BEYOND MAHÉ, PRASLIN & LA DIGUE
The Outer Islands
74 coral islands, reefs, sand cays and atolls — a much wilder side of Seychelles.
Seychelles has 115 islands. The Outer Islands are the predominantly coral islands beyond the granitic Inner Islands, ranging from low-lying reef islands and sand cays to large raised atolls. They include remote conservation sites, private islands, specialist tourism destinations and working islands.
A Different Seychelles
Most Outer Islands are low-lying rather than mountainous and are much more remote than Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Tourism infrastructure varies enormously: some islands have specialist resorts or organised experiences, while others are protected, privately managed, uninhabited or used for operational purposes.
Adventure Meets Conservation
The Outer Islands contain important habitats for seabirds, turtles, coral reefs and other marine life. Depending on the island and operator, experiences can include diving, snorkelling, fishing, wildlife observation, sailing, nature walks and expedition-style travel.
Featured Outer Islands
Aldabra
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected natural wonder, famous for its giant tortoises, raised coral atoll and exceptional biodiversity.
Desroches
An Amirantes island combining long beaches, marine activities and a secluded island setting.
Alphonse
A remote island group with a strong focus on nature, marine experiences and conservation.
Farquhar
A remote atoll associated with flats, reefs, fishing and wild marine environments.
The Five Outer-Island Groups
Amirantes — including Desroches, D’Arros and Poivre.
Southern Coral — including Platte and Coëtivy.
Alphonse Group — Alphonse, Bijoutier, St François and Poivre.
Farquhar Group — including Farquhar and Providence atolls and St Pierre.
Aldabra Group — including Aldabra, Assumption, Astove and Cosmoledo.
Access Is Not the Same Everywhere
Not every Outer Island is open to casual tourism. Access depends on the island, its ownership or management, conservation status and current operating arrangements. Aldabra is particularly restricted: it is a Special Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, all visitors require prior authorisation from the Seychelles Islands Foundation, and access is limited to designated areas with visitors accompanied by SIF staff.
Aldabra has no airstrip, harbour, jetty, hotel or guesthouse. Visits are logistically demanding and are generally made through live-aboard vessels or arrangements involving Assumption Island and approved operators. Check the current SIF visitor information before considering a visit.
Who Are the Outer Islands Best For?
Remote Luxury
Private-island stays, privacy and highly specialised service.
Plan Carefully
For any Outer Island trip, confirm transport, accommodation, baggage limits, conservation permissions, weather contingencies and operator requirements before departure. Do not assume that facilities or transport available on one island are available on another.
For broader island decisions, compare Which Seychelles Island Is Right for You? and How Many Days Do You Need in Seychelles?. For access and logistics, see Getting Around Seychelles.
The Outer Islands Are for Curious Travellers
Go beyond the familiar itinerary for remote marine environments, conservation stories, specialist fishing and extraordinary island wildlife.