Seychelles Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Seychelles, state of the western Indian Ocean; 450 km², 97 000 residents (2019).The Seychelles consists of the Central Group archipelago with 41 islands, including the main island of Mahé, and the Outer Islands with 74 islands, including the Amirants and the Aldabra Islands. The capital is Victoria (21,200 residents, 2012) on Mahé.

Country facts

Republic of Seychelles / Republic of Seychelles
Country abbreviation: SC
Surface: 450 km²
Population (2019): 97,000 residents
Capital: Victoria
Main language: Seychelles Creole
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Danny Faure (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 16,434
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 15,600
Currency: 1 Seychelles Rupee = 100 cents
Currency code: SCR
Country number (telephony): 248
Internet domain name: sc
Time difference compared to Sweden: +3
National Day: June 18 (adoption of a new constitution, 1993)
Independence Day: June 29, 1976

Nature

Land use: forest (11%), agricultural land (16%), other (73%)
Highest mountain: Morne Seychellois (905 m asl)

Population

Population density (2019): 216 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.9%; birth rate 17 ‰, death rate 8 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (23%), 15-64 (69%), 65- (8%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 70 years, women 77 years
Infant mortality (2019): 11 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 100,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.777 (place 62 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 57%
Most populous city (2012): Victoria (21,200 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (14%), service (84%)
Exports (2017): US $ 565 million
Main export products: canned tuna, frozen fish, oil products
Main exporting countries: United Arab Emirates, France, United Kingdom
Imports (2017): US $ 1,155 million
Main import products: machinery, food, oil products
Main importing countries: United Arab Emirates, France, Spain
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Seychelles

Location and Size

Seychelles is an archipelago located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa, about 1,600 kilometers (994 miles) east of mainland Kenya. The country consists of 115 islands, scattered over a vast area of ocean. These islands are divided into two main groups: the Inner Islands, which are closer to the main island of Mahé, and the Outer Islands, which are more remote. The total land area of Seychelles is around 459 square kilometers (177 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in the world in terms of land area.

The largest and most populous island is Mahé, which hosts the capital city, Victoria. Other significant islands include Praslin, La Digue, and Curieuse. Despite the country’s small size, Seychelles is known for its immense marine territory, with an exclusive economic zone of over 1.3 million square kilometers, which is one of the largest in the world. This vast oceanic expanse is home to rich biodiversity and coral reefs.

Topography and Natural Features

Seychelles has a diverse landscape that ranges from rugged granite mountains to idyllic coral reefs. The Inner Islands are characterized by steep granite peaks, dense forests, and white sandy beaches, often surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons. Mahé, the largest island, is dominated by the Morne Seychellois mountain range, with the highest point in the country, Morne Seychellois, standing at 905 meters (2,969 feet).

The Outer Islands are generally flat and made up of coral atolls and islands, such as Aldabra, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique ecosystem and giant tortoises. These islands are more remote and sparsely populated compared to the Inner Islands. The seas around Seychelles are rich in marine life, with coral reefs, underwater cliffs, and clear waters making it a popular destination for diving, snorkeling, and fishing.

Seychelles is also home to several nature reserves and national parks, including the Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique palm trees, including the famous coco de mer, the world’s largest seed.

Climate of Seychelles

Tropical Climate

Seychelles experiences a tropical climate that is warm and humid year-round, influenced by the Indian Ocean and its proximity to the equator. The temperature remains fairly constant, with average daily highs ranging from 28°C (82°F) to 32°C (90°F) and lows from 23°C (73°F) to 25°C (77°F). The climate is generally favorable for outdoor activities, especially for those visiting for beach vacations, nature exploration, or diving.

Wet and Dry Seasons

Seychelles has two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The dry season lasts from May to October, when the southeast trade winds prevail, bringing cooler, drier air to the islands. During this period, the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities, and it is considered the best time to visit for tourists seeking clear skies and lower humidity.

The wet season runs from November to April, when the northwest monsoon brings warmer, wetter conditions. The rainy season can bring short, intense showers and higher humidity, especially in December and January. Despite the rainfall, temperatures remain relatively high, and rainfall is typically brief, making it a still pleasant time to visit. However, this period can see increased humidity, which may be less comfortable for some visitors.

The country’s climate also makes it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, particularly rising sea levels and extreme weather events, which could threaten the low-lying islands.

People of Seychelles

Population and Demographics

Seychelles has a population of around 98,000 people, making it one of the least populous countries in the world. The majority of the population resides on the main island of Mahé, where the capital city, Victoria, is located. Praslin and La Digue are the next largest islands, with relatively smaller populations. Seychelles has a diverse population, with people of multiple ethnic backgrounds, including Creole, African, Indian, French, and Chinese descent.

The Creole population is the largest ethnic group, a mix of African slaves, French colonists, and later, Indian and Chinese migrants. This blending of cultures has led to a unique, multicultural society with a rich, shared history. English, French, and Seychellois Creole are the official languages, with Creole being the most widely spoken in daily life.

Language and Religion

The three official languages of Seychelles are English, French, and Seychellois Creole. English is the language of government and education, while French is often used in the media and by older generations. Seychellois Creole, a French-based creole language, is spoken by the majority of the population and is an integral part of the country’s cultural identity. This multilingualism reflects the country’s colonial history and multicultural heritage.

Religion in Seychelles is predominantly Christian, with Roman Catholicism being the largest denomination, followed by Anglicanism and other Protestant faiths. Christianity was introduced during the colonial period and continues to have a major influence on the culture and traditions of the Seychelles. There are small communities of Hindus, Muslims, and people practicing other religions, particularly from the Indian and Chinese communities, but they make up a small portion of the population.

Education and Health

Education is free and compulsory for children aged 5 to 16 in Seychelles. The education system is based on the British model, with primary and secondary schools providing instruction in English and French. The country places a high value on education, and literacy rates in Seychelles are among the highest in the world, exceeding 90%. In addition to public schools, there are private schools and a vocational education system that trains students in specific skills and trades.

Seychelles’ healthcare system is largely public, with a network of hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers spread across the islands. The main hospital, the Seychelles Hospital in Victoria, provides advanced medical care, while smaller health centers serve the more remote islands. The country’s health indicators are generally good, with high life expectancy rates and low infant mortality. The government has made significant investments in healthcare infrastructure, although challenges remain, particularly with the rising cost of healthcare services and the need for specialized medical treatment that is often sought abroad.

Economy of Seychelles

Key Industries

Seychelles has a mixed economy, with key industries including tourism, fisheries, agriculture, and services. The most significant contributor to the country’s GDP is tourism, which generates substantial revenue from international visitors drawn by the islands’ natural beauty, luxury resorts, and recreational activities like diving, fishing, and hiking. Tourism supports thousands of jobs in the hospitality, transportation, and retail sectors, and Seychelles is often ranked as one of the top luxury tourism destinations in the world.

Fisheries, particularly tuna fishing, is another vital industry. The country has a rich marine ecosystem, and fishing contributes significantly to both exports and domestic food production. Seafood, especially tuna, is one of the most important export products, and Seychelles has developed a well-regulated fishing industry that ensures sustainable practices are followed.

Agriculture also plays a role in the country’s economy, though it is less significant than tourism and fisheries. The fertile soil of the islands supports the production of coconuts, bananas, vanilla, and tropical fruits, and small-scale farming is common. However, the country imports a large percentage of its food, especially staple grains like rice and wheat, which is a challenge due to the country’s reliance on shipping for imports.

Economic Challenges

Despite its relatively high income levels for an African country, Seychelles faces economic challenges, including its dependence on tourism and fisheries, which are vulnerable to global economic fluctuations. The country’s small size and remoteness increase its vulnerability to external shocks, particularly from international tourism trends and global demand for seafood.

Another challenge is the cost of living, particularly for imported goods, which can be expensive due to shipping costs. The country’s reliance on imports for food, energy, and other goods makes it vulnerable to price fluctuations on the international market. Furthermore, Seychelles faces issues related to income inequality and unemployment, particularly among the youth, despite significant government efforts to improve employment opportunities and social welfare systems.

Seychelles has made strides in developing a more diversified economy, particularly in the sectors of renewable energy and offshore banking. The country has invested in solar and wind energy projects to reduce reliance on imported fuels, and it has also developed an offshore financial services sector that offers favorable tax conditions and attracts international businesses.

Government of Seychelles

Political System

Seychelles operates as a presidential republic with a multi-party system. The president serves as both the head of state and head of government, and is elected by direct popular vote for a five-year term. The president appoints the Cabinet, which is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the government. The National Assembly, the country’s legislative body, consists of 33 members, who are elected for five-year terms. The National Assembly has the power to pass laws, approve the budget, and scrutinize the actions of the executive branch.

Seychelles has a vibrant democratic system, and the country’s political environment is generally considered stable. Although the country has experienced political tensions in the past, particularly between the two major political parties, the People’s Party and the Seychelles National Party, peaceful elections and transitions of power are a hallmark of the political system. The country’s political institutions operate within a framework that encourages pluralism and respects civil liberties.

Legal System

Seychelles’ legal system is based on civil law, influenced by both French and English legal traditions. The judicial system consists of several tiers of courts, including the Supreme Court, which is the highest court of appeal in the country. The judiciary is independent of the executive and legislative branches of government, and the country’s legal framework ensures the protection of human rights and the rule of law.

Seychelles is also a member of various international legal bodies, including the United Nations and the African Union, and it adheres to international conventions on human rights and environmental protection. The legal system in Seychelles is well-regarded for its emphasis on justice and fairness, although there are challenges, such as delays in legal proceedings and the need for further reforms to improve the efficiency of the court system.

Culture of Seychelles

Arts and Music

Seychelles has a rich cultural heritage that blends African, European, and Asian influences. The country’s music is an important reflection of this multicultural heritage, with popular genres including sega, moutya, and reggae. Sega music, with its roots in African rhythms, is particularly popular and is often played at social gatherings and festivals. Moutya is a traditional dance and music genre that originated from African slaves and is characterized by fast rhythms and energetic dance moves.

Visual arts, such as painting, sculpture, and photography, also thrive in Seychelles, with local artists often depicting the islands’ natural beauty, cultural traditions, and history. Seychelles hosts various art exhibitions and cultural festivals, such as the Seychelles Arts Festival, which showcases the works of local artists and musicians.

Festivals and Traditions

The cultural life of Seychelles is marked by a number of important festivals and traditions that celebrate both its Creole heritage and Christian religious observances. The most significant national holiday is Independence Day, which is celebrated on June 29th to commemorate Seychelles’ independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. Other important events include the Creole Festival, held annually in October to celebrate the country’s Creole language and culture, and the Seychelles Music Festival, which brings together artists from around the world.

Christian religious holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, are also widely observed, with celebrations involving church services, family gatherings, and festive meals. The influence of African, French, and British cultures is evident in many of the country’s traditions, including its vibrant carnival celebrations, which feature music, dance, and colorful costumes.

Cuisine

Seychelles’ cuisine is a fusion of African, French, Indian, and Chinese culinary traditions, reflecting the island’s multicultural population. Seafood is a staple of Seychellois cuisine, with dishes such as grilled fish, octopus curry, and fish curry being popular. One of the most famous Seychellois dishes is “ladob,” a sweet dish made from breadfruit, coconut milk, and sugar.

Coconut, vanilla, and tropical fruits like papaya, mango, and banana are commonly used in cooking, and spices such as turmeric, curry, and garlic add flavor to many dishes. Seychellois cuisine is characterized by its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and meals are often prepared using traditional methods, such as grilling or slow cooking.

Food plays a central role in Seychellois social life, and sharing meals with family and friends is an important aspect of the culture. Street food, such as fried fish and coconut tarts, is also common, particularly in the capital city of Victoria. Seychelles’ cuisine provides a rich culinary experience that is a reflection of the islands’ diverse history and cultural influences.