Is Seychelles Expensive? Your Ultimate Costs Guide

Yes, Seychelles is expensive compared to most destinations. You’ll pay around $800 monthly for a one-bedroom apartment, while dining out costs double what you’d spend at local markets. Transportation adds $20-50 daily to your budget, with inter-island ferries at €50. Utilities run SCR 500-1,500 monthly. However, smart choices like visiting during shoulder season, staying in guesthouses, and enjoying free beaches can considerably reduce your expenses. Our complete guide reveals more money-saving strategies.

Key Points

• Seychelles is generally expensive, with housing costs running 38% cheaper than the US but still high at $801-$2,905 monthly for rentals.
• Food costs are elevated, especially imported items like cheese ($30.60/kg), while local produce offers better value for budget-conscious travelers.
• Transportation expenses range from affordable public buses (SCR 12-15) to pricier options like car rentals (€50-70 daily) and island-hopping ferries.
• Daily expenses include utilities (SCR 500-1,500 monthly), dining (SCR 225-898), and entertainment, requiring careful budgeting for visitors.
• Budget-friendly strategies include visiting during shoulder season, choosing guesthouses over resorts, using public transport, and enjoying free activities like beaches.

Housing Costs: What to Expect for Rentals and Property in Seychelles

While the Seychelles offers stunning tropical beauty, you’ll need to prepare for significant housing expenses compared to many other destinations. Expect to pay around SCR 11,543 ($801) monthly for a one-bedroom apartment outside city centers.

Paradise comes at a premium in Seychelles, where even modest accommodations command substantial monthly rents.

Meanwhile, three-bedroom units in prime locations command roughly SCR 27,593 ($2,905). The Maldives is also known for its high costs, with similar concerns around limited price transparency.

If you’re considering buying, property prices are steep. City center apartments cost approximately SCR 9,268 per square meter, rising to SCR 12,188 outside central areas. These prices reflect that housing in Seychelles is generally 38% cheaper than comparable properties in the US.

Popular neighborhoods like Cascade can reach SCR 9,537 per square foot.

Investment potential exists despite the 17.67% mortgage rates, with the rental market projected to reach $64.01 million by 2025.

However, you’ll face challenges with limited price transparency as Seychelles doesn’t publish official housing statistics.

Food and Dining Expenses: From Grocery Shopping to Restaurant Prices

Food and dining expenses in Seychelles present a mixed bag for your budget planning. You’ll find basic staples like rice ($1.90/kg) and fresh bread ($1.80) relatively affordable, while imported items such as cheese ($30.60/kg) are substantially pricier than what you’re used to in the US.

When grocery shopping, you’ll notice:

• Local produce like potatoes (22 ₨/kg) offers better value than imported items
• Restaurant meals in tourist areas often cost double what you’d pay at local eateries
• Fresh seafood commands premium prices despite being locally sourced
• Food inflation (currently 1.08%) is gradually increasing costs yearly

For budget-conscious travelers, focusing on local markets and self-catering accommodations will stretch your food budget considerably farther than dining out regularly. After shopping, you might want to unwind at a neighborhood pub where a 500 ml beer costs approximately 136 ₨. The ultimate romantic Seychelles honeymoon is possible with careful budgeting.

Transportation Costs: Getting Around the Islands and Vehicle Ownership

Getting around the Seychelles can considerably impact your overall vacation budget, with options ranging from affordable public buses to pricier rental cars and ferries.

Public buses are your cheapest option at only SCR 12-15 (€0.85-1.06) per ride, but you’ll need reloadable tickets purchased in advance.

Inter-island travel costs add up quickly—expect to pay about €50 for a Mahe-Praslin ferry and €80-100 for domestic flights. The Seychelles’ remote location contributes to the higher transportation costs.

If you’re exploring extensively, consider renting a car (€50-70 daily on Mahe/Praslin) or bicycles on La Digue (€8-12 daily).

A 10-day car rental averages €500, while a 5-day bicycle rental costs about €30.

For trips to outer islands like Cerf Island, expect a quick 5-minute boat ride from Eden Island on Mahé costing approximately €0-30.

Book transportation in advance for 5-10% savings, and budget $20-50 per day for getting around, depending on your travel style.

Daily Living Expenses: Utilities, Healthcare, and Entertainment

Understanding daily living expenses in Seychelles is essential for budgeting your stay, whether you’re visiting for a week or planning a longer-term residence. Utility costs vary widely, with electricity bills ranging from SCR 500-1,500 monthly depending on household size and usage habits. Comparing cities using the cost of living index can help you identify whether you’ll be in a more expensive or affordable area of the country.

Healthcare presents different cost structures for locals versus visitors. While Seychellois receive free public healthcare, you’ll pay SCR 500-1,200 for private doctor consultations as an expat or tourist. Seychelles is known for its high costs, which can impact healthcare expenses for visitors.

Entertainment options fit various budgets: cinema tickets are affordable at SCR 100-150 per person, local festivals often offer free or low-cost cultural experiences, restaurant meals range from SCR 225 for casual dining to SCR 898 for a mid-range dinner for two, and monthly gym memberships cost between SCR 1,200-2,000 if you’re staying longer.

Budgeting Tips: How to Manage Your Money in Seychelles

Exploring the financial landscape of Seychelles requires smart planning, especially with the islands’ reputation for high costs. You’ll stretch your budget further by visiting during shoulder season when prices drop markedly.

Save on accommodations by choosing guesthouses over resorts. Use public buses instead of taxis, and consider renting a car only for specific excursions. When island-hopping, opt for ferries rather than flights.

Food costs plummet when you shop at supermarkets and prepare simple meals. Many accommodations offer cooking facilities, and take-out is cheaper than restaurants. Resort restaurants and local eateries are similarly priced at around 350 Rupees per main course, making home cooking particularly economical. Alexandria and Hurghada offer different experiences for travelers seeking either urban history or shimmering beaches.

Free activities abound—snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and national parks won’t cost you a penny.

For cash management, use MCB ATMs to avoid fees, and limit withdrawals. Bring euros or USD as many prices are quoted in these currencies.

The Sum Up

Paradise comes at a price, but your Seychelles dream needn’t sink your finances. Like the archipelago’s careful balance of pristine beauty and development, your budget requires thoughtful planning. Track expenses, embrace local markets, and consider off-season travel—your wallet will thank you. The coconut palm bends but doesn’t break in strong winds; similarly, with smart choices, you’ll weather Seychelles’ costs while creating priceless memories.