Seychelles Travel Guide

Visas are not required, though all foreigners must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months, and must have proof of accommodation bookings before arrival (these may be checked). All foreign travelers must apply for an Electronic Border Travel permit to enter the Seychelles. An initial entry permit is granted for 1 month but can be extended for up to 12 months, 3 months at a time.

The islands' currency is the Seychellois rupee, denoted by the symbol "SR" or "SRe" (ISO code: SCR). ATMs usually have the best conversion rates; however, airports and banks also exchange money. Coins of the Seychelles are issued in denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 25 cents, 1, 5 and 10 rupees. Banknotes of the Seychelles are issued in denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 rupees.

By plane

Air Seychelles operates multiple daily flights between Mahe and Praslin. Over two dozen flights vary in frequency from 15-minute to 2-hour intervals, depending on time of day. Air Seychelles also operates once daily or several times per week between Mahe and the islands of Bird, Denis, Fregate, Desroches and Alphonse. Assumption Island and Coetivy can be reached by air charter.

Languages spoken in the Seychelles are Seychellois Creole, English and French. You'll be able to get around just fine with just a little French. A couple of basic polite words will go a long way to get a smile from the friendly and helpful locals.

Try to avoid any dark lanes, and always be careful not to leave your bag unattended. Swimming alone on isolated beaches is not advisable. If you sail, avoid bringing valuables; if you have no choice, become adept at finding great hiding places.

Chikungunya virus is a disease spread by mosquitoes, and causes flu-like symptoms. It is increasing in concern and although it is rare to die from it, the joint pain it causes can last for months. Insect repellent can help deter mosquitoes but not much else can be done as a precaution. The disease is native to East Africa and occasionally is introduced and quickly eradicated.

The Seychelles Tourism board is a great point of reference and they will be able to answer any and all questions you might have. Their website is www.seychelles.travel

The environment is a treasured aspect of Seychelles and there are more than 1,000 recorded species of fish around the islands and Aldabra, just one of the islands, is home to the largest population of giant tortoises in the world. Do the effort of respecting it and leaving it clean for visitors to come.