Explore Seychelles

Welcome to the Seychelles, a tropical island paradise in the heart of the Indian Ocean. This idyllic country comprises 115 granite and coral islands located between 480 and 1,600km from Africa’s east coast. There are 41 “inner” granite islands and a further 74 low-lying coral islets. Known for its picture-perfect, palm-fringed pristine beaches and azure waters, Seychelles is an exotic and beautiful destination that offers an unforgettable escape! Each island is a place like no other, with its own distinct character, history, ethnicity, culture and architecture. Seychelles is about the diversity of activities and all that there is to discover – deep-sea fishing, island hopping, diving and snorkelling, eco-tourism, hiking, spa and wellness, golf. This is an island paradise where massive granite boulders are scattered alongside powder-soft sandy beaches, where more than 1,000 endemic species of flora and fauna are protected in lush nature reserves, and where a melting-pot of influences has shaped a unique and welcoming Creole culture. The archipelago is a haven for snorkeling, diving, fishing and many other watersports.  This small island nation boasts the highest protected landmass in the world – 48% of the islands’ surface area and an additional 32% of its marine territory is protected!

Key airlines operating flights to the Seychelles include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Kenya Airways, offering connections from hubs like Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, and Nairobi. Air Seychelles, the national carrier, also provides flights to regional destinations such as Mauritius, South Africa, and India. Seasonal charter flights and other carriers like Condor and Edelweiss Air bring visitors from Europe.

From Mahé, visitors transfer to other islands in the archipelago via light aircraft, helicopter, sea planes or ferries. Each mode of transport has its own charm, ensuring your island-hopping adventure is as memorable as the destination itself. 

Money: The local currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR), although Euros and US$ are widely accepted. Most banks are open from 08h30 – 16h30 Mondays – Fridays. Banks are usually closed on Saturdays and Sundays.  Credit cards (in particular MasterCard and Visa) are widely accepted .

Language: The main language is Seychellois Creole (Seselwa). French and English are also widely spoken.

Food & Drink: The food and drink in Seychelles is a fusion of favours from many cultures, including African, French, Indian and Chinese. Because of its location in the Indian Ocean, fresh fish and seafoods are prominent staples here, often accompanied with rice. Fish dishes are cooked in several ways, such as steamed, grilled, wrapped in banana leaves, baked, salted and smoked. Aromatic spices and curry dishes are also a significant aspect of the country’s cuisine.

Palm wine, rum and local beer (Seybrew and Eku) are popular alcoholic drinks in Seychelles. 

Dress: Seychelles is a conservative country. Dress is generally informal, but modest. Please be mindful when visiting small villages or interacting with locals. Pack plenty of beachwear – swim suits, sarongs, sandals, natural fibre loose fitting dresses, shirts and shorts.

Travelling Around the Seychelles

Island hopping in the Seychelles is relatively easy, thanks to well-established transportation options designed to cater to both locals and tourists. However, because the  archipelago is spread across a vast area of ocean, your itinerary and the appropriate choice of transport needs to be well considered. Ferries, domestic scheduled flights, charter flights and helicopter transfers, private motor boats and yachts and sea planes are all available. Each island has its own unique appeal and many visitors choose to have a two-island vacation to enjoy the very different natural beauty and atmospheres.