Seychelles

Safety and security

Emergency numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services.

• Dial 999 for police, fire, or rescue services
• Dial 133 to report a crime
• Dial 151 for ambulance
• Dial 4290900 for the Seychelles Coast Guard Emergency line.

Crime

Muggings and petty crime are on the rise. This can include purse snatching and pickpocketing. It is most common in or around tourist facilities and ATMs. Theft happens in places tourists go, like beaches, walking trails, and in vehicles.

Safety tips:

• Keep valuables locked in a hotel room safe.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive looking jewelry.
• Do not leave articles visible in rental cars.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
• Avoid demonstrations and large gatherings. Even demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn violent.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local news and enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).

Scams

• Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.
• If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.  

If using dating apps or websites in Seychelles: 

• Criminals may use dating apps to target potential victims for robbery or assault.
• Let your friends and family know where you are and consider sharing your location on your phone.
• Meet in a popular public place.
• Tell your family or friends all the details about the person you are meeting and how you met them (which app).
• Set up and talk using a video call before agreeing to meet in person. 
• Avoid locations where you can be isolated, like hotel rooms, private apartments, or houses.
• Never leave food or drinks unattended at a bar or restaurant.
• Observe the preparation of your food or drink order when possible.
• Refuse offers of food or drinks from strangers.
• Have a communication plan with friends or family. Send updates to them on an agreed schedule. 

Marine hazards

The Seychelles Tourism Authority recommends reviewing their Beach & Sea Safety Guide.

• Strong currents, rough seas, and occasional algal blooms can pose risks to swimmers and fishermen year-round.
• Many beaches are not suitable for swimming. Even popular tourist beaches can be subject to rip currents and undertows.
• Beach swimming conditions on the east and west coasts vary by season.
• The southern coast beaches are never safe for swimming.
• Visitors should follow signs for dedicated swimming areas.
• Always seek expert local advice about which areas are safe for swimming. The areas change depending on seasonal weather patterns and time of day.
• Most beaches do not have a regular lifeguard presence.
• Do not fish, swim, or snorkel alone.
• Venomous stonefish are present in Seychelles. Stings can cause severe pain and even death. 

Victims of Crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. embassy or consulate can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States or limited medical support in cases of need.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the nearest U.S. embassy and local law enforcement for assistance. 

Technology use abroad

Cellular phones are common on the main islands. Service is generally good, though there are some coverage gaps in remote areas. Local SIM cards can be purchased to use with compatible cell phones.

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Don’t connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Research the safety of routes recommended by GPS. The fastest route is not always the safest.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Hobbyists must register their drones if they fly models over 200 grams. 
• For more information, review Seychelles guidance on drone operations.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it’s safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest. 

Tourism safety

The tourism industry is not well regulated:

• Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare.
• Dangerous areas and activities are not always marked with signs.
• Staff may not be trained or certified.
• If you get injured, you will likely need to travel to Mahé for medical care.
• First responders cannot reach remote areas in case of emergencies.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to have medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance. 

Adventure travel

Hiking in Seychelles is a common and enjoyable activity. If you plan to hike in Seychelles, please be aware that:

• Trails are often poorly marked, navigation is difficult, and the terrain can be treacherous.
• Many hikers on Mahé and La Digue islands get lost. This leads to search and rescue operations.
• Use a knowledgeable trail guide.
• Review the CDC tips for Adventure Travel. 

Local laws and customs

Criminal penalties

• U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.
• Drugs are prohibited in Seychelles, including cannabis, cannabis oil, and common prescription medications. Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs may result in long jail sentences and big fines.
• Convictions for class A drugs, including cocaine, opioids (morphine, heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone), and fentanyl, may result in life imprisonment.
• Convictions for class B drugs, including cannabis, amphetamines, and codeine, may result in up to 50 years imprisonment. Possessing over 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds) of cannabis is considered an aggravated offense. Police have the authority to stop and search people suspected of cannabis possession.
• Importing military clothing, firearms, or ammunition is prohibited. Possession of firearms or ammunition may result in up to 15 years in prison and a fine of 1 million Seychellois rupee (USD 66,000).
• Topless sunbathing is not acceptable on most beaches. Nudism is not permitted.
• Importation of counterfeit goods may result in up to 5 years in prison and up to a 500,000 Seychellois rupee (USD 33,000) fine.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Seychelles seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required. 

Arrest notification

• If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. embassy or consulate immediately. 

Detention conditions

• Prison conditions in Seychelles may not meet expectations of U.S. citizens.
• Prisons are small and overpopulated. Lifestyle in prison is basic with limited variety in food and activities. 

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work.

Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• There are no legal restrictions on consensual same-sex relationships. The law in Seychelles protects citizens from prejudice and identity-based discrimination.
• However, same-sex marriage and adoption by same-sex couples is not legal in Seychelles.
• Review our page on Gay and Lesbian Travelers for more information.

Travelers with accessibility needs

• The law in Seychelles prohibits discrimination against people with physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities.
• Accessibility can be limited or nonexistent in public transportation, lodging, and public buildings. There are few sidewalks. Sidewalks may be uneven and difficult for walking.
• Most buildings lack working elevators.
• Accessibility is more common in major tourist resorts. Resorts may still have limited services for visitors with disabilities.
• Importing specialty items to Seychelles is expensive. Local businesses are unlikely to be able to provide rentals or replacement parts for devices that may be common elsewhere.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad. 

Women travelers

• The Department of State has had credible reports of extensive gender-based violence in the past. This includes domestic or intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and other forms of violence.
• Many survivors of sexual assault in Seychelles do not report their experiences. This is due to social stigma and a reluctance to start lengthy court cases.
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There are no credible reports of significant human rights abuses in Seychelles.

• Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for Seychelles prior to traveling.

Health

Health resources

• CDC Seychelles Traveler Information provides destination specific information on prevalent diseases and vaccination recommendations.
• CDC Medical Tourism information
• World Health Organization
• Medicine and Health
• Travel Insurance

Emergency numbers

• Dial 151 for ambulance
• Dial +248-4388-000 for the main hospital in Victoria

Ambulance services

Ambulance services operated by the Ministry of Health are available on the islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

• Response time and reliability vary widely based on location.
• Smaller islands, including Praslin and La Digue, may require evacuation by air or boat to Mahé.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital. This option can be faster than waiting for an ambulance.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad.  Most U.S. plans do not. For trips to smaller islands, including Praslin and La Digue, travelers should make sure their insurance includes medical evacuation coverage.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free for tourists in Seychelles. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Seychelles.
• Some small care providers only accept cash payments in Seychellois rupees.
• Victoria Hospital accepts credit cards.
• Private clinics may require payment up front before providing treatment or admitting a patient. 
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance. If you purchase medical travel insurance, you are responsible for seeking reimbursement from your medical insurance. Be sure to follow their guidance and instructions for filing claims.
• The Department of State strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Vaccinations

Yellow fever: Required for travelers under 60 who live in or have recently visited a country with yellow fever. This also applies to those who transit through a yellow fever destination, if they spend over 12 hours in that location. Review more information on Seychellois’ vaccination requirements here.

Stay up to date with the vaccines recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• CDC Travelers’ Health
• World Health Organization Travel Advice

Healthcare facilities

• Health facilities are available on Mahé. Smaller islands, including Praslin and La Digue, lack medical infrastructure required to treat trauma or common illnesses.
• The U.S. embassy maintains a list of doctors and hospitals. We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.
• Public medical clinics outside of Mahé lack basic resources and supplies.
• Some hotels and resorts may have exclusive agreements with medical providers. This may limit your choices in seeking emergency medical attention.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English in smaller clinics.
• Patients must cover all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Psychological and psychiatric services are limited, even in larger cities.

Prescription medications

• Many drugs are illegal in Seychelles, including controlled drugs like anabolic steroids and testosterone. Verify with Seychelles Customs that your medications are legal before you travel.
• Review the Seychelles Misuse of Drugs Act for more information.
• Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Be sure to bring enough of your prescriptions (as well as over-the-counter medications) to last the duration of your trip.
• Check with the Seychelles Public Health Authority to ensure the medication is legal in Seychelles.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology and Surrogacy (ART)

• If you are considering traveling to Seychelles to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Seychelles with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Seychellois courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Seychelles via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long  delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities and/or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.  

Water quality and food safety

• Tap water is considered generally safe to drink and use in cooking. However, surface water is the primary source of tap water. Even with treatment processes, the quality of tap water in Seychelles can vary.
• Tap water in Victoria generally meets the World Health Organization’s (WHO) guidelines for drinking water quality.
• In rural and remote areas, the quality can be inconsistent.
• Heavy rains may affect the water quality.
• Tourists often drink bottled water. You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• You can ensure water is safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Transportation

Road conditions and safety

• Driving is only practical on the islands of Mahé and Praslin.
• Roads are narrow and wind steeply over mountains. They often have sheer drops and hairpin bends. People, animals, rocks, and vehicles can be surprising obstacles when rounding corners.
• Branches in the road are often a sign of an obstruction ahead.
• Deep uncovered concrete storm drains line the narrow roads and can easily break an axle.
• Many roads are not well maintained, and many drivers do not necessarily adhere to traffic regulations.
• Roads are hazardous due to a lack of safety barriers and inadequate street lighting. Avoid remote roads, particularly at night.
• Sudden heavy downpours can drastically reduce visibility, especially at night.

Traffic laws 

• An international driving permit is required to drive in Seychelles.
• Traffic in Seychelles moves on the left.
• Drivers and front-seat passengers are required to wear seatbelts.
• Car rentals are available. Most car rental companies will include a deposit as part of the rental fee. This covers some potential damage. Clarify the policy with your car rental company. It may be possible for you to purchase more coverage if needed.
• You may not be able to purchase short-term car insurance with local insurance companies.
• Drunk driving is a problem. Be particularly aware of other road users who may drive recklessly. Do not consume alcohol before driving.
• Police checkpoints are frequent to conduct sobriety checks. They enforce traffic regulations, especially on popular tourist routes.
• In case of an automobile accident, remain at the scene until the police arrive.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Negotiate the fare before beginning your journey. Taxis are not metered. Confirm with your hotel about what fares you should expect on tips.
• Some ride-sharing applications are available on Mahé Island. But availability is limited. Fares may be higher than traditional taxi services.
• Taxis and ride-shares are generally considered safe.

Public and commercial transportation

• Bus services are infrequent on some routes. They tend to be crowded during rush hours and may require a transfer.
• On the islands of Mahé and Praslin, buses run from early morning to early evening. A schedule is available from the bus station in Victoria.
• Buses are generally considered safe.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.   

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Seychelle’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.  

Maritime travel

• Most of the inner islands are accessible by boat or ferry. Day trips are available to tourists. Check that boats have sufficient safety equipment including life jackets and ship-to-shore radio.
• Travel by ship to the outer islands requires prior approval from the Seychelles Maritime Safety Authority.

Pirate attacks have occurred in coastal waters surrounding the outer islands. Sometimes attacks have occurred farther out at sea. 

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Seychelles should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Seychellois ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Seychellois ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers in Seychellois ports should be careful and use stronger security measures. 

Weather and natural disasters

General climate

Seychelles has a consistently warm climate. The average temperatures range from 75°F to 90°F. Coastal areas are slightly cooler due to sea breezes. Rainfall is frequent but varies by season. Seychelles experiences a wet monsoon season from November to March. The dry monsoon season is from May to September.  Humidity levels are high year-round.

Natural disasters

• Heavy rainfall – Seychelles experiences heavy rainfall during the wet monsoon season from November to March. This rainfall can lead to localized flooding and landslides.
• Tropical storms – Seychelles is outside the cyclone belt, but it can experience tropical storms with strong winds and heavy rain. These events are rare but can disrupt transportation and damage infrastructure. Tropical storms are most likely to occur between November and March.
• Drought – Seychelles has reduced rainfall during the dry monsoon season from May to September. This can lead to water shortages, particularly on smaller islands with limited freshwater resources.

Local resources

• Seychelles Meteorological Authority
• Seychelles Disaster Risk Management Division of Ministry of Internal Affairs
• Seychelles Public Utilities Corporation

U.S. citizens living abroad

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.

Embassies and consulates

There is no U.S. consular presence in Seychelles. Contact the U.S. Embassyin Port Louis, Mauritius if you need consular services while in Seychelles.