Welcome to the Seychelles Islands, a stunning paradise nestled in the Indian Ocean. Prepare to explore the wonders of these diverse islands, where untouched natural beauty meets a tapestry of cultures. With Capmad as your guide, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable journey through the Seychelles! From thrilling diving excursions to tranquil sailing trips and invigorating hikes, your vacation here guarantees a wealth of adventure and exploration.

Preparing your trip to Seychelles

Before you set off for the Seychelles, you’ll need to plan your trip carefully.

• Choice of islands: The Seychelles archipelago comprises numerous islands, among which Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue stand out as the most renowned. Each of these islands presents distinctive experiences, ranging from idyllic beaches to pristine nature reserves and captivating hiking trails.
• Accommodation: In Seychelles, you’ll find a diverse array of accommodation options, ranging from intimate boutique hotels to opulent luxury resorts. It’s advisable to book your stay well in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
• Transport: Traveling between Seychelles’ islands is convenient, with options including planes, boats, and ferries. Additionally, you can opt for car or bicycle rentals to explore each island at your own pace.
• Activities: In addition to lounging on the pristine beaches, Seychelles provides an abundance of activities to suit every taste, including diving, catamaran cruises, and exploring the enchanting national parks.
• Packing: Ensure you pack your tropical travel essentials: swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, and hiking boots for your Seychelles adventure.
• Time difference: Seychelles is 3 hours ahead of France in summer and 2 hours ahead in winter.

Before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to verify the entry requirements for French citizens. Currently, a valid passport is typically sufficient for stays of less than 3 months in Seychelles, but it’s advisable to stay updated as conditions may vary.

Formalities and visa for Seychelles

For travelers from France, Seychelles typically doesn’t require a visa for stays under three months. However, all visitors must obtain a travel authorization online before departure. This process entails a fee of 10 EUR per person and can be initiated up to 30 days prior to your trip. It’s important to note that processing may take up to 24 hours.

To obtain the travel authorization, you will need to present :

• A valid passport
• Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
• A return ticket

As of December 1, 2022, proof of vaccination or a PCR test is no longer required prior to travel. Visitors are allowed to travel to Seychelles without any special health restrictions.

Language spoken in Seychelles

While in Seychelles, you’ll encounter three primary languages: Seychellois Creole, French, and English. Seychellois Creole, spoken by 97 % of the population, serves as the everyday language of the Seychellois people. It’s a unique patois rooted in French but infused with elements from English, Malagasy, Swahili, and Indian languages. You’ll experience its rich presence in music, literature, and daily interactions throughout the islands.

• French is widely spoken.
• English is widely used and understood, especially in administrative, commercial and tourist contexts.

These three languages are the official languages of Seychelles. It is therefore not necessary to learn Creole for your trip, although a few basic words may be appreciated by the locals.

Seychelles Tourist Office : Practical information

For travelers planning their Seychelles adventure, the Seychelles Tourist Office stands as a valuable resource. Located in the capital Victoria on Mahé, this office serves as your ally in trip preparation, offering comprehensive information on destinations, activities, and accommodation options across the islands.

Check their website before you leave, for the latest tourist news, upcoming events and practical guides.

• Opening hours are generally 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Friday.
• The tourist office website: www.seychelles.travel

For French nationals, the French Embassy in Seychelles can be an important point of contact in case of need. It can provide advice on health, safety and legal formalities.

• Embassy address: 1st Floor, La Ciotat Building, Mont Fleuri, Victoria, Mahe.
• Telephone number: +248 4 38 25 00

Don’t forget to inform your bank of your trip to avoid having your bank card blocked. ATMs are also available on the main islands for withdrawing Seychelles rupees, the local currency.

Estimated budget for a week in the Seychelles

Your budget for a week in the Seychelles will vary according to your choices of transport, accommodation and activities. Here’s an estimate of the associated costs for one week:

• Transport: The price for a round-trip flight from Paris to Seychelles typically ranges from 600 to 1,500 EUR, with variations based on the season. Upon arrival, renting a car for approximately 200 EUR for a 4-day period provides convenient transportation around the islands.
• Accommodation: A double room in a guesthouse costs between 110 and 160 EUR, a 2-star hotel between 180 and 220 EUR, a 3-star between 200 and 320 EUR and a 4-star between 350 and 600 EUR.
• Food: Expect to spend between 20 and 50 EUR per person per day on meals, depending on your budget and culinary preferences.
• Activities: Costs vary according to your interests, but most national parks and tourist attractions have entrance fees ranging from 10 to 50 EUR.

Overall, a budget of around 1,500 to 2,900 EUR per person is a good estimate for a week’s sightseeing in the Seychelles, including all expenses.

The best time to go to Seychelles

To choose the best time to travel to Seychelles, it’s essential to understand the archipelago’s climate. Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate, with stable temperatures of between 25°C and 30°C all year round.

However, there are two distinct seasons:

• The dry season, from May to October, offers mostly sunny weather.
• The rainy season, from November to April, with more frequent but generally short-lived showers.

Consider the transitional months, like April, May, October, and November, which mark a delightful balance between the dry and rainy seasons. During these times, you can relish a temperate climate and fewer crowds. However, your ideal travel period hinges on your planned activities. For diving enthusiasts, March through May and September through November present optimal conditions for underwater adventures.

The Seychelles archipelago : A breathtaking landscape

The Seychelles archipelago, nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is a treasure trove of unspoiled beauty. With its 115 islands, it presents a mesmerizing visual feast. Here, pristine beaches and crystalline waters compete with the vibrant tropical flora and fauna for attention.

Aldabra Atoll, the world’s largest coral atoll, stands as a testament to Seychelles’ exceptional biodiversity, hosting iconic creatures like the giant tortoise. Meanwhile, Mahé, La Digue, and Praslin enchant visitors with their powdery beaches, dense tropical forests, and stunning pink granite landscapes.

Beyond their natural allure, the islands also boast a captivating architectural heritage, reflecting their colonial past, alongside a vibrant local arts scene.

Seychelles takes pride in its commitment to biodiversity conservation, with over half of its territory designated as nature reserves and national parks. Encouraging ecotourism, the islands invite visitors to explore endemic flora and fauna while preserving the delicate environment.

The most beautiful places to visit in Seychelles

Embark on your Seychelles adventure by starting on Mahé, the archipelago’s main island. Begin with a visit to Victoria, its vibrant capital, where the cultural pulse of Seychelles resonates. Then, delve into the verdant beauty of the Morne Seychellois Nature Reserve, immersing yourself in its lush natural landscapes.

Next, journey to Praslin, renowned for the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll encounter the iconic coco de mer palm, a unique endemic species thriving within this pristine nature reserve.

Don’t overlook La Digue, celebrated for its breathtaking Anse Source d’Argent beach, often hailed as one of the world’s most exquisite. Explore the island’s distinctive pink granite formations, which contribute to its renowned charm and allure.

Finally, treat yourself to an excursion to Aldabra Atoll. This is the world’s largest coral atoll and home to a colony of giant tortoises. A true paradise for wildlife lovers.

And don’t forget :

• St. Denis Island
• Curieuse Island, with its free-roaming giant tortoises
• Sister, Coco and Felicité islands for catamaran trips and snorkeling.

These must-see places will help you discover the many facets of the Seychelles.

Vaccines and health for a stay in the Seychelles

When planning your trip to Seychelles, it’s important to consider certain health and vaccination factors. While there are no mandatory vaccinations for Seychelles, travelers may need yellow fever and polio vaccination certificates in certain cases. Additionally, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider before your departure to receive personalized advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.

Returning : Formalities

Before departing Seychelles, ensure you’ve completed all necessary formalities to facilitate a seamless return home.