🇸🇨 Seychelles

April–May and October–November, the calm months between the trade winds, usually bring the clearest water for snorkelling and diving. From May to September the southeast trade winds make it cooler and windier, with rougher seas on some coasts. December to March is warmer and more humid, with more rain.

Seychelles is tropical and warm all year, around 24–31 °C. Seasons are defined by the wind: southeast trades from about May to September, and the northwest monsoon from about December to March, when rain is heavier. Different beaches are sheltered in different seasons.

Seychelles does not require a visa for tourists of any nationality. A visitor's permit is issued on arrival for up to three months if you have a return or onward ticket, confirmed accommodation and sufficient funds. Before departure, you must obtain an electronic travel authorisation through the official Seychelles e-Border system. Extensions are possible for a fee.

Inter-island ferries connect Mahé, Praslin and La Digue several times a day, and short flights link Mahé and Praslin. Public buses run on Mahé and Praslin; hire cars drive on the left. La Digue has few cars: most visitors cycle or walk.

Seychelles is an expensive destination: accommodation, imported food and boat trips are costly. Self-catering apartments and small guesthouses keep costs lower than resorts. Use the Trip Budget Calculator and convert rupees with the Currency Converter.

Seychellois culture mixes African, French, British and Asian influences. Beachwear is for the beach: cover up in Victoria and villages. Topless and nude bathing are not accepted on public beaches. Take shells and coral only as photographs; removing the coco de mer nut requires an export permit.

Creole cooking centres on fish, coconut and spices: try fish curry, grilled red snapper, octopus curry, breadfruit chips and ladob, a dessert of plantain or breadfruit in coconut milk. Takeaway counters are an affordable way to eat local food.

Seychelles is generally safe, but petty theft from beaches, cars and accommodation occurs; do not leave valuables unattended. The sea is the bigger risk: currents can be strong, especially during the southeast trade winds, and not all beaches have lifeguards. Swim where locals swim and check conditions.