La Digue Island, Seychelles – 2024 Travel Guide

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La Digue Island in Seychelles is the definition of paradise!

Boasting gorgeous beaches and bays, turquoise water, vibrant coral reefs, and giant granite boulders, you’ll be blown away as soon as you step foot on this island and I guarantee it’ll be hard to leave.

While there are some incredible beaches in Mahé, there are many fantastic things to do in La Digue Seychelles, including an abundance of unique beaches that are definitely worth exploring.

Whether it’s your first time in the country or you’re willing to discover more of this archipelago, you’ll find everything you need to know in this La Digue Island travel guide.

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WHERE IS LA DIGUE ISLAND?

La Digue Island is located northeast of Seychelles’ main island, Mahé, and lies nestled between Felicite and Praslin islands.

It’s the 5th largest island in Seychelles and it’s a great place to see and discover a more hidden side of the country.

Click on the image below for an interactive map of La Digue.

lad digue island map

HOW TO GET TO LA DIGUE SEYCHELLES?

While it’s a remote place, La Digue can be easily reached from the country’s capital Mahé and from the nearest island Praslin.

The island does not have a commercial airport, however, there is an option to take a short 10-minute scenic flight with Air Seychelles from Mahe domestic airport to Praslin airport, and from here you can take a 15-minute ferry to La Digue.

Alternatively, there is a heliport on the island operated by Zil Air that offers tourists private transfers to and from the island.

Now let’s dive a little bit deeper into how to get La Digue – it’s much easier than you might think!

HOW TO GET FROM MAHE TO LA DIGUE

Getting to La Digue Island from Mahé is simple and I recommend traveling with Cat Cocos ferries which depart from Victoria Jetty on Flamboyant Ave at 10.30 am and 4.30 pm every day.

The trip is not direct, and you’ll have to make a stopover in Praslin Island to then continue the journey on a high-speed ferry to La Digue Seychelles.

The journey takes around 1.5 hours depending on the sea conditions.

The tickets for the fast ferry to La Digue cost between $75 for the economy class on the lower and upper decks, and for a more premium experience, you’ll be able to purchase a business class ticket for $90.

If traveling by high speed isn’t your cup of tea, then you’ll be glad to know that there are flights from Mahé to Praslin.

Once landed on Praslin island, you’ll still have to jump on the ferry to La Digue. The journey only takes 15 minutes which is very reasonable.

The flight costs vary depending on the season, of course, and I recommend flying rather than taking the boat, especially in July and October when the sea is particularly rough.

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HOW TO GET FROM PRASLIN TO LA DIGUE

Traveling from Praslin to La Digue will only take between 15 and 30 minutes depending on the sea conditions and potential delays.

Cat Rose ferries offer a high-speed ferry leaving 4 to 5 times daily from 7.00 am to 4.00 pm and 3 times daily on Saturdays.

The price per adult is $16, $8 for children aged 2 to 12, and babies up to 2 years old travel for free.

A 30kg piece of luggage is also included in the ferry ticket, which is undoubtedly an advantage for those carrying lots of gear.

SEE THE FULL GUIDE: HOW TO GET FROM MAHE TO LA DIGUE

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BEST TIME TO VISIT LA DIGUE SEYCHELLES

The best time of the year to travel to La Digue is in March and April or from June to November, with the hottest months being March and April.

On the other hand, the driest months are June, July, and August. Due to its tropical climate, La Digue boasts warm weather all year round.

In addition, the most crowded months are January, February, and May. If your plan is to have some peaceful days away from busy atmospheres, try to avoid visiting during these months.

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HOW TO GET AROUND LA DIGUE ISLAND

La Digue is a very laid-back and small island that is best explored by bicycle.

You’ll find just a handful of cars on the island because most people – tourists and locals – get around by bicycle or on foot which is perfect for taking in the stunning surroundings at a slow pace.

There are several bike rental agencies in town where you can get yourself some wheels for around SCR 150 ($11) to SCR 200 ($15) per person per day, which is very affordable.

When you arrive, there are taxi services available at the Jetty port if your accommodation doesn’t offer transfer services, and the ride will cost you around SCR 150 ($11) to your hotel.

It’s also possible to book a taxi and a driver for a day trip around the island if you’re not comfortable riding a bicycle.

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HOW MANY DAYS ON LA DIGUE?

There are many exciting and cool things to do on La Digue Island and you could easily spend a month here, that’s how beautiful it is!

However, the common traveler spends around 2 to 3 days on the island which is plenty of time to see all this beautiful paradise has to offer. Sure, you can spend more days if you’re planning an extended vacation in Seychelles.

In 3 days, you’ll get to visit the best beaches in La Digue, explore the island on a bicycle, enjoy your favorite Seychelles rum punch, and much more!

Traveling to Seychelles? See this awesome guide on 15 Best Things To Do In Mahé

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IS LA DIGUE ISLAND WORTH VISITING?

Being such a remote island and with no direct way to get here from outside of Seychelles, you may wonder if visiting La Digue is really worth it.

With breathtaking beaches, clear turquoise waters, a perfect year-round climate, friendly locals, delicious food, and mesmerizing sunsets over the ocean, you’re in for a real treat.

The truth is, there are only a few travel destinations like this isle in the world, so YES, La Digue is definitely worth visiting and you can’t miss it on your Seychelles trip.

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IS LA DIGUE ISLAND A GOOD HONEYMOON DESTINATION?

Seychelles is one of the best destinations in the world for honeymoon trips and I think it is clear why.

The beaches around the country are some of the best in the world, the locals are friendly everywhere you go, and I could go on forever.

MUST READ: BEST TRAVEL ACCESSORIES FOR ANY TRIP

But what about La Digue Island Seychelles?

All things considered, La Digue is one of the best places you could ever imagine for a honeymoon trip.

It’s laid-back, you can enjoy your time with your other half, it’s not cheap but not as expensive as other places, and, lastly, the sunsets are some of the most romantic scenes you can think of.

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HOW EXPENSIVE IS LA DIGUE ISLAND?

La Digue Seychelles is a little more expensive than Praslin and Mahé due to being smaller and more remote.

For instance, on Praslin, you can find hotels as cheap as $70 a night while most accommodations on La Digue are more than $100 per night.

In terms of food, the average price for a main course meal will cost you roughly $18 and about $11 for a cocktail while you’ll pay around $3.50 for a soft drink at a restaurant.

In addition, as mentioned previously, renting a bike costs between $11 and $15 per day.

All things considered, you should plan around $170 per day when traveling to La Digue Island alone or around $250 for a couple.

But does that mean you can’t travel to La Digue on a budget? No! You can save money buying food at the local convenience store, booking a cheaper hotel with breakfast included, and walking around the island rather than biking.

There is also an ATM on the island where you’ll be able to get some cash out if you need it.

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BEST TOURS ON LA DIGUE

17 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN LA DIGUE

La Digue is a remote and peaceful place, and you may think there’s not a whole lot going on… But, I’m here to show you that there are many awesome things to do in La Digue Island suited for all types of travelers.

Continue reading to discover the 17 best things to do that will keep you entertained during your visit.

CHECK OUT ANSE SOURCE D’ARGENT

The most famous beach on La Digue, Anse Source D’Argent, is a must-see for travelers looking to capture that perfect picture, and you simply cannot come to the island without visiting this spot.

With impressive granite rock formations and a turquoise water lagoon great for swimming, it holds the title of one of the world’s best beaches!

It is by far the most famous beach in the whole of Seychelles for this reason. In fact, even National Geographic found Anse Source d’Argent to be the most magnificent place on La Digue.

It’s worth noting that you’ll have to pay an entrance fee of SCR 115 (about $8) which includes access to Anse Source d’Argent and the surrounding area.

Lastly, I recommend coming early in the morning, preferably before 9 am as many tourists come after that time and it gets a little less enjoyable with the crowds.

READ THE FULL GUIDE: ANSE SOURCE D’ARGENT BEACH

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BOOK A CRYSTAL KAYAK TOUR

On Anse Source D’Argent Beach, you’ll find the famous Crystal Kayak Tours where you can rent a kayak for just $39 and paddle around the bay.

You’ll definitely want to have your own photo taken in the kayak next to the stunning granite boulders that the island is most famous for.

There are some incredible locations around the beach, but they’re only accessible by boat or kayak hence why you should really book this tour. Robinson Crusoe Beach, officially known as Anse Pierrot, is among the best ones.

On the tour, you’ll get to explore the shallow reefs with your guide to find the best views of the unique granite landscapes from the ocean.

All things considered, the Crystal Kayak Tour is one of the most incredible experiences on La Digue Island.

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HIKE TO ANSE MARRON

Another must-do on La Digue is hiking to the beautiful Anse Marron Beach which takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour from the trailhead.

To start with, the turquoise blue waters are some of the most impressive I’ve seen in the country, and the granite boulders are just as gobsmacking as Anse Source d’Argent.

Before arriving on the beach to relax, you’ll need to make your way here along a fun-fuelled jungle trail, as this is the most common way to reach Anse Marron.

You have two options by land – coming from Grand Anse or Source d’Argent. Coming from Grand Anse, the trail isn’t that difficult, but there are no signs or trail markers, and it’s very likely you’ll get lost on the way which is why you should book a guided tour with a local guide.

When coming from Source d’Argent, the way is a little easier but it requires walking through knee to chest-high water along the shoreline in some parts of the trail.

It’s best to make sure the tide is low or mid-level, especially as you’ll have to carry your bag and belongings above your head.

Also make sure to wear appropriate shoes, bring lots of drinking water and some snacks, and be in decent physical condition.

If you’re unprepared, you can always take a local boat with a guide to reach the Anse Marron.

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VISIT GRAND ANSE BEACH

Next on this list of what to do in La Digue is paying a visit to Grand Anse, an incredible beach to spend a few hours at. Unlike Anse Source d’Argent, the access is free and it’s much more extensive.

Unlike Anse Marron, you won’t need to go on a big hike to get here as you can reach this beach quite easily by bicycle. It takes around 30-40 minutes by bike from the hotel area to Grand Anse beach.

You should note that waves here are pretty high and the water is deep so it can be pretty dangerous swimming here, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

That said, the long stretch of glistening white sands, fringed by palm trees, is the perfect spot for a beach stroll.

Before you get going, be sure to pack lots of sunscreen and water as it gets extremely hot, especially in the middle of the day.

You’ll also find a small beach bar and restaurant to buy some drinks, snacks, or fresh coconut, and that is definitely a nice additional touch!

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SWIM AT POINTE GRAND ANSE

Once you get to the end of Grand Anse Beach, you’ll be greeted with a relaxing nook – Point Grand Anse. It’s much less crowded than the other beaches, and it’s simply the perfect location to spend an afternoon.

With blue waters everywhere you look and stunning granite rocks, you can’t deny it’s one of the best beaches in La Digue Seychelles.

It’s a little safer to jump in the water at this end of the beach to cool off and have fun some fun in the waves.

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HIKE TO ANSE COCOS

Anse Cocos is one of my favorite beaches on the island and is for sure not to be missed.

To get here, you’ll have to ride your bike to Grand Anse, hike along the shoreline past Petite Anse, and then walk a little further over the headland to finally reach Anse Cocos.

Other than marveling at the beautiful boulders on the shoreline, make sure to check out the natural ocean pool on the northwestern part of the beach.

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CRUISE AROUND LA DIGUE ISLAND ON A BICYCLE

As you probably understood by now, the main attractions on the island are beaches and relaxing activities. However, taking your bicycle around and discovering hidden gems is by far one of the best things to do in La Digue.

Leave the hotel area, stop by the convenience store to buy water and snacks, and make your way to the southern part of the island to discover the different landscapes.

End the day by going to the northern part of the island and enjoying the sunset at Bikini Bottom bar – more on this later!

As discussed before, a rental bike will set you back between SCR 150 ($11) to SCR 200 ($15) per person per day.

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PARTY AT THE REGGAE BAR

While the things to do in La Digue are pretty quiet and relaxing, one way to spend a fun-fuelled night is at the Reggae Bar.

Cool music, cheap beer, and good times are what describe the place the best.

They have a billiard table, multiple screens, and projectors showing football matches to add entertainment.

Here, a beer will cost you about SCR 50 SCR ($4), and a cocktail around SCR 200 ($16).

If you’re feeling hungry, the Reggae Bar also offers food including lobster, sandwiches, french fries, grilled fish creole style, and many more options you’ll love!

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DISCOVER THE GIANT TORTOISES

The Aldabra giant tortoises are some of the La Digue attractions that make the island so famous. Not only their size is impressive but they can live up to 200 years.

You should know that you can’t see the tortoises everywhere on the island, and you’ll need to try your luck here and there. You’re most likely to encounter them in and around L’Union Estate.

My personal recommendation is to take a bike and roam around L’Union Estate and Giant Union Rock, and you’ll definitely have a high chance of seeing them!

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CHECK OUT GIANT UNION ROCK

Once you finished your tortoise tour near L’Union Estate, head over to Giant Union Rock, pretty much in the same place.

The rock is estimated to be 700 million years old, making it one of the most unique places on the island.

To see the rock, enter through L’Union Estate, pay the SRC 115 ($8.50), and enjoy the 4000 m² giant rock – it’s certainly the one and only time you’ll see something this spectacular.

Apart from that, as mentioned previously, there is where you’ll have more chances to encounter the Aldabra giant tortoises.

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WATCH THE SUNSET ON LA DIGUE

When on a tropical island, one of the things you can’t miss out on is sunsets, and La Digue Seychelles is certainly the right place for it.

If you spend three days on the isle, I recommend observing the sun setting at 3 different spots.

On your first night, go to the Helipad and enjoy the sunset from there. While it’s not the most romantic location, you’ll be able to see the sun clearly and it’s an incredible show to witness.

On your second night, check out the sunset from Old Pier Cafe while having dinner. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to do on La Digue.

Prices vary from SCR 140 to SCR 160 for food and, SCR 75 for drinks, and all cocktails are only SCR 100 from 4 to 6 pm!

Lastly, on your last night after exploring the island by bike, stay on Anse Source d’Argent Beach and admire the sunset. The entrance fee during the day is SCR 115 (about $8) and you can wait until evening.

You’d be surprised to know that not many people stay there for this reason and it makes the whole experience very unique!

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CHECK OUT THE EAST COAST BEACHES

If you’re adventurous enough to take your bike to the other end of the island, you should definitely check out the beaches on the east coast.

The best are Banana Cove, Anse Fourmis, and Anse Gaulettes in the northern part.

RELATED ARTICLE: 9 BEST BEACHES ON LA DIGUE

Riding on the east coast road is just as easy as on the other side of the island, and you can discover the whole area in one day only.

Start by the northern part at Anse Gaulettes and witness the stunning surroundings.

After that, make your way to Banana Cove, spend an hour or so wandering on the beach, and have lunch at the delicious restaurant Chez Jules.

Lastly, bike for a short while to reach the end of the road at Anse Fourmis. Enjoy the typical idyllic rocks, the relaxation with very few tourists, and the tortoises roaming around.

That’s one of the best things to do in La Digue Island for a day!

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GRAB A DRINK AT BIKINI BOTTOM BAR

Bikini Bottom Bar is another one of the best eateries and bars to check out during your visit.

You can either come to enjoy one of their delicious massive smoothies and encounter some giant tortoises during the day or come to see the sunset with a freshly made drink – you won’t regret it!

Other than that, they also offer local souvenirs like handbags and sunglasses, items such as sunscreen and snorkeling kits, and face masks to use around the island if needed.

To sum up, Bikini Bottom Bar is one of the top things to do in La Digue.

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ROMEO & JULIET VIEWPOINT

One of the best La Digue hikes is the Romeo and Juliet trail. From here, you’ll have a panoramic birds-eye view of Anse Cocos, Grand Anse, and Petite Anse beaches, and that alone is worth the hike.

While you can go hiking up Romeo and Juliet viewpoint by yourself, I recommend going with a guide.

The trail starts near Restaurant Belle Vue and it’s around 2 kilometers through the jungle. Expect lots of rocks and scrambling on the way, and some slippery parts here and there.

Once you’ve taken in the landscapes and stunning views, go down to Anse Cocos to then reach Grand Anse and come back to the main road.

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HAVE LUNCH WITH A VIEW AT BELLE VUE

The Belle Vue restaurant is one of the coolest places for lunch or dinner. “Belle Vue” in French means “Beautiful View” and it’s easy to understand how they came up with this name.

From the restaurant, you can enjoy unspoiled views of Praslin Island, Petite and Grand Anse beaches, and the surrounding jungle.

Just a word of caution – this isn’t a cheap place. The buffet will cost you SCR 600 (about $45) per person, not including drinks.

But that isn’t only about the food, instead, it’s the whole experience that makes it worth coming to at least once.

This is also where you’ll start the hike to Romeo and Juliet viewpoint and you can stop for a delicious meal on the way there or back.

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TAKE A PHOTO OF THE NOTRE DAME DE L’ASSOMPTION CHURCH

Another of the top attractions is the Notre Dame de L’Assomption, the only church on the island.

The outside facade is renovated with orange nuances, and you’ll be able to attend a mass every Sunday at 8.30 am if that’s your cup of tea.

You don’t need to spend a lot of time here but I definitely recommend passing by to take a quick photo and see something different on La Digue Island Seychelles – the doors are always open for you!

RELATED ARTICLE: BEST CAMERA GEAR FOR TRAVEL

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EXPLORE THE MAIN TOWN OF LA REUNION

La Réunion is the main part of La Digue Island where all the hotels, grocery stores, and souvenir shops are. This is also where you’ll be greeted at Anse Reunion Beach.

Typically, tourists head there after breakfast at the hotel, roam around for a while, and explore the area. You can also visit the local fruit and fish market for a more authentic experience around town.

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WHERE TO STAY ON LA DIGUE ISLAND

La Digue Island offers a vast choice of hotels and guesthouses to cater to all budgets.

There are dozens of accommodations to choose from on the island so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of luxury travelers, budget backpackers, and everyone in between.

See the list of  accommodations below that I personally recommend:

LUXURY: LE DOMAINE DE L’ORANGERAIE HOTEL & SPA

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MID-RANGE: LE REPAIRE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

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BUDGET: ZANBOZA GUESTHOUSE

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FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY ON LA DIGUE SEYCHELLES, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

WHAT TO PACK FOR LA DIGUE SEYCHELLES

When visiting La Digue Island, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden Money Wallet

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MORE SEYCHELLES TRAVEL GUIDES

FINAL THOUGHTS – THINGS TO DO IN LA DIGUE

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about what to do in La Digue, please leave me a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.


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THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

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2 thoughts on “La Digue Island, Seychelles – 2024 Travel Guide”

  1. Hi,

    You said that it’s possible to hike to the Romeo and Juliet viewpoint by yourself…is the trail marked and easy to identify? Is it a hard hike? My husband only has 1 arm for the moment as the other is in a cast. Thanks !

    Reply
    • Hello, yes it’s possible to go self-guided and it is a moderate hike that is clearly marked. Hope this helps and enjoy the view!

      Reply

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