Transportation Guide
Navigate Seychelles with ease. Complete guide to flights, ferries, buses, taxis, and all transportation options to help you explore paradise efficiently.
Getting Around Paradise
Transportation in Seychelles is straightforward and well-organized, with various options to suit different budgets and preferences. The three main islands – Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue – are well-connected by regular ferry services and domestic flights, while each island offers its own unique transportation methods for local exploration.
From international flights arriving at Seychelles International Airport to local buses that cost just a few rupees, from luxury helicopter transfers to traditional ox-cart rides on La Digue, Seychelles offers transportation experiences that range from practical to extraordinary. Understanding your options will help you make the most of your time in paradise while managing your budget effectively.
International Access
Direct flights from major cities worldwide
Island Hopping
Regular ferries and domestic flights
Local Transport
Buses, taxis, and unique island options
International Flights
Seychelles International Airport (SEZ)
Your gateway to paradise
Seychelles International Airport is located on Mahé island, about 10km from Victoria, the capital city. This modern airport handles all international arrivals and departures, as well as domestic flights to other islands. The airport offers all essential services including duty-free shopping, restaurants, car rental, and currency exchange.
Airport Facilities
- Modern terminal with air conditioning
- Duty-free shops and restaurants
- Currency exchange and ATMs
- Car rental desks
- Tourist information counter
- Free WiFi throughout terminal
Airport Tips
- Arrive 3 hours early for international flights
- Check-in online when possible
- Keep boarding pass for duty-free
- Airport tax included in ticket price
Airlines & Direct Routes
Major airlines serving Seychelles
Major Airlines
- Air Seychelles: National carrier
- Emirates: Via Dubai
- Qatar Airways: Via Doha
- Ethiopian Airlines: Via Addis Ababa
- Turkish Airlines: Via Istanbul
- Air France: Via Paris
- British Airways: Via London
- Condor: Via Frankfurt
Popular Routes
- Europe: London, Paris, Frankfurt, Rome
- Middle East: Dubai, Doha, Istanbul
- Africa: Johannesburg, Addis Ababa, Mauritius
- Asia: Mumbai, Singapore (seasonal)
Seasonal Flights
Some routes operate seasonally. Check with airlines for current schedules, especially during peak season (December–January).
Typical Flight Costs (Return)
- London: £600–£1200
- Paris: €700–€1400
- Dubai: $500–$900
- Johannesburg: $400–$800
Prices vary by season and booking time
Booking Tips
- Book 2–3 months in advance
- Avoid peak season for better prices
- Consider flexible dates
- Compare airlines and routes
Airport Transfers
Taxis
- Cost: $15–$30 to most hotels
- Time: 15–45 minutes
- Available: 24/7
- Capacity: Up to 4 passengers
Hotel Transfers
- Luxury hotels: Complimentary
- Mid-range: $10–$20 per person
- Booking: Arrange in advance
- Shared: Cost-effective option
Car Rentals
- Desks: Available at airport
- Daily rate: $40–$80
- License: International required
- Driving: Left-hand side
Helicopter Transfers
- Luxury option: Ultimate experience
- Cost: $300–$500 per person
- Time: 5–15 minutes
- Views: Spectacular aerial scenery
Inter-Island Transportation
Ferry Services
Most popular way to travel between islands
Ferry services are the most popular and economical way to travel between the main islands. Cat Cocos operates regular services between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, offering comfortable modern vessels with air-conditioned seating, refreshment facilities, and spectacular ocean views during the journey.
Ferry Routes & Schedules
| Route | Duration | Frequency | Cost (Return) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahé ? Praslin | 1 hour | 3–4 times daily | $50–$60 |
| Praslin ? La Digue | 15 minutes | 6–8 times daily | $15–$20 |
| Mahé ? La Digue | 2 hours (via Praslin) | Daily connections | $65–$80 |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance during peak season
- Arrive 30 minutes early
- 20kg luggage allowance
- Online booking available
Weather Note
Services may be cancelled during rough weather conditions, especially May–October.
Domestic Flights
Quick and scenic island hopping
Air Seychelles operates domestic flights between the main islands using small aircraft that provide spectacular aerial views. While more expensive than ferries, flights are much faster and offer a unique perspective of the islands from above.
Flight Information
- Mahé to Praslin: 15 minutes, $100–$150 each way
- Aircraft: Small planes (19 seats)
- Frequency: Multiple daily flights
- Luggage: 15kg allowance
- Views: Spectacular aerial photography opportunities
Advantages
- Very fast travel
- Amazing aerial views
- Less weather dependent
- Flexible scheduling
Helicopter Charters
- Cost: $1000–$2000 per flight
- Capacity: 4–6 passengers
- Experience: Ultimate luxury
- Duration: 5–20 minutes
Private Boats
- Cost: $500–$1500 per day
- Groups: Perfect for families
- Flexibility: Your own schedule
- Stops: Multiple islands possible
Local Transportation by Island
Mahé Island
Public Buses
- Cost: $0.50–$1.50 per journey
- Frequency: Every 15–30 minutes
- Coverage: Most areas of the island
- Experience: Local atmosphere
Taxis
- Cost: $10–$30 per journey
- Available: 24/7
- Booking: Hotel or phone
- Meter: Fixed rates to destinations
Car Rentals
- Daily rate: $40–$80
- License: International required
- Driving: Left-hand side
- Fuel: Petrol stations available
Scooter Rentals
- Daily rate: $25–$35
- License: Motorcycle license required
- Fuel efficient: Economical option
- Weather: Good for dry conditions
Praslin Island
Public Buses
- Cost: $0.50–$1.00 per journey
- Routes: Limited but covers main areas
- Frequency: Less frequent than Mahé
- Schedule: Check timetables
Car Rentals
- Daily rate: $45–$85
- Recommended: Best way to explore
- Distances: Small island, easy driving
- Parking: Generally easy to find
La Digue Island
Bicycles
- Daily rate: $10–$15
- Most popular: Traditional way to explore
- Eco-friendly: No emissions
- Experience: Authentic island life
Ox Carts
- Traditional: Historic transport method
- Luggage: From ferry to hotel
- Photo op: Unique experience
- Slow pace: Relaxed island time
Transportation Tips & Advice
Budget Tips
- Use public buses: Cheapest option on Mahé
- Book ferries early: Better prices and availability
- Share taxis: Split costs with other travelers
- Rent for multiple days: Daily rates decrease
- Walk when possible: Many attractions are walkable
Time-Saving Tips
- Book transfers in advance: Avoid waiting
- Check ferry schedules: Plan around timetables
- Allow extra time: Island time is relaxed
- Confirm bookings: Double-check arrangements
Safety Tips
- Wear seatbelts: Always buckle up
- Drive carefully: Mountain roads can be narrow
- Check weather: Ferries may be cancelled
- Keep documents: License and insurance
- Emergency numbers: Save important contacts
Seasonal Considerations
- Peak season: Book everything in advance
- Rough seas: May–October ferry disruptions
- Rain season: Driving conditions may vary
- Holiday periods: Limited availability
Pro Traveler Tip
Always carry small change for buses and taxis. Plan transfers ahead of time—Seychelles’ relaxed island pace means flexibility is key!