The Republic of Seychelles comprises 115 islands occupying a land area of 455 km² and an Exclusive Economic Zone of 1.4 million km² in the western Indian Ocean.  It represents an archipelago of legendary beauty that extends from between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator and which lies between 480km and 1,600km from the east coast of Africa.

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ABOUT SEYCHELLES ISLANDS

The Republic of Seychelles comprises 115 islands occupying a land area of 455 km² and an Exclusive Economic Zone of 1.4 million km² in the western Indian Ocean.  It represents an archipelago of legendary beauty that extends from between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator and which lies between 480km and 1,600km from the east coast of Africa.

Of these 115 islands, 41 constitute the oldest mid-oceanic granite islands on earth while a further 74 form the low-lying coral atolls and reef islands of the Outer Islands.  The granitic islands of the Seychelles archipelago cluster around the main island of Mahé, home to the international airport and the capital, Victoria, and its satellites Praslin and La Digue.  Together, these Inner Islands form the cultural and economic hub of the nation and contain the majority of Seychelles’ tourism facilities as well as its most stunning beaches.

Geography

Seychelles’ 115 granite and coral islands extend from between 4 and 10 degrees south of the equator and lie between 480km and 1,600km from the east coast of Africa in the western Indian Ocean.

This Indian Ocean republic occupies a land area of 455 km² and an Exclusive Economic Zone of 1.4 million km².  It represents an archipelago of timeless beauty, tranquillity and harmony that is famous for its world-beating beaches and for its great diversity which rolls from lush forests down to the warm azure ocean.

Of these 115 islands, 41 Inner Islands constitute the oldest mid-oceanic granite islands on earth while a further 74 form the 5 groups of low-lying coral atolls and reef islets that are the Outer Islands.

Seychelles is home to no less than two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the legendary Vallée de Mai on Praslin where the wondrously shaped Coco-de-mer nut grows high on ancient palms and fabled Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll, first seen by early Arab seafarers of the 9^th century A.D.

Seychelles, one of the world’s very last frontiers, promises adventure and breathtaking natural beauty in pristine surrounds still untouched by man.

Climate

Seychelles’ enviable climate is always warm and without extremes.  In this tropical haven the temperature seldom drops below 24°C or rises above 32°C.  All but the remotest southern islands lie comfortably outside the cyclone belt making Seychelles’ a year round destination for sun worshippers and beach lovers.

During the north-west trade winds that visit between the months of October and March, the sea is generally calm and the weather warm and humid, with average winds of 8-12 knots.

In January and February the islands receive their life-giving rains, rejuvenating the rivers and streams and teasing the vibrant foliage into rainbows of colour.

The months between May and September bring drier, cooler weather, and livelier seas - particularly on south-eastern coasts – and winds of 10-20 knots.

History

Seychelles is a comparatively young nation which can trace its first settlement back to 1770 when the islands were first settled by the French, leading a small party of whites, Indians and Africans.  The islands remained in French hands until the defeat of Napoleon at Waterloo, evolving from humble beginnings to attain a population of 3,500 by the time Seychelles was ceded to Britain under the treaty of Paris in 1814.

During this period Seychelles came to know the enlightened policies of administrators such as Pierre Poivre, the brilliant politicking of Governor Queau de Quinssy and, of course, the terrible repercussions of the French Revolution.

Under the British, Seychelles achieved a population of some 7,000 by the year 1825.  Important estates were established during this time producing coconut, food crops, cotton and sugar cane.  During this period Seychelles also saw the establishment of Victoria as her capital, the exile of numerous and colourful troublemakers from the Empire, the devastation caused by the famous Avalanche of 1862 and the economic repercussions of the abolition of slavery.

Seychelles achieved independence from Britain in 1976 and became a republic within the commonwealth.  Following a period of single party rule by the government of Mr. France Albert René, on December 4, 1991, President René announced a return to the multiparty system of government, 1993 saw the first multiparty presidential and legislative elections held under a new constitution in which President René was victorious.  President René also won the 1998 and 2003 elections before transferring the Presidency to James Alix Michel in June 2004.

Society

In the evolution of its society, Seychelles has remained faithful to its multi-ethnic roots.  For over two centuries, the islands have remained a melting pot of different races, traditions and religions from the four corners of the earth.

Inspired by its grand diversity of cultural influences, ethnic diversity with racial harmony remain the mainstays of today’s vibrant yet tranquil Creole nation for which harmony is a way of life.

Government

The Republic of Seychelles has a multi-party political system with an executive President as head of state and government.  The President heads a Cabinet of 10 ministers which includes the Vice-President.

In April 2004 Mr. James Alix Michel replaced Mr. France Albert René as President after Mr. Rene had been in office since 1977.  The Vice President is currently Mr. Joseph Belmont.  The First Designated Minister is Mr. Danny Faure, who is also the Minister of Finance.

Legislative power is vested in a National Assembly of 34 members of whom 25 are elected directly in constituencies with the balance on proportional basis based on the results of the National Assembly elections.

The Seychelles People’s Progressive Front (SPPF), currently led by former President Mr. France Albert René, holds 23 seats in the Assembly.

The main opposition party, the Seychelles National Party (SNP, previously known as the United Opposition) holds the other 11seats.  SNP is headed by Rev. Wavel Ramkalawan.

The other main political party (not currently represented in the National Assembly) is the Democratic Party (DP), headed by Mr. Paul Chow.

The Republic of Seychelles is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, the Commonwealth and La Francophonie.  It has embassies in Paris and New York as well as numerous honorary consulates worldwide.

People

Today, the 81,000 strong Seychellois population continues to reflect its multi-ethnic roots.  Traditionally, the islands have attracted a broad diversity of peoples from the four corners of the earth that has included freed slaves, European settlers, political exiles, adventurers, traders of Arab and Persian origin as well as Chinese and Indians.  Practically every nation on earth has been represented in this melting pot of cultures, each one contributing its special influence to today’s vibrant yet tranquil society.

Language

There are three official languages in Seychelles: Creole (a lilting, French-based patois), English and French.  Many Seychellois also speak fluent Italian or German.

Below are some useful Creole phrases:

Religion

Roman Catholicism remains the dominant religion of Seychelles but there are also Anglican and Protestant churches and the places of worship of other denominations.  These live in harmony alongside, Muslim, Hindu and Bahá’i communities based on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

Culture

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colourful blend of peoples of different races, cultures and religions.  At different times in its history, people of African, European and Asian origin have come to Seychelles, bringing with them their distinct traditions and customs and contributing to the way of life and to the vibrant Seychellois culture.

One can see these influences at work throughout the domains of local art, cuisine, music, dance and architecture.

The architectural design of some of the grand old houses with their steep roofs are representative of a style adapted for comfortable living in the tropics that displays influences from Seychelles’ French and British colonial heritage.  Modern architecture attempts to assimilate traditional styles with practical features designed to capture the island breezes.

Local artists continue to exhibit diverse styles that echo the multi-ethnic backdrop of the islands and bear testament to the various influences which have come to bear.  Creole music and dance have their roots in African, Malagasy and European cultures with rhythms traditionally accompanied by simple drums and string instruments which, today, include such recent imports as the violin and guitar.

The traditional moutya is an erotic dance derived from the days of slavery and still features today, together with the sega with its colourful lyrics; the kanmtole, reminiscent of a country reel, and the Kontredanse, an import from the French court.

Architecture

Seychelles’ architecture is at once distinctive in its style and practical in its design.  It clearly illustrates the influences of its colonial past and combines these with practical considerations such as steep roofs to shoot the rain, wide verandas to make the most of a climate that encourages outdoor living as well as features to make the most of the island breezes.

Traditionally, Seychellois houses featured an outside kitchen so that the racy aromas of the cuisine did not invade the living space.

Seychelles’ colonial past is seen in the competition between wealthy land and plantation owners to create the most opulent approach to their dwelling, often culminating in stately stairs on four sides.

Originally, many houses would have been roofed with thatch from the coconut plantations but, for practical and novelty reasons, these gave way to corrugated iron sheeting when that became available.

Many of the nation’s smaller houses imitate to a greater or lesser extent these design features with early wooden panelling increasingly giving way to concrete.

Art

For such a small country, Seychelles has a vibrant art scene that encompasses painters, sculptors, writers and poets, artisans of many types, musicians and dancers.

Painters have traditionally taken inspiration from the richness of Seychelles’ natural beauty to produce a wide range of works using mediums ranging from water-colours to oils, acrylics, collages, metals, aluminium, wood, fabrics, gouache, varnishes, recycled materials, pastels, charcoal, embossing, etching, and giclee prints.  Local sculptors produce fine works in wood, stone, bronze and cartonnage.

Local writers and poets have also used the magnificent backdrop of Seychelles as the inspiration for historical accounts, fascinating works documenting the social history of the islands and its people and collections of short stories and poems that evoke the passions of island living.

Throughout Seychelles, there are many artisans producing works of art that are as varied and diverse as their surrounds and which include stained glass, products made from coconut shell, husk, seashells and corals, clothing, gold, silver and other forms of jewellery, recycled materials, fibres, bamboo, metal and pottery.

Music and dance have always played a prominent role in Seychelles culture and in all types of local festivities.  Rooted in African, Malagasy and European cultures, music is played to the accompaniment of drums such as the Tambour and Tam-Tam and simple string instruments.  The violin and guitar are relatively recent foreign imports which play a prominent role in today’s music.

The lively Sega dance with its elegant hip-swaying and shuffling of the feet is still popular as is the traditional Moutya, a mysterious, erotic dance dating back to the days of slavery when it was often used as an outlet for strong emotions and as a way of expressing discontent.

Kanmtole is a foreign dance import, accompanied by banjos, accordion, violin and triangle and reminiscent of a Scottish reel while the Kontredance with its intricate movements has its origins in the French court and is danced to the strains of banjo, triangle and to the instructions of the ‘Komander’ or Commander who calls the sets.

Several groups of traditional dancers perform at local functions as do modern groups playing jazz, reggae, country & western, hip-hop, ballads and classic rock.  Several choirs exist singing traditional hymns and promoting choral music with a repertoire that includes sacred, secular, gospel and folk pieces.

Cuisine & Recipes

Echoing the grand assortment of people who populate Seychelles, Creole cuisine features the subtleties and nuances of French cooking, the exoticism of Indian dishes and the piquant flavours of the Orient.  Grilled fish or octopus basted with a sauce of crushed chillies, ginger and garlic are national favourites as are a variety of delicious curries lovingly prepared with coconut milk and innovative chatinis made from local fruits such as papaya and golden apple.  As may be expected, seafood dishes feature predominantly in the local cuisine, appearing alongside the national staple, rice.

Some restaurants specialise in Indian, Chinese or Italian food and many feature popular international and specialist dishes.

Folklore

Before finding a mouthpiece in television, radio broadcasts and through the written word, folklore in Seychelles relied much on oral tradition for its dissemination.

Over the years it has traditionally, revolved around certain familiar characters such as ‘Soungula’, renowned for his cleverness and resourcefulness in solving life’s problems as well as other colourful personalities such as Bro Zako, Kader, Tizan and Kousoupa.

Certain popular fables and stories still do the rounds, dating back to those days before television when there was little in the way of popular entertainment and these remain mediums for providing an audience with insights as to the correct way to live, island-style.

The Islands

Seychelles’ 115 islands fall under two distinct groups.  The tall granite, Inner Islands cluster mainly within the relatively shallow Seychelles’ plateau, 4˚ south of the equator and roughly 1800 km. distant from the east coast of Africa while the low-lying coralline cays, atolls and reef islands of the Outer Islands lie mainly beyond the plateau up to 10˚ south of the equator.

These Outer Islands are divided into five groups: the Amirantes group lying 230km distant from Mahé, the Southern Coral Group, Alphonse Group, Farquhar Group and finally the Aldabra Group, some 1150km from Mahé.

There are 43 Inner Islands in all -- 41 granitic and 2 coralline and a total of 72 coralline Outer Islands.

Inner Islands

The Inner Islands which are mostly granitic, cluster mainly around the principal islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, forming the cultural and economic hub of Seychelles, as well as the centre of its tourism industry.  Together they are home to the majority of Seychelles’ accommodation facilities as well almost the entire population of the archipelago.  There are 43 Inner islands in total – 41 granitic and 2 coralline.

Outer Islands

The Outer Islands are those situated beyond the Seychelles plateau.  They comprise 72 low-lying sand cays and atolls lying anywhere between 230km and 1150km from Mahé.  Less visited than their granitic cousins due to their relative remoteness, these pristine miniature worlds, some little more than sand spits or lonely rocky outcrops, offer untouched habitats for many species of wildlife.

Only two islands among the Outer Island groups, namely Alphonse and Desroches, currently offer accommodation facilities.  They boast luxuriously appointed lodges as well as unparalleled opportunities for sailing, fishing and diving in places where few have gone before.

Flora and Fauna

Seychelles is a living museum of natural history and a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora & fauna on earth.  With almost 50% of its limited landmass set aside as national parks and reserves, Seychelles prides itself on its record for far sighted conservation policies that have resulted in an enviable degree of protection for the environment and the varied ecosystems it supports.

Nowhere else on earth will you find unique endemic specimens such as the fabulous Coco-de-mer, the largest seed in the world, the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples, the Seychelles’ paradise flycatcher and Seychelles warbler.

Seychelles is also home to two U.N.E.S.C.O World Heritage Sites: Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and Praslin’s Vallée de Mai, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden.

From the smallest frog to the heaviest land tortoise and the only flightless bird of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles nurtures an amazing array of endemic species within surrounds of exceptional natural beauty.

Investing in Seychelles

Seychelles’ location outside the cyclone belt, in a time zone whose working hours overlap with those of major financial centres, its excellent sea and air connections with Europe, USA, Asia and Africa make it an excellent place to conduct business.  An efficient telecommunications system together with other advantages such as the extensive facilities available at its harbour, Port Victoria, and a well-developed infrastructure with attractive investment incentives, offer the ideal business environment to investors.

In order to fully capitalize on the above, the Seychelles Investment Bureau (SIB) was established in July 2004, as the first point of contact for all matters relating to investment and business in Seychelles.  Capitalising on the work of its predecessor, SIBA, SIB’s objectives are to promote Seychelles as the ultimate environment for business, foster an investor-friendly culture and assist investors to establish and expand their respective enterprises.

Its main activities include:

1)   Enhancing the awareness of Seychelles as the location for investments both at home and abroad and to promote investment opportunities in all sectors of the economy

2)   Providing facilitation services to investors and acting as the focal point of contact amongst local and foreign entrepreneurs and all Government/private organisations

3)   Expediting the processing of investment proposals in an efficient manner for the consideration of Government

4)   Conducting research and make recommendations on investment related matters

Visit www.sib.sc for more information.

Accommodation

The rapidly changing face of Seychelles’ accommodation scene, in which new and renovated establishments are coming on line regularly, is providing visitors with wider choice and greater options in their selection of holiday accommodation.

A wide range of affordable, new and refurbished hotels, self-caterings and charming Creole guesthouses are joining the ranks of existing 5-star hotels and exclusive island retreats to offer memorable stays among welcoming Creole people and stunning natural surrounds.  16 of Seychelles 115 islands currently offer accommodation with more expected to develop hotel facilities in the near future.

Seychelles Secrets

Seychelles Secrets represents a unique portfolio of the islands’ finest small hotels, guesthouses, self-catering chalets and holiday homes.  This exciting new brand will introduce you to a diverse assortment of affordable holiday accommodation where to enjoy memorable hospitality in picturesque locations while savouring the magic and intimacy of the Creole way of life.

Wherever you see the Seychelles Secrets logo, rest assured that the accommodation offered reflects quality amenities and services in a charming island-style setting.

The Small Hotels of Seychelles provide all traditional hotel and recreational amenities in beautiful locations offering superb views or idyllic beachside settings.  All bedrooms feature private en-suite bathrooms with breakfast, lunch and dinner part of the service.

The Guesthouses of Seychelles offer a charming collection of bed and breakfast facilities situated in an authentic Creole setting, either by the beach or on lush mountainsides.  Rooms may offer private or shared facilities.

The Seychelles Self Catering category offers a fine selection of chalets, apartments and holiday homes to accommodate couples, families or larger groups seeking greater flexibility of choice in their holiday experience.

For more information about the individual Seychelles Secrets establishments, please visit

www.seychellessecrets.com

Best time to visit

As the Seychelles islands are blessed with a year-long warm, tropical climate, it’s always a good time to visit, although different times of year may be better suited to your particular interests.

Two opposing trade winds generally govern the weather pattern: the north-westerly trades blow from October to March when wind speeds average from 8 to 12 knots; and the brisker south-easterly trades blow from May to September with winds of between 10 to 20 knots, bringing the cooler and windier conditions ideal for sailing.

The periods of calm between the trades produce fairly warm and wind-free conditions throughout April and also in October.  Conditions for swimming, snorkelling and especially diving are superb during April/May and October/November when the water temperature sometimes reaches 29ºC and visibility is often 30 metres plus.

The ‘SUBIOS Underwater Festival’, showcases Seychelles’ extraordinary underwater world through a series of film shows, talks and competitions, while the 'Festival Kreol' (a week-long celebration of Creole heritage and traditions) is held in March and October respectively of each year.

The Seychelles Sailing Cup, an international sailing event, is held in January and the International Fishing Competition in March.  Further local fishing competitions are held throughout the year.

The table below summarises the best times to visit Seychelles for different types of activities.

Travellers Essentials

1)       Budget your holiday

The following is a list of prices of certain essential commodities intended to give visitors an idea of the cost of living in Seychelles and, so, their approximate expenditure.  For updated exchange rates, please visit the Central Bank of Seychelles website.

2)         Communications

The international dialling code for Seychelles is 248.

Seychelles enjoys modern, efficient communication services.  At present, there are two GSM networks in operation, Cable & Wireless and Airtel.  Payphones are available in most districts on the Inner Islands while the international roaming agreements in force between Seychelles and an increasing number of countries are always looking to provide more comprehensive services.

The offices of internet service providers, internet cafés, postal and courier services are located in or around central Victoria.  Among the increasing number of Internet cafés, several may be found in the Beau Vallon area on Mahé, as well as on Praslin and La Digue.  Postal services are also available on Praslin and La Digue.

Post Office

Independence Avenue

PO Box 60

Victoria, Mahé

Telephone: +248 22 52 22

Fax: +248 22 44 17

Email: seypost@seychelles.net

Opening hours Mon-Fri: 0800hrs-1600hrs

Saturdays from 0800hrs-1200hrs

3)       Credit Cards

MasterCard / Access and Visa cards are widely accepted while Diners Club and American Express cards are honoured to a somewhat lesser extent.  Such cards may be used for car hire, hotel and restaurant services, for all of which the visitor will be charged in foreign currency.  Shops and boutiques accepting credit cards will typically display the relevant card logo on their doors or windows.

ATM facilities exist at major banks on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and at the airport on Mahé and Praslin.  These machines provide cash in local currency; Seychelles Rupees (SCR).

4)       Customs Formalities

The duty free allowance for all liquors (including wine, beer, stout, ale and port) perfumes and tobacco is:

• 400 cigarettes or 500g of tobacco

• 2 litres of Spirits or 2 litres of wine

• 200ml of Parfume or Eau de Toilette

All personal possessions intended to be re-exported on departure are exempt from tax.  In addition to the duty free allowances listed above, each visitor may import tax-free a video camera, other camera, musical instrument, portable electronic or electric equipment, sports requisites and other leisure equipment.

Offensive weapons such as stun guns, mace, bows and arrows, knuckle dusters, daggers, swords, tear gas, whips, firearms and ammunition are prohibited imports unless the appropriate import permit or official authorization has been obtained in advance from the relevant authorities.

This also applies to spear guns, fireworks, pyrotechnic products and explosives of any kind.

The import of plants and parts of plants, animals and animal products, biological specimens, radioactive substances and apparatus, dangerous drugs, chemicals, medicines, pharmaceutical items and poisons is forbidden without the necessary import permit or official authorization having been obtained in advance from the relevant authorities.

The value of food items brought into Seychelles by a passenger must not be in excess of the SCR3,000 personal/household allowance unless the relevant import permits have been obtained in advance.

Pornography in the form of obscene articles, publications, video tapes and software is strictly forbidden.

Where goods are imported in excess of allowances, payment of import tax is to be made in cash (or personal cheque drawn on a local account).  Credit card facilities are not available for the payment of import tax.

5)       Do’s & Don’ts

This section covers those areas or activities which, in the interests of enjoying a fine holiday experience, are best avoided.

Although Seychelles has a relatively low level of crime it is advisable not to carry large sums of money, items of value or important documents such as passports on your person.  Most hotels offer facilities for safeguarding these.  Similarly, do not take these to the beach or leave them in your hired vehicle or on display in your hotel room.

Avoid changing all your foreign exchange into Seychelles Rupees (SCR) at one time but rather calculate your daily requirements and change only what you need for a specific period of time.

Do not change your foreign exchange illegally with unauthorised traders but rather through banks, hotel cashiers and at the Bureau de Change at the airport.

Do not stay at unlicensed tourism premises as these may not offer you the quality of vacation that you had envisaged and may lead to a range of disappointing experiences.

As with many tourism destinations be prudent when it comes to walking alone at night or in secluded places such as remote beaches.  If you are intending to go out alone then it is wise to advise someone at your hotel of your proposed whereabouts.

Remember that the sun in Seychelles is very strong.  Do not lie in it without applying sun block of an appropriate strength for your skin.

Please do not litter.  If there are no litter bins immediately available, then please take your litter back to your hotel and dispose of it accordingly.

Please resist the urge to collect seashells along the beaches as many are used as habitation by hermit crabs.  Collecting shells is prohibited in nature reserves, marine parks and reserves in Seychelles.  The unique and unusual tropical flora is beautiful and for it to remain so, it is important that you admire it, but leave it for others to enjoy.  Any flora taken as souvenirs must have a certificate and an official export permit which must be produced, when checking in at the international airport.

Be considerate towards the fauna and sensitive to its sometimes fragile nature.  Please walk carefully on the reefs and do not feed sea birds, mammals, turtles or tortoises or disturb them or their nesting grounds.

6)       Electricity

Throughout Seychelles the voltage is 220-240 volts AC 50 Hz.

Seychelles uses the British standard square three-pin, 13 amp sharp electric plug.  Visitors from countries other than the United Kingdom are advised to bring their own adaptors.

7)       Emergency Numbers

The following are local emergency telephone numbers:

·         Fire, police or ambulance: 999

·         Victoria Hospital and the Intensive Care Unit on Mahé: 38 80 00

·         Praslin Hospital: 23 23 33

·         La Digue Logan Hospital: 23 42 55

Health clinics can be found in most districts.  Their respective contact numbers can be supplied by your hotel or found in the local telephone directory.

Contact details for Emergency service providers are listed in the LOCAL SERVICES section of this website.

Remember to add the international dialling code (248) when dialling a Seychelles number from abroad.

8)       Entry Formalities

Irrespective of the nationality of the visitor and his or her family members, there are NO VISA requirements to enter Seychelles.  However, the following documents must be shown in order to obtain immigration clearance at the Seychelles International Airport:

1)       A passport valid on the date of entry to and exit from Seychelles

2)       Return or onward ticket

3)       Proof of accommodation; including contact details

4)       Sufficient funds for the duration of the stay

Presentation of all of the above documents will grant you a Visitor’s Permit that will be issued upon arrival by the Seychelles Department of Immigration.

The Visitor’s Permit is initially valid for the period of visit of up to one month.  It can be extended for a period of up to three months from the date of issue and capable of further extensions for successive periods not exceeding three months at a time to a maximum period of twelve months, provided that the person still meets the criteria of a bona fide visitor.

The visitor's permit is issued free of charge for the first three months after which there is a fee of SCR1,000 for extension covering each period of three months or any part thereof.

For all visa exemptions and extensions and other enquiries regarding immigration issues please contact:

Department of Immigration

Independence House

PO Box 430, Victoria

Mahé, Seychelles

Tel: +248 29 36 36

Fax: +248 22 50 35

Email: info@immigration.gov.sc

9)       Health Regulations

There is NO risk of contracting malaria, yellow fever, cholera or other common tropical diseases in Seychelles.

No vaccinations are required except in the case of yellow fever where a vaccination is required for travellers over 1 year of age who have come from, or passed through a partly or wholly infected area within the preceding 6 days.  Infected areas include certain parts of northern and central South America and central Africa.  (South Africa is not considered an infected area.)

Persons travelling to Seychelles via Nairobi, Kenya and who remain in transit in Kenya do not require a vaccination against yellow fever.

10)   Hours of business

Seychelles office hours are Monday to Friday 0800hrs-1600hrs.

Most government offices and some private businesses close on Saturdays and remain closed on Sundays and also on public holidays.

11)   Medical & Dental facilities

Medical facilities and call-out doctors are available to visitors on request from accommodation establishments and island resorts.

Private clinics/doctors’ rates vary.  A call-out can cost from SCR350 to SCR500 and a consultation in a clinic for all non-residents ranges from SCR70 to SCR150.

Government clinics are located in most areas and charge a fee of SCR100 for non-resident consultation.

For emergency situations please call 999.

There are several dental outlets on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.  Clinics are generally open from 0800hrs-1600hrs and call-outs can also be made for visitors on request from most accommodation establishments.  The average charge for oral examinations, extractions and dressings is SCR100 for government dental clinics and SCR300 for private dental clinics.

12)   Money & Banking

The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR) which is divided into 100 cents.  Coins come in 5, 10, 25 cents, and 1 and 5 Rupee denominations.  Notes come in 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 Rupee denominations.

Exchange rates are featured on the Central Bank of Seychelles website and are available at all banks.

Banking hours are generally Monday-Friday 0800hrs-1400hrs, and Saturday 0800hrs-1100hrs.  All banks process traveller’s cheques and foreign exchange transactions.  Passports are required for visitors’ transactions and nominal commissions may be charged.  ATM facilities exist at major banks on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and at the airport on Mahé and Praslin.  Please note that these provide cash in local currency.

Visitors must, by law, pay for all their excursions, board and lodging and all other services provided by hotels, guesthouses and self-catering establishments in major international currency notes, or by credit card.  Other services payable in foreign exchange include: car hire, diving, boat charter, ferry or air transportation, excursions, entrance fees (to reserves, marine parks, etc.).  Costs for taxis and for restaurants not forming part of a hotel may be settled using either foreign or local currency.  Other incidental purchases are payable in local currency.

Exchanging foreign currency into Seychelles Rupees must only be done at banks, authorised money dealers or with the hotel cashier.

BE WARNED!  It is a criminal offence to change money with any person or business other than those authorised to do so and who are mentioned above.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Seychelles.  If you require Rupees, it is advisable to exchange only what you need on a daily basis.

To re-exchange Seychelles Rupees into foreign currency on your departure from Seychelles, you MUST produce the official receipt from your initial authorised dealer to the bank.  Banks are allowed to convert up to SCR800 per passenger back into foreign currency with a valid boarding card issued by the airline as well as the original conversion receipt.  Your money will not be re-converted into foreign currency without this receipt!

13)   Personal safety

Seychelles enjoys a low level of crime.  Nevertheless, it is still advisable to take some routine precautions to ensure your personal safety and that of your possessions.

Walking alone on isolated beaches, swimming alone or leaving yachts unlocked at their moorings is not advisable.

It is also not recommended to carry large sums of money or valuables on your person, to leave them unguarded in your room or in the boot of your car or to advertise the fact that you possess them.

Most accommodation establishments offer room or reception safes to secure valuables and visitors are advised to take advantage of this service.

14)   Public Holidays

Following are the list of public holidays in Seychelles for 2007.

OFFICIAL:

New Year - 1st & 2nd January

Labour Day - 1st May

Liberation Day - 5th June

National Day - 18th June

Independence Day - 29th June

RELIGIOUS:

Good Friday – 6th April

Easter Sunday - 8th April

Corpus Christi - 7th June

Assumption Day - 15th August

All Saints’ Day - 1st November

Immaculate Conception - 8th December

Christmas Day - 25th December

15)   Time Difference

Seychelles is 4 hours ahead of GMT, 3 hours ahead of British summer time and 2 hours ahead of European summer time.

Visitors may enjoy almost 12 hours of daylight throughout the year with sunrise occurring just after 0600hrs and the sun setting around 1830hrs.

The table below highlights the time difference with other countries:

16)   Tipping

Most charges (restaurant, hotel, taxis, porters, etc) already include a 5% to 10% service charge or "tip" and so tipping is not obligatory in Seychelles.

However, as a reward for exceptional service, a nominal tip is sure to be warmly received.

17)        Transportation

On the main islands of Mahé and Praslin getting around by bus is easy with designated bus stops on all routes.  On Mahé the central bus depot is in Victoria and services the various districts between 0530hrs and 2200hrs, although services on most routes are less frequent after 1830hrs. Consult a detailed bus schedule, which can be obtained from the bus depot, for exact departure and arrival times.

Independently operated taxis are available on Mahé and Praslin, and a handful on La Digue.  You can hail one from the street, at designated taxi stands or by simply phoning a driver directly.  It is advisable to request a metered ride, or if a particular taxi is not equipped with a meter, quotes should be negotiated and agreed prior to the trip.  Many drivers will take clients on sightseeing tours for a set tariff.

Cars may be hired only on Mahé and Praslin with several companies represented at the International airport on Mahé and at the larger hotels.  Hire vehicles, which can also be booked through your ground handling operator, range from Mini-Mokes to saloon cars, 4-wheel drives, chauffeured Mercedes Benz and small vans.  A valid E.U. or International licence is required to rent vehicles and most companies will deliver your rental to a location of your choice.  Vehicles are driven on the left-hand side.

There are also the services of knowledgeable guides who will help you to discover the numerous walking trails and interesting sites on the islands, by foot or in the comfort of a tour bus.

You can also discover the islands by bicycle, readily available for hire on La Digue and Praslin, where they are a popular mode of transport.

Island-hopping is made possible through a regular network of air and sea transport primarily operating out of the principal island, Mahé.

Air Seychelles operates a shuttle service between Mahé and Praslin, the second largest island.  The flight lasts only 15 minutes with an average of 20 return flights every day.  Air Seychelles also operates other inter-island flights, usually on the request of hotels to Bird, Denis, Desroches and Alphonse Islands.

Also part of the air network is Helicopter Seychelles, which is a helicopter charter company specialising in island transfers, excursions and chartered scenic flights throughout Seychelles.  The Islands Development Company (IDC) specialises in charter flights mostly to the Outer Islands of Seychelles.

Two types of sea ferry operate in Seychelles: the traditional and the modern.  The traditional, sail-assisted schooner-type ferry chiefly operates from the Inter-Island Quay of Victoria on Mahé to Baie Ste. Anne Jetty on Praslin (2½hrs duration), or to La Passe Jetty on La Digue (3hrs duration).

The modern mode is the Cat Cocos service, a fast and modern catamaran that operates transfers between the Inter-Island Quay of Victoria and the Baie Ste. Anne Jetty on Praslin (less than 1hour duration).

18)        Travelling pets

All cats and dogs entering Seychelles require an Import Permit issued by the Veterinary Services.

Such pets must have valid vaccination records including proof of RABIES inoculation as well as a Veterinary Health Certificate.

They will be obliged to undergo a quarantine period of two weeks to six months, depending on the country of origin.

Seychelles does not accept pets for a period less than six months and bringing bird species of any kind into Seychelles is not permitted.

19)   Water

Tap water meets W.H.O. (World Health Organization) specifications and is safe to drink nation-wide.

Because tap water is chlorinated, visitors may prefer to drink bottled water, of which several different brands are widely available in shops, restaurants and hotel bars.

20)   What to pack

Light clothing suitable for Seychelles’ warm tropical climate is recommended and visitors should prepare themselves for the relatively hot, humid atmosphere.  Also, for plenty of sun.

Bring hats, sunglasses and adequate UV protection - SPF30+ is advisable.  It is important to remember that even on an overcast day the tropical sun is still strong and able to cause unpleasant sunburn.  Wearing a t-shirt for the first swim or snorkel is a good idea.

A camera is an absolute must!  Please bring a stock of film (particularly for non-standard cameras and video cameras) together with a supply of batteries.

Casual eveningwear (long trousers for men), together with appropriate footwear, is necessary for dining out and for gaining entrance to casinos and most hotels.

Sturdy walking shoes are recommended if you intend to take guided walk and trail excursions.

Visitors suffering from a specific medical condition should be sure to bring an adequate stock of the appropriate medication along as well as their preferred brand of sun cream, mosquito repellent etc.

THINGS TO DO

The diversity of the Seychelles landscape rushes up to greet you the moment your aircraft begins its descent and promises a long list of things to do.

Seychelles is famous for having some of the best beaches in the world, pristine and uncrowded.  Some are framed by age-old granite boulders. Others offer powder-soft sands, turquoise waters and sublime opportunities for swimming, snorkeling or pure relaxation.

There are great opportunities for island-hopping between the 16 islands that currently offer accommodation.  These range from sumptuous 5-star resorts to rustic island lodges and cozy beachside bungalows. On your way, you will discover such gems as the legendary Vallée de Mai, home to the legendary Coco-de-Mer.

You will also find proud national monuments, beautiful Creole houses, artists’ studios, national reserves and marine parks, as well as breathtaking natural wonders above and beneath the waves.  Various excursions will introduce you to the pleasures of glass-bottom boating, or enjoying a choice of water sports.

There’s also golf, horse-riding and guided nature tours where to enjoy some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth.  Not forgetting the mellow Seychelles nightlife where you can take in a casino, some local bars and fine restaurants offering unforgettable Creole and international cuisine.

Island Hopping

What sets Seychelles apart from so many other holiday destinations is its wide variety of islands -- each one with its own particular geography, character and history.  Whether you choose a day excursion to one of the many Inner granitic islands, or an extended stay on one of our exotic island hideaways, Seychelles has something exceptional to offer.

Experiencing more than one island during your stay is a must and will add a dimension to your holiday experience that you will never forget.

Whatever your choice, a regular network of air and sea transport operating out of the principal island of Mahé will cater for most itineraries.  Ferry services, domestic flights and even helicopter transfers are also available on a daily basis to many of the islands.

Seychelles Tourism Board

Bel Ombre  |  PO Box 1262 Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles
tel + 248 67 13 00  |  fax + 248 62 06 20