Discover
essential Seychelles travel etiquette and smart travel tips to help
you blend in respectfully, stay safe, and make the most of your
island adventure across the Seychelles archipelago.
• Greet warmly with a smile. Seychellois culture is friendly and relaxed, and politeness goes a long way.
• Dress modestly in towns and villages. Beachwear is appropriate only on beaches and in resort areas.
• Support local businesses. Buy Creole handicrafts, spices, and artwork directly from island artisans.
• Respect marine life. Keep distance from turtles, rays, and fish, especially during nesting seasons.
• Try Creole cuisine. Curries, grilled fish, ladob, and coconut-based dishes reflect island heritage.
• Learn a few Creole phrases. Simple words like “Bonzour” are warmly appreciated.
• Use reef-safe sunscreen. Coral protection is taken seriously across the islands.
• Carry cash for small purchases. Markets, remote beaches, and small shops may not accept cards.
• Be patient. Life runs on “island time,” and relaxed service is part of the culture.
• Ask before photographing locals. Especially fishermen, vendors, and families.
• Touch or step on coral. Even light contact causes long-term damage and carries penalties.
• Take shells, coral, or sand. Removing natural materials is illegal.
• Ignore beach safety flags. Currents and sudden drop-offs can be dangerous.
• Wear revealing clothing in town. Away from beaches, modest dress is expected.
• Expect nightlife everywhere. Many islands are quiet after dark.
• Feed wildlife. It disrupts natural behaviour and may result in fines.
• Litter. Seychelles enforces strict environmental protection laws.
• Smoke on beaches or public areas. Only permitted in designated spaces.
• Negotiate aggressively. Friendly, respectful bargaining is acceptable.
• Rely solely on cards. ATM access can be limited on smaller islands.
• Seychelles is culturally diverse. African, French, Indian, and Creole traditions blend harmoniously.
• Religion matters. Dress modestly near churches, especially on Sundays.
• Communication is gentle. Avoid overly direct or confrontational tones.
• Hospitality is genuine. Warmth and openness are part of everyday life.
• Family life is central. Children are welcomed and included everywhere.
• Music and dance matter. Moutya and sega reflect strong cultural identity.
• Public affection is acceptable. Keep it moderate outside resort settings.
• Shop hours vary. Many businesses close midday or early evening.
• Greetings are important. Always say hello before asking questions.
• Photography etiquette counts. Avoid churches and private homes without permission.
• Carry mosquito repellent. Bites are common despite no malaria risk.
• Use tap water cautiously. Safe in main areas, though many prefer bottled water.
• Book island transfers early. Ferries and flights fill quickly to Praslin and La Digue.
• Wear sturdy sandals. Trails around Morne Seychellois and beaches can be uneven.
• Protect against strong sun. UV levels are high year-round.
• Use official taxis or hire cars. Public transport is limited on some islands.
• Download offline maps. Signal drops in remote coves and forests.
• Check tide times. Access to beaches like Anse Marron changes rapidly.
• Bring snorkelling gear. Rental quality varies on smaller islands.
• Keep small cash handy. Needed for parks, markets, and local snacks.
• Visit popular beaches early. Anse Lazio and Anse Source d’Argent are quietest in the morning.
• Explore La Digue by bicycle. It’s the best and most authentic way to get around.
• Consider outer islands. Desroches and Bird Island offer incredible wildlife experiences.
• Eat at Creole takeaways. Affordable, authentic meals are often found at “takeaway” spots.
• Ask about seaweed season. Locals know which beaches are best during your stay.
• Try Takamaka rum. A classic Seychellois sundowner and souvenir.
• Pack light for ferries. Smaller bags are easier to manage on crossings.
• Watch sunsets on Praslin. Côte d’Or offers unforgettable evening light.
• Buy authentic souvenirs. Woven baskets, batik art, and coconut crafts are best buys.
• Don’t miss Vallée de Mai. Home of the Coco de Mer and ancient palm forests.
• Seychelles is very safe. Use normal caution in busy areas like Victoria.
• Know the emergency number. Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.
• Avoid swimming alone. Remote beaches can have unpredictable currents.
• Respect environmental laws. Penalties for harming marine life are strict.
• Drugs are illegal. Even small possession carries heavy penalties.
• Alcohol rules apply. Avoid public intoxication outside resort areas.
• Prevent heat exhaustion. Midday sun can be intense.
• Watch belongings at ferry terminals. Tourist areas can attract petty theft.
• Monitor weather alerts. Monsoon seasons affect sea conditions.
• Carry travel insurance. Essential for medical care and inter-island transfers.
• English, French, and Creole are spoken. English works almost everywhere.
• Use simple Creole words. “Bonzour” and “Mersi” build instant rapport.
• Keep conversation relaxed. Avoid rushing or interrupting.
• Maintain a calm tone. Aggressive behaviour is disliked.
• WhatsApp is widely used. Common for bookings and local contact.
• Ask before taking photos. Especially of people.
• Humour is gentle. Avoid sarcasm or sensitive jokes.
• Respect personal space. Friendly but not intrusive interaction is preferred.
• Compliment local food or crafts. Always warmly received.
• A sincere thank you matters. It leaves a lasting impression.