Sub Saharan Africa

Seychelles

Still current at: 21 July 2008

Updated: 23 May 2008

Terrorism
 
There is a low threat from terrorism.  But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

 
For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime
 
Crime levels in Seychelles are low but you should take sensible precautions. Do not leave valuables in cars.  Take care in isolated areas and also in more popular places such as Beau Vallon and the back streets of Victoria, especially after dark.  Beaches are a favourite target for thieves.  Take particular care if alone.

 

Safeguard valuables and cash.  Deposit them in the hotel’s main safe, where practical.  Keep copies of important documents, including passports, separate.

For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

 
Political Situation
 
Seychelles Country Profile
 

Local Travel

 

Road Travel

 

Mahé is mountainous, and roads are narrow and winding, often with sheer drops and hairpin bends.  Safety barriers are rare.  Take care when driving and avoid more remote roads, particularly at night.

 

Buses are the only means of public transport.  They are inexpensive but infrequent on some routes.  Taxis are good but you should negotiate the fare before beginning your journey.

 

When returning hired vehicles, obtain an acknowledgement that the vehicle has not been damaged during the period of hire.  UK driving licences are valid for up to three months. 

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

 

Air Travel

You should be aware that the system used in Seychelles for issuing an Air Operator's Certificate currently does not meet the minimum requirements set down by the International Civil Aviation Organisation.  We understand that the Seychelles authorities are actively working to correct the deficiencies identified and aim to have re-certified all their air carriers by the end of 2008.
 

Swimming

Be careful when swimming/snorkelling.  There are strong currents on beaches at different times.  Seek local advice.

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.

Do not, under any circumstances, agree to carry hard currency into or out of Seychelles on behalf of someone else.  This is against foreign exchange regulations and penalties can be severe.

 

Drug taking and smuggling are serious offences.  Punishments can be severe.

 

Topless sunbathing is tolerated on many but not all beaches.  Nudism is not acceptable.

 

You should be aware that it is an offence for anyone, including children, to dress in camouflage clothing.

 

Homosexuality is illegal.

For more general information for different types of travellers see Travel Advice Relevant to You.

Visas

Visas are not required for British passport holders.

Passport Validity

You will need a valid passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds.

Travelling with children

Single parents or other adults travelling alone with children should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country.

Medical facilities in Seychelles are limited, especially on the more remote islands where doctors are often unavailable.  The main hospital (including Accident and Emergency services) is in Victoria, Tel:  (00) (248) 388000.

The Seychelles authorities are working with the public to prevent outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases such as chikungunya and dengue fever.  You should avoid walking barefoot on paths and roads to prevent catching leptospirosis.

Bring sun protection creams and insect repellents with you, as local supplies are erratic and expensive.

You should drink or use only boiled or bottled water and avoid ice in drinks.  If you suffer from diarrhoea during a visit to the Seychelles you should seek immediate medical attention.

You should exercise normal precautions to avoid exposure to HIV/AIDS. For more general information on how to do this see HIV and AIDS.

You should seek medical advice before travelling to the Seychelles and ensure that all appropriate vaccinations are up-to-date.  For further information on vaccination requirements, health outbreaks and general disease protection and prevention you should visit the websites of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) and NHS Scotland's Fit For Travel or call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

For more general health information see Travel Health.

Insurance

 

We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling, including provision for medical evacuation.  You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake.  For more general information see Travel Insurance.

If things do go wrong when you are oversees then this is How We Can Help.

Registration

Register with our LOCATE service to tell us when and where you are travelling abroad or where you live abroad so our consular and crisis staff can provide better assistance to you in an emergency.  More information about registering with LOCATE can be found here.

 

Money

 

Seychelles foreign currency regulations require non-residents to pay for board, lodging and other services provided by hotels, guesthouses and self-catering establishments and for restaurant services in hard currency. You may also be required to pay for car hire, guided tours and recreational activities such as scuba diving in hard currency.