Group trips to Seychelles

Find out the entry requirements for Seychelles, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Seychelles – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

The Seychelles operates on Seychelles Time, which is GMT+4. They do not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains the same throughout the year.

If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 4pm in Seychelles. For the USA, if it is 12pm Eastern Time, it will be 8pm in Seychelles.

The currency used in the Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). As of the latest exchange rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 17 SCR
• 1 USD is about 14 SCR
• 1 EUR is around 15 SCR

You can exchange currency at banks, authorized money changers, or at the airport. It's a good idea to check for the most current rates before you travel.

Credit cards, debit cards, and cash are widely accepted in the Seychelles. Major cards like Visa and Mastercard are commonly used, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments or local markets where cards might not be accepted. ATMs are available on the main islands where you can withdraw local currency. It's always smart to check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before traveling.

In the Seychelles, tipping is not compulsory, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, it's common to leave a tip of around 5-10% if service was not included in the bill. For hotel staff, you might consider leaving a small tip for housekeeping or porters. Taxi drivers do not usually expect a tip, but rounding up the fare is a nice gesture. Always tip in the local currency, and make sure to hand it directly to the person if possible.

In the Seychelles, Wi-Fi is generally available in hotels, cafes, and restaurants, but it can be slower or less reliable compared to what you're used to in Europe or the USA. If you need constant internet access, it's a good idea to buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan. Major providers like Airtel and Cable & Wireless offer affordable options for tourists. This ensures you stay connected while exploring the islands. Wi-Fi hotspots can be limited in more remote areas, so having mobile data is a plus for staying online during your trip.

In the Seychelles, people primarily speak Seychellois Creole, but English and French are also official languages. Here are a few Seychellois Creole expressions you might find useful:

• Hello: Bonzour
• Thank you: Mersi
• How are you?: Komman sava?
• Goodbye: Orevwar

These phrases can help you navigate everyday interactions during your stay.

In the Seychelles, the plugs are the same as in the UK, which are Type G with three rectangular prongs. The standard voltage is 240 volts, and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you're coming from a country with a different plug type, be sure to bring a universal adapter to charge your devices.

In the Seychelles, the main religion is Christianity, with the majority of the population being Roman Catholic, followed by Anglican and other Christian denominations. The islands also have small communities of Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists.

The Seychelles celebrates various religious holidays, including Easter and Christmas, which are widely observed with local traditions and festivities. Note that the islands have a multicultural society, and you might see influences from different religions in their celebrations.

When packing for the Seychelles, aim for light and breathable clothing, as the climate is tropical. Here's a quick guide for your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight t-shirts
  • Shorts
  • Swimwear
  • Light sweater or shawl for cooler evenings
• Shoes:
  • Flip-flops for the beach
  • Comfortable sandals
  • Lightweight walking shoes
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunhat
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Portable charger
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first-aid kit
  • Common travel medications like motion sickness tablets and pain relievers

Keep it simple and beach-friendly, and you'll be all set for your trip to the Seychelles.

The Seychelles generally has a warm, tropical climate all year round. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

• December to March: Humid and rainy, with temperatures around 24-31°C. It's the rainy season, so expect tropical showers.
• April to October: Cooler and drier, with temperatures ranging from 24-29°C. The southeast trade winds make it breezy and pleasant.
• November: Transition month with occasional rain and mild temperatures.

The best time to visit is during the drier months from April to October, especially if you're looking to enjoy outdoor activities without much rain.