Getting Around in the Seychelles

Between the Islands

Unless the inter-island transfer is included as part of an agency package, you can use the maritime and air services available. All routes depart from Mahé.

By Air

There is only one regular air route in the entire archipelago. It is operated by Air Seychelles with around twenty daily return flights between Mahé and Praslin. Although the flight only takes 15 minutes, it still costs over 120 € return.

Beyond this, both Air Seychelles and a few private companies (Zil Air, IDC) offer on-demand flights—or more precisely, flights requested by hoteliers—across all islands with an airstrip. Transfers are made by helicopter or small aircraft. Alphonse Island, Bird, D'Arros, Denis Island, Desroches, and Frégate are the main islands in the archipelago served this way.

By Boat

Inter-island boats cost almost as much as flights, whether they are schooners or catamarans. However, there are only two regular routes: Mahé-Praslin (45 to 60 minutes at sea depending on the boat; around 50 € one-way) and Praslin-La Digue (25 minutes and around 15 € one-way). As with flights, there are also on-demand connections for various destinations.

On the Islands

Apart from Mahé and its 155 km², the other islands in the archipelago are small and sparsely populated. Only Mahé, Praslin, and to a much lesser extent La Digue have a real transport network. Remember, you drive on the left in the Seychelles.

Mahé and Praslin

As the main island, home to the capital and 80% of the population, Mahé offers a range of private and public transport options. The same applies to Praslin, though to a lesser extent.

It is the only island, along with Praslin, where you can rent vehicles. Companies are present at the airport, in major hotels, and in the capital. The range of vehicles goes from the mini-moke to sedans, including chauffeur-driven cars that can (normally) be rented without an international licence. While prices are not excessive (35 €/40 per day at the lowest rate), a car is not essential for exploring Mahé and even less so for Praslin. It’s just a matter of convenience and freedom.

In addition to cars, you can also rent scooters and bicycles, though for the latter, keep in mind that Mahé has some hilly terrain. Expect to pay between 5 € and 10 € per day for a bike.

For public transport, the SPTC manages the bus network. The system is good, comprehensive, and makes it easy to get around, including from major hotels, and is very affordable. A ticket costs the equivalent of 0.30 € or 0.50 € (night fare) regardless of the distance travelled. Discounted travel cards are also available. The SPTC operates on Mahé and Praslin.

Finally, there are taxis available on both islands. For those without a meter, it’s important to negotiate the fare beforehand. However, taxis are very expensive in the Seychelles.

La Digue and Other Islands

La Digue is not very large (less than 10 km²), and to get around, you can opt for the few taxis available, bicycles, or simply walking. You’ll also find some ox-drawn carts for transport.

As for the other islands, there is little in the way of transport, especially if they are inhabited—or if the island only has a tourist resort, transport is usually provided by the hotels.