Eco-Friendly Islands
We’ve written a guide to island hopping the Seychelles, but these islands in particular have a special focus on sustainability:
- Silhouette Island: About 93% of the 20 square kilometers of Seychelles’ third-largest island is a protected national park. Silhouette’s rich biodiversity, including endemic species like the pitcher plant and the Seychelles Black Parrot, is some of the best in the Indian Ocean. The island has no roads or cars, preserving its pristine environment and offering tranquil nature trails, hidden coves like Anse Mondon, and unending natural beauty.
- North Island: Covering 2 square kilometers, North Island is accessible only by a 20-minute helicopter ride – ensuring minimal ecological disruption. There have been extensive efforts on the island to conserve endangered species and restore native habitats.
- La Digue: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches, this island is home to the La Digue Veuve Reserve, a sanctuary dedicated to protecting the rare Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher. Ox-carts and bicycles as the primary modes of transport, keeping noise and air pollution to a minimum.
Sustainable Lodging
When scouting for eco-conscious accommodation, there are few things to keep an eye out for. Look for certifications like the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label or Green Globe Certification. You can use “eco-friendly” filters on booking platforms, or contact hotels directly to ask about their green practices, some of which we’ve listed below. Consider the location, favoring islands and accommodations near nature reserves. Don’t overlook smaller, locally-owned guesthouses or eco-lodges, which often prioritize sustainability and community engagement. Here are some practices to pay attention to:
- Renewable energy: Solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy sources.
- Water conservation: Rainwater harvesting, efficient water fixtures, and policies to reduce water usage.
- Waste management: Disposing of waste on an island is tricky business. Look for business with robust recycling programs, composting, and efforts to minimize waste generation.
- Local sourcing: Look for spots that prioritize locally sourced food and materials.
- Community engagement: Supporting local communities is an important aspect of ecotourism and cultural preservation.
Eco-Conscious Activities
The Seychelles offers a wide range of eco-friendly activities. Look out for operators with specific certifications. These might include the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label (SSTL), which indicates a commitment to sustainable practices, or the PADI Green Star Award for diving centers. You can use your Red Bull MOBILE eSIM to find and book experiences that align with your values, including
- Nature trail guided tours: Hike through national parks and nature reserves, discovering unique flora and fauna and learning about conservation efforts.
- Snorkeling and diving: Explore colorful coral reefs and marine life with operators committed to sustainable practices. Look for that practice responsible anchoring, work with small group sizes, emphasize respectful interaction with marine life, and partner with or support marine conservation organizations.
- Bird watching: Observe rare and endemic bird species in their natural habitats.
- La Digue Veuve Reserve: Visit this sanctuary on La Digue dedicated to protecting the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher.
- Island Conservation Society: Volunteer with the Island Conservation Society to contribute directly to conservation efforts.
Sustainable Travel Tips
- Support local businesses: Choose locally owned accommodations, restaurants, and tour operators.
- Reduce waste: Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag to minimize plastic waste.
- Conserve water: Be mindful of water usage, especially on islands with limited resources.
- Respect wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and avoid disturbing their natural habitat.
- Choose eco-certified operators: Look for operators and accommodations with eco-certifications.
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Use mineral-based sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide when snorkeling or diving.
- Stay on marked trails: Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing wildlife by sticking to designated paths.
- Pack out your trash: Carry all trash with you, including food scraps.
- Pack light: Minimize your environmental impact and make island hopping easier.
- Cash on hand: Keep some local rupees with you to pay cash to smaller businesses and local vendors.
- Download an eSIM: With the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM, there is no need to buy a physical SIM kit that will get tossed at the end of your trip. Download and activate your eSIM instantly – no plastic packaging, shipping, or wasted contract paper.
For more information on how to have data and avoid roaming charges while traveling in the Seychelles, check out our piece on benefits, FAQs, and installation process for the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM.
