Welcome to Seychelles 😊

Quick Facts About Seychelles

Money and Finances

The currency used in Seychelles is the Seychellois rupee (SCR). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents, as well as 1 and 5 rupees. Notes come in denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 rupees.

ATM Network

ATMs are available in Seychelles, especially in main towns like Victoria. However, it is advisable to carry enough cash as ATMs may not always be operational or may run out of cash.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Seychelles and are fairly easy to use. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards. However, American Express is not accepted as widely as the other two.

Internet and Phones

The average internet speed for uploads and downloads in Seychelles is around 4.8 Mbps. The Seychelles government does not interfere with internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The major telco companies in Seychelles are Airtel and Cable & Wireless. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around 200 SCR (14 USD) per month. There are no sim compatibility issues in Seychelles.

Dialling to Seychelles

To call Seychelles from another country, dial +248 followed by the desired number. When dialling within Seychelles, use the area code 4 followed by the desired number.

Transport Around Seychelles

Air Travel

Seychelles International Airport is the main airport in Seychelles, located on the island of Mahe. There are also smaller airports on Praslin and La Digue islands.

Train Travel

There is no inter-city train network in Seychelles.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no local train network in Seychelles.

Buses

Seychelles has a bus network on Mahe and Praslin, with ticket prices ranging from SCR 5 to SCR 15. Journey times vary depending on the route.

Rideshare

Uber is not available in Seychelles, however, there are local rideshare companies such as eCars and Grab A Ride, with average prices ranging from SCR 50 to SCR 150 depending on the distance.

Driving by Car

Driving in Seychelles is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are 40km/h in urban areas, 65km/h on highways, and 80km/h on expressways. It is relatively easy to drive in Seychelles, with roads on Mahe and Praslin well-maintained and signposted. However, roads on some of the outer islands may be more challenging to navigate.

Local Customs

In Seychelles, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to shake hands with locals as a greeting. Bowing is not a common practice. Seychellois are friendly and speak to strangers with kindness. Men and women generally address each other using their first names or titles if known.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Seychelles has a national public health system, as well as private healthcare options. Medical services are generally affordable and the quality of care is good. A typical visit to the doctor can cost around USD 50-75, but emergency services may be more expensive. It is recommended that visitors have comprehensive travel insurance.

COVID Situation

Seychelles responded well to the COVID-19 pandemic, with strict measures put in place early on. As of August 2021, the country has a low number of active cases and has reopened to international visitors with specific health requirements. Visitors must have a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of travel and must follow specific entry protocols.

Common Health Risks

Seychelles has a moderate risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and chikungunya. Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing. Food and water hygiene can be a concern, so it is recommended to only drink bottled water and avoid eating street food. Sunburn and dehydration can also be risks, so it is important to wear sunscreen and stay well hydrated.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol is legal and widely available in Seychelles. The legal drinking age is 18 years old.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use, including cannabis and other party drugs, is illegal in Seychelles and can result in severe penalties.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws affecting pre-marital relationships in Seychelles.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

While homosexuality is legal in Seychelles, it is not widely accepted in the country and discrimination against LGBTQ individuals still exists. Same-sex marriage is not legal.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are heavily regulated in Seychelles and licenses are required for possession. The use of firearms in public is strictly prohibited.