Money, Budget, and Shopping for the Seychelles

Money

Currency

Currency: Seychellois rupee (100 cents).

Banknotes: 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 SCR.

Coins: 1, 5, 10, and 25 cents, plus 1 and 5 SCR.

Exchange:

The Seychellois rupee has been in circulation in the archipelago for over a century, replacing the Mauritian rupee that was previously used.

Exchange

Exchanging foreign currencies in the Seychelles is straightforward, especially euros. Exchange bureaus can be found at airports and in most banks, primarily on Mahé and occasionally on La Digue and Praslin (none elsewhere). ATMs are also available in these locations. Exchanging money at hotels or certain shops is far from ideal due to the conversion rates sometimes applied.

Which currency to bring

As a foreigner, you are legally allowed to pay for purchases and services in foreign currency, with change given in local currency (though be mindful of the exchange rates offered). Therefore, it’s simplest to bring euros in cash, and in large amounts if you’re coming from the eurozone.

Payment methods

Since it’s possible to pay directly in foreign currency for accommodations, transport, mid-to-high-end restaurants, and some other services, it’s worth taking advantage of this. Bringing plenty of euros in cash will help avoid bank card transaction fees. Cards are accepted in most shops across the country.

Upon return

To avoid having to exchange money before departure, it’s best to plan ahead and simply have euros in cash to finish your stay, as many purchases can be made in this currency. Note that officially, you cannot leave the country with more than 2,000 rupees (less than 150 €), and to reconvert them, you must present the receipt from the bank or exchange bureau that performed the initial transaction.

Budget

The Seychelles is the most expensive destination in the Indian Ocean. While daily life on Mahé isn’t necessarily exorbitant—with a budget of 40 €–50 per person (for two) potentially sufficient if staying in the cheapest guesthouses, eating local food, and using buses—the experience may feel somewhat limited. A trip to the Seychelles is about more than that: it’s about exploring other islands, discovering white-sand deserted beaches, marveling at marine life, or taking boat trips within the archipelago. All of these come at a cost, requiring a daily budget of at least 100 € per person. That said, the Seychelles is also an all-inclusive destination, which can be a good option in terms of cost.

What can be expensive

Inter-island transport, regardless of the mode of travel.

Sea excursions.

Taxis.

What doesn’t have to be expensive

Eating local food.

Local buses.

Bike rentals.

Price range

Budget double room: around 50 €–60 minimum.

Mid-range double room: around 100 € at best.

Snacks or meals at local restaurants: around 5 €.

Meals at tourist-oriented restaurants: around 15 € on average.

Cheapest car rental: from 35 €–40 for small models.

Bike rental: 6 €–7 per day.

Bus: 0.35 €–0.50 per ticket, regardless of distance.

Urban taxi: between 1.40 € and 2 € per kilometer, depending on the location.

Bargaining and tipping

Bargaining is not a common practice among Seychellois. However, you can always try negotiating prices in markets. As for tipping, while it’s not mandatory (and service is usually included in the bill), it’s always appreciated.