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The Seychelles Flag is rich in symbolism, reflecting the country’s history, culture, and aspirations. The flag consists of five oblique bands radiating from the bottom left corner to the top and right edges. Each color has its own significance:
- Blue: Represents the sky and the sea that surrounds Seychelles.
- Yellow: Symbolizes the sun, which gives light and life.
- Red: Stands for the people of Seychelles and their determination to work for the future in unity and love.
- White: Denotes social justice and harmony.
- Green: Represents the lush vegetation of the islands and the natural environment.
The flag’s unique design, with its dynamic and radiating bands, symbolizes a new beginning for the country, reflecting its forward movement into the future with confidence and hope. If you want to explore more about the country, its pristine beaches, you need to consider the budget and safe travel tips mentioned in this article.
Table of Contents
key facts and travel tips for a budget friendly tour to seychelles
Capital | Victoria on Mahe island is the capital of Seychelles. |
|---|---|
Currency | The Seychellois Rupee (SCR) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is good to have some cash for small purchases. |
Budgeting | Seychelles can be expensive, but there are options for different budgets. Plan for accommodation, food, activities, and transportation. You can look for the most popular and trusted website Expedia to book hotels, flights, cars, and packages. Refer to our detailed budgeting guidance in the below sections to have a high-level plan for your trip. |
Climate and Best Time to Visit | Seychelles has a tropical climate with year-round warm weather. The temperatures average between 24°C and 30°C. April to May and October to November are considered the best months due to calmer seas and ideal weather for outdoor activities. |
Visa Policy | Seychelles is visa-free for all nationalities. Visitors are granted a Visitor’s Permit upon arrival, valid for up to 3 months and extendable for up to 12 months. |
Health and Safety | Ensure you have travel insurance that covers health issues. No vaccinations are mandatory, but some are recommended, such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Check the latest entry requirements related to COVID-19, such as vaccination certificates or testing requirements. |
Major Travel Destinations
| Seychelles is renowned for its stunning beaches, many of which, are considered among the most beautiful in the world. Here are some of the most famous beaches in Seychelles: Anse Source d'Argent, Anse Cocos, Anse Severe, and Grand Anse in La Digue, Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, and Anse Volbert in Praslin, Beau Vallon, Anse Intendance, and Petite Anse in Mahé. |
Major Hotels | Four Seasons Resort Seychelles (Mahé), Constance Ephelia (Mahé), Raffles Seychelles (Praslin), Constance Lemuria (Praslin), Domaine de L’Orangeraie Resort & Spa (La Digue), Le Domaine de La Reserve (Praslin), Six Senses Zil Pasyon (Félicité Island). |
Major Airports | Seychelles International Airport (Mahé), Praslin Island Airport (Praslin) |
Major Banks | Seychelles Commercial Bank, Nouvobanq, Barclays Bank Seychelles (now Absa Bank Seychelles), Bank of Baroda Seychelles, Mauritius Commercial Bank (Seychelles), Al Salam Bank Seychelles. |
Major Stock Exchange
| The major stock exchange in Seychelles is the Seychelles Securities Exchange, also known as Trop-X. |
Culture | |
Cultural Respect | Dress modestly when visiting local communities and religious sites. Beachwear is appropriate only at the beach. |
Cuisines | Enjoy local Creole cuisine, which includes fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and coconut-based dishes. Water Safety: Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is also widely available. |
Languages | The official languages are English, French, and Seychellois Creole. |
Popular Folk Dance | The popular folk dance in Seychelles is the Moutya. This traditional dance, accompanied by rhythmic drumming and singing, reflects the cultural heritage and history of the Seychellois people. |
Transportation | Getting Around: Public buses, taxis, and rental cars are common on the main islands. Bicycles are popular on smaller islands like La Digue. Driving: Drive on the left side of the road. An international driving permit is recommended. |
Lesser Known Facts About Seychelles | Victoria, the capital of Seychelles, is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. Despite its small size, Victoria boasts a vibrant cultural scene, including the Victoria Clock Tower, which is a miniature replica of London's Big Ben. Seychelles is home to the Coco de Mer, the largest seed in the plant kingdom. Native to the islands of Praslin and Curieuse, the Coco de Mer palm produces seeds that can weigh up to 30 kilograms (about 66 pounds) and have a distinctive shape that resembles a double coconut. This unique and rare plant is a significant part of Seychelles' natural heritage and is protected to preserve its existence. |
itinerary for a 5 day trip to seychelles
Here is a detailed itinerary for a 5-day tour to Seychelles, focusing on the main islands of Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue, for your quick reference. You can further customize it based on your preferences like spending more time on certain islands or visiting other islands, staying in a particular locality, etc.
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Mahé
- Morning:
- Arrive at Seychelles International Airport in Mahé.
- Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
- Relax and freshen up after your flight.
- Afternoon:
- Explore Victoria, the capital city. Visit the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market and the Victoria Clock Tower.
- Have lunch at a local restaurant in Victoria.
- Evening:
- Visit Beau Vallon Beach for a sunset walk and dinner at a beach side restaurant.
Day 2: Mahé to Praslin
- Morning:
- Early breakfast at your hotel.
- Take a ferry from Mahé to Praslin (approx. 1 hour).
- Check into your hotel in Praslin.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
- Evening:
- Relax at Anse Lazio Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
- Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.
Day 3: Exploring Praslin and La Digue
- Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Take a short ferry ride to La Digue (approx. 15 minutes).
- Rent a bicycle to explore the island.
- Afternoon:
- Visit Anse Source d’Argent, famous for its granite boulders and clear waters.
- Lunch at a local café on La Digue.
- Evening:
- Continue exploring La Digue, visiting other beaches like Grand Anse.
- Return to Praslin by ferry.
- Dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant.
Day 4: Island Hopping and Snorkeling
- Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Take a boat tour to Curieuse Island to see the giant tortoises.
- Afternoon:
- Snorkeling excursion around St. Pierre Island or other nearby spots.
- Enjoy a packed lunch or beach picnic.
- Evening:
- Return to Praslin.
- Relax and have dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Day 5: Return to Mahé and Departure
- Morning:
- Breakfast at your hotel.
- Take the ferry back to Mahé.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Botanical Gardens in Victoria.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Evening:
- Last-minute shopping for souvenirs in Victoria.
- Transfer to Seychelles International Airport for your departure.
Notes:
- Transportation: Ensure you book your ferry transfers in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.
- Accommodation: Choose hotels that are centrally located to minimize travel time.
- Activities: Pre-book tours and activities where possible to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
- Flexibility: Allow some flexibility in your schedule for relaxation and spontaneous exploration.
A Sample Budget Calculation for One Person | Low Estimate for 5 days ($) | High Estimate for 5 days ($) | |
|---|---|---|---|
Accomodation | $50 to $100 per night for a budget double room | 200 | 400 |
Meals | Breakfast: Often included in the accommodation or $5 to $10 per meal. Lunch: $10 to $15 per meal. Dinner: $15 to $20 per meal. | 150 | 225 |
Transportation | Airport Transfers: $25 to $50 one way.
Local Transport: Public buses, taxis, or car rentals.
| 100 | 250 |
Activities and Sightseeing | Beaches: Free National Parks: $10 to $20 entrance fee. Snorkeling/Scuba Diving: $50 to $100 per session. Boat Tours/Island Hopping: $50 to $100. | 100 | 200 |
Miscellaneous | Souvenirs: $20 to $50 Tips: $10 to $20 Snacks/Drinks: $20 to $50 | 50 | 120 |
Total ( as per exchange rate on 26.07.2024) | 600 (= 8200 SCR) | 1,195 (= 16,300 SCR) |
Notes –
- Seasonal Variations: Prices can vary depending on the time of year, with peak tourist seasons generally being more expensive.
- Advance Booking: Booking flights and accommodation well in advance can result in significant savings.
- Travel Insurance: Consider adding travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances. This might add an additional $50 to $100.
- Flight Costs: This budget does not include international flight costs. Depending on your location, flights to Seychelles can vary widely in price.
These prices are indicative only. They can change based on individual preferences like the type of accommodation, transportation, and food one chooses.
must try street foods in seychelles
Seychelles offers a variety of delicious street foods that reflect its rich cultural heritage and the abundance of fresh, local ingredients. Here are some of the best street foods you should try when visiting Seychelles:
1. Samosas : Deep-fried pastries filled with spiced vegetables or meat.
2. Boudin Creole (Blood Sausage) : Sausages made from pig’s blood, rice, and various spices.
3. Shark Chutney : A traditional Seychellois dish made from boiled shark, mashed and mixed with lime, bilimbi, and spices, often served with rice or breadfruit.
4. Grilled Fish : Freshly caught fish, marinated with local spices and grilled to perfection.
5. Banana Fritters : Ripe bananas battered and deep-fried, often served with honey or sugar.
6. Curry Dishes : Various curries, often made with fish, octopus, or chicken, served with rice or bread.
7. Octopus Salad : Fresh octopus mixed with lime, chili, onions, and other seasonings.
8. Banyan Snack : Deep-fried, doughy snacks often seasoned with local spices.
9. Fruit Bats : Fruit bats cooked in a variety of ways, often stewed or grilled with spices.
10. Fresh Tropical Fruits : A wide variety of fresh, tropical fruits such as mangoes, papayas, coconuts, and pineapples.
11. Coconut Water : Fresh coconut water straight from the coconut, a refreshing drink.
12. Breadfruit Chips : Thinly sliced breadfruit fried until crispy, similar to potato chips.
Exploring these street foods offers a great way to experience the local flavors and culinary traditions of Seychelles.
You may buy some merchandise so that you feel like a part of the local community and enjoy your trip.
Important numbers to keep handy while in Seychelles :
When traveling to Seychelles, it is important to have certain contact numbers saved for emergencies and essential services. Here are the key numbers to keep handy:
Emergency Numbers:
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 999
- Fire Brigade: 999
Healthcare:
- Seychelles Hospital (Victoria, Mahé): +248 438 8000
- Praslin Hospital: +248 423 2333
- La Digue Hospital: +248 423 4255
Travel and Transport:
- Seychelles International Airport (Mahé): +248 438 4000
- Praslin Island Airport: +248 423 3339
- Seychelles Public Transport Corporation: +248 428 0280
- Ferry Services (Cat Cocos): +248 432 2971
- Taxi Services: Numbers vary; ask your accommodation for the most reliable local taxi service.
Consular Services:
- British High Commission (Mahé): +248 428 3666
- French Embassy (Mahé): +248 428 2480
- US Embassy (Mauritius, also serves Seychelles): +230 202 4400
- German Missions In Seychelles: +248 2519090, +248 2617099 (Mobile) and +248 2718350 (mobile)
- Indian High Commission in Seychelles: + 248 4674110
Accommodation:
- Hotel Front Desk/Concierge: Keep the contact number of your hotel or guesthouse saved.
Car Rentals:
- Avis Seychelles: +248 422 4244
- Hertz Seychelles: +248 422 4277
Tourist Information:
- Seychelles Tourism Board: +248 428 6500
- Tourist Police (for assistance and safety): +248 428 8000
Miscellaneous:
- Local Friend/Contact: If you have any local contacts, save their numbers.
- Travel Insurance Helpline: Keep the contact number for your travel insurance provider handy.
Having these numbers saved on your phone will help ensure you can quickly reach out for assistance if needed during your trip to Seychelles.
Did we help you? What additional information would have helped you? Did you check our new Step-by-step travel planning guide for a safe and budget friendly trip? If you have already traveled to Seychelles, do a favor to the fellow travelers by sharing your tour’s best and worst part in the comments section. If you are planning
FAQs on seychelles flag and other key details
The current Seychelles flag was adopted on June 18, 1996.
The diagonal stripes symbolize a dynamic country moving forward into the future.
Seychelles is generally a safe destination with no required vaccinations. However, it’s recommended to have travel insurance and to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.
The national symbol of Seychelles is the Coco de Mer palm tree, which produces the largest and heaviest seed in the plant kingdom. The Coco de Mer is a key emblem of the country’s natural heritage and is featured on the Seychelles coat of arms.
The old flag of Seychelles, used from June 29, 1976, to June 17, 1977, featured alternating green, white, and red horizontal stripes. The colors represented the Seychelles People’s United Party, which led the country to independence from British rule.
After a coup d’état in June 1977, the flag was changed to a new design. The old flag’s design was relatively simple compared to the vibrant and dynamic design of the current flag, which was introduced in 1996.
The Seychelles flag that was used between June 18, 1977, and June 17, 1996, consisted of two vertical stripes: red on the left and white on the right, with a green five-pointed star in the upper section of the red stripe.
This flag represented the ruling political party at the time, the Seychelles People’s Progressive Front (SPPF). The red symbolized the revolution and socialism, white represented justice and harmony, and green stood for the country’s natural wealth and agriculture. The green star symbolized the unity of the people.
This flag was replaced in 1996 by the current multi-colored, diagonal-striped design to better reflect the diversity and unity of the nation.
The national colors of Seychelles are reflected in the current flag, which features five diagonal stripes in the following colors:
- Blue: Represents the sky and the ocean surrounding the islands.
- Yellow: Symbolizes the sun, which gives light and life.
- Red: Stands for the people and their determination to work for the future in unity and love.
- White: Represents social justice and harmony.
- Green: Reflects the land and the natural environment of Seychelles.
These colors together symbolize the vibrant and diverse nature of the Seychelles and its people.
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