🐾 Traveling to Seychelles with Pets
Pet-Friendly Seychelles
Seychelles offers a tropical paradise for pets and families, with pristine beaches and nature reserves welcoming well-behaved animals. While pet facilities are more limited than in Europe, many resorts and outdoor areas accommodate pets, especially on islands like Mahé and Praslin, making it a unique destination for pet-inclusive vacations.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Import Permit
All pets require an import permit from the Seychelles Department of Environment, applied for at least 30 days in advance.
Include microchip details, vaccination records, and proof of quarantine compliance if applicable.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days but not more than 12 months before entry.
Pets from rabies-free countries may have reduced requirements; verify with Seychelles veterinary authorities.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip implanted before vaccination.
Bring scanner confirmation; the chip number must match all import documents exactly.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from high-rabies risk countries face 30-day quarantine at government facilities upon arrival.
Approved countries (e.g., EU, Australia) may allow entry without quarantine if all tests are passed; contact embassy for details.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers are prohibited or require special approval and muzzling.
Check breed-specific legislation; some islands have additional restrictions on larger dogs.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals need CITES permits and may face longer quarantine periods.
Small mammals like rabbits require health certificates; contact authorities for species-specific rules.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Seychelles on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like shaded outdoor areas and water bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Resorts (Mahé & Praslin): Luxury resorts like Hilton Seychelles Northolme welcome pets for SCR 300-600/night fee, with beach access and pet menus. Many offer private villas for more space.
Beachfront Villas & Guesthouses (La Digue): Island guesthouses and self-catering villas often allow pets at no extra charge, providing direct beach access. Ideal for relaxed stays with dogs.- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Airbnb listings on main islands frequently permit pets, especially eco-lodges. Private properties give pets room to play in tropical gardens.
- Eco-Lodges (Inner Islands): Nature-focused lodges on Praslin and Silhouette welcome pets and feature guided walks. Perfect for families seeking sustainable pet adventures.
- Campsites & Beach Huts: Designated camping areas on Mahé and La Digue are pet-friendly with leashed access to beaches. Basic facilities but stunning natural settings.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Four Seasons Resort Seychelles provide premium pet services including grooming, walking trails, and specialized care for exotic pets.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Beach Walks & Snorkeling
Seychelles' beaches like Anse Lazio on Praslin are pet-friendly for leashed walks and shallow swims.
Keep pets away from coral reefs; designated dog areas available at some resorts.
Island Trails
Nature trails in Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé allow leashed pets with stunning ocean views.
Short, easy paths suitable for families; watch for wildlife and stay hydrated in tropical heat.
Towns & Markets
Victoria on Mahé welcomes leashed dogs in outdoor markets and along waterfront promenades.
Beachside cafés often allow pets at tables; respect local customs in populated areas.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Island eateries provide shaded outdoor seating for pets with water bowls a common courtesy.
Many spots in Beau Vallon serve fresh seafood and allow well-behaved dogs nearby.
Guided Nature Tours
Outdoor eco-tours on La Digue and Praslin welcome leashed pets for family-friendly exploration.
Avoid indoor sites like museums; focus on beaches and forests for pet-inclusive adventures.
Boat Trips
Some catamaran and ferry operators allow small pets in carriers for island-hopping; fees SCR 100-200.
Book pet spots in advance; life jackets recommended for safety on open waters.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Ferries (Inner Islands): Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferries allow small pets free in carriers; larger dogs SCR 150-300 with leash/muzzle. Pets permitted on deck areas.
- Domestic Flights (Air Seychelles): Small pets under 5kg travel in cabin for SCR 200-400; larger in hold with health cert. Book early for limited spots.
- Taxis & Water Taxis: Most taxis accept pets with notice; water taxis to islands may charge extra SCR 100. Use apps like Uber where available on Mahé.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Avis allow pets with cleaning deposit (SCR 500-1000). Jeeps ideal for island roads and pet comfort in tropical climate.
- Flights to Seychelles: Check airline policies; Emirates and Qatar Airways permit cabin pets under 8kg for SCR 500-1000. Review cargo rules for larger pets. Compare options on Aviasales for pet-friendly routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Air France, British Airways accept in-cabin pets (under 8kg) for SCR 600-1200. Hold travel requires IATA-approved crates and vet certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Victoria (Mahé) offer 24-hour emergency care; contact Seychelles Vet Association.
Travel insurance should cover pets; consultations cost SCR 300-800.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Local stores in Mahé stock imported pet food and basics; chains like Auzoux Pharmacy carry essentials.
Bring specialized medications; pharmacies provide advice but stock is limited on outer islands.
Grooming & Day Care
Resorts on Praslin offer grooming for SCR 200-500; limited daycare available through hotels.
Book in advance for peak season; many properties recommend local pet minders.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services on Mahé provide sitting for day trips; rates SCR 300-600 per day.
Hotels arrange trusted sitters; apps like Rover have limited presence but growing.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed on beaches, trails, and public areas to protect wildlife. Off-leash only in private resort grounds.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles on ferries and in towns; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available at resorts but scarce in nature areas. Fines up to SCR 1000 for littering.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on most beaches but not during turtle nesting (Nov-Jan); keep distance from swimmers and marine life.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating welcomes leashed pets; indoor areas prohibited. Ensure pets remain calm and clean.
- National Parks: Leashed pets permitted on select trails; prohibited in protected areas like Vallée de Mai to safeguard endemic species.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Seychelles
Seychelles for Families
Seychelles is a dream for families with calm beaches, gentle waters, and interactive nature experiences. Safe islands, eco-adventures, and resort kids' clubs ensure fun for all ages. Facilities include family pools, playgrounds, and Creole cuisine adapted for children.
Top Family Attractions
Anse Source d'Argent (La Digue)
Iconic beach with granite boulders, shallow lagoons perfect for kids' play and snorkeling.
Entry SCR 100/adult, free for kids; bike rentals add family adventure to the paradise setting.
Seychelles National Botanical Gardens (Mahé)
Giant tortoises, tropical plants, and shaded paths for family exploration.
Tickets SCR 150 adults, SCR 75 kids; interactive animal feeding engages young visitors.
Vallée de Mai (Praslin)
UNESCO site with Coco de Mer palms, walking trails, and birdwatching for families.
Guided tours SCR 200/adult, SCR 100 kids; easy paths suitable for strollers and little legs.
Curieuse Island Marine Park
Boat trip to see giant tortoises and snorkel in protected waters.
Family packages SCR 500-800; life vests and guides ensure safe, educational fun.
Island-Hopping Boat Tours
Glass-bottom boats and snorkeling trips to spot fish and turtles.
Tickets SCR 400 adults, SCR 200 kids; shaded decks and calm routes for family comfort.
Water Sports Centers (Mahé)
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and beginner snorkeling at Beau Vallon Beach.
Family sessions SCR 300-500; instructors provide kid-sized gear and safety briefings.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Seychelles on Viator. From beach excursions to eco-adventures, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Resorts (Mahé & Praslin): Properties like Constance Lemuria offer family suites (2 adults + 2 kids) for SCR 3000-5000/night. Include kids' clubs, pools, and babysitting.
- Beachfront Eco-Resorts (La Digue): All-inclusive options with family activities, snorkeling gear, and child supervision. Focus on sustainable fun for all ages.
- Guesthouses & Villas: Self-catering spots on islands for SCR 1500-3000/night with kitchens and gardens. Space for family meals and play.
- Vacation Apartments: Rentals with ocean views and amenities like cribs; ideal for longer stays with flexible schedules.
- Budget Guesthouses: Affordable family rooms in Victoria for SCR 1000-2000/night. Clean, central with access to markets and beaches.
- Luxury Family Villas: Private estates like those on Silhouette Island for immersive family retreats with private beaches and chefs.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Mahé with Kids
Beau Vallon Beach for swimming, botanical gardens tortoise feeding, and Victoria market explorations.
Water parks and cable car rides to Morne Blanc offer panoramic views and easy family outings.
Praslin with Kids
Vallée de Mai palm forest walks, Anse Lazio beach play, and Coco de Mer discovery centers.
Boat safaris and easy hikes keep children engaged in the island's natural wonders.
La Digue with Kids
Bike rides to Anse Source d'Argent, Veuve Reserve birdwatching, and beach picnics.
Car-free island encourages family cycling and relaxed exploration of granite landscapes.
Outer Islands
Snorkeling at Curieuse for tortoises, Aldabra atolls via eco-tours (supervised for kids).
Family boat trips with marine life spotting and calm anchorages for safe swimming.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Ferries: Kids under 5 travel free; ages 5-12 half-price (SCR 100-200). Family seating on decks with space for strollers.
- Island Transport: Buses on Mahé offer family day passes (SCR 200-300). Taxis and bikes are stroller-friendly on flat islands.
- Car Rentals: Child seats mandatory (SCR 200-400/day); book ahead. Minivans suit families for island drives.
- Stroller-Friendly: Beaches and main paths accessible; resorts provide beach wheelchairs. Avoid steep trails with young children.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Resorts offer simple Creole dishes like fish and chips for SCR 150-300. High chairs available island-wide.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Beach shacks and hotel buffets welcome kids with play areas and casual vibes. Victoria has diverse options.
- Self-Catering: Markets in Mahé sell fresh fruits, seafood, and baby needs. Apartments enable home-cooked family meals.
- Snacks & Treats: Coconut water, tropical fruits, and ice cream from roadside vendors keep kids happy in the heat.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Found in resorts, airports, and major beaches with shaded facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock diapers, formula, and sunscreens; English-speaking staff assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Resorts provide certified sitters for SCR 400-600/hour; certified and background-checked.
- Medical Care: Clinics on Mahé with pediatric services; emergencies at Victoria Hospital. Travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Seychelles
Accessible Travel
Seychelles is improving accessibility with resort upgrades and beach paths, though tropical terrain poses challenges. Major hotels offer wheelchair access, and tourism supports inclusive experiences for families with disabilities.
Transportation Accessibility
- Ferries: Main ferries have ramps and accessible decks; book assistance for boarding. Limited space for wheelchairs.
- Island Transport: Taxis with ramps available on Mahé; buses being upgraded. Domestic flights offer priority assistance.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted vehicles bookable via hotels; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Seychelles International Airport provides full services including ramps, assistance, and accessible restrooms.
Accessible Attractions
- Beaches & Parks: Beau Vallon and Anse Royale have accessible paths and mats into water; resorts provide beach wheelchairs.
- Nature Sites: Vallée de Mai offers boardwalks; botanical gardens have ramps for wheelchair navigation.
- Resorts: Luxury properties feature accessible rooms, pools, and activities; check Booking.com for details.
- Towns: Victoria's main areas are navigable; some cobblestone paths may require assistance.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (May-Oct) for cooler weather and activities; wet season (Nov-Apr) for warmer beaches and fewer crowds.
December-March ideal for families with calm seas and holiday events.
Budget Tips
Family packages at resorts save on activities; self-catering reduces dining costs.
Island-hopping deals include kids' discounts; pack reef-safe sunscreen to avoid extras.
Language
Creole, English, French spoken; English widely used in tourism.
Locals are friendly; simple phrases appreciated for family interactions.
Packing Essentials
Light clothing, reef shoes, hats, and insect repellent for tropical climate.
Pet owners: bring tick prevention, portable water bowl, leash, and import docs.
Useful Apps
Useful Apps
Seychelles Tourism app for maps, Air Seychelles for flights, and Translate for Creole.
Weather apps essential for tropical forecasts and activity planning.
Health & Safety
Seychelles is safe; drink bottled water, use high SPF sunscreen. No major diseases but mosquito repellent advised.
Emergency: dial 999; clinics on main islands. EHIC not applicable; get comprehensive travel insurance.