Getting Around Seychelles

Air

Flying is the only way to reach the more remote islands of Seychelles. Air Seychelles (www.airseychelles.com) operates a scheduled shuttle service between Mahé and Praslin, taking around 20 minutes.

The Islands Development Company (www.idc.sc), responsible for developing the outer islands, offers charters to various islands including Assumption, Farquhar, Desroches, Alphonse, Remire, Platte and Coetivy. Zil Air (www.zilair.com) also operates inter-island transfers, excursions and chartered scenic flights throughout Seychelles. In addition, Desroches Island Lodge also has daily scheduled flights to Desroches Island.

Air Note

All flights operate from Seychelles International Airport on the island of Mahé, which is 8km (5 miles) south of the capital, Victoria.

Road

The main roads on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are good and they are well signposted. Apart from Victoria, roads are generally quiet.

Side of the road

Road Quality

Be vigilant, as roads in Mahé are often narrow and steep.

Car Hire

Saloon cars and 4-wheel drives are available on Mahé, and there is a limited number on Praslin. Reservations are advisable. The minimum age for drivers is 18.

Taxi

Independently operated taxis are available on Mahé and Praslin and a handful on La Digue. Fares are controlled by the government and are reasonable.

It is advisable to use a metered taxi or negotiate the fare beforehand. You can hail taxis from the street and taxi stands. Many drivers offer sightseeing tours for a set tariff.

Bike

Bicycles are widely available for hire on Praslin and La Digue. Mahé is quite hilly but bicycles are available at tourist hotels.

Regulations

There is a speed limit of 65kph (40mph) on the open road and 40kph (25mph) in built-up areas. The highway between Victoria and the airport has a speed limit of 80kph (50mph).

Breakdown services

In the event of a breakdown, contact your car hire company.

Documentation

You can use your valid national driving license to drive for up to three months in Seychelles.

Urban travel

Victoria, the capital, is small enough to walk around, as are all the main towns in Seychelles.

The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (www.sptc.sc) operates bus routes throughout Mahé and Praslin. Single flat-rate fares are paid to the driver. The service on Mahé and Praslin is reasonably reliable with up to four buses an hour depending on your destination. You can find timetables from tourist offices or online.

Rail

Water

Cat Cocos (www.catcocos.com) offers fast crossings between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Inter Island Ferry (www.seychelles.net/iif) also runs services between Praslin and La Digue.