developed tourism and are especially good for vacationers on a stringent spending limit.
South Atoll: Farthest from Male, the atolls in the southern area are the most secluded and relatively less commercialized. The top atolls here are Gaaf and Addu. Visitors looking for a nice escaped holiday would find the peaceful surrounding more suitable.
Central Atoll: Some of the most popular picks in the region are Ari and North Male atolls that are easy to reach from the mainland Male and offer the most diverse range of both expensive and inexpensive resorts.
Seychelles
A collective of 115 islands that come in all shapes and sizes, the top three of the inhabited and economically developed are – Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. And travellers from all walks of life and with varying degrees of expenditure can find the most compatible digs.
Mahe: This is the largest island in Seychelles and also home to the country’s capital city, Victoria. One can spend their entire trip staying in one accommodation here and travel to the nearby islets because of the range one can get, right from low-costing to luxuriant.
Praslin: The second largest island and home to the medicinal coco de mer palm tree and giant Aldabra tortoises in Seychelles, this place would intrigue the beach-bums and nature enthusiasts with its fine line-up of shores and forests.
La Digue: This is the most unbothered and naturally affluent island in Seychelles. Away from the heavy tourism and urbanization, the surroundings are straight out of a picture with the most beautiful beaches in the country. Couples wanting to spend intimate and amorous moments should definitely consider a stay here.
Types of Vacationers
Looking at the inclusivity and availability of different experiences, Seychelles would take a point for this section of the Maldives Vs Seychelles.
Maldives
The Maldives is typically acclaimed as a couple’s lair with its secluded and swaddling natural landscape on the Islands and atolls, which act in enhancing the privacy and intimacy for the in-love guests. The sumptuous resorts also offer mollycoddling hospitality with abundant amazing experiences.
With that being said, there are many resorts and adventures in the Maldives that centre around families, solo and youthful tourists as well.
All you have to do is pick the right atoll and island to spend an enjoyable trip. Male and the North and Central atolls would be the absolute best to focus on as one would have a variety of sightseeing, nightlife, shopping and more to explore.
Further, when it comes to water-sports, there are one too many superb snorkelling and diving sites on all islands, all being offered by low-costing facilitators.
Moreover, Since The Maldives is a religiously Islamic state, there are strict Sharia laws against the citizens identifying themselves with the queer community.
However, there hasn’t been any harsh reaction towards the tourists belonging to the LGBT umbrella. But it is advisable to avoid PDA (keep it limited to the resorts or the place you are staying at) or actions that may hurt sentiments of the public.
Suggested Read: Water Villas in Maldives
Seychelles
Utopia for the glassy-eyed, in-love trotters, honeymooners and couples are the foremost tourism in Seychelles.
The private and unspoilt, relatively less-crowded beaches make up for idyllic sites for some passionate exchanges and time-spending.
However, there is more to the island nation that can cater to an assortment of tourists. The colourful history involving colonialism, ever-changing geographical characteristics, an array of activities and much more are things that can be enjoyed by families, solo trippers and groups of friends alike.
Also, since 2016 the country has legalized same-sex liaisons along with other LGBTQ+ rights. This means that the tourists belonging to the said community can freely enjoy their vacation in Seychelles. However, it would be best to be mindful of your surroundings if indulging in some PDA.
Tip – Plan a trip to the Maldives during the off-season as it would help you save or stay under the desired spending limit, and there would be fewer crowds for you to have a comfortable time!!
What to See and Do
Due to the ease of trying out and variety of activities, Seychelles has won this round of the Maldives Vs Seychelles comparison.
Maldives
The limitless ocean that engulfs the Maldives brings in opportunities to indulge in water-sports as well as a sundry of other adventures.
Here is a list of the best of the best experiences that you can have during your Maldivian vacay.
Diving to unearth the diverse Marine life – The crystal clear pools and lagoons in the Maldives are some of the best in the world to take a plunge or snorkel in and explore the beauties of the underwater world and spot rare fish, coral reefs and other creatures.
Island Hopping and other Cruises – If you want to experience the different islands and atolls in the Maldives, going on an Island Hopping tour in a traditional Dhoni (boat) or a lavish cruise-ship would let you have it.
Spend an entire day on this excursion to fully soak in the beauty of the isle country. Other than that, one can also explore a wide range of other voyages. including – dolphin spotting, glass-bottom boat cruise, submarine cruise, and romantic sunset cruises.
Water Sports – One cannot go without mentioning water-sports in the Maldives. The resplendent coastlines of the archipelagos come bearing the chance to also delve in many water adventures, such as – boating, parasailing, kayaking, surfing etc.
Sightseeing – Although one does not think of touring the local attractions as the first thing about the Maldives, one must as there are some really interesting sites worth visiting, particularly by families to have a wondrous Maldivian holiday. Some of the best-known points of interest are-
- Islamic Center
- Male Friday Mosque
- National Museum of Maldives
- Dhadimagi Kilhi
- Sultan Park
Shopping – Any trip is incomplete without some shopping experience and there are a few local markets and streets. You can turn to and splurge on traditional items and souvenirs to take back home. The Male Local Market, Majeedhee Magu, Centro Mall etc. are the most popular.
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Maldives
Seychelles
The bounties of nature were generously gifted to Seychelles during the making of this world, that’s why its topography is so rich and discrete. Which also gives you a chance to partake in various adventures.
You can find rocky and sandy beaches, hills and forests, unique marine and wildlife and more as and when you progress to explore the afloat islands.
Here is a list of the best of the best experiences that you can have in Seychelles.
Quench the thirst for adventure: Seychelles has a mixed landscape that allows you to spend leisurely days at the coast but also go on thrilling and treacherous adventures like hiking, trekking, wildlife excursions, rock-climbing, zip-lining, birding etc.
Shopping: The ultimate rule of thumb for any vacation is that you must visit the local markets and shopping centres to buy souvenirs and other regional finds. And Seychelles is no exception to that. Spend a peppy day bargaining and splurging on items at places like – Victoria Bazaar, Bazar Ovan, Kenwyn House etc.
Helicopter Ride for the panorama: If island hopping is too cliche an adventure for you, then try enjoying the views of the prolific islands and ocean from the sky, sitting in a helicopter for the greatest bliss.
Sightseeing: The beauty, history and heritage of Seychelles is something you have to dive into and there is no better way than sparing a day or two to visit and tour the many astounding attractions in the country. Some of the best points of interest to add to the itinerary include:
- Petite Anse beach
- Anes Lazio, Praslin
- Vallée de Mai National Park
- Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden
- Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Water Sport, Cruises and more shoreline fun – This goes without saying that one visiting Seychelles would not remiss having a good time in the ocean. And with a spectacular range of activities available, the likes of which include – Island Hopping, Cruise Tours, Snorkelling and Scuba Diving, Surfing, Parasailing, Fishing, among others you will be spoilt with choices.
Safety
Seychelles on a whole is a more comfortable place for all types of travellers, hence it takes another point for the Maldives Vs Seychelles. The Maldives is a relatively safe country with no significant crimes being reported or observed over the years. However, Petty theft and scamming by vendors in the markets is something to look out for. The Maldives is also a religiously conservative country and has laws against alcohol consumption publically. You can only get served at the resorts or permit carrying outlets. Apart from that, one also has to be mindful of their clothing as it has to be modest when going out. Seychelles too is a safe country with a very present law enforcement in place. Over the course, no major incidents with foreigners have emerged, but petty theft and other menial crimes take place. So, it is always advisable to look after personal belongings and steer clear from over-charging vendors during shopping. And unlike the Maldives, the laws around alcohol consumption, dressing and queer tourists are quite relaxed. For the greater good, the Maldives Vs Seychelles dialogue has reached a decision that leads us to a very well derived TIE!! Yes, you read it right. While we’d love a clear winner, both heavenly archipelagos share more similarities than differences. We wholeheartedly recommend visiting both at least once in your lifetime. While the archipelago of Maldives is known popularly for its alluring islands, the island nation of Seychelles is famous for a number of distinct topographical features. Maldives
Seychelles
Final Judgement
FAQs
Is Seychelles better than Maldives?
Packed with breathtaking palm forests and diverse beaches, with some being deserted, some sprawling, and others appearing dramatic with granite boulders, Seychelles gives the travelers a lot more to explore. Hence, Seychelles makes for a better pick in the Seychelles vs Maldives debate.