How to Get Around Seychelles: A Comprehensive Transportation Guide
Navigating the stunning archipelago of Seychelles requires a good understanding of its unique transportation network. From inter-island flights to charming bicycle rides, getting around this tropical paradise is an adventure in itself, connecting you to pristine beaches and lush interior landscapes.
Arriving in Seychelles: International Gateways
Your journey to Seychelles will most likely begin at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé, the largest island. This serves as the main hub for international flights. From here, a variety of onward transportation options await to whisk you away to your chosen island retreat.
Inter-Island Hopping: Connecting the Archipelago
With 115 islands, exploring Seychelles often involves traveling between different landmasses. The main inner islands – Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue – are well-connected, while more remote private islands offer dedicated transfer services.
Domestic Flights
For speed and spectacular aerial views, domestic flights are an excellent choice. Air Seychelles operates frequent services between Mahé and Praslin. Shorter flights on smaller aircraft also connect Mahé to other exclusive island resorts, such as Bird Island and Fregate Island, and Silhouette Island. These flights often provide breathtaking panoramas of the turquoise waters and coral reefs below.
Ferry Services
The most popular and cost-effective way to travel between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue Island is by ferry. Modern catamarans offer comfortable, air-conditioned journeys, with several departures daily. The route between Mahé and Praslin is the busiest, while a shorter, scenic ride connects Praslin to La Digue. It's advisable to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
Private Boat Charters & Transfers
For ultimate flexibility, privacy, or access to less-frequented spots, private boat charters are an ideal solution. These can range from small speedboats for island excursions to larger yachts for multi-day trips. They are perfect for visiting nearby gems like Coco Island for snorkeling or a day trip to Cousine Island Special Reserve. Many luxury resorts on more secluded islands also provide their own dedicated boat transfers, often included in your stay.
Helicopter Transfers
For a truly luxurious and time-efficient transfer, or simply to enjoy unparalleled aerial views of the islands, helicopter services are available. These can quickly transport you between Mahé, Praslin, and various private islands, offering an unforgettable start or end to your Seychellois adventure.
Getting Around Mahé: The Largest Island
Mahé, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant capital Victoria, offers several ways to explore its beauty.
Rental Cars
Renting a car on Mahé provides the freedom to explore at your own pace, discovering secluded beaches like Anse Intendance or venturing into the lush interior of Morne Seychellois National Park. Roads are generally well-maintained but can be narrow, winding, and steep in places. Remember that driving is on the left-hand side.
Public Buses
The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) operates an extensive bus network across Mahé. Buses are a very affordable and authentic way to get around, connecting most towns and beaches. They can be crowded, especially during peak hours, and might not accommodate large luggage. Keep an eye on the schedule, as services become less frequent in the evenings and on Sundays.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the airport, ferry terminals, and major hotels. While more expensive than buses, they offer convenience and comfort, especially for shorter distances or when carrying luggage. Always agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey, or ensure the meter is used if available. Many taxi drivers also offer half-day or full-day island tours.
Private Drivers & Tour Operators
For a hassle-free experience with local insights, consider hiring a private driver for a day or joining an organized tour. This is an excellent option for exploring specific attractions, visiting multiple sites, or reaching areas less accessible by public transport.
Navigating Praslin: Home to the Coco de Mer
Praslin, the second-largest island, offers a more relaxed pace than Mahé but still requires transport to fully explore its treasures.
Rental Cars
Similar to Mahé, rental cars on Praslin give you the flexibility to visit famous beaches like Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, or explore the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai National Park. The roads are generally less busy than Mahé, but still winding.
Public Buses
Praslin also has a public bus service, connecting the main villages and popular beaches. It's a budget-friendly option, though less frequent than on Mahé.
Taxis
Taxis are available at the airport, ferry terminal, and major hotels. They are a convenient choice for direct transfers or short trips.
Bicycle Rentals
While not as ubiquitous as on La Digue, bicycles can be a pleasant way to explore certain flatter areas of Praslin, offering a closer connection to the island's natural beauty.
Exploring La Digue: The Island of Bicycles
La Digue Island is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and car-free charm, making bicycles the primary mode of transport.
Bicycle Rentals
Renting a bicycle is by far the most popular and recommended way to get around La Digue. Numerous guesthouses and shops offer rentals, allowing you to cycle along coastal paths, through vanilla plantations, and to stunning beaches. The island is relatively flat in many areas, making cycling an enjoyable and easy way to explore.
Ox Carts (Traditional)
For a truly unique and traditional experience, ox carts are still used on La Digue for short transfers, particularly for tourists arriving at the jetty with luggage. It’s a charming, slow-paced way to soak in the island's atmosphere.
Taxis (Limited)
While La Digue is largely car-free, a very limited number of "taxis" (usually small pick-up trucks with benches) operate for specific transfers, mainly for guests with heavy luggage traveling to and from the ferry port.
Getting to Remote Islands and Marine Parks
For exploring the outer islands or protected marine areas, specialized transport is essential.
Private Boat Charters
Chartering a private boat is the best way to explore the beauty of Sainte Anne Marine National Park, or to reach uninhabited islands for snorkeling, diving, or picnicking. Many tour operators offer full-day excursions.
Resort-Specific Transfers
Many exclusive resorts on remote islands like Silhouette Island or Fregate Island operate their own private boat or helicopter transfers, which are often arranged directly through your accommodation booking.
Liveaboards/Expedition Cruises
For truly remote and pristine destinations, such as the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aldabra Atoll, expedition cruises and liveaboards offer the only practical way to visit, providing a comprehensive exploration of the Seychelles' outer reaches.
Essential Transportation Tips for Seychelles
- Book in Advance:Especially for inter-island flights and ferries during peak season, booking ahead is highly recommended.
- Left-Hand Drive:If renting a car, remember that driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
- Narrow Roads:Many roads, especially outside main towns, can be narrow and winding. Drive cautiously.
- Flexibility:Weather can sometimes affect sea and air travel, so build a little flexibility into your itinerary.
From the bustling streets of Mahé to the tranquil paths of La Digue, Seychelles offers a captivating array of transportation options to suit every traveler and every itinerary. Embrace the journey, and enjoy discovering the unique charm of each island.