The Seychelles is the ultimate Indian Ocean escape for South Africans — granite boulders, turquoise lagoons, and some of the world's finest beaches. Visa-free, with just a USD 10 Travel Authorisation online. No yellow fever required for South Africans. Up to 90 days. Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue are all spectacular. Relatively short flights from Johannesburg.
Key Warnings
A Seychelles Tourism Sustainability Levy applies to all visitors: approximately USD 10–30 per person per night depending on your accommodation category. Confirm with your hotel at booking.
The Seychelles uses the Seychellois Rupee (SCR) — USD and EUR widely accepted at hotels and tourist areas, but exchange rates are better at banks.
La Digue is car-free — the main transport is bicycle. Book accommodation and bikes in advance for peak season (December–January, July–August).
Insider Tips
Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue is regularly listed as one of the world's most beautiful beaches — arrive before 09:00 for fewer crowds. Entry through L'Union Estate (small fee).
Vallée de Mai on Praslin is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the only place the endangered Coco de Mer palm grows in the wild. Morning visits offer the best lighting and bird activity.
Inter-island transport is by Cat Cocos fast catamaran (Mahé–Praslin) or small aircraft. Book in advance — seats fill in peak season. La Digue is reached by ferry from Praslin.
Step-by-Step Guide
Book your flights and hotel
Air Seychelles and Condor fly via Johannesburg. Etihad, Emirates, and Air Mauritius also serve Mahé (SEZ). Book accommodation in Mahé, Praslin, or La Digue.
Apply for Travel Authorisation online
Go to travel.seychelles.com. Fill in passport details, upload passport copy, pay USD 10. Usually instant approval — apply 24–48 hours before departure.
Print or save your Travel Authorisation
Save the PDF to your phone or print it. Present on arrival at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ).
Arrive at Seychelles (Mahé island)
Present passport and Travel Authorisation at immigration. Stamp issued on arrival — up to 90 days.
Explore the islands
Mahé (main island/capital Victoria), Praslin (Vallée de Mai palm forest, Anse Lazio beach), La Digue (Anse Source d'Argent, one of the world's most photographed beaches).
Required Documents
Valid South African passport (valid for duration of stay)
Seychelles Travel Authorisation from travel.seychelles.com (USD 10)
Confirmed return flight ticket
Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host address)
Proof of sufficient funds for your stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Do South Africans need a visa for Seychelles?
No visa required. South Africans must obtain a Seychelles Travel Authorisation online at travel.seychelles.com before travelling. Cost: USD 10 (~ZAR 185), usually instant approval. Stay up to 90 days. No yellow fever certificate required for South Africans.
How do you get from Mahé to Praslin and La Digue?
Mahé to Praslin: fast catamaran (Cat Cocos, ~1 hour) or short domestic flight with Air Seychelles (~15 minutes). Praslin to La Digue: ferry (~20 minutes). Book in advance — the catamaran and ferry sell out in peak season. Inter-island air and boat passes are available for multi-island itineraries.