An Island-Hopping Adventure in the Seychelles

Join National Geographic Explorer and photographer Filipe DeAndrade as he adventures across the Seychelles in search of breathtaking views, wildlife, and wow-worthy moments.

Travel · Photographs by Filipe DeAndrade · Published August 25, 2026 · 2 min read

Topics: Photography, Mobile Phones, Travel, Adventure

National Geographic Explorer and photographer Filipe DeAndrade's passion for the planet knows no bounds. Currently residing in the Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands off the east coast of Africa, DeAndrade travels the world telling stories that inspire conservation and teach future generations about the importance of protecting our natural world. In collaboration with OtterBox, we recently sent DeAndrade on assignment to say "yes" to adventure across the islands, from snorkeling with wildlife to exploring the coastline and hiking misty mountains in search of panoramic vistas. DeAndrade is drawn to the Seychelles for its remarkable variety of landscapes and ecosystems. On any given day, he can experience everything from towering granite cliffs and lush valleys to sandy beaches and shallow-water reefs. "Everywhere you go, every single corner you turn, ends up being a different and more beautiful view," DeAndrade says. "There are no bad frames in the Seychelles. No matter what’s happening, there’s always a beautiful photo to be taken." Read on to follow DeAndrade as he explores some of the Seychelles' most captivating islands and landscapes.

Sainte Anne Marine Park and Moyenne Island

Established in 1973, Sainte Anne Marine National Park is the oldest protected marine area in the Indian Ocean, encompassing coral reefs, seagrass meadows, and six islands that support a rich diversity of marine life. Wildlife reigns supreme here. The islands are sparsely populated, with Cerf Island hosting the area's primary human community of approximately 100 residents.

Mahé Island

Mahé is the vibrant heart of the Seychelles. The archipelago's largest island, it is home to the capital city of Victoria and approximately 105,000 residents. Granite mountains rise from the interior, and over 60 sandy beaches line its coastline.

Praslin Island

Praslin holds a special place in DeAndrade's heart. Located a short flight or ferry ride from Mahé, the island is celebrated for its picturesque beaches and the Vallée de Mai Nature Preserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

For DeAndrade, embracing new experiences, taking the path less traveled, and living in the moment are essential to his work as a photographer and explorer. "Seychelles is the gift that keeps on giving. No day is ever the same," DeAndrade says. "This is why you say yes to adventure." Brazilian-born and Ohio-raised, Filipe DeAndrade is a dedicated filmmaker, photographer, and wildlife conservationist. DeAndrade graduated from the University of Florida and co-founded Comfort Theory, a production house, along with Worth More Alive, an NGO dedicated to preserving wildlife. DeAndrade is a National Geographic Explorer, 15x Emmy Award winner, Panthera and U.N. Jaguar Ambassador, Danny Faure Foundation Wildlife Photographer, BAFTA and Cannes winner, and has produced and filmed over 100 hours of programming for premier networks. From surviving the favelas of Rio de Janeiro to now traveling the world with a camera, DeAndrade describes photography as his savior and nature his soulmate. His favorite animal is a jaguar or dolphin, depending on the day.