+ 3 h / + 2 h during our summer time

Victoria

Official language

Creole, English and French

240 volt / adapter required

Banks

8.30 am–2.30 pm (Mon–Fri)
8.30 am–11.30 am (Sat)
Opening hours may vary by location and island.

Shops

8 am–5 pm/6 pm (Mon–Fri)
8 am–1 pm/3 pm (Sat)
Opening hours may vary by location and island.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day

• 2 January: Day after New Year

• 1 February: Abolition of Slavery Day

• Good Friday and Easter Saturday

• Easter Monday

• 1 May: Labour Day

• 18 June: Constitution Day

• Variable date in May/June: Corpus Christi

• 29 June: National Day

• 15 August: Assumption Day

• 1 November: All Saints’ Day

• 8 December: Immaculate Conception

• 25 December: Christmas Day

Please note: if a statutory public holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is also a public holiday.

The following information is intended for Swiss citizens resident in Switzerland. The following documents are required to enter Seychelles:

• A Swiss passport valid for the entire stay and until your return to Switzerland.

• No visa is required for tourist stays of up to three months. A free visitor’s permit is issued on arrival. Before departure, you must obtain an electronic Travel Authorisation, for which a fee applies, via seychelles.govtas.com.

• A return or onward ticket, confirmed accommodation and proof of sufficient funds for your stay.

• A yellow fever vaccination certificate if you enter within six days of a stay in a country with a risk of yellow fever. This also applies to airport transit lasting more than twelve hours. Children under one year of age are exempt.

Information last updated in October 2026

Seychelles has a warm tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year. The seasons are mainly shaped by the changing monsoon and trade winds.

• Southeast trade winds (May to September): these months are slightly cooler and drier. Strong winds are common, particularly from June to September, causing rougher seas along exposed coasts. Temperatures are generally pleasant for hiking and excursions.

• Northwest monsoon (November to March): this period is warmer and more humid. Heavy showers are common, particularly in December and January, with sunny spells possible in between.

• Transitional months (April and October): winds are often lighter and the sea calmer. These months frequently offer good conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving. April can, however, be particularly hot and humid.

The best time to visit Seychelles:

• Beach holidays: possible all year round. April and October in particular often offer calm sea conditions. During the southeast trade winds, sheltered beaches on the west and northwest coasts are often more pleasant. Conditions vary by island and beach.

• Hiking and excursions: May to September. The relatively cooler and drier months are particularly well suited to activities on land.

• Mobile phones: using your mobile phone in Seychelles incurs roaming charges. It is advisable to check these charges before travelling and, if necessary, purchase a suitable roaming package to reduce costs.

• Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and resorts, often free of charge or for a small fee. Cafés and restaurants in tourist areas also frequently offer Wi-Fi. Speeds may vary and connections are not always stable.

• Prepaid SIM cards: you can buy a prepaid SIM card locally to make local calls and use mobile data. Several mobile network operators serve Seychelles, including Airtel and Cable & Wireless.

• Other information: network coverage may be limited on remote islands. Plan accordingly if you need reliable communication.

• Anse Lazio, Praslin: a well-known beach with white sand, turquoise water and striking granite rocks, popular with beachgoers and photographers.

• Vallée de Mai, Praslin: this UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site protects an impressive palm forest featuring the famous coco de mer palm and rare animal species.

• Beau Vallon, Mahé: a wide beach with numerous restaurants and water sports activities. Particularly popular for relaxed beach days and sunsets.

• Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahé: dense forests, varied hiking trails and viewpoints characterise the largest terrestrial protected area in Seychelles.

• Victoria Clock Tower, Mahé: the small clock tower in the centre of the capital is one of the best-known landmarks in Seychelles and is easy to visit on a city walk.

• Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue: this beach is famous for its impressive granite formations, pale sand and shallow water. Water levels and swimming conditions depend on the tides.

• Curieuse Island, off Praslin: this protected island is home to Aldabra giant tortoises, mangrove forests and historic buildings. It is often visited on organised boat excursions.

• Veuve Special Reserve, La Digue: this nature reserve protects an important habitat of the rare Seychelles paradise flycatcher and is particularly suitable for nature watching and birdwatching.

• Aldabra Atoll, Outer Islands: one of the world’s largest raised coral atolls and a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site with a significant population of giant tortoises. Visits require prior authorisation and are only possible as part of specially organised trips.

• Mission Lodge Lookout, Mahé: a historic viewpoint with sweeping views over forested hillsides and the sea. A school for the children of formerly enslaved people once stood here.

Travel inspiration
Be inspired by our blog posts and discover the most fascinating destinations in Seychelles:

• Seychelles: sights, dream islands and beaches at the best time of year

• Creole cuisine: African, Indian, French and Chinese influences combine with ingredients such as fish, coconut, vegetables and tropical fruit.

• Fish and seafood: grilled fish, tuna and octopus are typical ingredients. They are often served with rice, lentils, chutneys and hot chilli sauces.

• Curries and stews: fish, octopus and vegetable curries are often prepared with coconut milk and aromatic spices.

• Tropical fruit: papaya, mango, pineapple and star fruit are served fresh, as juice or in desserts. Availability depends on the season.

• Breadfruit and side dishes: breadfruit, cassava and plantains are boiled, pan-fried or deep-fried and served as filling side dishes.

• Takeaways and snacks: small takeaway outlets often serve affordable Creole dishes with rice, curry, fish or vegetables. Samosas and banana chips are popular snacks.

• Palm heart salad: also known as “millionaire’s salad”, this salad is made with tender palm hearts and is considered a special delicacy.

• Spices and herbs: chilli, ginger, garlic, cinnamon and lemongrass give many dishes their characteristic flavour.

• Local drinks: well-known choices include Takamaka rum, produced in Seychelles, and Seybrew beer. Fresh fruit juices and coconut water are popular non-alcoholic alternatives.

• Desserts: typical treats include coconut pastries and “ladob”, a sweet dish made, for example, by cooking bananas or breadfruit in sweetened coconut milk.

• Greetings: a friendly “Hello” or “Bonjour” is common. Treat your hosts and other people with courtesy and respect.

• Clothing: lightweight summer clothing is suitable for everyday wear. Away from the beach, wear normal everyday clothing over your swimwear. Shoulders and knees should be covered in churches and other places of worship.

• At the beach: refrain from nude and topless bathing on public beaches.

• Invitations and meals: when invited to someone’s home, follow your hosts’ lead. If in doubt, ask about local customs.

• Smoking: smoking is prohibited in enclosed public spaces and on public transport. Observe signs and use designated smoking areas.

• Tipping: tipping is voluntary. For good service in a restaurant, you can round up the bill or leave a small additional tip. Check whether a service charge has already been included.

• Nature and animals: take your litter with you, stay on designated paths in protected areas and follow local rules. Do not touch or feed wild animals, and do not step on coral while swimming or snorkelling.

• Photography: ask people for permission before photographing them. Observe photography restrictions and signs at places of worship.

• Drinking water quality: tap water quality can vary. If you are unsure about its safety, drink bottled or adequately treated water.

• Vaccinations: specific vaccinations are generally not mandatory for travellers entering Seychelles. However, travellers are advised to keep their routine vaccinations up to date, particularly against diphtheria, tetanus, polio and measles. Hepatitis A vaccination is also recommended.

• Dengue and chikungunya: both diseases can be transmitted by mosquitoes in Seychelles. The risk of transmission may increase, particularly during the rainy months.

• Mosquito protection: protect yourself consistently against mosquito bites both during the day and at night. Wear long, light-coloured clothing and use suitable insect repellent. Mosquito nets can be helpful in accommodation.

• Food and fish: choose freshly prepared, adequately heated food. Certain tropical reef fish may contain ciguatoxins, which are not destroyed by cooking. Observe local advice and warnings about eating fish.

• Sun and heat: the tropical sun is intense. Use sunscreen with a high sun protection factor, wear a hat and drink enough fluids. Plan regular breaks during excursions and hikes.

• Medical care is limited on some very remote islands. Adequate basic medical care is available on the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Treatment costs normally have to be paid before leaving the hospital. Serious illnesses and injuries should be treated abroad where possible.

• If you rely on specific medication, your travel medical kit should contain a sufficient supply. Bear in mind that many countries have special rules for bringing in medicines containing narcotic substances, such as methadone, and substances used to treat mental health conditions. If necessary, enquire directly with the relevant foreign representation (embassy or consulate) before departure.

Information last updated in October 2026

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and stay in contact with your tour operator.

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

• Travel to Seychelles is generally considered safe.

• The risk of terrorist acts cannot be ruled out in Seychelles either. The Terrorism and Kidnapping section highlights the risks associated with terrorism.

• Crime is increasing. Petty crime also occurs on beaches. During burglaries of private homes, violence has repeatedly been used against residents. Take the following precautions in particular:

  • Do not wear valuables (watches, jewellery, etc.) and carry only a small amount of money.

  • Keep valuables and identity documents in the hotel safe.

  • At night, preferably walk in groups.

  • Preferably hike in groups and with a guide who knows the area.

  • Pay close attention to security when choosing your accommodation.

• Pirate attacks have occurred repeatedly in the Indian Ocean, including in Seychellois waters. Consult the specific information: Maritime risks and piracy.

Information last updated in October 2026

• Driving licence: the Swiss driving licence is recognised. An international driving permit is also recommended and is only valid together with the national licence. It is available from TCS contact points or the road traffic office in your canton of residence.

• Car hire: rental cars are mainly available on Mahé and Praslin. Minimum age, the required length of time you must have held your licence and other conditions vary by provider. Check these before booking.

• Traffic rules: drive on the left. Many roads are narrow and winding, with pavements that do not extend continuously along them. Drive particularly carefully after dark and in heavy rain.

• Blood alcohol limit: 0.8 ‰. Do not drink alcohol before driving.

• Buses: the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) operates bus networks on Mahé and Praslin. Buses connect numerous towns, villages and excursion destinations. Check current timetables and connections on the SPTC website or in the app.

• Tickets: payment on SPTC buses is cashless. The “Visitor Travel Card” allows visitors unlimited journeys on regular bus services during the chosen validity period. Before your first journey, find out about sales points and available cards.

• Ferries: regular ferry services connect Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Well-known operators include Cat Cocos and Cat Rose. Book tickets in advance where possible. In strong winds and rough seas, crossings can be bumpy and services may be adjusted.

• Taxis and transfers: on Mahé and Praslin, taxis and organised transfers offer an alternative to the bus. Agree the fare before departure.

• Getting around La Digue: many journeys can be made on foot or by bicycle. Taxis and electric buggies are also available for transfers. The island is not entirely car-free.

• Other islands: depending on the destination, access is by organised boat transfer or charter flight. Daily domestic flights also operate between Mahé and Praslin.

Edelweiss offers direct flights from Zurich to Mahé; availability depends on the flight schedule. Air Seychelles connects Mahé and Praslin with daily domestic flights. Other islands are reached by ferry, boat transfer or charter flight, depending on the destination.

• Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), Mahé: direct flights from Zurich.

• Praslin Island Airport (PRI), Praslin: no direct flights from Switzerland. Connecting flights via Mahé are available.

The main airlines operating in Seychelles are Air Seychelles, Edelweiss Air, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways and Turkish Airlines.

00 41 (disregard '0' preceding Swiss area codes)

• General emergency number: 999

• Ambulance: 151

Switzerland does not have an embassy in Seychelles, but maintains an honorary consulate general in Victoria, Mahé. Consular services for Seychelles are provided by the Embassy of Switzerland in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

Honorary Consulate General of Switzerland
Le Chantier Dental Clinic
Bel Etang, Building 4
Mont Fleuri
Mahé
Seychelles

Tel.: (+248) 422 43 54, (+248) 276 95 81
Email: victoria@honrep.ch

Embassy of Switzerland in Madagascar
Immeuble "ARO" - 2ème étage
Làlana Solombavambahoaka Frantsay 77
Antsahavola
101 Antananarivo
Madagascar

Tel.: +261 20 85 629 97
Email: antananarivo@eda.admin.ch

Special legal provisions

• It is prohibited to photograph army, coastguard and police buildings.

• Violations of drug laws are punishable by long prison sentences and heavy fines, even for very small quantities and regardless of the type of drug.

Natural hazards

• Heavy rainfall should be expected. Severe cyclones may occur occasionally. Rain and storms can cause flooding, landslides and damage to infrastructure. Monitor weather forecasts and observe the warnings and instructions of the local authorities.

• If a natural disaster occurs during your stay, contact your relatives as soon as possible and follow the instructions of the local authorities. If communications with other countries are interrupted, contact the Swiss Consulate General in Victoria.