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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 9th 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:
English
Creole
Hello
Bonzour
Goodbye
Orevwar
How are you?
Ki dir?
Thank you
Mersi
Where?
Kote?
Please
Silvouple
No
Non
Yes
Wi
I don’t understand
Mon pa konpran
I like it
Mon kontan
How are you?
Konman sava?
What is this?
Kisisa?
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.
Activity
Period
Bird-watching
April (breeding season), May - September
(nesting of Sooty Terns)
October (migration)
Diving
March – May / September - November
Fishing
October - April
Hiking/Walks & Trails
May - September
Sailing
Year-round
Snorkelling
Year-round
Surfing/Windsurfing
May - September
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.
Item
Retail (Euro)
Hotel (Euro)
Bottle of water
0.52 – 1.42
1.98 – 4.55
Bottle of Seybrew (local beer)
1.67
2.89 – 3.65
Bottle of wine
10.18 – 22.80
22.79 – 88.91
Bottle of champagne
40.43 – 41.49
26.59 – 97.26
Bottle of soft drink (e.g. Coca Cola)
0.61
0.76 - 1.52
Pizza (for 2)
5.32 – 9.12
4.56 – 11.40
20 cigarettes
3.34 – 6.84
5.32 – 9.98
Whisky
40.43 – 43.47 (per bottle)
3.80 – 5.78 (per tot)
Litre of petrol
1.19
Luncheon
2.28 - 4.56 (takeaway)
22.80+
Taxi Int’l. Airport to Victoria
10.49
Taxi Praslin airport to Côte d’Or
19
Car hire per day
47.87 – 85.11
Ferry to Praslin(Return)
80 - 90
Air Seychelles flight to Praslin (return)
118
Bus fare
0.42 – 0.71
Bike Hire per day
5 – 7.14
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
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