The Seychelles Islands are an archipelago made up of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean, known for their natural beauty and wide variety of fauna and flora. With white sand beaches and crystal clear waters, this natural paradise is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
While travelling to Seychelles can be quite expensive, there are ways to do it on a budget. For example, you can choose to stay in hostels or guesthouses instead of luxury hotels, and you can find many affordable options for local food and public transportation. In addition, there are many activities and places to visit that do not require large expenses.
In short, the Seychelles Islands are a dream destination for any lover of nature and outdoor activities, and travelling there on a budget is possible with careful planning and research into the cheapest options.
Best time to travel to Seychelles cheaply
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option to visit Seychelles, the low season is the perfect time to plan your trip. During this time, prices for accommodation and flights are generally lower than in the high season, meaning you can enjoy your Seychelles holiday without having to spend a fortune.
Additionally, although the low season may be wetter than the high season, weather conditions in Seychelles remain favourable for tourists all year round. In fact, many people prefer to visit Seychelles during the low season due to the milder temperatures and fewer tourists.
It is often said that the best months to visit the islands are those that mark the changes of season: April, May, October and November. However, during these last two months, it has already started to rain abundantly.
From June to September is also a good time to visit the islands, since it hardly rains. The months of December and January are the rainiest, and yet this is when the islands are most saturated and prices are highest.
Currency in Seychelles
In the African archipelago, the currency used is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR).
The use of credit cards is quite widespread, so you will not have problems. As for ATMs, we have had no problems withdrawing money. There was an ATM available at our hotel, and we also found them in downtown Victoria.
Once there, we used the free Revolut card to get cash at ATMs, saving us on fees.
How to travel affordably to the Seychelles?
The flight to travel to the Seychelles islands is not exactly cheap, so Julius Homes recommend some things so that you can find them at a decent price.
- Compare flight prices: If you are looking for cheap flights to Seychelles, it is important to compare prices before booking your ticket.
- Consider air and sea alternatives: Another way to save money on your trips to Seychelles is to investigate air and sea alternatives. For example, you might consider taking a boat from the coasts of Kenya or Tanzania. This may be slower than flying, but it may also be cheaper.
Budget accommodation in Seychelles
If you are planning a holiday in Seychelles, it is important to consider accommodation. Although Seychelles is known for its luxurious resorts, there are also cheaper options for those who don’t want to spend as much on accommodation.
Finding affordable accommodation options in Seychelles can be a challenge, but it is not impossible. There are a variety of hostels, apartments and guest houses at good prices. These options may not have all the amenities of luxury resorts, but they can offer a more authentic experience.
One of the best ways to save on accommodation is to book early. Another option is to look for accommodation in less touristy areas, as prices tend to be lower there.
We chose to stay on the main island, Mahe, and from there move to see the beaches and the other islands. Seychelles is generally associated with prohibitive prices, but nothing could be further from the truth. We got a good price by booking about 3 months in advance.
Unless your idea is to enjoy the entire trip from the hotel’s beach, its location should not be too important.
Cheap transport options in Seychelles
Travel within the island can be expensive, especially if you opt for private transportation. Fortunately, there are options available for travellers who want to save money in this regard.
One option is public transportation. Although there are limitations in terms of routes and schedules, public transportation is an economical option for those who don’t mind waiting and reaching their destination at a fixed time.
You may rent a car at best. However, if you plan to explore the area during the first few days and think you won’t need a car, you can book private transportation to get you from the airport to the hotel (or the port).
My advice is to rent a small car, since the roads are narrow, winding and with steep slopes. Driving is on the left, but it shouldn’t be a problem for you.
Affordable food and drink options in Seychelles
At local markets, you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, freshly caught fish and seafood, as well as spices and other key ingredients used in Seychellois cuisine. Grocery stores also offer a wide selection of products, including imported and local products.
If you want to try authentic Seychellois food, you can visit one of the many local restaurants that offer affordable dishes. Typical dishes include fish curries, rice and fresh seafood dishes. There are also plenty of street food stalls offering affordable and delicious options, from fish sandwiches to meat skewers and vegetarian dishes.
General Tips for Traveling on a Budget to Seychelles
- Research and plan ahead. Before booking your trip, be sure to research the different accommodation and transportation options available in Seychelles. You can also plan your itinerary in advance to ensure you visit the places that interest you most.
- Save on unnecessary expenses and luxuries that you will not really enjoy. Instead of spending money on fancy restaurants, consider trying local food at markets and street stalls, where you can save money and experience local culture. Also, instead of buying expensive souvenirs, look for cheaper and more authentic options in local markets.
- Interact with the local community and ask locals for recommendations. Locals can be a great source of information about the best places to visit and eat.
