Seychelles

Many of the archipelago's islands are populated by giant Aldabra tortoises, and bird species number 250, 12 of those being unique to the islands. Mahe Island's Port Launay Marine National Park is the place to head for whale shark sightings, and Praslin Island is home to the country's national bird - the Seychelles black parrot. Cousine Island is where visitors are encouraged to take part in wildlife conservation projects (and spot free-roaming giant tortoises and rare bird species along the way). A mere 3km away from there is Fregate Island, known especially for its chelonian inhabitants.

The Seychelles' unique marine biodiversity and appealing crystal-clear waters create the perfect conditions for underwater discovery. For snorkelling, head to one of the best sites of the Indian Ocean - Sainte Anne Marine National Park - or take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim alongside whale sharks on Mahe. Diving is another way to get close and personal with reef inhabitants (humphead parrotfish, octopus, various types of sharks - including hammerhead, if you're in luck). Seychelles Underwater Centre

Mahe Island's spectacular national park is one of the archipelago's unmissable attractions. Hike up Morne Blanc, the highest peak in all of the Seychelles, along the Morne Blanc Hiking Trail (which cuts through lush mangrove forest), and be duly rewarded by the spectacular views unfolding from the observation deck at the top.

The UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is another one of the Seychelles' must-dos. Take a guided tour through the primeval forest (free tours are given at 9am and 2pm daily) and see endemic trees, the curious fruit of coco de mer palm (the trees only grow in two places in the world, and nuts grow up to 42 kilos heavy), and a plethora of rare bird species.

Perched on a scenic mountainside along the way to Morne Seychellois National Park is the Seychelles' own Tea Factory, which offers short tours taking visitors through all steps of the tea-making process. Try the islands' signature SeyTé tea, comprising flavours of vanilla, orange, mint, lemon and cinnamon. Other teas and herbal drinks are available for sampling and purchase.

Organised tours take visitors to the Giant Tortoise Farm on Curieuse Island (tours depart from Praslin and other islands). Upon seeing the Aldabra, visitors are free to explore the island further, and get the chance to see coco de mer palm trees, indigenous black parrot, the breeding ground for green sea turtles, and even more varied flora and fauna.