Scuba Diver Ocean Planet Issue 2/2016 | Page 72

BIG ANIMALS AND LITTLE CRITTERS 3. A nurse shark catches the last rays of sunlight at Picard Island, Aldabra The Seychelles is the perfect setting for some of the planet’s most awesome dives PRACTICALITIES WHEN Diving is possible year round, but the best conditions are usually during April to May and October to November. Water temperature can reach a toasty 29°C and visibility is typically in excess of 30 metres. HOW Most visitors get to the Seychelles capital, Victoria, on Emirates and Etihad Airways flights, which are offered daily from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, respectively. Resorts can arrange a pickup from the Seychelles airport. STAY/DIVE • Big Blue Divers (www.bigbluedivers.net) • Blue Sea Divers (www.blueseadivers.com) TOPSIDE The mountainous interior of Mahé is well worth a visit, the highlight being the impressive Morne Seychellois National Park. Go for a scenic drive through the park and use the walking trails to reach the country’s highest peak. ENTRY Seychelles is a visa-free country, so only a valid passport is required to enter the country. Most foreign visitors can stay for between one and three months. Check www.mfa.gov.sc for details. SDOP 70