Seychelles travel advice
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- Risk level
- Safety and security
- Entry and exit requirements
- Health
- Laws and culture
- Natural disasters and climate
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Risk level
SEYCHELLES - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Seychelles
Safety and security
Crime
Petty crime
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Incidents have been reported in:
- popular tourist areas, including Beau Vallon and Victoria
- beaches, including Cote d’Or beach
- unattended vehicles
- hiking trails
- ATMs
During your trip to the Seychelles:
- ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and your other travel documents are secure at all times
- avoid showing signs of affluence or wearing expensive jewellery
- never leave personal belongings unattended in a vehicle, even in the trunk
- avoid isolated areas, especially at night
Violent crime
Although less common, violent crime occurs, namely:
- armed robberies
- burglaries
- assaults
Tourists are usually not targeted, however you could be at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Fraud
Credit and debit card as well as ATM fraud occurs in the Seychelles.
- Cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
- Pay careful attention when others are handling your cards
- Avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
- Use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
- Check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements
Demonstrations
While not common in the Seychelles, demonstrations may occur.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
Mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Adventure tourism
Outdoor activities, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking and other adventure activities can be dangerous if unprepared. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.
If you intend to practice adventure tourism:
- consider traveling with a group and hiring an experienced guide from a reputable company
- obtain detailed information on your activity and on the environment in which you will be setting out
- avoid venturing off marked trails
- stay informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
- refrain from using equipment if you have doubts on their safety
Water activities
Coastal waters can be dangerous. Strong currents and riptides are common, particularly near the popular tourist beach in Beau Vallon. Several drownings occur each year.
Most beaches outside major hotels do not have a regular lifeguard present. When available, rescue services may not be consistent with international standards.
Beaches that offer safe swimming conditions from May to September, during the east monsoon period, may not be safe from December to March during the north-east monsoon period.
- Respect the areas reserved for swimming
- Always maintain a safe distance from boats and restricted areas
- Always respect warning flags advising of dangerous conditions
- Consult reputable sources and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
Maritime excursions
Many isolated islands are accessible by boat or ferry. Travel by ship to the outer islands, such as Amirantes, Cosmoledo and Aldabra, requires the approval of the Seychelles Maritime Safety authority.
In stormy weather, travel by ship, including emergency travel, may be difficult.
While on maritime excursions:
- use only a reliable company
- make sure you have access to a lifejacket at all times
- do not board a boat that appears overloaded or unseaworthy
Road safety
Road conditions
Roads are generally well maintained but are narrow and winding.
Driving can also be dangerous due to:
- the presence of animals, pedestrians, and bicycles on the road
- roads with sheer drops and lack of guardrails
- poorly lit roads
Driving habits
Impaired driving is prevalent in the Seychelles with a noted frequency of drivers operating vehicles while intoxicated by alcohol.
If you choose to drive in the Seychelles:
- drive defensively, particularly after dark
- in the event of a traffic accident, remain at the scene until the police arrive
- when returning a rented vehicle, ensure that you receive a written acknowledgement stating that the vehicle had not been damaged while in your possession
- purchase adequate car insurance
Public transportation
Taxis
Taxis are available on the main Mahe and Praslin islands. Not all taxis are metered. In such cases, ensure that an agreed-upon fare is settled with the driver beforehand.
Buses
Public transportation by bus is available but limited on the main islands of Mahé and Praslin.
Piracy
Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters, particularly in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. Though reports of piracy have decreased in recent years, mariners should take appropriate precautions.
Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry and exit requirements
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the Seychelles. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Passport with “X” gender identifier
While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days
Business visa: not required
Student visa: not required
You must obtain a digital travel authorization before your departure.
Apply for a digital travel authorization - Government of Seychelles
Children and travel
Learn more about travelling with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
Health
Relevant Travel Health Notices
- Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
- COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.
Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.
Routine vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccinations, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.
Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Pre-travel vaccines and medications
You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country where yellow fever occurs.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
- Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
- Contact a designated Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.
Practise safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.
Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.
Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.
Influenza
The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.
The flu occurs worldwide.
- In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to April.
- In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and October.
- In the tropics, there is flu activity year round.
The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.
The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.
Rabies
In this destination, rabies is carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.
If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. Rabies treatment is often available in this destination.
Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals).
Safe food and water precautions
Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.
- Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
- Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
- Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs.
Travellers' diarrhea
Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.
Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.
The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insect bite prevention
Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:
- Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
- Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
- Minimize exposure to insects
- Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed
To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.
Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.
Chikungunya
There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:
- season
- year
- region
- elevation
The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.
Learn more:
Dengue
- In this country, risk of dengue is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
- Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
- The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
- Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.
Animal precautions
Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.
Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.
Person-to-person infections
Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:
- washing your hands often
- avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
- avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.
Medical services and facilities
Access to adequate health care, including private medical practices, is available on the major islands. Medical facilities are limited on isolated islands where some have no doctors.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Health and safety outside Canada
Medication
Some prescription medications may not be available.
If you take prescription medications, you are responsible for determining their legality in the country before entering the Seychelles.
- Bring sufficient quantities of your medication with you
- Always keep your medication in the original container
- Pack them in your carry-on luggage
- Carry a copy of your prescriptions
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
2SLGBTQI+ persons
Seychellois laws do not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. However, homosexuality is not widely socially tolerated.
Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the Seychelles.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the Seychelles, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Seychelles.
If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Seychelles by an abducting parent:
- act as quickly as you can
- consult a lawyer in Canada and in Seychelles to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
- report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre
If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.
Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.
Useful links
- International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
- Children and travel
- Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
- Request emergency assistance
Imports and exports
Strict regulations may be enforced on the temporary import or export of certain items, including:
- firearms
- spear-fishing equipment
- fruits and vegetables
Driving
To drive in Seychelles, you must have the following:
- a valid Canadian driver’s license
- an international driving permit
Traffic drives on the left.
Money
The currency is the Seychellois rupee (SR).
Most hotels, restaurants and shops in tourist destinations accept debit or credit cards. ATMs are available at the airport and major tourist destinations but generally only issue rupees. You may pay for goods and services either in rupees, euros or in USD.
You can exchange money at authorised currency exchanges:
- banks
- casinos
- hotels
- the international airport
It is prohibited to exchange foreign currencies at rates other than the official rate.
Natural disasters and climate
Rainy season
The rainy season extends from December to March. During this period strong winds and torrential rains can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services.
While there have not been any recent incidents of cyclones, pay careful attention to all warnings issued.
- Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
- Stay away from flooded areas
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
Useful links
Need help?
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 999 for emergencies requiring fire and police forces.
Dial 151 for medical assistance.
Consular assistance
There is no resident Canadian government office in Seychelles. You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information from the High Commission of Canada in Tanzania, in Dar es Salaam.
Dar Es Salaam - High Commission of Canada
Comoros, Seychelles, Zambia
Appointment Book your appointment onlineFor emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada in Tanzania, in Dar es Salaam, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
Disclaimer
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.
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