Question 1

Do I need a visa to visit Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

No visa is required for stays up to 30 days for select nationalities. All visitors must complete the mandatory digital Travel Authorization (TA) online before arrival. On arrival, visitors receive a Visitor’s Permit (free for the first 30 days, extendable for a fee). Immigration reserves the right to deny entry.

Question 2

Do I need a visa to travel to Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

No, Seychelles offers visa-free entry for most nationalities. Upon arrival, you will need to provide proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for your stay, and onward or return travel arrangements.

Question 3

What vaccinations are required for Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

No mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Seychelles, unless you are arriving from or transiting through a yellow fever endemic country, in which case proof of vaccination is needed. Routine travel vaccines (such as hepatitis A and B, and typhoid) are recommended.

Question 4

Is Seychelles safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Seychelles is considered very safe for visitors. Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, so it’s best to take normal precautions and avoid leaving valuables unattended, but overall the islands are welcoming and safe for tourists.

Question 5

Is there malaria in Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

No, there is no malaria in the Seychelles. The islands are malaria-free, so travellers don’t need to take anti-malarial medication. However, mosquitoes are present, especially in the more humid months, so it’s wise to bring insect repellent to protect against bites.

Question 6

What currency is used in Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops, while euros and US dollars are also commonly used for accommodation, tours, and activities. Carrying some rupees is helpful for taxis, markets, and smaller purchases.

Question 7

When is the best time to visit the Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

The best time to travel to the Seychelles is from April to May and October to November, when the islands experience calmer weather between the trade winds. During these months, the sea is clear and gentle, making it perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkelling. The temperatures remain warm year-round, but the transition periods offer especially pleasant conditions for enjoying the beaches and exploring the islands without the stronger winds or heavier rains of other seasons.

Question 8

What is the tipping etiquette in the Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

Tipping in the Seychelles is not mandatory, as a service charge of around 5–10% is usually included in hotel, restaurant, and bar bills. That said, it’s common practice to leave a little extra for good service; rounding up the bill or adding a few Seychelles rupees is always appreciated. For porters, a polite gesture of SCR 10–20 per bag is acceptable, while for drivers or guides, a tip of SCR 50–100 per person is considered fair for longer transfers or full-day excursions. Hotel staff, such as housekeeping, are also grateful for a small daily tip. Overall, tipping is seen as a way of showing appreciation rather than an obligation, and even modest amounts are warmly received.

Question 9

How long should I stay in Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

Some of the best Seychelles trips last around a week, which allows time to see Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue without rushing. With 10–12 days, travellers can enjoy slower island-hopping, diving trips, or longer stays in luxury resorts. Shorter visits of 3–5 nights are also possible, especially as a relaxing add-on after a safari.

Question 10

What are some of the best things to do in Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

Some of the best things to do in Seychelles include island-hopping between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, each offering a different experience of beaches and landscapes.

Snorkelling, diving, and sailing showcase vibrant coral reefs and hidden coves, while hiking in Morne Seychellois National Park rewards with breathtaking views.

Visitors can also explore the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai, cycle around La Digue, and encounter giant tortoises on the island of Curieuse.

Question 11

How can I combine Seychelles with other African destinations?

Accepted Answer

Seychelles is a perfect post-safari retreat, especially after East Africa, with direct flights from Nairobi and Dar es Salaam. Many travellers also pair Seychelles with South Africa, combining Cape Town or Kruger National Park with time on the islands. Mauritius and the Maldives are alternative destinations for travellers seeking additional island-hopping experiences.

Question 12

What language is spoken in Seychelles?

Accepted Answer

The Seychelles has three official languages: Seychellois Creole (Kreol Seselwa), English, and French. Creole is the most widely spoken in daily life and reflects the islands’ unique cultural blend, while English is the main language of government, business, and education. French is also common, especially in media and cultural contexts. Most Seychellois are multilingual, so travellers will find it easy to communicate in English, with Creole adding a warm local touch to the experience.

Raffles Seychelles

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