Seychelles Travel Guide And Essentials

Your complete Seychelles travel guide with essential travel information, insider tips, and practical advice. Discover when to go, what to see, and how to make the most of your trip to the Seychelles islands.

00:00:00|Local time in Victoria - Seychelles

Key Travel Facts & Essential Country Information

Country: Seychelles

Continent / Region: Africa / Indian Ocean

Capital City: Victoria (Mahé)

Government Type: Presidential Republic

Population: Approx. 100,000

Official Language(s): Seychellois Creole, English, French 

English Usage: Very high in tourism

Currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

Time Zone (GMT): GMT+4

Driving Side: Left

Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type G – 240V

Adapter Needed: UK travellers usually do not need an adapter

Emergency Numbers: 999 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)


Travel Information

Travel Time from the UK (London): 10 hours (direct)

Best Time/Months to Travel: April–May & October–November (calm seas, best weather)

Main International Airport:

  • Seychelles International Airport (SEZ – Mahé)

- Visa Requirements: Visa-free entry 

- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required 

- Visa Duration / Cost: 90 days on arrival; free 

- Vaccinations Needed: Hepatitis A recommended; Yellow Fever certificate required if arriving from risk areas

Embassy Information (UK Representation):

Average Daily Costs: £60 / £100 / £250+

Tipping Culture: 5–10% customary

Public Transport Options: Buses (Mahé & Praslin), taxis, ferries

Approx. Cost of Single Fare: SCR 12 (bus)

Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G; Cable & Wireless, Airtel


Geography & Climate

Main Climate Type: Tropical

Average Temperature: 25–31°C year-round

Major Islands: Mahé, Praslin, La Digue (plus 100+ smaller islands)

Natural Attractions: White-sand beaches, granite boulders, coral reefs, jungles, marine parks

Popular Destinations: Anse Source d’Argent, Beau Vallon, Vallée de Mai, Curieuse Island, Anse Lazio


Culture & Society

Main Religions: Christianity (majority), Hinduism, Islam

Cultural Etiquette / Customs:

  • Dress modestly in towns & villages
  • Swimwear only appropriate on beaches
  • Be respectful when photographing locals
  • Politeness and slow-paced island culture appreciated

Cuisine Highlights: Grilled fish, octopus curry, Creole curries, coconut dishes, tropical fruit

Local Festivals:

  • Creole Festival
  • Independence Day (29 June)
  • SUBIOS Underwater Festival

Famous Landmarks: Vallée de Mai (UNESCO), Morne Seychellois National Park, Anse Source d’Argent


Safety & Health

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Common Scams: Rare — occasional tourist pricing

Health Risks: Strong sun, currents, jellyfish (seasonal)

Recommended Clinics: Victoria Hospital (Mahé), private clinics, resort medical centres

Insurance Recommendation: Strongly advised — especially for snorkelling & boating


Communication

Internet Speed: Good 4G on main islands

Useful Phrases:

  • Hello – Bonzour 
  • Thank you – Mersi 
  • How much? – Konbyen? 
  • Where is…? – Koté…?

Top Experiences & Things To Do

Must-See Attractions: Anse Lazio, Anse Source d’Argent, Vallée de Mai, Curieuse giant tortoises, Beau Vallon Beach

Unique Experiences: Island-hopping, snorkelling with turtles, sunset cruises, Creole cuisine tours

Hidden Gems: Anse Major trail, Félicité Island, Coco Island Marine Park, secluded coves on La Digue


Accommodation Overview

Popular Areas to Stay: Beau Vallon (Mahé), Praslin resorts, La Digue guesthouses

Average Hotel Prices: £60 / £120 / £300+

Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.


Nightlife & Entertainment

Nightlife Areas: Beau Vallon, Victoria small bars

Local Drinks: Takamaka rum, local beers, fresh juices

Entertainment: Beach bars, live music, cultural shows


Getting Around

Car Rental: Popular on Mahé & Praslin

Buses: Reliable main-island network

Ferries: Common between islands

Taxi Costs: Higher than average island prices


Shopping & Souvenirs

Best Markets: Victoria Market, Beau Vallon craft stalls

Popular Souvenirs: Coconut crafts, vanilla, spices, local art, Takamaka rum


Practical Tips

Local SIM Card Providers: Cable & Wireless, Airtel 

Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Mon–Fri), 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (Sat) 

Tap Water Safety: Generally safe; many prefer bottled water

Local Apps to Download:

  • Google Maps
  • XE Currency
  • Local ferry apps/sites

Quick Facts & Trivia

Did You Know?

Seychelles is home to the Coco de Mer, the world’s largest and heaviest seed — found only in these islands.