Now, Experience La Digue’s Rich Cultural Legacy Through the Rendezvous Diguois Festival

Published on December 17, 2025

La Digue, one of the most picturesque islands in the Seychelles, is making strides in its push to promote cultural tourism. The latest edition of the Creole Rendezvous, or Rendezvous Diguois, held on December 6, 2025, highlighted the island’s rich heritage and the growing tourism potential of this unique destination. This annual event, now in its third year, continues to evolve as a significant celebration of Seychellois culture, blending local music, dance, gastronomy, and artisanship into an unforgettable experience for visitors.

The event was co-hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, with the inaugural visit of Mrs. Amanda Bernstein, the newly appointed Minister for Tourism and Culture. Her participation not only signaled the growing importance of cultural tourism in the Seychelles but also underscored her commitment to strengthening the relationship between tourism stakeholders and the local communities.

Creole Rendezvous: A Platform for Local Heritage and Tourism Development

Since its inception in September 2022, the Creole Rendezvous has become a hallmark event in La Digue, showcasing the vibrancy and authenticity of the island’s culture. The festival, held quarterly on both La Digue and Praslin, serves as a unique platform to unite the local community with tourists from around the world. The two-day December event was filled with festive performances, including traditional moutya dance and live music, offering both residents and visitors a deep dive into the island’s musical and cultural roots.

For tourists, the Rendezvous Diguois offers an immersive experience, with the chance to sample traditional Creole dishes, such as curry fish, coconut-based delicacies, and local rum. Artisans from across the Seychelles displayed their handmade crafts, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase authentic souvenirs while also supporting local businesses.

The event’s festive atmosphere was further enhanced by a visit from Santa Claus, who brought joy to children in the audience, along with gift-giving and Christmas carols, fostering a warm and welcoming holiday spirit that resonated with visitors of all ages.

Minister Bernstein’s Commitment to Strengthening Local Tourism

During the event, Minister Amanda Bernstein praised the efforts of local organizers, tourism partners, and the community for making Rendezvous Diguois a thriving cultural celebration. She emphasized that La Digue is more than just a tourist destination; it is a symbol of Seychellois identity. Her visit marked the start of her focus on deepening collaboration between the government and local communities, fostering sustainable tourism practices that benefit both the economy and the island’s cultural heritage.

The Minister’s remarks highlighted the importance of cultural tourism in the Seychelles’ broader tourism strategy, which aims to position the country as a leader in experiential and sustainable tourism. “We are embracing our cultural diversity, preserving our heritage, and offering it as a vibrant tourist experience. La Digue is a key part of that vision,” said Minister Bernstein.

In a strategic move, the Minister also discussed her plan to involve more local voices in shaping the future of tourism, ensuring that community-led initiatives are central to the island’s tourism offerings. This approach aligns with Africa’s tourism goals and aims to balance economic growth with cultural preservation.

Promoting Regional and Intra-African Tourism

The success of the Rendezvous Diguois festival is indicative of the Seychelles’ growing role in regional tourism. The Seychelles has long been a top destination for international tourists, particularly those from Europe and Asia, but this event reflects the increasing importance of intra-African tourism. With visa-free access for many African countries, the Seychelles is becoming an accessible and appealing destination for African travelers seeking rich cultural experiences.

The event has also fostered cross-border partnerships with neighboring islands in the Indian Ocean, further boosting the regional tourism economy. For African tour operators and travel professionals, the success of La Digue’s cultural initiatives provides valuable lessons in community engagement, sustainable tourism practices, and local collaboration.

La Digue’s Role in Sustainable Tourism Growth

As the Seychelles continues to position itself as a top destination for cultural tourism, La Digue has emerged as a key player in this vision. Known for its tranquil beaches, lush tropical landscapes, and quaint village atmosphere, the island is increasingly attracting tourists who seek an authentic, nature-focused travel experience. La Digue’s tourism offerings extend beyond its beaches to include historical sites, such as L’Union Estate, a former plantation, and La Digue Library, which preserve the island’s history while showcasing its growing importance as a heritage destination.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Cultural Tourism in La Digue

Looking forward, the Seychelles is placing greater emphasis on community-led cultural tourism to maintain its competitive edge in the global tourism market. As Rendezvous Diguois continues to grow, the event will become an important annual celebration, attracting more visitors while empowering local communities.

With digital engagement, including social media campaigns and the development of a dedicated tourism website, La Digue’s visibility will continue to rise, reaching potential tourists from across the globe. The event is also being featured on global tourism platforms, reinforcing the island’s status as a must-visit cultural destination in the Indian Ocean.

For the Seychelles, La Digue stands as a model for blending tourism growth with cultural preservation. As the island continues to develop its tourism sector with a focus on authenticity, sustainability, and community engagement, it sets the stage for future generations to explore and appreciate the rich cultural heritage of this extraordinary part of the world.