Seychelles Guide
Know Before You Go...®
The Seychelles, a stunning archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is celebrated for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique natural beauty. With 115 islands, it offers a blend of tropical forests, granite formations, and vibrant marine ecosystems. Known for its biodiversity, the Seychelles is home to rare species like the giant Aldabra tortoise and the coco de mer palm. Visitors can enjoy world-class diving, hiking trails, or simply relax in luxurious resorts. Rich in Creole culture, the islands provide a unique mix of tradition and modernity, making the Seychelles an ideal destination for adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable experiences.
Why Seychelles?
- Seychelles is the smallest African country.
- Seychelles is made up of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean.
- The islands of Seychelles are home to the world's smallest frog, the Seychelles Scrub Frog.
- Seychelles is the only country in the world to have two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- The national bird of Seychelles is the Black Parrot.
History
The Seychelles, a remote archipelago in the Indian Ocean, has a history as intriguing as its natural beauty. Uninhabited for most of human history, the islands were first visited by Arab traders and later charted by Portuguese explorers in the early 16th century. The Seychelles remained unclaimed until the French took control in the mid-18th century, naming the islands after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, a French finance minister. Under French rule, the islands became a hub for spice plantations, worked by enslaved laborers brought from Africa.
In 1814, following the Napoleonic Wars, the Seychelles were ceded to the British as part of the Treaty of Paris. British influence shaped the islands’ development, particularly through the abolition of slavery in the 1830s and the subsequent introduction of indentured laborers from India and China. The diverse origins of its people created the unique Creole culture that defines the Seychelles today.
Gaining independence in 1976, the Seychelles became a republic within the Commonwealth. Over the decades, the islands transitioned from an agricultural economy to a global tourism hotspot, renowned for their biodiversity and luxury appeal. Despite its small size, the Seychelles’ history reflects a rich blend of cultures and resilience against colonial challenges.
Transportation on Seychelles
Getting to Seychelles and getting around. Our transportation tips will
help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.
Entry Documents
- Passport valid for the duration of the stay.
- A visitor’s permit is issued on arrival for most nationalities, valid for 30 days, with proof of accommodation and return or onward travel required.
Departure Tax
A departure tax of €50 (~$53) is included in most airline tickets. Confirm with your carrier.
Driving
- Driving License: Foreign licenses are valid for up to three months; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.
- Driving Side: Left.
- Roads: Generally well-maintained but narrow and winding, especially on Mahé and Praslin islands.
- Speed Limits: Typically 40 km/h (25 mph) in urban areas and 65 km/h (40 mph) on main roads.
- Traffic Rules: Be cautious of sharp turns, steep hills, and pedestrians. Parking is available in towns but can be limited during busy hours.
Local Transportation
Local transportation in the Seychelles is practical and suited to its island geography. On the main islands of Mahé and Praslin, buses provide an affordable and reliable way to get around, covering major routes and attractions. Taxis are available but can be costly, with fares typically negotiated in advance. Rental cars are a popular choice for exploring at your own pace, particularly on Mahé. On smaller islands, bicycles and golf carts are common modes of transport. Ferries and catamarans connect the main islands, while private boats and domestic flights provide access to more remote locations. Walking is convenient in compact towns and villages.
Know Before You Go...® - Seychelles Travel Tips
Before making their way to Seychelles , vacationers like
to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a
look at our travel tips to make your time in villas
in Seychelles even more relaxing.
| Capital: |
Victoria (located on Mahé Island) |
| Population: |
100,000 (estimated) |
| Size: |
176 square miles (spread across 115 islands) |
| Electric Current: |
240 |
| Time: |
Timezone: +04, 2025-04-29 22:58:39
(GMT Offset: 4 hours, DST: No) |
| Official Language: |
The official languages of the Seychelles are English, French, and Seychellois Creole. English is widely spoken and used in business, government, and tourism, making communication easy for international visitors. |
| Currency: |
- The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR).
- ATMs are available in larger towns and on the main islands like Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.
- Major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted at hotels, resorts, and larger establishments. Cash may be needed for smaller businesses, local markets, and transport.
- US Dollars (USD) and Euros (EUR) are also widely accepted in tourist areas.
|
| Tipping and Taxes: |
- Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. A 10% service charge is often included in restaurant and hotel bills. Additional tips are welcome for exceptional service.
- VAT (Value Added Tax) of 15% is applied to most goods and services.
|
| Dress Code: |
The Seychelles has a relaxed and tropical dress code. Lightweight, casual clothing is ideal for the warm climate. Swimwear is appropriate at beaches and pools but should not be worn in towns or villages. Modest attire is recommended when visiting cultural or religious sites. |
| Topography: |
The Seychelles is known for its dramatic granite boulders, white-sand beaches, lush tropical forests, and crystal-clear waters. Its islands range from mountainous interiors, like those on Mahé and Praslin, to flat coral atolls. |
| Telephone: |
* Country code: +248
* Area codes are not used; phone numbers are six digits.
* Mobile and internet networks are reliable on the main islands, with Wi-Fi services available in most accommodations. |
Seychelles Weddings and Honeymoons
In the Seychelles, getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.
Application: Apply for a marriage license at the Civil Status Office in Victoria, Seychelles, at least 11 days before the wedding. If applying with less notice, an expedited process can be arranged for an additional fee.
Required documents include:
- Valid passports.
- Birth certificates.
- Affidavit of freedom to marry or marital status certificate (obtained from your embassy if foreign nationals).
- A divorce decree or death certificate from a previous marriage (if applicable).
- Copies of passports for witnesses.
Translation and Certification: Any non-English documents must be translated into English or French and certified.
Ceremony: Civil ceremonies are conducted by a registrar and are legally binding. Couples may also opt for a religious ceremony, but this must follow the civil marriage.
Registration: After the ceremony, an official marriage certificate is issued.
Costs: The standard marriage registration fee is around €220. Additional costs may apply for expedited services, translations, and officiants at private venues.
Optional Religious or Beach Ceremony: Can be arranged in addition to the civil marriage. Beachfront and resort ceremonies are popular and may include local traditions for an additional fee.
