Unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in Seychelles
Visiting Seychelles soon and wondering how to bring a slice of its beauty home? Seychelles has a variety of unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the essence of this island nation. Here’s a guide to help you shop for meaningful mementoes.
What souvenirs to buy in Seychelles
Seychelles has a distinct charm, and its souvenirs reflect the natural beauty and culture of the islands. Here’s what to look out for:
1. Coco de Mer
The Coco de Mer, or sea coconut, is one of Seychelles’ most iconic treasures. This rare nut, shaped like a double coconut, is found only on the islands of Praslin and Curieuse. It’s said to be a symbol of fertility and natural beauty and is often used as a decorative item.
You can find it in authorized souvenir shops and government-certified outlets on Praslin and Mahé.
However, due to its rarity, Seychelles has strict laws protecting it. So beware of imitations or sellers offering uncertified nuts.
To buy a Coco de Mer legally, visit authorised souvenir shops or government-certified outlets on Praslin and Mahé. And make sure your purchase comes with an official export certificate
2. Black Pearls
Seychelles’ black pearls are a stunning and lustrous keepsake. Cultured at the Black Pearl Ocean Farm on Praslin, these pearls are harvested from black-lipped oysters.
For authentic buys, shop directly at the Black Pearl Ocean Farm or reputable jewellers.
3. Local Rum
No trip to Seychelles is complete without sampling its famous Takamaka Rum. This locally distilled spirit captures the tropical flavours of the islands and is available in various blends, including coconut and spiced rum.
Locals often mix Takamaka Rum with fresh tropical juices or enjoy it neat to savour its full flavour. This makes it a perfect gift for rum enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates high-quality spirits. To bring it home, ensure the bottle is sealed and safely packed in your checked luggage.
4. Batik-Dyed Fabrics
Batik fabrics from Seychelles are colourful, hand-dyed textiles with tropical patterns. They can be used to create clothing, scarves, or home décor items. Markets and craft shops in Mahé and Praslin are great places to find authentic batik fabric.
RELATED: Seychelles: Your guide to earth’s paradise island
5. Spices and Tea
Seychelles is home to various aromatic spices and teas, thanks to its Indian influences. Spices like cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg are locally grown, and tea plantations produce unique combinations like citronelle and vanilla-infused black tea.
For the best selection, visit the SeyTe Tea Factory on Mahé. Here, you can sample various teas and pick up attractively packaged options to take home.
6. Vanilla
Vanilla from Seychelles is prized for its rich flavour and aroma. The locally grown and sun-dried pods are a superior alternative to regular vanilla extracts and essences.
They’re perfect for culinary enthusiasts or anyone who appreciates fragrant, natural gifts. You can buy them from local markets or boutique shops.
Where to go shopping in Seychelles
Victoria Market (Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market)
Located in the capital of Mahé, this market is perfect for picking up fresh produce, spices, batik fabrics, and small souvenirs.
Praslin Craft Village
It’s a hub for authentic, locally made items like Coco de Mer and batik fabrics.
La Plaine St. André
A historic plantation where you can learn about and purchase Takamaka Rum.
SeyTe Tea Factory
Visit the factory on Mahé to shop for locally grown teas and learn about the production process.
Leave a Reply