Seychelles

Visitor Information

Climate | Latest Travel Advice | Visas & Immigration | Money | Local Time | Getting Around | Car Hire | Public Holidays | Electrical Power | Travel Insurance

CLIMATE

Although the Seychelles Islands lie close to the Equator, their maritime situation results in coastal temperature that are fairly constant at about 26.6°C (80°F), throughout the year. Temperatures rarely exceed 29.4°C (85°F), and then only for a few days. At higher altitudes, temperatures are lower, especially at night.

Average annual rainfall on Mahé is 93 inches. In the mountains, there may be as much as 140 inches a year. The dry, sunny season is May to October, but during this period the southeast monsoon winds bring brief showers every two or three days. In December the northwest monsoon arrives and continues until March, bringing frequent and heavy rain. Humidity is high, especially in the coast areas.

Climate Chart for Victoria

For today's weather forecast see     CNN - Africa Weather Forecasts

LATEST TRAVEL ADVICE

Foreign & Commonwealth Office (London)
US State Department - Travel Warnings

VISAS & IMMIGRATION

No-one needs a visa to enter the Seychelles but a passport, valid for at least 6 months is required by all. On arrival you will be granted a permit to stay for 30 days, this can be extended at the Immigration Office. You may need to show sufficient funds to support your stay and proof of pre-booked accommodation.

Listing of Seychelles Tourist offices and/or embassies location around the world

MONEY

Official Currency:    Seychelles Rupee=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate:    Today's Exchange Rate

Visa , American Express and Diners Club are widely accepted, other credit cards have limited use. Travellers cheques and foreign currency can easily be exchange and airport banks are open during flight times.

Banking Hours

Banking:    Monday to Friday: 0830-1430   Saturday: 0830-1100
Shops: Monday to Friday: 0800-1700   Saturday: 0800-1200

Location of Visa ATM's
Barclays Bank Cash Machine Locations

LOCAL TIME

The Seychelles is four hours head of GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:	International Flights to Seychelles Click for Nairobi - Seychelles, Mahe Click for flights from Europe with KLM Click for flights from Europe with BA.com Domestic Flights with Seychelles Air Seychelles The domestic airline, has regular flights from Mahé to Praslin, Frégate, Bird, Desroches and Denis. Helicopter Seychelles Ltd. operates special charter flights, scenic tours and photographic charters.   Tel: +(248) 375400   Fax: +(248) 375277
Sea/Ferry:	Locally-made motor and sailing schooners run daily between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue carrying both passengers and cargo.
Bus:	On Mahé and Praslin there is an efficient bus service running along the coast and across the hills stopping at popular spots. Taxis operate on both Mahé and Praslin, found at the airports and outside the hotels. Although fitted with a meter it is best to fix a price before setting off.
Self Drive / Car Hire:	The Africa Guide's recommended Map Seychelles - Folded Map - Scale 1:50 000   (Maps Worldwide) Published by Freytag & Berndt Maps International Road Maps A high quality road map of the islands of the Seychelles including Praslin, La Digue and Mahe with a place name index. Other Maps & Atlases for Sale
	Driving is on the left hand side and a valid national driving licence will suffice. Minimum age for car hire is 21. Most international car hire firms are represented on the island and well as many local operators. It is best to check all the small print before hiring, especially insurance. Many companies offer a punctual breakdown service. Chauffeur-driven hire is also available. Click to Rent a car in Seychelles Bicycles can be hired certain hotels on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

ELECTRICAL POWER

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in the Seychelles, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.

You can check out the following websites which specialise in long term travellers, adventure travellers, backpackers and workers based abroad.

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