Seychelles is synonymous with relaxing holidays, romantic honeymoons, sparkling beaches, and island life.
The beaches are among the best in the world. There are mountains blanketed with thick jungle, spectacular oceanside rock outcrops and white beaches with beautiful coral reefs.
Its attraction lies in its pristine beauty, with diving, fishing, and water sports topping the popular activities.
The Republic of Seychelles comprises 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean. It is an archipelago of legendary beauty that extends from between four and ten degrees south of the Equator and lies between 480km and 1 600km from the east coast of Africa.
Of the islands, 41 constitute the oldest mid-oceanic granite islands on earth and a further 74 form the low-lying coral atolls and reef islands of the Outer Islands.Visitors can explore the surrounding islands, many of which are uninhabited
Seychelles' climate is one that is always warm and does not reach extremes of heat or cold. The temperature rarely drops below 24°C or rises above 32°C.
All but the remotest southern islands lie outside the cyclone belt making Seychelles’ a year-round destination for sun worshippers and beach lovers.
It is generally cooler when the northwest trade winds blow during the months of November to March. The sea is generally calm and the weather warm and humid, with average winds of 15 - 22 kilometers per hour.
A larger amount of the annual rainfall falls during the months of December to February compared to other months.
The weather is hottest from December to April, and the humidity is high - often 80% or higher.
Seychelles culture
People of African, European, and Asian origin have come to Seychelles, bringing their distinct traditions and customs. These influences can be seen in the local art, cuisine, music, dance, and architecture.
Local artists’ diverse styles echo the multi-ethnic backdrop of the islands. Creole music and dance have their roots in African, Malagasy, and European cultures, and groups of traditional dancers perform at functions.
There are three official languages in Seychelles:
Creole, English, and French. Many Seychellois also speak fluent Italian or German.
SLEEP
Luxury hotels and spas dot the major islands. Many visitors island-hop between the 16 islands that offer resort accommodation and explore the underwater world from glass-bottomed boats. Restaurants offer a choice of local Creole and international cuisine.
GETTING THERE
Just a short 4hr55min flight from Johannesburg, direct to Seychelles with Air Seychelles
VISAS
There are no Visa requirements to enter Seychelles. However, the following documents below must be shown in order to obtain immigration clearance at the Seychelles International Airport.
REQUIREMENTS
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The passport must be valid for the period of the intended stay until arrival back in the holder’s country of origin or residence.
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Onward or return ticket.
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Sufficient funds for the duration of the stay (minimum of US$150 or equivalent per day).
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Proof of accommodation, including contact details.
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Prof of valid travel health insurance (for potential Covid-19 related costs - isolation/quarantine/treatment).
CURRENCY
ATM facilities exist at major banks on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, and at the airport on Mahé and Praslin, providing cash in Seychelles Rupees (SCR).
COVID-19
All travelers to Seychelles must have certification of vaccination against COVID-19 and a valid negative PCR test result of not more than 72 hours & 48 hours depending on the country. Travelers are required to submit their test results when filling out the travisory form.
Some useful Creole phrases:
Hello: Bonzour
How are you?: Ki dir?
Thank you: Mersi
Goodbye: Orevwar
Please: Silvouple
I don’t understand: Mon pa konpran
Where?: Kote?
I like it: Mon kontan
What is this? Kisisa?