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Is an international driving permit needed in the Seychelles?

If you want to drive as a tourist in the Seychelles, you must have, in addition to your valid driver’s license from your own country, an international driving permit (IDP). The IDP is an official document that translates your driver’s license into multiple languages, including English and French, the official languages in the Seychelles. With the IDP, you can show that you have a valid driver’s license and are legally allowed to drive in the Seychelles, in combination with your own driver’s license.

Driving in the Seychelles can be challenging due to the narrow, winding roads, lack of street lighting, and relatively high rate of traffic accidents. If you plan to drive in the Seychelles, it is important to be familiar with these conditions and always drive cautiously. Also, remember that in the Seychelles, driving is on the left side, following the British driving system.

Which countries recognize an international driving permit?

Many countries accept an international driving permit (IDP) as a valid document for driving. The IDP is an official translation of your own driver’s license into different languages, making it easier for foreign authorities to understand and verify your driving privileges.

Here are some countries where you can use the international driving permit:

• Australia
• Canada
• Cambodia
• Congo
• Chile
• Cyprus
• India
• Iran
• Ireland
• Japan
• France
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Thailand

It is important to note that specific requirements for driving abroad may vary, so it is always wise to contact local authorities or your car rental company beforehand. Sometimes you may need to obtain additional permits or comply with specific regulations to legally drive abroad.

How do I obtain a driver’s license in the Seychelles?

To obtain a driver’s license in the Seychelles, you must be at least 18 years old and meet certain requirements:

• Be in possession of a provisional driver’s license for at least six months
• Complete a government-approved driving course
• Pass a practical driving test

Here are the steps you need to follow to obtain your driver’s license in the Seychelles:

• Apply for a provisional driver’s license at the Seychelles Licensing Authority (SLA) by completing the application form and paying the fees.
• Enroll in a government-approved driving school for theoretical and practical driving lessons.
• Upon completion of the course, take a practical exam at the SLA where you must demonstrate various traffic situations and rules.
• If you pass the practical exam, you will receive your driver’s license.

Driving exams are conducted in English and Creole, so if you do not speak these languages, you may consider hiring a translator. If you hold an external driver’s license, it may be possible to exchange it for a Seychelles driver’s license without taking a driving test, depending on your country of origin.

Popular destinations in the Seychelles

The Seychelles, located off the east coast of Africa, consist of 116 islands. The country offers beautiful white sandy beaches, lush nature, and a rich local culture and history.

Morne Seychelles National Park

Morne Seychelles National Park is a major tourist destination in the Seychelles, located in Mahé. The park covers 20% of the island and offers activities such as hiking, bird watching, surfing, and diving. There are various routes of different difficulty levels and lengths in Morne Seychelles.

For example, follow the Anse Major trail to Anse Major Beach, a famous beach in the Seychelles. You can swim for free at Anse Major, and there are shops nearby that rent snorkeling equipment. Also, visit the Mission Ruins in the park; these ruins once served as a school for Seychellois children and are now an important cultural site.

Beau Vallon

Beau Vallon is considered the most famous beach in the Seychelles, with long coastlines, crystal-clear water, and white sand. Here, you can dive, jet ski, fish, wind surf, swim, or simply relax on the beach. Beau Vallon is safe for children due to its calm, shallow waters and presence of lifeguards.

Every Wednesday, there are evening markets near Beau Vallon offering fresh fish. Along the beach, local vendors sell fresh coconuts and fruits. Due to the presence of hotels, Beau Vallon is also popular for honeymooners.

Vallée de Mai National Park

Vallée de Mai National Park, located on Praslin, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to over 4000 Coco de Mer palm trees, rare birds, and native reptiles. Due to its natural beauty, Vallée de Mai is also known as the ‘Garden of Eden.’

Take a guided tour of the park to learn more about Coco de Mer and the local environment. The park offers various tours, depending on the route and time you have available. Bird enthusiasts can spot the endangered black parrot and the native Seychelles Bulbul.

Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island, near Praslin, is an exotic location serving as a national park. Here, you can visit the turtle sanctuary and observe giant tortoises. The island also houses a museum, ‘The Doctor’s House,’ which highlights the island’s history.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the leprosarium and learn more about the island’s history. The island offers unique experiences and opportunities to connect with nature and history.

Domaine de Val des Prés

Domaine de Val des Prés, known as Craft Village, was once a plantation during slavery. Today, Craft Village showcases traditional Creole art, crafts, and cultural artifacts in 12 craft buildings. Visitors can also enjoy a meal at the Pomme Cannelle restaurant and purchase souvenirs.

The Craft Village is an important historical monument in the Seychelles, with restored buildings providing insight into traditional life during slavery. Discover the culture and crafts of the Seychelles here.

Important driving rules in the Seychelles

It is essential to follow the traffic rules and regulations in the Seychelles to drive safely and avoid issues during your trip. Here are some key driving rules you should know before hitting the road.

Driving under the influence

It is illegal to drive under the influence in the Seychelles, with an alcohol limit of 0.08% for both residents and tourists. Authorities conduct regular checks, and offenders risk fines and penalties.

Stopping on roads

In the Seychelles, it is prohibited to park your car on the road, especially on narrow and winding roads. In case of breakdown, you must move your vehicle to the side and use warning devices to inform other road users.

Use of headlights

In areas without street lighting in the Seychelles, headlights must be used between 18:30 and 05:45. Ensure your headlights have sufficient intensity and avoid dazzling other road users. While driving, your vehicle must be visible at a distance of 45 meters, and the headlights must be on white light when stationary.