Maldives or Mauritius or Seychelles – Which To Visit?
/These three stunning tropical paradises are often seen as the gems of the Indian Ocean. All island nations offering similar yet distinct experiences for travellers, we had the chance to visit all three to answer the question – Maldives, Mauritius or the Seychelles – which should you visit?
Maldives, Mauritius or the Seychelles – Which to Visit? Read on to find out. Pictured here: Crystal Rock, Mauritius
The Maldives is a honeymooner's dream, known for luxurious resorts and the most pristine blue waters. Mauritius offers a rich sensory experience with vibrant food, warm hospitality, hiking, and beautiful rugged beaches. The Seychelles, famous for its iconic boulder-strewn shores, giant tortoises, and some of the world’s most stunning beaches, is a nature lover's paradise.
Anse Patates on La Digue, the Seychelles
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on choosing between the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles.
Crystal blue waters of the Maldives
To help answer this question, we’re going to break it down into multiple categories below.
Comparison Categories – Maldives vs Mauritius vs Seychelles
We’ve carefully chosen these categories to help highlight the unique qualities of each destination and make your decision easier. From the pristine beaches to the local culture, accommodations, and activities, these aspects reflect what truly sets the Maldives, Mauritius, and the Seychelles apart.
Beaches
Accommodation, Resorts and Luxury
Activities and Experiences
Natural Beauty
Culture and Local Flavour
Food, Dining & Shopping
Travel Costs and Affordability
Getting Around
People & Safety
Bonus Categories
Beaches
Maldives: The Maldives is the epitome of postcard-perfect beaches, known for their vibrant blue waters and impossibly soft white sand. Each resort typically owns its own private atoll, offering guests exclusive access to tranquil beaches. This ensures privacy, but it also means you're limited to the beach of your chosen resort unless you pay for a pricey day trip to another island. If you're staying on a local island like Maafushi, Guraidhoo, or Thoddoo, expect a more mixed experience as public beaches are sometimes restricted due to local customs.
What you heard about the Maldives is true – the water really is that blue!
However, the Maldives' luxury resorts such as the Four Seasons Maldives, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, or Waldorf Astoria Maldives have some of the most pristine beaches in the world, perfect for honeymooners or those seeking a luxury escape. We stayed at the Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort, a 4-star property with a nice, well-maintained beach that lived up to its rating.
We stayed at the Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort
Mauritius: Mauritius may not have the sheer, pristine clarity of the Maldives’ waters, but it offers a much broader variety of beach experiences, many of which come with dramatic backdrops. Le Morne Beach is especially breathtaking, sitting in the shadow of the majestic Le Morne Brabant Mountain, while Gris Gris Beach offers a rugged coastline with crashing waves. On the island’s northern coast, Trou-aux-Biches and Pereybere Beach provide stunning, classic white-sand beaches, ideal for swimming and relaxation.
Le Morne Beach in Mauritius is truly one of the most dramatic beaches we have ever visited.
Other beaches worth visiting include Tamarin Beach, Belle Mare, Blue Bay and my personal favourite, Palmar Beach.
My favourite beach in the Mauritius – Palmar Beach.
The biggest advantage? Every beach in Mauritius is free to the public, even those next to luxury resorts. This openness makes it a great destination for those looking for variety and access without the need to stay in expensive resorts.
Seychelles: The beaches of Seychelles offer a beautiful balance between the serenity of the Maldives and the rugged beauty of Mauritius. Many beaches, like Anse Lazio on Praslin and Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue, are consistently ranked among the best in the world.
The area around Anse Source d’Argent is surrounded by these granite boulders.
Other beaches on the Seychelles, such as Anse Intendance, Grande Anse, Beau Vallon are no less stunning. My favourite beach is actually the underrated Anse Patates in La Digue.
Anse Patates on La Digue (Seychelles) – super underrated! We had the beach all to ourselves.
Their defining feature is the stunning granite boulders that border the shores, giving them a unique, dramatic feel that’s hard to find anywhere else. While some beaches like Petite Anse on Mahé or Anse Georgette on Praslin require you to access them via resorts, most of the beaches in Seychelles are public, and often surrounded by lush tropical greenery, offering both beauty and seclusion. If you’re seeking a bit of everything, Seychelles’ beaches might be the most well-rounded option.
Accessing Petite Anse on Mahé requires a short hike through the Four Seasons resort grounds to get to the beach.
The country with the best beaches really comes down to personal preference. The Maldives boasts the most pristine, postcard-perfect beaches, Mauritius offers dramatic coastal scenery, and the Seychelles strikes a beautiful balance between the two. Personally, we were captivated by the beaches in the Seychelles.
WINNER: SEYCHELLES
Accommodation, Resorts and Luxury
Maldives: The Maldives is renowned for some of the best resorts in the world, offering 5-star luxury, fine dining, overwater bungalows, private infinity pools, glass-bottom bathrooms, and even underwater suites. It’s the epitome of luxury accommodation. For budget-conscious travellers, some local islands like Maafushi, Guraidhoo, or Thoddoo offer more affordable stays, making it possible to visit the Maldives on a tighter budget. Keep in mind that once you choose a resort, you’ll likely stay there for most of your visit, apart from possibly a layover in Malé.
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended Best Places to Stay in the Maldives…
Budget: Sandy Heaven Maldives
Nestled on the quaint island of Gulhi, Sandy Heaven Maldives is perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Enjoy the island’s bikini beach and an array of watersports, all while relaxing on the hotel’s private beach area. It's an affordable way to experience the Maldives without splurging!
You can take a closer look at Sandy Heaven Maldives by clicking here.
Mid-Range: Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives
Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is where we stayed! This mid-range resort offers luxury-level amenities, including multiple restaurants, a private beach, lagoon pools, and overwater bungalows. Plus, kids stay and eat free with a minimum 3-night stay—a fantastic bonus.
You can take a closer look at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives by clicking here.
Luxury: Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort
First of all, there are so many luxury resorts in the Maldives that it was hard to narrow it down to one, but the Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort truly stands out. It offers the quintessential luxury Maldives experience, with stunning views and top-notch facilities. Just take a look at these photos—they say it all.
You can take a closer look at Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort by clicking here.
Mauritius: Mauritius also boasts a fantastic selection of luxury resorts. We stayed at Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness and SALT of Palmar, both offering incredible experiences. For a more mid-range stay, La Mariposa was charming and cosy. Mauritius offers great value for money, with a range of options for every budget. While the North Coast is a popular choice, we also loved the more underrated East Coast, along with Flic en Flac and Mahebourg.
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended Best Places to Stay in Mauritius…
Budget: Residence Le Point Choisy
Residence Le Point Choisy offers spacious rooms and charming décor just steps from Mount Choisy Beach. It’s an unbeatable value for the price, but it's so popular that it often fills up quickly. Book early to secure your spot!
You can take a closer look at Residence Le Point Choisy by clicking here.
Mid-Range: La Mariposa
We stayed at La Mariposa and loved it. We enjoyed a full board stay—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—at this serene boutique hotel. The food and service were exceptional, and the pool, gardens, and beachside setting made it a true retreat.
You can take a closer look at La Mariposa by clicking here.
Luxury: SALT of Palmar
We also stayed at SALT of Palmar and it was honestly one of the best resorts we’ve ever stayed at. With its prime location on Palmar Beach, exceptional service, top-notch food, spa facilities, and unique design, it’s no surprise it boasts near-perfect reviews. I would HIGHLY recommend staying here!
You can take a closer look at SALT of Palmar by clicking here.
Seychelles: The Seychelles’ three main islands—Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue—offer a diverse range of accommodations, from high-end luxury to mid-range, self-catering guesthouses. We stayed at the laïla Resortin Mahe and Le Duc de Praslin in Praslin, with a few guesthouses in between. Like the Maldives, you can experience private island resorts and infinity pools if you’re looking for the ultimate luxurious holiday. Prices are higher than Mauritius but more affordable than the Maldives.
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended Best Places to Stay in the Seychelles…
Budget: Beau Bassin Inn
While the rooms as the Beau Bassin Inn are quite basic, it still provides a comfortable experience with a great location surrounded in nature, and close to beaches.
You can take a closer look at Beau Bassin Inn by clicking here.
Mid-Range: laïla, Seychelles
laïla, Seychelles is where we stayed. This is a brand new hotel featuring bespoke, carefully curated interior design. It features a stunning pool and surrounding views. The main drawcard is the beautiful beach of Anse Royale is just right across the road. Highly recommended!
You can take a closer look at laïla, Seychelles by clicking here.
Luxury: STORY Seychelles
STORY Seychelles is one of the most recognisable resorts on the main island of Mahe. Featururing a stunning swimming pool, location bear the beach of Beau Vallon and a romantic atmosphere, this resort is perfect for a luxury stay.
You can take a closer look at STORY Seychelles by clicking here.
For value, variety, and affordability, Mauritius is the best option. But for top-tier luxury, the Maldives stands out as home to some of the world's finest resorts.
WINNER: MALDIVES
Activities and Experiences
Maldives: Your activities in the Maldives will largely depend on what’s available at your resort. Most private resorts offer a range of complimentary activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, glass-bottom boat rides, and banana tubing. The snorkeling in the Maldives stands out as the best among the three destinations, offering a vibrant and diverse underwater world akin to a free-range aquarium.
Enjoying a dolphin-spotting cruise from the Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort
In addition to water activities, you can embark on island-hopping adventures to nearby islands. During our stay at the Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort, we took a day trip to Guraidhoo and a local sandbar. We also participated in a sunset dinner and dolphin safari, which added a fun touch to our trip.
Resorts in the Maldives usually offer complimentary water activities
One thing to note is that the flat atolls of the Maldives offer limited opportunities for hiking. However, if you choose to stay on a local island, you might find sightseeing opportunities such as visits to religious sites and local schools. Resorts, on the other hand, focus heavily on relaxation and wellness activities, such as spa treatments and yoga. If you’re someone who craves more adventurous pursuits, you might want to consider Mauritius or Seychelles.
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended activities and experiences in the Maldives…
Sandbank Snorkelling, Dolphin Spotting, and Sunset Cruise – Experience the best of the Maldives with this small group tour. I took a similar trip, and it was hands down the highlight of my entire Maldives adventure!
Local Island Day Trip from Hulhumale – Visit two local islands by boat, experience traditional village life, explore a boat-building yard, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Snorkeling and swimming stops are included, with all details handled for you. I did a similar trip to Guraidhoo, and it was a deeply enriching experience.
Full Day Malé Walking Tour – Discover the vibrant culture and hidden gems of Malé and Villimale on this immersive, guided walking tour. Visit iconic sites like the local fish market, President’s Palace, Friday Mosque, and Sultan Park. Enjoy lunch at a waterside restaurant (own expense), then escape to the tranquil charm of Villimale, where you'll taste traditional "hedika" snacks before concluding your journey. This curated tour ensures you experience the best of Malé without missing a thing.
Honeymoon Maldives Package – Take the stress out of planning and enjoy a romantic 6-day stay in Rasdhoo, with five nights at Shallow Lagoon Rasdhoo, including breakfast and dinner. Highlights include manta ray snorkeling, wildlife viewing on an uninhabited island, and plenty of time to relax and swim in pristine waters with your partner. Airport transfers included.
Mauritius: Mauritius offers the greatest variety of activities among the three destinations.
For those who enjoy hiking, Mauritius is a fantastic choice with numerous trails to explore. Notable hikes include Le Morne Brabant, Black River Gorges National Park and Cascade Eau Bleu. The island also offers a wide range of day trips, including excursions to Île aux Bénitiers, Île aux Cerfs, and Gabriel Island.
The view of Le Morne Brabant from Île aux Bénitiers – a lovely day trip in Mauritius
Ralph hiking up Le Morne Brabant, one of Mauritius’ best hiking trails
While snorkeling here is good, it doesn't quite match the exceptional experiences found in the Maldives or Seychelles. However, many beaches still provide ample opportunities to explore underwater life.
City lovers will appreciate Port Louis, which is bustling with activity, shopping, and local culture. Mauritius is also known for its stunning waterfalls, such as Chamarel, Rochester, and Tamarind Falls. Additionally, a visit to the Bois Cheri Tea Factory allows you to explore the island’s tea plantations. The Seven Coloured Earthis another unique geological formation that should not be missed. As you can see, you won’t run out of things to do in Mauritius!
Seven Coloured Earth in Mauritius
Chamarel Waterfalls in Mauritius is a must-see
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended activities and experiences in Mauritius…
Private South West Mauritius Full-Day Tour with Lunch – Discover some of Mauritius’ top natural wonders, including the stunning Seven Colored Earth, Chamarel Falls, and Black River Gorges National Park, on this unforgettable full-day tour. MUST DO!
Private North Highlights of Mauritius Full-Day Tour – Explore the vibrant capital of Port Louis and its iconic sites, such as the Port-Louis Market, SSR Botanical Garden, and the red-roofed church at Cap Malheureux. You'll also visit the L'Aventure du Sucre museum to learn about the island’s sugar trade before relaxing on stunning beaches like Pereybere and Grand Baie.
Private Boat Tour to Île aux Benitiers & Crystal Rock with Lunch & Dolphin Trip – Start your day with a private speedboat ride to Île aux Benitiers, where you’ll swim with dolphins, snorkel near Crystal Rock, and enjoy a seafood BBQ. This exclusive tour combines adventure and indulgence in a breathtaking setting. MUST DO!
All-Inclusive Catamaran BBQ Tour: Ile aux Cerf & GRSE Waterfall – Set sail on a catamaran, visit the stunning GRSE Waterfall, and enjoy an on-board BBQ and drinks. Cap off the day with time to swim and relax on the pristine beaches of Ile aux Cerf, before cruising back to the mainland in style.
Hiking Le Morne Brabant with Guide – Conquer one of Mauritius’ most stunning mountains, Le Morne Brabant. This guided hike takes you through lush landscapes filled with endemic species, and rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the island’s west and southwest lagoons from the summit. A must for adventure seekers!
Seychelles: Seychelles strikes a balance between the best features of both Mauritius and the
Maldives. You can choose to relax at your resort or venture out to explore the islands.
Island hopping is a must-do in Seychelles. Praslin and La Digue are easily accessible from Mahé by local ferry and are well worth the visit. La Digue, in particular, is a highlight with its stunning beaches and bike-friendly environment. It quickly became my favourite island among the three. The snorkeling here is also fantastic, with crystal-clear waters offering excellent visibility.
Enjoying the simple island life on La Digue, Seychelles
Asher encountering giant tortoises on Curieuse Island
Another unforgettable experience is visiting Curieuse Island, where you can enjoy beautiful beaches and encounter giant Aldabra tortoises in their natural habitat—a surreal and fun experience. Seychelles also boasts a variety of other stunning islands like Silhouette, Félicité, and Cousin, which offer a true ‘Robinson Crusoe’ experience. For hiking enthusiasts, the Copolia Trail, Anse Major Trail, Le Glacis Noir Trail and Fond Ferdinand Trail provide some of the best trekking experiences.
The stunning view you’ll be treated to after completing the Fond Ferdinand Trail on Praslin
Finally, don’t miss the chance to learn about the fascinating Coco de Mer, a uniquely shaped coconut resembling the female form. You can explore Seychelles’ remarkable flora and fauna, including the Coco de Mer, at Vallée de Mai or Fond Ferdinand on Praslin Island.
Finding Coco de everywhere at Fond Ferdinand
👉 Check out our handpicked, recommended activities and experiences in the Seychelles…
La Digue, Curieuse, St. Pierre, Anse Lazio by Private Boat from Mahe – I had no idea a tour like this existed before my trip! If I had, it would have been an instant booking. By the end of this incredible journey, you’ll have seen many of the top highlights in the Seychelles, and personally, all of my favorite spots. The private tour offers a full day of island and beach hopping, from the famous Anse Source D’Argent to snorkeling at St. Pierre Island, and even seeing giant tortoises on Curieuse. With a barbecue lunch and soft drinks included, it’s a dream day in paradise.
Praslin & La Digue Day Trip from Mahe – If you're pressed for time, this tour packs in an unforgettable adventure. The boat ride alone is a highlight, but then you’ll explore Praslin’s iconic spots, cycle through La Digue like a local, and enjoy creole cuisine by the beach. You’ll visit the world-renowned Anse Source D'Argent, the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, and Anse Lazio in one remarkable day.
St. Anne Marine Park & Moyenne Island, Creole Lunch (Private Boat) – Explore the rich marine life of St. Anne Marine Park and Moyenne Island, home to over 100 endangered tortoises—a true Seychelles gem.
Curieuse and St Pierre Island Excursion with Island BBQ – If Curieuse Island isn’t on your list yet, it should be! This tour is a great way to explore not just Curieuse, but also St. Pierre Island as a bonus.
Beautiful Island Full Day Tour of Mahe – The private tour covers all the major sights and even a few hidden gems, and the itinerary can be fully tailored to your interests. Sights include Jardin du Roi Spice Garden, Takamaka Rum Distllery, Mission Lodge, Sauzier Waterfall, Anse Intendnace, Victoria, Beau Vallon Beach and more.
In this category, Mauritius stands out as the ultimate all-around activity destination. With its combination of stunning beaches, mountainous terrain, diverse hiking trails, snorkeling opportunities, shopping, day trips, and cultural experiences, it truly offers a bit of everything.
WINNER: MAURITIUS
Natural Beauty
Beauty is entirely subjective and depends on your personal preferences. Take a close look at our photographs and envision the environment you’d prefer to be surrounded by. If you’re drawn to crystal-clear waters and powdery, soft sand, the Maldives might be your ideal choice. If you favour mountains, lush greenery, and rugged terrain, Mauritius could be the perfect fit. Alternatively, if you’re enchanted by intricate granite boulders, giant tortoises, and idyllic beaches, Seychelles may be the destination for you.
Stunning granite boulders at Anse Georgette, Praslin
For us, Seychelles stands out as the most photogenic of the three.
WINNER: SEYCHELLES – but it depends on your personal preferences
Culture and Local Flavour
Maldives: Staying at a resort in the Maldives means you’ll likely miss out on local Maldivian culture unless you venture on a day trip to a local island. We visited Guraidhoo from Holiday Inn Kandooma and found it enriching. We learned about local life, religious practices, and explored schools, hospitals, and notable buildings. For a deeper cultural experience, staying on a local island offers more insight but sacrifices some natural beauty and beach quality. We recommend either taking a day trip from your resort or splitting your stay between a resort and a local island. Overall, the Maldives has the least to offer in terms of culture, with few religious and cultural sites compared to other destinations. However, mosques like Masjid Al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu and Hulhumale Grand Mosque in Malé are worth a visit if you’re in the capital.
Getting to know local life on the island of Guraidhoo in the Maldives
Mauritius: Mauritius pleasantly surprised us with its rich cultural tapestry. From rum factories and tea plantations to Hindu temples, churches, and bustling markets, there’s a lot to absorb. The island’s diverse population, with roots from Africa, India, China, and more, creates an intriguing cultural mix, complemented by French and British influences from its colonial past. Notable cultural and religious sites include Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil, Maheswarnath Mandir, Notre-Dame Auxiliatrice de Cap Malheureux, Grand Bassin Temple and Sagar Shiv Mandir Hindu Temple.
Sockalingum Meenatchee Ammen Kovil temple is one of the most striking Hindu temples in Mauritius
Seychelles: The Seychelles offers a mix of lively and tranquil experiences. For a taste of local life, visit Victoria, the capital, where you can explore Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple, Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, and the Victoria Clock Tower. On Sundays, you might hear the lively hymns of church congregations. On Praslin and La Digue, the pace slows, with La Digue being particularly serene—transport is mainly by foot or bicycle, contributing to its laid-back Creole atmosphere.
Immersing in local life in Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles
The winner of this category is Mauritius for its vibrant mix of Indian, African, and French influences.
WINNER: Mauritius
Food, Dining & Shopping
Maldives: Dining options in the Maldives largely depend on your resort. For convenience, consider opting for full board or at least half board. Maldivian cuisine features fresh seafood, with coconuts, yams, mangoes, papayas, and pineapples adding a tropical flair. Dining can range from exceptional to limited, based on your resort’s offerings. Shopping is also quite minimal at resorts, with possibly only a few options.
Mauritius: Mauritian cuisine is diverse and widely available, featuring a blend of flavours influenced by African, Indian, and French cooking. You’ll find international cuisines, including Chinese and Italian, throughout the island. Most resorts offer full board or half board options, and there are also upscale dining choices. Shopping is vibrant, with Port Louis’s Caudan Waterfront offering handicrafts, boutiques, and souvenirs, while malls like Riche Terre Mall and Bagatelle Mall of Mauritius provide extensive options.
Local Mauritian chicken curry dish
👉 Interested in sampling Mauritius’ delicious local food? Check out this Port Louis Street Food Tour where you’ll get to try Mauritian-style roti, freshly squeezed sugarcane juice, traditional Chinese suites and more.
Seychelles: Seychelles offers a mix of fine dining and local food at reasonable prices. While high-end restaurants are available, the variety of mid-range restaurants is not as extensive as in Mauritius. Local markets in Victoria and a few shopping centres in Mahé cater to basic needs, but options are limited on Praslin and La Digue.
WINNER: Mauritius
Travel Costs & Affordability
Maldives: Traveling to the Maldives can be costly, particularly if you’re staying at a resort, where prices tend to be high. However, staying on a local island offers more budget-friendly options and can significantly reduce your expenses.
Mauritius: Mauritius is the most affordable of the three destinations. Costs for accommodation, dining, and activities are generally lower, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Seychelles: Seychelles can be expensive, especially if you opt for high-end accommodations. However, costs can be more manageable if you choose self-catering options and use public transport.
WINNER: Mauritius
Getting Around
Maldives: Getting around the Maldives largely depends on your accommodation. Resorts typically provide transfers via speedboat or seaplane, which can be quite costly. If you’re staying on a local island, you can use public ferries or local boats, which are more budget-friendly. For inter-island travel, consider domestic flights or ferries.
Riding a speedboat is a common way to get around the Maldives
Mauritius: Mauritius offers various transportation options. Renting a car is a popular choice, allowing flexibility to explore the island. Public buses are available and cost-effective but may have limited routes and schedules. Taxis are also widely used. The island is relatively straightforward to navigate, making transportation convenient.
Cycling around is a common method of transportation on the smaller islands of the Seychelles
Seychelles: In the Seychelles, transportation varies by island. On Mahé, you can use taxis, rental cars, or public buses. Car rental is a little bit pricier in the Seychelles compared to Mauritius, but still worth it. For traveling between islands, the CatCocos Ferries and small planes connect Mahé with Praslin and La Digue. Renting bicycles or scooters is a common way to explore smaller islands like La Digue.
WINNER: Mauritius
People & Safety
Learning how to make a cocktail at Le Jadis Resort in Mauritius
All three destinations—Maldives, Mauritius, and Seychelles—felt equally safe for us during our travels. However, if you choose to stay on local islands, it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly. Each location is known for its friendly atmosphere, but we found the people of Mauritius to be the most welcoming. In the Maldives, staying at a resort might limit your interaction with locals, as many resort staff come from other countries. Overall, the friendliness and safety of all three destinations contribute to a positive travel experience.
WINNER: Tie between the three
Bonus Categories
Beyond the main considerations above, several bonus categories highlight additional aspects of each destination, offering unique advantages and experiences that might sway your choice.
Crystal Rock, one of Mauritius’ most iconic spots – just off the coast of Île aux Bénitiers
Romantic Getaways 👉 Maldives: Often considered one of the most romantic destinations in the world due to its secluded resorts, private villas, and beautiful settings. It’s a top choice for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic retreat.
Underwater Life 👉 Maldives: The Maldives is famous for its vibrant marine life and exceptional snorkeling and diving experiences. The clear waters and abundant marine species make it a top destination for underwater enthusiast.
Island Hopping 👉 Seychelles: The Seychelles offers stunning natural beauty with its unique granite boulders, lush vegetation, and idyllic beaches. It’s great for island-hopping, with each island offering its own charm and scenic landscapes.
Eco-Tourism and Conservation 👉 Seychelles: Known for its commitment to conservation and eco-tourism, the Seychelles has several protected areas and initiatives aimed at preserving its natural environment, making it a strong contender for eco-conscious travellers.
Family-Friendly Destinations 👉 Mauritius: The island is very family-friendly, with many resorts offering family-oriented amenities and activities, such as kids' clubs, family excursions, and safe beaches for children.
Final Verdict: Maldives or Mauritius or Seychelles?
Mauritius leads with 7 category wins, thanks to its diverse activities, affordability, and rich cultural experiences. The Seychelles excels with 5 wins for its stunning scenery and unique island-hopping opportunities. The Maldives, with 4 wins, is top-rated for luxury and romantic getaways.
Blue waters of Mauritius
Overwater bungalows at Holiday Inn Kandooma Resort, Maldives
Giant tortoises on Mahe, Seychelles
However, choosing a winner isn’t straightforward. Each destination has its unique charm and strengths, making them all worth visiting. Personally, I found each location to be a dream come true and will gladly return to any of them. All three were on my bucket list for a long time and did not disappoint!
Which of these stunning destinations would you choose for your next getaway, and why? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!
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Discover laïla Seychelles, a luxurious retreat blending modern comfort with island charm. Explore the stunning views, exquisite dining, and exceptional service.