Travel update: Seychelles Islands is now open for tourism

Seychelles is open to 48 countries with some entry requirements. All visitors must submit a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure, and quarantine for 10 days at a government-approved accommodation. 

Travelers who have received a complete dose of a vaccine against COVID-19 will be allowed entering without quarantine. They still need to observe social distancing rules.

Seychelles Reopening – Latest Updates

(Feb 17) – Vaccination Rollout

So far, Seychelles has vaccinated about 28.7% of the country’s population with the Sinopharm and the Oxford – AstraZeneca (or Covisheild) vaccines.

The Ministry of Health is reportedly looking for volunteers to help administrate the vaccines to ensure more efficiency as the country continues administrating the second doses.

(Nov 11) – Air Seychelles Reopening Flights With Israel

Seychelles Ministry of Health has included Israel on a green-list of countries allowed to enter. Therefore, Air Seychelles is resuming their flight connection with Tel Aviv from November 18th. There will be 2 fights per week available. (Source: rustourismnews.com)

Passengers from Israel will be required to submit travel health forms and proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test.

What Countries Can Enter Seychelles?

Only arrivals coming from countries classified and listed as ‘low risk’ are allowed to enter the country. (Source)

Category 1

  • Australia
  • Bahrain
  • Botswana
  • Burundi
  • Cambodia
  • China
  • Cote d’Ivoire
  • Cuba
  • Egypt
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • Gabon
  • Ghana
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Israel
  • Japan
  • Kenya
  • Kuwait
  • Liechtenstein
  • Malawi
  • Maldives
  • Malta
  • Mauritius
  • Monaco
  • Mongolia
  • New Zealand
  • Niger
  • Norway
  • Pakistan
  • Qatar
  • Rwanda
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Singapore
  • Sri Lanka
  • Tajikistan
  • Thailand
  • Togo
  • Uzbekistan
  • Vietnam
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Category 2

  • Austria
  • France
  • Germany
  • Italy
  • Switzerland
  • United Arab Emirates

Check the travel conditions for the two categories at www.health.gov.sc and www.tourism.gov.sc

What Are the Entry Restrictions?

  • A negative PCR test is required – Visitors from the ‘Low Risk’ countries must bring a negative PCR test taken 72 hours from the travel date.
  • All visitors must fill out the health Travel Authorization Form.
  • Visitors can only stay/reserve accommodation that has been approved by the Public Health Authority. (Check here)

Is Seychelles Safe to Visit During Covid-19?

Seychelles is no longer safe to visit during the pandemic. It has a warning level 4 and it’s not recommended for people at increased risk for severe illnesses from Coronavirus. (CDC.gov)

Please notice that Austria, Germany, Italy and Switzerland had to be moved to Category 2.

Travelers’ Insurance and Accommodation

Before departing for Seychelles, your entire stay must be covered by travel and medical insurance. For your safety, the public health authority will verify that your accommodations are booked at a certified facility.

Safe tourism experience is essential, so Seychelles developed a taskforce and certification system to verify safety protocols called the Safe Tourism Certification for industry service providers.

The easily recognizable green-ticked badge will demonstrate to guests that a business has adopted hygiene and health protocols and standards mandated by the public health department.

Arrival Protocols and Safeguards

Regardless of if you arrive via a private jet or commercial passenger flight, multiple health evaluations such as symptoms scans or questionnaires, random swabbing, and temperature scans will be administered to all incoming tourists and crew.

Tourists are required to email negative test result certificates, all accommodation, and flight details to the Seychelles Public Health Authority at [email protected] before arrival.

What about cruising to seychelles?
Cruise ships are currently not allowed to dock in seychelles.

Can american tourists enter seychelles?
No, american tourists are not allowed to enter seychelles at the moment.

What activities have reopened in seychelles?

The 115 islands that make up Seychelles are known for their stunning sandy white beaches that are contrasted by lush rainforests. It’s ideal for romantic vacation getaways or adventurous diving expeditions.

 

Beginning in June, locals and tourists can enjoy the following activities:

  • Beaches – 65 beaches on the island of Mahé alone (but no beach parties)
  • Bars and Restaurants
  • Casinos
  • Cinemas
  • Gyms and Fitness Centres
  • Marine leisure crafts – host of great excursions

With its diversified economy, characterized by the public sector, service, and tourism activities, there is something for everyone and every budget in Seychelles.

Are you looking for an activity off the beaten-path yet socially distant? You should check out Copolia Trail in the Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahe Island. The trail has been upgraded to enhance the hiker’s experience with steps, information boards, benches, and a new facility.

Transportation

The principal island, Mahé, hosts the international airport and most of the islands’ tourism facilities. These include a wide variety of cultural and eco-tourism hotspots, unique restaurants, bars, accommodations, casinos, dive shops, and car, fishing & sailing boat rentals. Creole, English, and French are spoken in Seychelles.

Mahé airport is serviced by many well-known international operators such as Emirates, Qatar Air, Turkish Air, and many more.

Accommodation During Covid-19

Sixteen of Seychelles’ 115 islands currently offer charming accommodations. Lovely B&Bs or chalets can be rented for under 80 USD a night, or splurge on a 5-star resort, spa hotel, or beachfront villa for around 400 USD per night.

No matter when you visit the enchanting islands of Seychelles, you’ll encounter temperatures averaging in the 80s. Look at your calendar! Book a trip and have a wonderful holiday.