Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, renowned for pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and unique granite rock formations. Exceptional territory for beach lovers, nature enthusiasts, and luxury travelers alike.
Seychelles is one of Africa's safest destinations with low violent crime rates and a politically stable environment. Petty theft exists at tourist beaches and in Victoria, but serious crime affecting visitors is uncommon.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions. Seychelles has no current travel advisories from major Western governments beyond standard travel awareness. The main risks are petty theft at beaches, road safety due to narrow mountain roads, and marine hazards including stonefish and strong currents.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Seychelles is at Level 1. Exercise normal precautions. Petty crime occurs, particularly at beaches.
Standard Travel Advice
No specific advisory warnings for Seychelles beyond standard travel precautions. Monitor local news.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Avoid swimming on southern coast beaches due to strong currents
Be cautious on poorly lit roads at night, especially remote areas
Use caution on hiking trails as they are often poorly marked
Keep valuables secure in popular tourist areas like Beau Vallon and Victoria
Consider medical evacuation insurance as advanced care may require travel to Mahé
Register your trip with your country's embassy or consulate before arrival. The British High Commission covers multiple nationalities in emergencies; US citizens should register at step.state.gov as the US Embassy is Mauritius-based.
Do not purchase or attempt to export coco de mer without an official Seychelles Island Foundation permit - possession of unpermitted nuts carries a $10,000 fine and potential confiscation.
Protect against dengue fever and chikungunya by using DEET-based mosquito repellent especially during the rainy season November to March - these mosquito-borne illnesses are genuine risks in Seychelles.
Be aware of marine hazards: stonefish camouflage on reef and cause severe injury if stepped on - always wear water shoes when walking on or near reef areas; sea urchin spines are also common on rocky beaches.
Water taxi and boat tour operators vary greatly in safety standards - only use operators who provide life jackets and have vessel safety certificates; avoid unlicensed boat operators offering cut-price tours.
Watch for petty theft at popular tourist beaches including Beau Vallon and Anse Source d'Argent - do not leave valuables unattended on the sand; use hotel safes for passports and large amounts of cash.
Seychelles road fatality rates are proportionally high - island roads are narrow, steep, and winding with sharp bends; drive slowly, use headlights after dark, and do not drive after any alcohol consumption.
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Unlicensed Taxi Overcharging
Some unofficial taxi operators at the airport and tourist areas quote inflated fares to visitors unfamiliar with local prices. Fares from the airport to Victoria should be $5-8 and to Beau Vallon $25-30.
How to avoid: Always agree the fare before entering any taxi. Use hotels to arrange pre-booked airport transfers at fixed rates.
Beach Souvenir Hustle
At popular beaches like Beau Vallon, informal vendors may approach tourists with souvenirs, hair braiding, or excursion offers at heavily inflated prices and with persistent pressure tactics.
How to avoid: Browse Victoria Market or licensed shops for souvenirs at fair prices. Politely decline beach vendor approaches.
Unauthorized Boat Operators
Unlicensed boat operators near popular beaches offer cheap snorkeling or island trips on vessels without proper safety certification or life jackets.
How to avoid: Book marine park tours through hotel concierge, Mason's Travel, or established operators with visible safety equipment and licensing.
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No vaccinations required for Seychelles. Yellow fever vaccination required if arriving from yellow fever endemic areas (parts of Africa and South America). Routine vaccinations recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid.
- Water
- Generally safe to drink in main areas but bottled water recommended for sensitive stomachs. Water quality can vary on smaller islands.
- Food
- Food safety is generally good at established restaurants. Victoria Market fish is extremely fresh - typical safe turnover. Exercise standard tropical caution with shellfish from unknown sources.
- Facilities
- Victoria has a government hospital (Seychelles Hospital, Mont Fleuri) and several private clinics. Praslin has a small district hospital. La Digue has a basic medical centre. Serious conditions require evacuation to Mahé or medevac to Réunion. Medical evacuation insurance is strongly recommended.
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Seychelles is safe for solo travelers of any gender. The islands are small, crime is low, and locals are generally friendly and helpful. Exercise standard precautions: don't leave valuables unattended on beaches, avoid poorly lit roads after dark, and arrange accommodation in advance on smaller islands.
Female travellers
Female solo travelers are generally safe in Seychelles. Verbal attention from local men can occur at beaches and markets but serious harassment is uncommon. Dress modestly when away from beach areas, avoid walking alone on unlit rural roads at night, and use pre-arranged taxis or hotel transfers after dark. Seychellois women are prominent in public life which generally reflects positively on solo female travelers.
Families
Seychelles is highly family-friendly and malaria-free, which is a significant advantage over most African destinations. Main beaches have calm, shallow water suitable for children. La Digue's car-free environment is particularly safe for families with young children. Bring basic first aid as medical facilities are limited on smaller islands. Reef shoes essential to protect against stonefish.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in Seychelles in 2016. There is no legal recognition of same-sex partnerships and public displays of affection between same-sex couples may attract attention in more conservative communities. The general population is tolerant and visitor-friendly. Exercise the same discretion as heterosexual couples in conservative contexts.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 999
- Medical
- 999
- Embassy
- British High Commission: +248 4283666. US citizens handled by US Embassy in Mauritius: +230 202 4400. Australian citizens: DFAT Emergency: +61 2 6261 3305.
- Tourist Police
- Police Tourist Unit Victoria: +248 4288000