Mauritius Vs Maldives Vs Seychelles - Choosing Your Idyllic Island Vacation

A tropical getaway where you’re surrounded by exceptional accommodation, turquoise water, and dazzling beaches is every traveller’s dream. The islands of the Indian Ocean - Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles are unequivocally some of the most beautiful in the world and have been on top of travel lists for decades.

Mauritius or Maldives or Seychelles?

They’re all truly alluring, with swaying palms and pristine white sandy beaches, but the islands aren’t similar - each of them comes with its own charms. So how do you choose between them?

With something to offer every traveller from adventure to action to luxury to tranquillity and Michelin stars, there’s an island for each and every one of you.

1. Visa and access

Maldives Visa for Indians

For purposes of tourism, Indians are granted visa on arrival for 30-days. You need a few documents for approval of your visa such as a passport valid for more than six months from the date of arrival, filled IM01 application form, return ticket out of the Maldives, adequate funds to cover the duration of your stay on the island, a confirmed hotel reservation and a passport size photo.

Most major Indian cities are well-connected to the Maldives. The primary airport is Ibrahim Nasir International Airport at Male. The other airports are Gan Island Airports and Hanimaadhoo Airport.

Mauritius Visa for Indians

Similar to Maldives, Indian nationals can get a visa on arrival for Mauritius. Also, the documents one needs to present for the visa mirror that of the Maldives - a passport valid for more than six months from the date of arrival, filled IM01 application form, return ticket out of the Maldives, adequate funds to cover the duration of your stay on the island, a confirmed hotel reservation, and a passport size photo.

The main international airport in Mauritius is Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport with regular flights from India.

Seychelles Visa for Indians

For purposes of tourism, Indians are granted visa on arrival for 30-days. You need a few documents for approval of your visa such as a passport valid for more than six months from the date of arrival, filled IM01 application form, return ticket out of the Maldives, adequate funds to cover the duration of your stay on the island, a confirmed hotel reservation and a passport size photo.

Travelling to Seychelles by flight is the most convenient option. Seychelles International Airport is the main airport that’s well-connected to India.  

2. Weather

Maldives Weather

Its location on the equator allows the Maldives to enjoy tropical, humid climate all through the year. The best time to visit is November through April where you’ll see clear, blue skies on most days. May to October sees thunderstorms, heavy rain, winds and rough seas. The dry days are definitely a better time to visit the Maldives.

Weather in Mauritius

Since Mauritius is situated a little further away from the equator, the temperature varies. Summers are hot and humid and dry winter brings with it balmy, comfortable climate. November to April is the wet season and May to October is the dry period and the best time to visit the island.  

Seychelles Weather

The weather in Seychelles is similar to Maldives with a tropical, humid climate throughout the year. You can see clear skies during the dry period, which is from May to October, although the sea can be a little choppy. Seychelles experiences wet weather from December to March, but the seas are calmer. April and October are considered to be the best time to visit.

Holxo’s winner - Maldives Trip from November to April and Seychelles Holidays from May to October.

3. Landscape

Maldives

The Maldives comprises nearly 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks - of these, 100 are managed as tourist resorts and about 200 are inhabited. The islands are grouped in 26 clusters or breathtakingly beautiful atolls. The atolls are surrounded by white sandy beaches, crystal clear water and magnificent lagoons.

Mauritius

Mauritius, a single island, is encircled by beaches and reefs on the outside and mountains and hills covered with lush tropical foliage on the inside. Its location away from the equator does not lend it much of a tropical vibe. If you are looking for absolute paradise on this island, the UNESCO protected ‘Le Morne’ is the perfect spot. Standing at a height of 1824 feet, the iconic Le Mont Brabant mountain overlooks a turquoise coloured lagoon fringed by silvery-white sand to create an idyllic, truly tropical sight.

Seychelles

Other than the 115 granite and coral islands, Mahe, La Digue and Praslin are the three main islands. The awe-inspiring scenery is something else - with granitic mountain ranges carpeted with virgin jungles which cascade down to the marvellous sandy beaches fringed with palm trees. If you’re looking to get away to one of the most beautiful islands on the Indian Ocean with otherworldly landscapes, then Seychelles is the perfect spot and a treat to the eyes.

Holxo’s winner - Seychelles

4. Beaches

Maldives Beaches

The islands of Maldives are graced with the snow-white-like sandy beaches and surrounded by sparkling, translucent blue waters. No wonder it’s labelled as one of the greatest beach destinations in the world, there’s no arguing with that! On a vacation here you will be surrounded by the sounds of swaying palm trees, the bustling of the wind and the water of the warm Indian Ocean lapping the powder-soft sand. While all the beaches are heavenly, the quality of the beaches differs from island to island. There are a few resorts that utilise sea walls and sandbags to preserve the state of their idyllic beaches.

Mauritius Beaches

What’s not to love about the beaches of Mauritius? They’re blindingly white and supremely clear. However, they don’t fall in the same league as the pristine, magnificent beaches of its Indian Ocean siblings like Maldives or Seychelles. The beaches aren’t the dream-worthy beaches with powder-soft sand instead they feature rougher sand granules. The background lacks the drawing power and the lush greenery as that in the Maldives and Seychelles.

Beaches of Seychelles

Without a doubt, Seychelles has some of the most spectacular and finest beaches in the world. The beauty is unparalleled and hence, the island sees a plethora of tourists all through the year. The beaches consistently improve year on year and it’s hard not to be blasé about them. The sight of the turquoise waters along with the sound of them gently crashing into the powdery-soft white sand will take you to heaven and back. Plus, the background of huge granite boulders and hills clad with lush vegetation is one-of-a-kind. Some of the most beautiful beaches are Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue Island), Anse Lazio (Praslin Island) and Anse Intendance (on Mahe Island).

Holxo’s winner - Seychelles

5. Luxury resorts

Luxury Resorts in the Maldives

With a glut of innovative private-island resorts and a wealth of over-water villas, Maldives is synonymous with unrivalled luxury. It’s no wonder that Maldives attracts travellers from all over the world, especially honeymooners. It’s the world’s ultimate luxury holiday playground. You can find some of the world’s most luxurious resorts on the island with room rates which match the reputation of the archipelago. Those looking to splurge on top-notch luxury will be spoilt for choice here. Every resort is built on its own pristine, unpopulated, tropical island which ensures serenity, exclusivity and complete privacy. You have the option to pick rooms on stilts above the glistening blue water or villas on the immaculate white shores. During your stay, the norm is unmatched butler service, Michelin star dining, impressive wine cellars and top-drawer spas. There are also affordable hotels which cater to those on a budget.

Luxury Resorts in Mauritius

Long before Maldives and Seychelles came into the picture, Mauritius was known as a luxury destination with leading world-class resorts all around the island. The hotels on this island were built long before the Maldives and Seychelles became a tourist hot spot for luxury travel. This explains why some of the facilities are older and don’t feature things like stand-alone villas with private plunge pools, the norm at the other islands. The good news is that the resorts and hotels are much more affordable in comparison to the sky-high rates in Seychelles and the Maldives. Five-star hotels offer good deals and you will find a variety of options for all types of travellers.

Seychelles Luxury Resorts

Of late, Seychelles is en route to overshoot Maldives and Mauritius when it comes to pleasing the discerning traveller in terms of astonishingly decadent resorts. You will find exclusive villas which feature palatial beachfront villas perfect for a tropical getaway like no other. Just remember Seychelles has either charming guest houses or ultra-luxurious with very few options in between. There are a few newly opened resorts catering to the ones on a budget.

Holxo’s winner - Maldives

6. Romance

Honeymoon in the Maldives

Maldives bears the reputation of being one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in the world. From iconic sunsets to ocean-edge dinners to white sandy beaches to stunning overwater villas to endless vistas over clear lagoons and pampering spa sessions, Maldives has everything that brings about an air of romance. Including the rich and famous, honeymooners flock here by the dozens.

Mauritius Honeymoon

Mauritius is yet another magnet for couples and honeymooners; however, it’s not anywhere close to the breathtaking natural splendour of Seychelles or the romantic X-factor of the dazzling Maldivian resorts. It’s ideal for those who want to explore areas outside the resort which is impossible in the Maldives and in Seychelles you have to travel long distances. Plus, it offers affordable luxury which is perfect for those looking for this type of escape on their honeymoon.

Honeymoon in Seychelles

If your type of romance is more discrete or understated as compared to the opulent Maldives, then Seychelles is just your ticket. The Maldives is a haven for newlyweds due to its overwater sanctuaries and indulgent luxury, whereas, the exclusivity and natural beauty of Seychelles are unbeatable. The Maldives comes with umpteen relaxation, in Seychelles, apart from serenity, your honeymoon will include a whole lot of adventure.

Holxo’s winner - Maldives

7. Family vacation

Maldives Family Packages

Maldives attracts honeymooners, couples, adult travellers, spa enthusiasts, divers, sunbathers, surfers and the occasional celebrity. If you are a family with young children, you may feel out of place. Moreover, resorts typically cater to an older audience. There are a few resorts perfect for families but overall, Maldives is better suited for older travellers.

Mauritius Family Packages

The perfect family-friendly destination in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius offers hotels and resorts which cater to all kiddie requirements. From light entertainment to water sports to excursions, there’s plenty for kids of all ages on this island. Plus, this island offers more than sun, sea and sand. You can set out to explore the vibrant markets, hike to Grand Bassin, visit the Natural History Museum or La Vanille Nature Park, take a boat ride to Isle aux Aigrettes and quad bike to waterfalls; there’s plenty of action and adventure here!

Family Holidays in Seychelles

With their primary focus on tranquillity, this is a destination for couples or adult travellers. There are a few exceptions but there aren’t as many water sports to keep youngsters entertained. Older kids who are into nature will be fond of this island.

Holxo’s winner - Mauritius

8. Wow factor

Maldives

The idyllic tropical islands, exceptional geography, the incredible underwater world, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters and amazing overwater villas at the over-the-top hotels gives the Maldives its wow factor.

Mauritius

Home to some of the best beaches in the world, there’s plenty to do in Mauritius to keep you on your feet all day long. With endless stretches of sugar cane plantations to towering mountains to shallow lagoons to expansive reefs, this place is breathtaking. Away from the beaches, you have the Black River Gorges National Park, heavenly spas and world-class golf, there is something for everyone.

Seychelles

Seychelles might just be the ultimate Indian Ocean beach destination. While Maldives instantly impresses visitors, at Seychelles you might not catch on to the wow factor immediately. But as time passes by, you will notice how its natural beauty leaves a lasting impression. Seychelles is truly as idyllic as your daydreams. When in Seychelles, relax on a beachside seat, sip on delicious cocktails and toast to total relaxation.

Holxo’s winner - Maldives

9. Diving and Snorkelling

Maldives

With diving and snorkeling, Maldives stands on the top rung. The abundance of marine life, including manta rays and giant whale sharks, is supported by nutrient-rich ocean currents and deep channels. Typically, resorts feature their own dive centre which gives you access to a multitude of dive sites suitable for divers of all experience levels. Also, close to the shore of the resort you’ll find something called a ‘house reef’ where you can snorkel and come face to face with the animated underwater life such as parrotfish, tuna, turtles, surgeonfish, hammerhead sharks, and eagle rays.

Mauritius

Lovers of marine life will have a blast in Mauritius as it’s completely circled in by coral reefs. However, the diving and snorkelling aren’t comparable to Maldives or Seychelles.

Seychelles

With expansive reefs, canyons, drop-offs, pinnacles, and walls, Seychelles presents a diverse marine environment teeming with coral life and fish. Divers rate this as a world-class destination. But the reefs aren’t as exciting as that of Maldives. The good part is that top resorts often offer complimentary diving excursions.

Holxo’s winner - Maldives

10. Getting around, sightseeing and activities

What is there in the Maldives

The Maldives is a bunch of private islands. You need to use a seaplane or boat to get around from one island to another which can be time-consuming and expensive. Most people prefer staying on their island resort. You can indulge in the activities offered by your resort, typically water-related. You can swim, sunbathe, snorkel, dive, visit the spa or go on local excursions.

Mauritius Information

Mauritius is a relatively small island and hence getting around and exploring it is easy. You can get around by taxis or rent a car. From water sports to world-class golf courses to trekking to biking to hunting to birdwatching to exploring UNESCO sites to swimming with the marine life to riding an underwater scooter, Mauritius offers a myriad of attractions and activities. It’s the place to go if you are on the lookout for an action-packed, fun holiday.

Seychelles Travel

Covered by magical landscapes waiting to be explored, it’s easy to get around the 115 odd islands of Seychelles via well-connected high-speed ferries, helicopters and small air crafts. As long as you visit the main islands (Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue) and stick to ferries, it’s quite inexpensive. You will find top-notch sightseeing like the beautiful Morne Seychellois National Park or the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai or the breathtaking beaches of sleepy La Digue.

Holxo’s winner - Mauritius

11. Key points Seychelles vs Maldives vs Mauritius 

Maldives

If you are all about luxurious escapism, then the island for you is the Maldives. The main visitors are celebrities, honeymooners, affluent tourists and snorkel and dive enthusiasts who are on the lookout for decadent luxury, tranquillity and animated oceanic wildlife. This nation has mind-blowing and super-de-luxe island resorts which offer just that.

Mauritius

One of the most popular islands, Mauritius sees millions of tourists year after year due to its luxury resorts which are affordable along with its family-friendly image and phenomenal activities.

Seychelles

If you’re looking for an island that has escaped mass tourism and offers an offbeat vacation, then Seychelles is the island for you. The island if perfect for the eco-conscious guests and wealthy couples who want to be surrounded by rough, unspoiled nature and wild beaches. This in conjunction with the super luxurious resorts, makes it the ideal destination.

All in all,

Choose the Maldives if - You want to be surrounded by blue, blue and blue. It’s the dream island for those seeking peace, tranquillity, relaxation and a dash of adventure in the form of diving and snorkelling.

It’s mostly for beach holidays. Your own private getaway to dip into the ocean any time you want.

Choose Mauritius if - You want a beach vacation along with the option of stepping out here and there for walks, night outs or visit different places and do a little exploring. Mauritius is perfect for honeymooners, families, and events.

Choose Seychelles if - You want to spend your holiday amidst unspoiled nature and wild islands. Also, it’s the best place if you want a small, quaint hotel with just a handful of people which allows you to explore the surrounding areas and at the same time enjoy the tranquillity.

Hurry, pick your favourite island and book your dreamy, tropical getaway with Holxo today!