Seychelles Holidays

Looking for untouched natural beauty, pristine beaches, lush tropical vegetation, and sea that is so blue it matches the sky? You’ll find it on holiday in Seychelles. Each of the 115 tropical islands that make up Seychelles is unique. Its capital, the island of Mahé boasts 65 beaches and lush inland forests. On the unspoilt island of La Digue, there are no cars – you travel by oxcart. You can enjoy solitude and privacy on the spectacular islands of Desroches and Silhouette. Then there’s Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on the island of Praslin, home to the legendary Coco de Mer palm tree. And let’s not forget the excellent scuba diving on offer on stunning Cerf Island…

Seychelles is a paradise on earth and offers everything required for a perfect beach holiday. All-inclusive resorts, white sand beaches that are some of the best in the world, sapphire seas, perpetual summer weather, diverse landscapes, friendly people, and a variety of breathtaking natural locations.

Why we love Seychelles

These islands offer the quintessential beach holiday.
Some islands are entirely untouched, offering a chance to really get away from it all.
The islands are famous for their incredible natural beauty.
The weather is idyllic all year round.
The Seychelles islands are home to several endangered animals, including green turtles.
Deep-sea fishing in Seychelles is world-class.
Scuba diving sites around these magical islands are legendary.
Seychelles is one of the world’s most romantic honeymoon destinations.

Ideal for every type of holidaymaker, especially honeymooners, the Seychelles islands are heaven on earth. Thompsons Holidays can take you there.

What to do in Seychelles

Holidays in Seychelles are island paradise dreams come to life. Mahé Island, together with the nearby isles of Praslin and La Digue, are Seychelles’ most sought-after destinations. But there are many more remote islands to be discovered, each offering unique wildlife and unmatched scenery. With 115 islands to choose from, there are plenty of things to do – especially for beach lovers and watersport enthusiasts. From sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving to hiking, surfing and island hopping, you’re spoiled for choice.

Things to do in Seychelles

Discover rare palms in the extraordinary Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin Island.
Seychelles offers a magical underwater world to discover while scuba diving or snorkelling.
Step back in time as you cycle around La Digue Island.
See the world’s heaviest seed, the sexy Coco de Mer, which resembles part of a woman’s torso.
Explore Victoria, capital of Mahé and one of the smallest capitals in the world.
Go snorkelling off the little island of St Pierre.
Go hiking at Le Morne Blanc on the island of Mahé.
Soak up the sun on Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Go scuba diving in Baie Ternay Marine Park.
Sail off from Mahé to enjoy deep-sea fishing.
Learn how to surf.
Go island hopping to explore some of the other islands in the archipelago.

Whether you’re keen to enjoy what your resort has to offer or wish to explore further afield and visit some of the magical islands around Mahé, a holiday package in Seychelles will be a journey of discovery.

Know before you go...

When is the best time to visit?

Seychelles enjoys a warm, tropical climate.
Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C.
The best time to visit Seychelles: April, May, October and November.
The wettest months are January and February.
May to September is cooler, drier and windier.

Getting there & getting around

There are frequent flights from South Africa to Seychelles.
The flight duration from Johannesburg to Seychelles is 5 hours, 12 minutes.
Most islands are relatively small and easy to explore on foot or by bike. Buses are available on both Mahé and Praslin. You could also hire a car.
If you're planning to travel between islands, Seychelles' ferry services are both convenient and reliable.

Do I need a visa?

South African passport holders do not require a visa to enter Seychelles.
Passports should be valid for 6 months after travel.

What time is it?

Seychelles is 2 hours ahead of South Africa.

Money matters

The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR).
Euros are widely accepted.
Tipping is not compulsory. Most charges (restaurants, taxis, porters, and others) already include 5-10% service charge. As a reward for exceptional service, a nominal tip is warmly received.

Language & phrases

French, Seychellois Creole and English are the official languages in Seychelles.
Seychellois Creole is spoken by 95% of the population.

Culture & religion

Roman Catholicism is the dominant religion of Seychelles.

Health information

It is not recommended to drink tap water in Seychelles. Bottled water is readily available.
No vaccinations are currently required but check with your travel clinic before you go.

What must I pack?

Seychelles enjoys a year-round warm, tropical climate, and you will spend most of your time in and around the sea, so beachwear is a must. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing with a dressier outfit or two for dinners – think laidback luxury.
Don't leave home without sunscreen, lip balm, hat, and sunglasses.
Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
Camera – or just use your phone.
Travel adaptor.

What can I do to be a responsible traveller?

In 2017, environmentally-conscious Seychelles officially banned plastic bags – and plastic straws! Be sure to pack fabric shopping bags and a reusable straw in your suitcase. While you're at it, pack a reusable water bottle too and choose to refill, not landfill.
When hiking, always stick to the trail. Many uninhabited islands are dedicated nature reserves and sanctuaries for threatened species, including the Seychelles black parrot, giant tortoises, and vast colonies of seabirds.
The reefs are one of the country's most important tourist attractions, but also one of the most vulnerable ecosystems in the world. Coral is not a souvenir.
It is prohibited to collect seashells in Seychelles' nature reserves and marine parks.
When diving, swimming or snorkelling, use reef-friendly sunscreen.
Wherever possible, buy local food and souvenirs and support local artisans.
Respect each other's cultures and customs and avoid imposing your beliefs.

Safety tips

Seychelles is considered a safe destination for travellers. Still, be safety conscious and don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
Keep your belongings safe – use the hotel safe for passports and valuables and watch out for pickpockets and bag snatchers when out and about.
Always have a map (or app) on hand, especially when travelling at night.