The Inner Islands which are mostly granitic cluster mainly around the principal islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, forming the cultural and economic hub of the Seychelles, as well as the centre of its tourism industry.

Together they are home to the majority of the Seychelles’ accommodations and almost the entire population of the archipelago.  There are 43 Inner islands in total – 41 granitic and 2 coralline. The Granitic Seychelles are fragments of the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana, and have been separated from other continents for 75 million years.

The Inner Islands, remains of a submerged mountain range, rest on a shallow plateau with prolific marine life and excellent diving facilities available to access a multitude of dive sites. The Seychelles offer year round diving experiences in waters mainly outside the cyclone belt and dive centres around the country cater to both novice and experienced divers alike, offering a number of specialised courses. Perhaps one of the most alluring characteristics of the Seychelles is the clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean which surround the islands. The stunning topography of expansive reefs, walls, pinnacles, drop offs, wrecks and canyons make for one of the most diverse marine environments around, teeming with both fish and coral life.