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THE SEYCHELLES

PARADISE ON EARTH

Photo: PTO Travel Pro*

 THE DESTINATION

OVERVIEW

KNOWN FOR:

BEACHES

DIVING
 

SAILING

NATURAL SCENERY

The 115 islands of the Seychelles dotted across the Indian Ocean are about as close as you can come to Paradise on Earth. You’ll find mountainous granitic islands with boulder-strewn beaches as well as low-lying cays and atolls with shallow turquoise waters - all straight out of a postcard. With just 100,000 residents spread across the nations 530,00 square miles, the Seychelles have largely been spared the negative impacts of human presence. That means you’ll find endemic species and rich biodiversity in the country’s waters and rainforests. Two of these sites - the Aldabra Atoll and the Vallée de Mai - are worthy of UNESCO World Heritage Status. The islands happen to be home to the world’s largest population of giant tortoises. The islands are also full of rich cultural diversity. From the time Vasco da Gama allegedly first sighted the Seychelles in 1503 to the country’s independence in 1976, the islands changed hands multiple times and became a cultural melting pot. Influences from European colonization (British, then French, then British again) mix with the culture of the people brought here by the slave & spice trades. Though it’s not believed the islands were home to pre-colonial indigenous people, a local culture known as Creole as emerged through all this history. It’s one of the most remote places on Earth but the picture-perfect scenery, warm hospitality, and overwhelming feeling of romance and relaxation make this small island nation well worthy of a trip!

MOST RECENT VISIT: Summer 2022

THE BOTTOM LINE

So what's the big deal? Here's why the Seychelles is worthy of a stop on your itinerary: 
IF YOU'RE PLANNING A HONEYMOON DRIPPING IN ROMANCE

I can't imagine many places more romantic than the Seychelles. The resorts here certainly caught on to that vibe as well, and most feel tailor-made for honeymooners with plunge pool villas, private dining experiences, and secluded beaches.

IF YOU WANT TO LOUNGE ON THE WORLD'S MOST BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

Whatever comes to mind when you picture a desert island is what you can expect to find in the Seychelles. All beaches are public, and many of the white sand strips are dotted with large granite boulders and fringed by lush green foliage and turquoise waters - a picture perfect setting for both tourists and Hollywood.

TO BALANCE THE ADVENTURE OF SAFARI WITH SOME ISLAND TIME

The Seychelles are just a 3 hour flight from Nairobi and the perfect finale to a trip on safari. After spending time exploring the bush in a game vehicle, it can be nice to park yourself on the beach - a gorgeous one at that - with a cocktail to unwind.

TRAVEL TOOLKIT:

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HOSPITALITY
ATLAS

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DATE
SELECTOR

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ACTIVITY PORTFOLIO

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LOGISTICS
PLANNER

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ITINERARY
 

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LANDING GEAR

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JOURNEY BUILDER

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SUITCASE
PACKER

Zoom out on the map below to see the outer islands, including Desroches, Platte, Alphonse, and Aldabra!

HOSPITALITY ATLAS

WHERE TO STAY

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

ISLANDS & RESORTS GUIDE

THE SEYCHELLES

Photo: PTO Travel Pro*

Trying to decide where to stay or looking on-the-fly for your next stop nearby? This guide gives an overview of the key islands in the Seychelles, plus a selection of hotels, restaurants, and things to do for each. It then provides more detail for select hotels across the Seychelles.

 

The Seychelles has some truly spectacular accommodation options ranging from family-friendly resorts to ultra-romantic private islands. Depending on what you're looking for (and what you're looking to spend), there's something for everyone. Click on the guide to learn more!

COMING SOON

ACTIVITY PORTFOLIO

TOP THINGS TO DO

Anse Source D'Argent La Digue Seychelles
Outdoors

Photo: PTO Travel Pro*

WORLD-CLASS
BEACHES

Whatever comes to mind when you picture a desert island is what you can expect to find in the Seychelles. All beaches are public, and many of the white sand strips are dotted with large granite boulders and fringed by lush green foliage and turquoise waters - a picture perfect setting for both tourists and Hollywood.

Image by Ash Edmonds
Local Culture

Photo: Unsplash*

LOCAL RUM DISTILLERY

Want to try some of the local flavor? Visit La Plaine St. Andre, a 1790s plantation that is now the home of Takamaka Rum Distillery where you can sample & see how the local spirit is made and explore the grounds' museum, garden, and ruins. We were truly impressed with the rum and wish we could get some in the States!

Image by Hugh Whyte
Water Activities

Photo: Unsplash*

MOTOR-FREE WATER SPORTS

From laid-back to action-packed there is a way to get out and enjoy the sea in the Seychelles. Beaches like Anse Intendance are known for surfing, while Anse Source d'Argent offers glass-bottomed kayaks. Our resort offered complimentary Hobie cats to sail, stand-up paddleboards, reef restoration activities, and more.

Image by Krystal Ng
Outdoors

Photo: Unsplash*

VALEE DE MAI  RESERVE

This UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Island of Praslin was thought by some to be the Garden of Eden. The lush rainforest is home to many of the Seychelles' endemic species including the Coco de Mer Palm, the Seychelles Black Parrot, the Seychelles Blue Pigeon, the Tiger Chameleon, and more.

Image by Chase Baker
Water Activities

Photo: Unsplash*

FLY & SPORT FISHING

If casting a rod & reel is your idea of paradise, you'll find plenty to love in the Seychelles. Being in the tropics of the Indian Ocean, you can charter a vessel to catch sportfish like Dorado, Swordfish, Wahoo, Marlin, Sailfish, Tuna, & more. You can also head to the flats & atolls for some of the best tropical fly-fishing in the world.

Image by Kristel Hayes
Water Activities

Photo: Unsplash*

SAILING & 
BOATING

There are more than 100 islands to explore in the Seychelles, so it only makes sense to get out on the water and sail from island to island, whether for a day or a week. Admire the gorgeous coastlines and explore areas that remain isolated from the influence of humans (especially some of the most spectacular dive sites).

Image by Sebastian Pena Lambarri
Water Activities

Photo: Unsplash*

SNORKELING & DIVING

The pristine underwater world of the Seychelles offers countless sites to explore. Options range from easy to advanced and include shallow sea grass beds swimming with sea turtles, colorful coral reefs with tropical fish, open water dives with manta rays and whale sharks, mazes of granitic boulders, wreck dives, and more.

Image by Miriam Pereira
Local Culture

Photo: Unsplash*

EXPLORE
VICTORIA

The charming, colonial-style capital on Mahe is worthy of exploration. Some of the top sights include the Victoria Clock Tower aka Lorloz (Little Big Ben in Creole), the Botanical Gardens' flowers & tortoises, the National History Museum with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to pirates to independence, and the city market.

LAUNDRY LIST

Beyond the most popular sites, the Seychelles has plenty more to see and do. If you're looking to keep exploring, check out this list of ideas!

BEACHES
Anse Source d'Argent

On La Digue - This beach is the "most photographed in the world" thanks to its picturesque boulders & protected lagoon

Anse Cocos

On La Digue - If you're willing to hike a bit, this is an option for a less popular but still beautiful version of d'Argent

Anse Georgette

On Praslin - A beautiful, boulder-framed beach that's home to the Constance Lemuria resort

Anse Lazio

On Praslin - this beach, bookended by boulders is considered one of the best in the Seychelles

Anse Marron

On La Digue - Very challenging to reach, this beach with many boulders & natural pools is best visited with a guide

Bird Island West Beach

Isolated, with far more birds than people, this powder-soft sand beach is known for fabulous sunsets

Anse Intendance

On Mahe - This beach is home to the Banyan Tree Resort and is known for its lush green backdrop and surfable waves

Beau Vallon

On Mahe - Popular and lively, this beach is fit for a visit or as an easy starting point for many snorkeling & diving excursions

Even More Beaches

Petite Anse on Mahe, Anse Bonnet Carre on La Digue, Cote d'Or on Praslin, Grand Anse on La Digue, and more.

Note: All beaches in the Seychelles are public, even if they are seemingly on resort property. Just reach out for access.

FIELD GUIDE

WILDLIFE TO SEE

Below you’ll see a breakdown of what to expect in the Seychelles: 

  • Plan to see: These are abundant in the Seychelles and less elusive to spot

  • Chance to see: These are either less abundant here or they may just have behavior that makes them harder to spot

  • Rare to see: These are species that are either very scarce here or very elusive

  • Seasonal: These are species that are in the Seychelles seasonally as they migrate

  • If an animal is noted with (**), it's endemic to the Seychelles!

PLAN TO SEE
  • Coco de Mer Palm**

  • Seychelles Giant Tortoise**

  • Bats

  • Whales & Dolphins

  • Reef Fish (Angelfish, Tangs, Clownfish, & more)

  • Sportfish (Swordfish, Marlin, Tuna, Dorado, & more)

CHANCE TO SEE
  • Flamingo

  • Sea Turtles

  • Sharks (Hammerhead, Reef Sharks, and more)

  • Stingrays

  • Lionfish

  • Eels

RARE TO SEE
  • Seychelles Black Parrot**

  • Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher Bird**

  • Tiger Chameleon**

  • Jellyfish Tree**

  • Dugong

SEASONAL
  • Whale Sharks (September to November)

  • Manta Rays (April to December)

Image by Dariusz Sankowski

ITINERARY

SAFARI & THE SEYCHELLES | 2.5 WEEKS

Safari & Seychelles 2.5 Week Itinerary Infographic

OVERVIEW

On this epic honeymoon itinerary, you’ll get up close with big cats, the Great Migration, and more on Safari in the Serengeti and the Mara. Then you’ll head to the Seychelles, one of the most picturesque tropical destinations in the world. I know I’m biased, but if you’re planning a big romantic trip, whether for a honeymoon, a milestone anniversary, or whatever reason, you have to consider this itinerary. Our only regret was that we couldn’t stay longer.

Background Photo: Unsplash*

SEE THE FULL ITINERARY DETAILS HERE:

OTHER ITINERARIES

FEATURING THE SEYCHELLES

Image by Alessandro Russo

SEYCHELLES ISLANDHOPPING

Photo: Unsplash*

10+ DAYS

Stay for a little while, so that you can hop from island to island and see more of what the archipelago has to offer from the capital of Victoria to the coral reefs of the Outer Islands.

COMING SOON

Image by Fatih Yürür

ISTANBUL & ISLANDS

Photo: Unsplash*

2 WEEKS

Break up the long flight with a stop-over in Istanbul where you can explore the architecture, history, and culture of the Eurasian capital city before continuing to your island escape.

COMING SOON

Image by sanin sn

INDIA & THE INDIAN OCEAN

Photo: Unsplash*

2+ WEEKS

Explore India & the Indian Ocean. Start on the vibrant sub-continent to experience India's rich culture, history, & natural beauty, then switch to relax mode on the Seychelles' beaches.

COMING SOON

JOURNEY BUILDER

ITINERARY ADD-ONS

Get away for the day with a day-trip nearby, or if you're not quite ready to cut your trip short, extend your itinerary and hop to another destination. To see how a multi-stop itinerary might come together check out the OTHER ITINERARIES section below.

Male lion in the Maasai Mara Kenya
Next Stop

Photo: PTO Travel Pro*

KENYA

Continue your vacation with a Safari, just a 3h flight across the Indian Ocean away. Kenya is world-renowned for its wildlife. The Maasai Mara has been the subject of countless documentaries; rhinos find refuge at preeminent conservancies; elephants walk in the shadow of Kilimanjaro in Amboseli; and giraffes crash brunch at a famous Nairobi lodge.

Image by R M
Next Stop / Stopover

Photo: Unsplash*

ISTANBUL

Turkish airlines offers the opportunity to build in a free stop-over when connecting through Istanbul. Explore two continents in one city, straddling Europe and Asia. Visit the famous historic sites including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, or the Basilica Cistern. Enjoy local culture at the city's bazaars, bath houses, and street food vendors.

Elephant in the Serengeti
Next Stop

Photo: PTO Travel Pro*

TANZANIA

Take a short hop across the Indian Ocean to Tanzania. There you can explore several world-class Safari destinations from the Serengeti and Ngorongoro in the north to Selous & Ruaha in the south. Trek with chimps in Gombe or Mahale, make the iconic climb to Kilimanjaro's summit, or simply relax on the powdery white sand beaches of Zanzibar.

Image by Martin Jernberg
Next Stop / Stopover

Photo: Unsplash*

INDIA

Even the most experienced travelers are sure to find something new & exciting in India. That might include gawking at an architectural wonder, taking part in a vibrant festival, or soaking in the natural beauty from Himalayan peaks to dense jungles. After all that action, consider hopping to the Seychelles to relax on its picturesque beaches.

Image by Hans Veth
Next Stop

Photo: Unsplash*

SOUTH AFRICA

With a direct flight to Johannesburg, you can continue your journey to South Africa. The country on Africa's cape is well known for its Safari destinations, but it's also known for the "Marine Big 5," manicured vineyards, picturesque landscapes, prehistoric archeological sites, epic surf breaks, bustling cities, vibrant wildflowers, and complicated history.

Image by ZQ Lee
Next Stop / Stopover

Photo: Unsplash*

DUBAI

The glittering city of Dubai rises, almost mirage-like, from the sandy desert of the UAE. The city was small and sparse until the late 20th century, when oil money drove tremendous growth and extraordinary wealth almost overnight. This is echoed in the hospitality industry where hotels, dining, and activities all tend to have one thing in common - opulence.

MATCH MAKER

WHO SHOULD GO

SHOULD THE SEYCHELLES BE AT THE TOP OF YOUR BUCKET LIST?

BEST FOR:

HONEY
MOON

COUPLES
 

SMALL GROUPS

MULTI-GEN
FAMILIES

SPEED
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RELAXING

PHYSICALITY
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VERY MINIMAL

COST
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EXPENSIVE TO
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME

Largely depending on resort choice

ACTIVITY LEVEL

This is one of the most relaxing trips there is. If you're really into water sports or hiking through the national parks, you might find yourself with a more active trip. But, chances are, you'll be spending most of your time lounging around by the beach and the pool.

COSTS

Expect to spend $750 to $2,000 per night for a 5-star resort, especially if you are looking to stay at a luxury resort from a global brand. Note that this pricing will depend a lot on the specific hotel, the season, and when you book. Some of the private island hotels can have prices much, much higher than this range - check prices before you get your heart set on a specific hotel! That said, there are opportunities to find a good deal at some of the absolute best resorts (without sacrificing your experience)! You can also find some lesser-known brands or great 4-star resorts for well below this range.

 

Beyond spending on your hotel, spending will depend largely on what activities you are interested in. Some attractions like the Vallee de Mai and the L'Union Estate charge entrance fees, but these are very reasonable. More spend will be driven if you choose to island-hop or day trip by air or sea.

  • The ferry between Mahé and Praslin or La Digue costs between $50 to $100 one-way, depending on route and fare class

  • The ferry between Praslin and La Digue starts at $16 one-way

  • Air Seychelles flights between Mahé and Praslin average $50-70 per person, one-way

  • Zil Air Helicopter flights between Mahé and Praslin average $200-300 per person, one-way

  • Day charter and dive trip pricing varies widely depending on the vessel, itinerary, level of guidance / service, etc., but expect to spend between a few hundred to a few thousand dollars

DATE SELECTOR

WHEN TO GO

WHEN SHOULD YOU PLAN TO EXPLORE AND FOR HOW LONG?

IDEAL STAY

 

5-10 DAYS

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IDEAL SEASON

YEAR-ROUND

But, April & Nov. are arguably best.

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PLANNING TIME

 

6 MONTHS OR MORE

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The Seychelles | When To Go Guide

IDEAL STAY

We stayed for 5 days when we combined the Seychelles with Safari for our honeymoon. While this was a good fit based on our trip, we felt like we left a lot on the table and are itching to go back to see the things we missed.

 

I'd say the minimum time is 5 days, and that makes the most sense if you're combining the islands with another stop.

 

If you are doing the Seychelles as a standalone trip, I'd aim to spend closer to 10 days here. That way you make the most of the long flight and there's time to at least see the three main islands. Ideally, you'd stay on multiple islands. That might be a combo of Mahe and either La Digue or Praslin, which will let you see the biggest sights without the restrictions of the ferry, boat charters, or helicopters limiting your day trips. Alternatively, you might pick one of the inner islands and then venture out to the much more remote outer islands to see a different side of the archipelago. If you're big into diving, some of the bucket list stops require staying on a live aboard which would also require a longer stay.

IDEAL SEASON

The Seychelles is essentially a year-round destination. There are reasons to visit here no matter the season. That said, each season has its own unique combination of expected weather and best-suited activities. These are all spelled out in the chart, where you can see what fits you best. If I really had to pick, I'd say April, May, October, and November might be some of the prime months to visit the archipelago.

PLANNING

I'd recommend starting to plan your trip to the Seychelles at least 6 months out. This isn't necessarily because availability is a major problem or because it's an overly complex trip. It is a place where resort choice matters, and prices can fluctuate quite a bit depending on when you book, when you plan to go, and which resort you choose. Get your ideal pick by starting sooner rather than later.

 

If you are planning on booking during the holidays or the busy seasons or have your heart set on a specific resort, I'd pad this planning time a bit, just to be on the safe side. We booked our honeymoon ~18 months out.

LOGISTICS PLANNER

WHAT TO BOOK

WHAT PESKY DETAILS SHOULD YOU TACKLE BEFORE YOU ARRIVE?

AIRPORT

SEZ | VICTORIA, MAHE

Then may connect to another island

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TRAVEL TIME

17 HOURS
FROM NYC >> SEZ

Excl. layover

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WALKABILITY

NOT WALKABLE

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CAR NEEDS

NOT NEEDED / RECOMMENDED

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GETTING THERE

It’s certainly not quick to get to the Seychelles - multiple stops will be needed from the US - but the destination is well worth the journey. SEZ aka Victoria / Mahe is the major jumping off point for other islands. Major long-haul connection cities to SEZ include:

  • Male, Maldives (select days) - 2h

  • Mauritius - 2h 35m

  • Nairobi (select days) - 3h 15m

  • Addis Ababa - 3h 50m

  • Colombo (select days) - 4h 15m

  • Mumbai (select days) - 4h 25m

  • Dubai - 4h 35m

  • Doha - 4h 40m

  • Abu Dhabi (select days) - 4h 50m

  • Johannesburg - 4h 55m

  • Tel Aviv (seasonal) - 6h 20m

  • Istanbul (seasonal, select days) - 7h 45m

  • Moscow (seasonal, select days) - 9h 25m

  • Zurich (seasonal, select days) - 9h 30m

  • Frankfurt (seasonal, select days) - 10h

GETTING AROUND

ON THE ISLANDS

When it comes to getting around the island(s), I recommend using a driver on Mahe or Praslin. I don't recommend renting a car because it's very likely that you won't be using it that much. The roads are also windy and better navigated by a local. If for whatever reason you insist on renting a car, know that you must be at least 21 years old with at least a one-year driving license.

 

Also, consider using a bike as a mode of transport if you aren't going far. If you visit the island of La Digue (which I highly recommend), a bike will be your only option for transport since the only cars on the island are for public service. It's a fun way to tour around the laid-back island, and rentals are really easy.

BETWEEN THE ISLANDS

If you want to hop between islands (which I also highly recommend), you'll have three main options to choose from. The first is a public ferry. This is definitely the cheapest, but the route times can make it tricky if you are looking for a day-trip instead of staying overnight. You can also charter a private boat. Various speeds and sizes are available. The limiting factors here will be budget and sea conditions. Lastly, you can take a helicopter. This is a scenic and quick option but of course comes with a price tag and is also subject to weather. On our trip, we opted for a helicopter to get from Mahe to La Digue because the seas were too rough to sail but the skies were smooth.

DID YOU KNOW?


THE SEYCHELLES HAS TWO UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITES:
 

Vallee de Mai Nature Preserve - On Praslin

 

Aldabra Atoll - In the Outer Islands

LANDING GEAR

WHAT TO KNOW

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HIT THE GROUND RUNNING & AVOID AN UNNECESSARY HICCUP?

LOCAL CURRENCY

SEYCHELLOIS RUPEE

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SAFETY

 VERY LOW RISK

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PHONE

Country code: (248)

Local Emergency: Dial 999

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NEED FOR LOCAL CASH


SOMEWHAT NECESSARY

USD sometimes accepted

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LOCAL CUSTOMS

 

FEW CONSIDERATIONS

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TIME ZONE

SYC | UTC +4

8h ahead of ET (NYC) in summer (9h in winter)

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OFFICIAL LANGUAGE

ENGLISH, FRENCH, AND CREOLE

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VISAS & MORE

ADVANCED PREPARATION REQUIRED

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PLUG TYPE

TYPE G

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ENGLISH PREVALANCE


NEARLY UNIVERSALLY SPOKEN

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MEDICAL PREP

SOMETIMES REQUIRED
See below for details

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ELECTRICITY

240V / 50 Hz

US uses 110V / 60 Hz

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SPENDING

The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). As of 2023, roughly 15 SCR was equal to 1 USD.

CASH NEEDS

The demand for cash here is somewhat limited because most resorts and tourism operators will accept credit cards. If you head off the resort, the need for cash will increase. I would try to have at least some SCR on hand. USD was accepted in most places, but we learned that banks won't accept some of the older USD bills. You don't want to cause an issue for the business you are patronizing because they can't cash your currency.

TIPPING TIPS

Overall, tipping is not expected the same way it is in the US and is truly there to reward top service. Generally, you'll find a 5-10% service charge already included on your bill. If someone went above and beyond, you may consider adding an additional 5-10% to show your gratitude but this is not required.

SPEAKING

The official languages of the Seychelles are English, French, and Creole, a version of 17th century French with influences from Africans and Malagasies that is sometimes spelled Kreol. While Creole is the most commonly spoken language here, English is largely used in business and government. So many people know English that it's incredibly easy to converse here as an English speaker.

SAFETY

The Seychelles is considered very safe. The U.S. State Dept. has given the Seychelles a level 1 travel advisory (out of 4), which advises to exercise normal precautions. There are no specific safety & security concerns for the country. See more information from the U.S. State Department here: Seychelles Travel Advisory

LOCAL CUSTOMS

The culture and customs of the Seychelles will feel very familiar to any Western traveler, and there aren't any major taboos or faux pas to avoid. The people were warm and welcoming and are known for their openness.

 

If you want to understand the Seychellois culture & customs better, here are a few things you might want to know:

  • The Seychelles people are a fusion of many races & creeds including a variety of British, French, African, and Asian influences.

  • 90% of the country is Christian with Roman Catholic as the most popular denomination, but the islands have many diverse influences and other religions are well tolerated.

  • Same-sex relationships are legal in the Seychelles.

  • Some of the islands' vibrant dance and music traditions trace back to the time when the archipelago was part of the Slave Trade.

VISAS & MORE

Yes, you must file paperwork before heading to the Seychelles. The country is technically visa-free, but you need a Travel Authorization. Start the process by visiting this site: Seychelles Travel Authorization.  I also like Sherpa, which has a handy travel advisory map, to know what visa & health requirements exist for everywhere you are going.

 

To complete your travel authorization, you will need the following:

  • A passport valid for the duration of your stay with at least 1 blank page

  • Proof of onward / return travel

  • Confirmed accommodation bookings for entirety of stay or an invitation letter if staying with friends or family

  • Valid travel insurance

MEDICAL PREP

You may need to prep with your doctor before going to the Seychelles.

 

Start by checking online at the US Embassy. I also like Sherpa, which has a handy travel advisory map, to know what visa & health requirements exist. Make sure you put in everywhere you are going, especially in Africa, because requirements can change if you have visited some regions. Then schedule an appointment with your doctor. You may want to consider a travel health specialist since not all practices are versed in the latest requirements and carry all the relevant vaccines.

 

Generally, there are no compulsory vaccines (that is unless you are traveling from a yellow-fever country), and the Seychelles is Malaria-free. If you are coming from safari, you'll need a yellow fever vaccine, which is good for life. Some other vaccines may be recommended but depend on your individual risk assessment and preference.

 

Regarding COVID, the requirements are constantly changing, be sure to check all official government requirements. Again, Sherpa is a helpful place to start, but I would triple-check against both the Seychelles' official site and the US Embassy. Since traveling post-COVID, I've experienced a case or two where even official sources have had conflicting info as requirements evolved. Better to be safe than sorry!

PHONE

Country code: (+248)

Local emergency: Dial 999

U.S. Embassy (in Mauritius): +(230) 202-4400
U.S. Embassy Emergency Line (in Mauritius): +(230) 202-4400, press one (1) after the automated greeting

ELECTRICITY

Type G (240V / 50Hz)

For reference: 

  • US uses 110V / 60Hz and plug types A (2-prong) and B (3-prong)

  • UK uses 230V / 50Hz and plug type G

  • Most of continental Europe uses 230V / 50Hz and plug types C, E, & F

If your device is not dual-voltage (usually phones & laptops are - but hair tools are problematic), make sure to use a converter / transformer, NOT just an adapter. AND make sure your converter has a high enough power rating for your device. An adapter just makes the plug fit in the wall, but it doesn't change the voltage.

SUITCASE PACKER

WHAT TO BRING

TOP PACKING TIPS

PACK FOR THE TROPICS

Choose clothing made from breathable, lightweight fabrics that will transition from warm, sunny days to breezy nights.

RESIST THE URGE TO OVERPACK

You honestly won't need much more than a few resort outfits, swimsuits, and sandals, so resist the urge to overpack.

LEVERAGE RESORT RESOURCES

To pack even lighter, check with resort for anything they provide. Some will have tote bags, hats, sunscreen, snorkel gear, yoga gear, etc. available for you to use, so you can leave these items behind.

THINK ABOUT ANY OTHER STOPS YOU'RE MAKING

If you are following in the footsteps of our honeymoon and also heading out on safari, packing for the Seychelles will be the easy part. Safari, on the other hand, is a much trickier trip to pack for and comes with weight restrictions. Check out my safari packing tips, and keep your gear for the islands extra light.

DON'T FORGET
  • REEF-SAFE SUNSCREEN | Protect the coral and use reef-safe sunscreen! Chemicals including oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, and nano-particles can all harm reefs.

  • SHAWL OR CARDIGAN | No matter how hot is is during the day, I always get chilly at night, especially when dining al fresco. A shawl or cardigan is a life-saver!

  • SWIM & SUN GEAR | Pack plenty of swimsuits & sun gear, including hats, sandals, and cover-ups, because this is what you'll wear most of the time.

  • GOPRO & BUBBLE | If you will be getting out under the water, a GoPro is a must! Capture all the fish below and the sunny skies above with a split-view bubble.

LEAVE BEHIND
  • REALLY FORMAL CLOTHES | Nothing in the Seychelles is all that fancy - I brought sundresses that could double for dinner when paired with nicer jewelry & shoes.

  • SINGLE-USE PLASTICS | Leave behind plastics, especially plastic bags. The Seychelles even has official restrictions on single-use plastics to protect the environment.

  • BULKY GEAR | Our resort a whole host of complimentary items to use - from tote bags for the beach to everything for water sports.

  • ELECTRONICS | The whole point of coming to the Seychelles is to unplug, besides your camera and perhaps a kindle, you really don't need any extra electronics.

WHAT'S IN MY BAG

All photos in "What's in my Bag" Gallery: PTO Travel Pro*

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Seychelles Destination Guide
Seychelles Destination Guide
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