Which one should I choose, Seychelles or Maldives?

Seychelles or Maldives? Which one should you choose for your next island getaway?

Both Seychelles and the Maldives are stunning tropical destinations in the Indian Ocean, but they’re quite different in what they offer.

I’ve been to both, and I can tell you from experience that choosing between them isn’t easy. While you can visit either one year-round, there are better times to go depending on what you’re looking for.

The real difference comes down to nature, things to do, types of places to stay, and even the food. Also, each one is better suited for certain kinds of travelers.

So if you’re not sure whether to choose Seychelles or Maldives, I’ll walk you through the key differences to help you decide which one is right for you.

Seychelles vs Maldives: Overview

	Seychelles	Maldives
Landscape	✅
Places to stay	✅	✅
Activities	✅
Budget	✅
Better for families	✅
Better for a honeymoon		✅
Better for relaxation		✅
Cuisine	✅	✅

Which has a better landscape?

Both Seychelles and the Maldives are islands, or archipelagos (groups of islands), in the Indian Ocean. But there are some clear differences between them when it comes to landscape.

Seychelles is made up of 115 larger islands spread over a smaller area off the coast of Africa. That’s why Seychelles has a more diverse landscape, with not only beautiful beaches but also rainforests, mountains, and national parks.

View from Morne Blanc Mountain in Mahé, Seychelles, showing lush green trees in the foreground and a small rocky island surrounded by calm blue ocean in the distance under a clear sky.

Maldives, on the other hand, is made up of over 1,190 small coral islands that are spread over a much bigger area, most of which is the ocean. The Maldives are located just off the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

Because of its varied landscape, Seychelles offers more activities and places to explore, while the Maldives gives you peaceful, relaxing surroundings, perfect for a romantic getaway.

Which has better places to stay?

Seychelles offers a wider variety of accommodations, from budget hotels and guesthouses to luxurious private villas with a butler. You can also find resorts on their own islands, providing an extra level of privacy.

All resorts in Seychelles are surrounded by stunning nature, whether located on the beach or up on a hill in a lush forest.

Aerial view of a tropical island in the Maldives with rows of overwater bungalows stretching out into the turquoise sea, surrounded by clear blue waters and nearby lush islands under a sunny sky.

In comparison, the Maldives is built around the concept of one resort on one island. The islands are so small that you can typically walk around them in 15 to 30 minutes.

Most resorts offer all-inclusive packages since there are limited options to leave the island. You’ll stay at the resort where everything is provided, your accommodation, food, spa, and entertainment.

So, choosing the right resort is an important decision when visiting the Maldives. The Maldives is particularly famous for its overwater bungalows, which offer breathtaking views of the ocean and marine life below.

Both destinations offer luxury accommodations, but the Maldives is known for its unique overwater bungalows, while Seychelles provides more options to suit different tastes and budgets.

Which offers more activities?

When it comes to activities, Seychelles takes the lead. It’s not just about the stunning beaches. Seychelles is also home to rainforests, mountains, and national parks.

Unlike the Maldives, you’re not limited to the island where you’re staying. There’s so much to do and explore! On the main island, Mahe, you can rent a car or use public transportation to discover the area.

Visit the capital city, Victoria, where you’ll find markets, galleries, shops, churches, museums, a botanical garden, restaurants, and bars. There are also plenty of beautiful public beaches to check out.

Woman smiling and holding a large coco de mer seed at Vallée de Mai nature reserve on Praslin Island, Seychelles, surrounded by lush green palm forest and other coco de mer seeds on a wooden table.

You can easily visit other islands by ferry, hike through lush forests, try ziplining, cycle around, or explore national parks like the UNESCO-listed Vallee De Mai natural reserve on Praslin Island. And if you love water activities, there’s snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, and much more.

In the Maldives, you’re mostly limited to the island where you’re staying, since the islands are flat and surrounded by water. However, the Maldives is known for its stunning coral reefs, where you can enjoy snorkeling or diving.

Depending on your resort, you might also have the chance to take a trip to the capital, Male, go fishing, or take a scenic seaplane ride over the islands.

If you’re someone who loves adventure and exciting experiences, Seychelles is the place for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a relaxing getaway on beautiful, quiet beaches, then the Maldives is the perfect choice.

Which is more affordable?

Both Seychelles and the Maldives are luxurious, expensive destinations. Flights can be pricey, depending on where you’re flying from, and they make up a big part of the cost.

However, Seychelles offers a wider range of accommodations, including guesthouses and self-catering options, which can be more budget-friendly for those traveling on a tighter budget.

A blue SPTC bus parked by the side of the road in Seychelles, with palm trees and greenery in the background. The bus has a colorful stripe design and big windows.

Plus, the landscape and infrastructure in Seychelles make it easier to get around using public transportation, which helps keep costs down.

The Maldives is known for its exclusive resorts, many of which offer all-inclusive packages. This makes it harder to find affordable options. Additionally, transportation from the airport often requires a seaplane, which can add to the cost.

Overall, if you’re looking for a more affordable trip, Seychelles might be a better choice. The Maldives, on the other hand, is more suited for those seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive experience.

Which is better for families?

Both Seychelles and the Maldives are great for families, but Seychelles is a better choice overall. Seychelles offers a variety of family-friendly resorts with plenty of activities for children, including cooking classes, kids’ clubs, outdoor adventures, and even babysitting services.

A woman in a bright pink dress crouches down to gently pet a large tortoise at the Botanical Garden in Mahe, Seychelles. Another tortoise is nearby, stretching its neck toward her.

There’s so much to do with kids in Seychelles! You can visit a botanical garden to see Aldabra tortoises, go hiking, swim, cycle, or enjoy different water activities depending on your children’s ages.

In the Maldives, you’ll need to choose a resort specifically designed for families, as there’s not much else to do while staying on one island. Younger children might get bored quickly just hanging out on the beach.

So, if you’re planning a trip with kids, Seychelles is a better option.

Which is better for a honeymoon?

Both Seychelles and the Maldives are amazing choices for a honeymoon or a romantic trip. Whether you go for the Seychelles or the Maldives, you really can’t go wrong. But there is a slight difference between the two.

Seychelles has stunning beaches, beautiful views, and plenty of romantic spots. But when it comes to that dreamy, once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon experience, the Maldives slightly takes the lead.

A luxury overwater bungalow in the Maldives with a private deck, sun loungers, and an infinity pool, all perched above clear turquoise waters and coral reefs. The bungalow features thatched roofing and is connected to a series of similar villas by a wooden walkway.

The Maldives is known for its luxurious overwater bungalows with private pools, direct ocean access, glass floors, big bathtubs, and super comfy beds. These villas offer the kind of privacy and luxury that many couples look for on a honeymoon.

That said, Seychelles also has incredible romantic stays, including private island resorts like Desroches Island or North Island, where Prince William and Kate spent their honeymoon and holiday.

Which is better for a relaxing vacation?

There’s no clear winner here. Both Seychelles and the Maldives are perfect for a relaxing vacation. They each have beautiful, quiet beaches, crystal-clear water, and high-end resorts with everything you need to take it easy.

In Seychelles, you can relax on white sandy beaches framed by palm trees and granite rock formations, or enjoy spa treatments influenced by traditional Seychellois and Asian practices, all with ocean views and lush greenery around you.

A simple beach scene in the Maldives with a leaning palm tree, soft white sand, and thick green trees in the background. A few lounge chairs are tucked in the shade, perfect for relaxing.

Plus, if you feel like mixing in a bit of adventure, Seychelles also offers hiking, island hopping, and cultural experiences.

The Maldives, on the other hand, is all about slowing down. It’s the kind of place where you grab a book, put on some sunscreen, and just enjoy the beach, spa, and peaceful surroundings.

Which has better cuisine?

Seychelles cuisine is a mix of African, Asian, Indian, and French influences. It’s centered around fresh seafood, local spices, and homegrown ingredients.

You’ll find dishes like grilled fish, octopus curry, and coconut-based meals. In Seychelles, you can eat more like a local and enjoy meals at various restaurants across the islands.

In comparison, Maldivian cuisine also focuses heavily on seafood, with popular dishes like grilled tuna, fish curry, and coconut-infused snacks. Since the Maldives is close to India, you’ll notice Indian flavors like curries and bold spices in many meals.

Both destinations offer tasty dishes that reflect their culture. But if you’re into food and love trying different things, Seychelles might be a better pick for a more varied culinary experience.

When is the best time to visit?

When deciding the best time to visit Seychelles or the Maldives, the weather is something to keep in mind. Both places can be visited year-round, but it’s always nicer to go when the weather is at its best.

Seychelles has a tropical climate with warm temperatures between 24–32°C (75–90°F) all year. The best months to visit are April to May and September to October. I visited in August, and the weather was perfect!

View of Sunset Beach on Mahe Island in Seychelles, with waves hitting the rocky shore and green hills stretching out in the background. A few houses and trees line the coast under a soft blue sky with scattered clouds.

The rainy season runs from November to March, but even then, it doesn’t rain every day, and showers are usually short. One good thing about visiting during this time is that prices are often lower.

The Maldives also has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the wet season (May to November). The dry season is ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing.

So while both destinations enjoy warm weather all year, it’s a good idea to plan your trip around these recommended months for the best experience. Check out this guide for planning your holiday to the Maldives.

How many days do you need?

Who wouldn’t want to stay in paradise forever, right? But let’s be realistic. How many days can you actually spend in Seychelles or the Maldives?

For Seychelles, plan for at least 7 days. Ideally, 10 days gives you enough time to relax and explore a few different islands, enjoy the beaches, visit some sights, and add a bit of adventure to your trip.

In the Maldives, the focus is more on pure relaxation. A minimum of 5 days is a good starting point, especially considering the cost of the flights. If you need a proper break to rest and recharge, staying a bit longer is definitely worth it.

Verdict: Seychelles vs Maldives?

So, which destination should you choose for your next paradise vacation? If you’re a couple, traveling with friends, or a family with kids and you enjoy exploring, staying active, and having a range of budget-friendly options, then Seychelles is a great choice.

If you’re a couple looking for a romantic escape or honeymoon in a private overwater bungalow, or a solo traveler or group of friends seeking relaxation and a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, the Maldives might be a better option, especially if you’re open to a more luxurious experience.

I hope this helped you decide which destination suits you best. Let me know your choice in the comments!

You may want to check:

These Are The Top 13 Romantic Activities In Seychelles For Couples
Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort, Seychelles: Review
Are There Mosquitoes In Seychelles?

Seychelles vs Maldives: How To Choose The Right Island For You