Discover where to stay, what to do, when to go, how to stay safe, and ways to save money in paradise. Jump directly to details.
Overview: Why Seychelles Captivates Every Traveler
Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, celebrated for its turquoise waters, palm-lined beaches, and coral reefs teeming with life.
I first visited Seychelles in late 2024 and was struck by how the islands balance luxury travel with untouched natural beauty. Whether you dream of snorkeling among giant tortoises or simply sunbathing on powdery white beaches, Seychelles offers a dreamlike escape for solo travelers, couples, and families alike.
Key Takeaways
- Seychelles’ best travel months: April–May and October–November for ideal weather and calm seas.
- Local currency: Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted.
- Average daily cost: Budget travelers spend about $70; mid-range travelers, about $150; luxury travelers, $350–$700 per day.
- Safety rating: Very safe destination for travelers; petty theft is rare but possible.
- Visa-free entry for most nationalities for up to 90 days.
Top Things to See and Do in Seychelles
From iconic beaches to lush forests, Seychelles has no shortage of stunning spots. Below are my top recommendations based on personal visits and local advice.
Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue
Often listed among the world’s most photographed beaches, Anse Source d’Argent features pink granite boulders and shallow lagoons ideal for wading. Arrive early in the morning for fewer crowds and the best light for photos. Visit through the Seychelles the Seychelles the Seychellois board.
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, Praslin
A UNESCO World Heritage site where you can see the legendary coco de mer palm. It’s often called the “Garden of Eden.” Guided tours cost about 350 SCR (around 25 USD). The park is open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily.
Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahé
The island’s largest national park covers over 20% of Mahé. Hiking to Mission Lodge Lookout offers sweeping views of the west coast. Pack water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for the humid climb.
How to Get to Seychelles
The main entry point is Seychelles International Airport (Aéroport de La Pointe Larue) near Victoria on Mahé. Flights operate from Dubai, Doha, Nairobi, and major European hubs. Air Seychelles also connects the principal islands with 15-minute flights to Praslin or La Digue.
When to Go: Optimal Seasons for Every Traveler
Seychelles is a year-round destination, but two shoulder seasons give the best balance of weather and price. April–May and October–November sit between trade winds, creating calm waters perfect for diving and swimming. Rainfall peaks between December and February, though showers are brief and often followed by clear skies.
Where to Stay: From Local Guesthouses to Beachfront Luxury
You’ll find everything from family-run bungalows to resort chains. I stayed at a locally owned island guesthouse on Praslin and found it both affordable and authentic.
Budget Stay: La Villa Therese, Anse Royale (Mahé)
Clean studios with full kitchens and easy beach access. Rates from about 95 USD per night. Visit the website.
Mid-Range: Le Domaine de La Réserve, Praslin
Spacious rooms facing Curieuse Island. Great for couples seeking value with comfort. Around 250 USD per night. Book online.
Luxury Escape: Four Seasons Resort, Mahé
Stunning hillside villas with infinity pools and ocean panoramas. Expect rates from 1,400 USD per night. Explore the resort.
Typical Costs and Suggested Budgets
Even though Seychelles is often considered expensive, careful planning makes it accessible to more travelers. Here’s what you can expect per day:
- Budget: $60–$90 (guesthouse stay, local takeaway meals, public buses).
- Mid-range: $150–$250 (hotel + mixed dining).
- Luxury: $400+ (private resorts, guided tours, gourmet dining).
Use this live currency tool to check current conversion rates.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book inter-island ferries in advance through Cat Cocos.
- Buy SIM cards at the airport instead of at hotels for cheaper data plans.
- Dine like a local at beachside “takeaway” stalls; you’ll enjoy plates of fish curry for around 60 SCR ($5).
- Opt for self-catering stays to save on meals.
How to Get Around
Public buses on Mahé and Praslin are efficient and inexpensive, costing just 7 SCR per ride. Taxis are metered but pricey, so consider renting a car (about $50 per day). Ferries connect Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue daily.
For schedules, visit the SeyFerry Official Website.
Tours and Experiences Worth Doing
- Island Hopping Tour (Mahé, Praslin, La Digue): Full-day packages cost around $120 and include lunch and snorkeling stops.
- Private Diving Trip with Blue Sea Divers (Mahé): From $90 per dive.
- Curieuse Island Tour to see giant Aldabra tortoises.
Staying Safe in Seychelles
Seychelles is one of the safest countries in Africa, but always practice basic precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended at the beach, especially on Mahé. Swimming conditions are usually calm, though some western beaches have strong undertows during June–September. Always heed local flag warnings.
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 151
- Fire Service: 999
- Tourism Hotline: +248 4 611 000 (information@seychelles.travel)
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Visa-free entry for most visitors.
- Pristine natural landscapes and coral reefs.
- Low crime rates and friendly locals.
- Great mobile network and tourist infrastructure.
Cons
- High accommodation and dining costs.
- Limited nightlife beyond Victoria and resort zones.
- Occasional heavy humidity in rainy months.
Ideal Trip Length
I recommend at least 7–10 days to experience Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue without rushing. Shorter stays are possible but you’ll miss the relaxed island pace that defines Seychelles life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Seychelles safe for solo travelers?
Yes, solo travelers—especially women—find Seychelles safe. Locals are polite and helpful, and violent crime is extremely rare.
Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?
No. Most nationalities receive free entry for up to 90 days upon arrival, though proof of accommodation and onward travel may be requested.
What currency should I bring?
Bring USD or EUR for exchange, but use Seychellois Rupees for local shopping. Cards are widely accepted in hotels and most restaurants.
Best island for first-time visitors?
Mahé combines accessibility with a mix of beaches, hikes, and local culture, making it the perfect starting point for first-timers.
Can I drink tap water in Seychelles?
Tap water is treated but often has a mineral taste. It’s safe for brushing teeth; most travelers opt for bottled or filtered water for drinking.
