Seychelles’ breathtaking beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life make it a true island paradise, where managing your money wisely ensures a hassle-free escape. Whether you’re enjoying fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, island-hopping through the archipelago, or shopping for local crafts in Victoria, this guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Seychelles (Seychellois Rupee (SCR)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and focus on soaking up the beauty of Seychelles.
How to pay in Seychelles – cash or card?
In Seychelles, merchants commonly accept both cash and card payments. The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR).
You can use cash for:
- Local Markets and Small Shops: Vendors at markets and smaller establishments often prefer cash transactions.
- Public Transportation: Buses and taxis typically operate on a cash-only basis.
- Entry Fees: Visiting certain beaches, natural attractions, and some cultural sites may require cash payments.
You can use cards for:
- Hotels and Resorts: Most major accommodations accept credit and debit cards, including Visa and MasterCard.
- Restaurants and Cafés: Urban dining establishments often facilitate card payments, though it’s advisable to confirm acceptance beforehand.
- Retail Stores: Larger shops and supermarkets in urban areas commonly accept card payments.
What’s the best currency to take to Seychelles
Seychellos Rupee (SCR) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Kazakhstan. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too. Some accept US Dollars but exchange rate might not be favorable.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, some rural regions and smaller establishments may prefer cash payments. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry some SCR in cash to avoid inconveniences.
Other currencies, such as Euros or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Seychelles
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Seychelles. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Seychelles
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Seychelles
If you’re withdrawing money in Seychelles from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus cards. Some ATMs accept only Visa cards. Some of them accept UnionPay cards. Others like American Express, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Seychelles
It’s a good idea to bring a small amount of Seychellois Rupees (SCR) before traveling for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, or small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Seychelles are often less favorable, and many foreign banks do not stock SCR.
A more practical option is to withdraw SCR from ATMs upon arrival. ATMs are widely available in Victoria, Mahé, Praslin, La Digue, and at the airport. Most ATMs accept Visa and Mastercard, though international withdrawal fees may apply. Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards may not always work, so check with your bank.
If you need to exchange money, it’s best to do so at banks or licensed exchange bureaus, as they offer better rates than hotels or airports. Major foreign currencies like EUR, USD, and GBP are widely accepted and easy to exchange.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. Credit and debit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is essential for local markets, small businesses, and transportation. Additionally, some businesses quote prices in Euros, so having some EUR in cash can be useful.
Where to withdraw money in Seychelles
You can withdraw money in Seychelles at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Seychelles are those owned by popular banks such as:
- MCB Seychelles and
- Nuovobanq.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Seychelles.
Where to exchange currency in Seychelles
You can exchange currency in Seychelles at licensed currency exchange offices and banks branches.
- Banks and Exchange Offices: Major towns in Seychelles offer numerous exchange offices and banks where you can exchange foreign currency. It’s advisable to compare rates, as they can vary between establishments.
- Hotels and Restaurants: Many hotels and restaurants accept Euros; however, using the local currency is recommended to avoid higher costs.
Authorized Dealers: Always exchange currency at licensed banks or exchange offices. Engaging in transactions with unauthorized individuals is strongly discouraged.
You can find good currency exchanges in Seychelles using the ATM Fee Saver app—it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Seychelles.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Before Departure: Try to spend all your Seychelles Rupees or exchange them back into Euros, Swiss Francs, or US Dollars before leaving, as most banks outside of Seychelles do not accept SCR.
Is carrying cash in Seychelles safe?
Carrying cash in Seychelles is generally safe, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions to protect your funds and personal belongings. Safety Recommendations:
- Carry Minimal Cash: While Seychelles has a low crime rate, it’s prudent to carry only the cash you need for daily expenses.
- Use Digital Payments where possible
- Secure Your Valuables: Store significant amounts of cash, important documents, and valuables in a hotel safe or another secure location. Avoid carrying them unnecessarily to minimize the risk of theft.
- Be Discreet: Avoid displaying cash and valuable items in public to deter potential thieves.
Currency Declaration Requirement: There is no limit to the amount of cash you can bring into Seychelles. However, if you’re carrying more than US$ 10,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies), you must declare it to customs authorities upon arrival. Failure to do so may result in confiscation of the money and potential legal consequences.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Seychelles
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
