Île de l'Est, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Île de l'Est in Seychelles: a secluded paradise with pristine beaches, rich marine life, and lush greenery, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

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Île de l'Est

Île de l'Est, located in the Seychelles archipelago, is a paradise that offers a blend of untouched natural beauty and serene isolation. Its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery make it a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The island is part of the Farquhar Group and is renowned for its rich marine life, making it a haven for snorkelers and divers alike. Despite its remote location, Île de l'Est provides ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Visitors can explore the island's diverse flora and fauna, take leisurely walks along its sandy shores, or simply unwind under the shade of a palm tree. The island's unique ecosystem is home to several rare species of birds and plants, offering nature enthusiasts a rare glimpse into the region's biodiversity. For those interested in marine activities, the surrounding waters are ideal for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The coral reefs around Île de l'Est are teeming with colorful fish, making it a spectacular spot for underwater photography. Whether you're an avid adventurer or someone seeking tranquility, Île de l'Est promises an unforgettable experience in one of the world's most beautiful settings.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Île de l'Est.

Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent.
Bring snorkeling or diving gear to fully enjoy the rich marine life.
Respect the local wildlife and natural environment to preserve its beauty.
Plan your visit during the dry season (May to September) for the best weather.
Check for any required permits or regulations before planning any fishing activities.

Top City Travel Guides in Île de l'Est

The cities of Île de l'Est, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Beau Vallon

Anse Royale

Port Glaud

Baie Lazare

Victoria

Destinations in Île de l'Est

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mahe Island

Explore Île de l'Est: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Victoria Clock Tower

Explore the iconic Victoria Clock Tower in Mahé, Seychelles - a historical landmark blending colonial charm with vibrant local culture.

4.1

Morne Blanc Trail

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Morne Blanc Trail in Seychelles, where lush rainforests meet stunning ocean views.

4.8

Best landmarks in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Experience unparalleled luxury, stunning beaches, and exquisite dining at Kempinski Seychelles Resort on Mahé Island.

4.7

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

Experience the vibrant culture and flavors of Seychelles at Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, the heart of Victoria's local life and commerce.

4.1

Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa

Experience unparalleled luxury at Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa, where stunning beachfront views meet exceptional service in the heart of the Seychelles.

4.4

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Explore the lush landscapes of Victoria Botanical Gardens, a serene escape in Seychelles featuring diverse flora and unique wildlife.

4.2

Best restaurants in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

Del Place Restaurant

Experience exquisite Seychellois cuisine at Del Place Restaurant, where stunning views meet exceptional flavors in a tropical paradise.

4.5

La Plage restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at La Plage Restaurant in Beau Vallon - where stunning ocean views meet culinary excellence.

3.8

La Perle Noire Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Perle Noire Restaurant in Beau Vallon - where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.6

La Gaulette Restaurant

Discover the authentic taste of Seychelles at La Gaulette Restaurant – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking ocean views.

4.4

Best bars in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Beach Shak Seychelles

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and breathtaking sunsets at Beach Shak Seychelles, the ultimate beach bar to unwind and indulge.

4.4

Gecko Bar

Discover the vibrant ambiance and delicious culinary offerings at Gecko Bar in Beau Vallon, a true gem of the Seychelles.

4.0

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Discover The Boardwalk Bar & Grill on Eden Island: where exquisite dining meets exciting nightlife in a stunning marina setting.

4.3

Green House Bar, Cafe, Restaurant

Experience the perfect fusion of Italian and Creole cuisine at Green House Bar, Cafe, Restaurant in Victoria, Seychelles.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill, where local flavors meet a lively nightlife in the heart of Eden Island.

4.3

ＲＯＹＡＬＢＡＹＢＥＡＣＨＣＬＵＢ

Explore the tropical paradise of Royal Bay Beach Club, a beach oasis offering delicious grilling, water sports, and unforgettable sunset views.

4.9

Club Liberté Casino

Discover the thrilling atmosphere of Club Liberté Casino in Anse Soleil, featuring gaming, dining, and live entertainment in a stunning setting.

4.2

Sunrise Beach Bar/Grill

Experience the flavors of Seychelles at Sunrise Beach Bar/Grill, where stunning ocean views meet delicious culinary delights.

4.8

Best shops in Île de l'Est

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

STC Hypermarket

Explore the vibrant STC Hypermarket in Victoria, Seychelles - your gateway to local flavors, fresh produce, and a true taste of island life.

4.0

Kumar & Kumar Supermarket

Discover the essence of Seychelles at Kumar & Kumar Supermarket, where local flavors meet international delights in a vibrant shopping experience.

4.4

Mike's Store

Experience the vibrant local culture at Mike's Store, a grocery haven in Mare Anglaise showcasing the best of Seychelles' flavors.

4.8

Ô Saveurs des Iles

Discover the sweet taste of paradise at Ô Saveurs des Iles, the premier ice cream shop in Mare Anglaise, Seychelles, offering exquisite flavors and delightful treats.

4.6

Explore Île de l'Est on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Île de l'Est, mapped for you.

Île de l'Est Essentials

Île de l'Est, part of the Farquhar Group in Seychelles, is accessible primarily by charter flights from Mahé, the main island. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Alternatively, you can reach Île de l'Est via a private boat, though this option is weather-dependent and takes significantly longer.
Transportation on Île de l'Est is limited due to its small size and pristine nature. Walking is the most common way to get around. For longer distances, bicycles are available for rent. The island does not have public transportation or taxis, so plan your movements accordingly.
The official currency in Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). While credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller transactions and remote areas like Île de l'Est. ATMs are not available on the island, so ensure you withdraw enough cash before arriving.
Île de l'Est is generally a safe destination. However, standard safety precautions should be observed. Avoid walking alone at night and always keep an eye on your belongings. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island, but it's best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergencies, contact the local authorities or your accommodation provider for immediate assistance. The island has limited medical facilities, so it is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, carry a basic first-aid kit.
Fashion: Do dress in light, breathable clothing suitable for tropical weather. Avoid overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Although Île de l'Est is not heavily populated, it’s always good to show respect. Public Transport: There is no public transport, so plan accordingly. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies. Don't leave litter on the pristine beaches; always clean up after yourself.
To experience Île de l'Est like a local, take part in guided nature walks and learn about the unique flora and fauna. Engage with local guides, who are often knowledgeable and passionate about the island's natural history. Don't miss snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters to see vibrant marine life up close.

When is the best time to visit Île de l'Est?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Île de l'Est

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Île de l'Est. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonzour
  [bɔ̃.zur]
- GoodbyeAurevoir
  [oʁ.vwaʁ]
- YesWi
  [wi]
- NoNon
  [nɔ̃]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
  [sil vu plɛ/de ʁjɛ̃]
- Thank youMersi
  [mɛʁ.si]
- Excuse me/SorryEskuze mwen
  [ɛs.ky.ze mwɛ̃]
- How are you?Kouman ou ete?
  [ku.mɑ̃ u e.te]
- Fine. And you?Bien. E ou?
  [bjɛ̃ e u]
- Do you speak English?Ou koz Anglez?
  [u koz ɑ̃.ɡle]
- I don't understandMwen pa konpran
  [mɛ̃ pa kɔ̃.pʁɑ̃]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen anvi vwar meni, sil vous plaît
  [mɛ̃ ɑ̃.vi vwaʁ me.ni sil vu plɛ]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manze vyann
  [mɛ̃ pa mɑ̃.ze vjɑ̃]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sɑ̃.te]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMwen anvi peye, sil vous plaît
  [mɛ̃ ɑ̃.vi pe.je sil vu plɛ]
- Help!Sove!
  [so.ve]
- Go away!Ale lo!
  [a.le lo]
- Call the Police!Appel Polisi!
  [a.pɛl pɔ.li.si]
- Call a doctor!Appel en doktor!
  [a.pɛl ɑ̃ dɔk.tɔʁ]
- I'm lostMwen perdi
  [mɛ̃ pɛʁ.di]
- I'm illMwen malad
  [mɛ̃ ma.lad]
- I'd like to buy...Mwen anvi achte...
  [mɛ̃ ɑ̃.vi aʃ.te]
- I'm just lookingMwen zis pe regard
  [mɛ̃ zis pe ʁə.ɡaʁd]
- How much is it?Ki kantite li coût?
  [ki kɑ̃.ti.le ku]
- That's too expensiveSa tro chè
  [sa tʁo ʃɛ]
- Can you lower the price?Eski ou kapav redwi pri?
  [ɛs.ki u ka.pav ʁɛ.dwi pʁi]
- What time is it?Ki ler li?
  [ki lɛʁ li]
- It's one o'clockLi enn ler
  [li ɛn lɛʁ]
- Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [də.mi (diz)]
- MorningDimaten
  [di.ma.tɛn]
- AfternoonApremidi
  [a.pʁe.mi.di]
- EveningSwar
  [swaʁ]
- YesterdayYyer
  [i.je]
- TodayAkoz
  [a.koz]
- TomorrowDemain
  [də.mɛ̃]
- 1En
  [ɛ̃]
- 2De
  [də]
- 3Trois
  [tʁwa]
- 4Katre
  [ka.tʁe]
- 5Sen
  [sɛ̃]
- 6Siz
  [siz]
- 7Set
  [sɛt]
- 8Huit
  [ɥit]
- 9Nef
  [nɛf]
- 10Dix
  [dis]
- Where's a/the...?Kot i trouv en...?
  [kɔt i tʁu.v ɑ̃]
- What's the address?Ki adresse?
  [ki a.dʁɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Eski ou kapav montre mwan (lo kat)
  [ɛs.ki u ka.pav mɔ̃.tʁe mwã lo kat]
- When's the next (bus)?Kan prosen (buz)?
  [kɑ̃ pʁo.sɛ̃ bu]
- A ticket (to ....)En tiket (pou ....)
  [ɛ̃ ti.kɛt pu]

History of Île de l'Est

Île de l'Est, part of the Farquhar Group in Seychelles, was first charted by European explorers in the early 16th century. Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama is believed to have been among the first to note the island's existence during his voyages through the Indian Ocean. The island remained largely uninhabited until the early 19th century when French settlers began to establish coconut plantations.
Throughout the 19th century, Île de l'Est became an important site for the plantation economy under British colonial rule. Coconut plantations thrived, supplying copra for the production of coconut oil. The island's isolation made it a self-sufficient community, with settlers relying on fishing and agriculture to sustain their livelihoods.
During World War II, Île de l'Est gained strategic importance due to its location in the Indian Ocean. The British established a small military outpost on the island to monitor naval activities and safeguard against potential Axis powers' movements. Remnants of old bunkers and lookouts can still be found on the island, offering a glimpse into its wartime past.
After Seychelles gained independence from Britain in 1976, Île de l'Est saw a shift from plantation-based activities to conservation efforts. The Seychelles government, along with international environmental organizations, began initiatives to preserve the island's unique ecosystem. Efforts were made to protect native species and restore habitats that had been altered by human activity.
Today, Île de l'Est is a vital part of Seychelles' conservation network. The island is home to several protected areas and is an important nesting site for sea turtles. Conservationists and researchers work tirelessly to monitor and protect the island's biodiversity. Eco-tourism has become a focal point, with visitors encouraged to engage in sustainable practices while exploring the island's natural beauty.