Security travel advice for Seychelles

How safe is Seychelles?

Threat level: Low - Medium

There is little in the way of a security or terror threat, but the current travel advice for the Seychelles is to remain cautious during travel. The area isn’t at any particular risk from terrorism, however there is a heightened threat level for terrorism globally which particularly applies to Western travellers.

There has been a recent increase of crimes involving foreign nationals being victims of theft and there is little policing to prevent such incidents. Tourists on trekking tours along marked and unmarked trails have been robbed, including armed robbery in some isolated cases. The best travel advice for the Seychelles is to not to take valuables out with you but to keep them secured, and walk with organised groups if possible.

The Seychelles is a former British crown colony and a luxury holiday destination; one of the most beautiful locations in the world famed for its stunning beaches and clear waters.

COVID-19 Situation in the Seychelles

Amid the British variant of COVID-19, the Seychelles have banned entry to UK travellers unless they have been vaccinated.

To control the spread of coronavirus, entry rules are in place for international visitors. International travellers must apply for a Health Travel Authorisation and present a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than 48 hours prior to travelling. On arrival, travellers must quarantine in a designated hotel for 5 days and perform another test on the 5th day to be released. The following domestic restrictions are in effect: a nationwide curfew is in place between 20:00 and 16:00, only two people are allowed to visit the beach together (unless they entered the country in groups and on the conditions that they are staying at the same approved hotel), eateries are closed except in hotels, and public swimming pools and retail shops are closed. To avoid contracting the disease, wear a face mask in public, sanitise your hands, maintain social distancing and avoid gatherings.

Recent security events

Piracy remains a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean regions. If you plan on travelling by sea vessel in you should be aware of the recent increase in pirate activity. Most pirate activity in the Seychelles originates from the country of Somalia, just west of Seychelles. Sailing vessels are particularly vulnerable however there have been no reported attacks since 2012. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against all but essential travel by yacht and leisure craft 1,000 nautical miles from the coast of Somalia, which is within the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone.

Security risks

Beaches, parked cars and residential and tourist areas are often targeted by thieves. The best travel advice for the Seychelles is to ensure that you take sensible precautions and that your valuables are secured and out of site where possible.

Particular security precautions should be taken in isolated areas such as Ile Au Cerf. Isolated areas make it difficult for police to respond to any type of incidents quickly.

THE SEYCHELLES'S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

The Seychelles has had a colourful political history in the past with a coup d'état, rumours of money laundering and murder. It is now quite stable; the Seychelles has a strong relationship with the United States as it serves as an important rest and recreation stop for U.S. ships serving in the Persian Gulf and Indian Ocean. There are also strong relations between Seychelles and France, Seychelles has an embassy in Paris.

TRAVELLING AROUND THE SEYCHELLES

It is easy to hire a car in the Seychelles, most are in very good condition and what you might expect in any European country. You can drive with most national licences as the driving licence policies in Seychelles are very relaxed. Roads are narrow and winding, often with sheer drops and hairpin bends so you should drive with caution in all areas.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

EMERGENCY SERVICES IN SENEGAL

All emergency service: 999

THE SEYCHELLES OVERVIEW

Capital: Victoria
Official languages: French, English and Seselwa
Religion: Christianity and Islam
Currency: Seychellois Rupee

CONSULAR INFORMATION FOR THE SEYCHELLES

There is no U.S. Embassy in the Seychelles. U.S. Nationals will have to travel to Mauritius if they require embassy services or help.
U.S. Embassy Port Louis
4th Floor, Rogers House,
John Kennedy Avenue,
P.O. Box 544,
Port Louis
Republic of Mauritius
Telephone: +230 202 4400
Email: usembass@intnet.mu

British High Commission Victoria
3rd Floor, Oliaji Trade Centre
Francis Rachel Street, Mahé,
Victoria,
The Seychelles
Telephone: +248 428 3666
Email: bhcvictoria@fco.gov.uk

VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SEYCHELLES

Most European, British and US citizens do not require a visa to visit the Seychelles for tourist purposes, however you must be able to prove you have sufficient funds for the duration of your proposed stay. Visitors who have been to Sierra Leone, Liberia or Guinea in the past 21 days will not be allowed into Seychelles due to the risk of Ebola.

Healthcare and Immunisations

It is advised that visitors to the Seychelles are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is recommended for most travellers to also get a Tetanus, Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations.

Although there is no risk of Yellow Fever in the Seychelles, if you are arriving from a country where there is a risk of the disease, or transiting for longer than 12 hours in an at risk country, you will have to provide a certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Medical facilities in Seychelles are limited, especially on the more remote islands. The main hospital for the country is situated in the capital city and is where the most advance medical treatment can occur. It is important that any prescription medication you require is brought with you.