Seychelles Introduction

The Republic of Seychelles is an island country spanning an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean and an estimated population of 86,525. The Seychelles became a republic within the commonwealth when it achieved independence from Britain in 1976.

Tourism

The Seychelles is a world leader in sustainable tourism and a living museum of natural history. It is a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of fauna & flora on earth with almost 50% of its limited landmass set aside as national parks and reserves.
Its a colourful blend of people from Africa, Europe and Asia with different cultures, races and religions. Theses influences can be seen at work throughout the domains of local art, music, cuisine, dance and architecture.

Airport

Coordinates:  04°11′30″N 073°31′45″E

The Seychelles International airport is located on the main island of Mahé and is only 10 km away from the capital Victoria and opened on 20 March 1972.

Airlines

The following airlines offer flights from South Africa to the Seychelles:

Direct flights:

• Air Seychelles

Indirect flights:

• Air France (1 stop)
• Emirates (1 stop)
• Ethiopian Airlines (2 stops)
• Kenya Airways (2 stops)
• KLM (2 stops)
• Qatar Airways (2 stops)
• SAA (1 stop)

What to see / do

• Aride Island Nature Reserve
• Domain Val-de-prés – A craft village
• Ile Coco Marine National Park
• L'Union Estate
• The Curieuse Marine National Park
• Vallee de Mai
• Victoria Market

Events

• Kreol Festival – A folklore event with dance, music and storytelling – http://www.seychelles.net/kreolfst/indexEN.htm
• Oceanbeat Music Festival – A line-up of acid jazz and soul music – http://www.ocean-beat.com/
• Seychelles Regatta – A sailing competition and showcase http://www.theseychellesregatta.com/uk/index.html
• Subios – underwater film and image festival – http://www.subios.com/

General Info

No visa is required for any nationality, but foreigners must have a passport valid for at least 6 months with proof of accommodation booking before arrival. An initial entry permit will be granted for 1 month but this can be extended to a maximum of 3 months at a time.

The people of Seychelles mostly speak Seychellois Creole, English and French.

Weather

The Seychelles is hot and humid, with an average yearly temperature of 29°C and average sea temperature rarely dropping below 27°. The warmer season is from November to March and May to September is known as the cooler season.