As a traveler, I keep on getting asked which is that one country I would like to visit again. And, irrespective of how moody I usually am with other things (answers), the answer to this question (90% of the time) is Seychelles. I genuinely want to visit the island once more in my lifetime.
Many of you must be thinking why would I revisit a country that is popular to be so expensive? Well, yes, when I visited Seychelles back in 2018, I was astounded by the pricey accommodation, food, and rental cars. But, hey, it was our honeymoon, and I did not really mind the expensive Airbnb we stayed at.
Whenever I and my partner visit the country again, we now know, and have an idea how we can make it a budget trip, at least as less expensive as possible. Because the harsh reality is - Seychelles cannot be traveled on a tight budget no matter how much you try and compromise. The trip would still come out as expensive than the normal budget travel standards.
If you are planning a trip to Seychelles, below are some tips for budget travel to Seychelles.
1. Travel during the shoulder season
Although you can enjoy Seychelles at any time of the year, the best time to visit the tropical paradise is during the shoulder season - April- May and October-November. Flights and accommodations are relatively cheaper. However, make sure that you book the flights in advance to get the best deals/ promotions.
I visited the island country in January, one of the busiest months of the year. The trip, therefore, was a costly affair for me. But, hey, every single euro spent is fair during the honeymoon. All I can say is my wedding trip could not have been better.
Good to know: In the shoulder seasons, the water temperature is ideal for swimming, offering an extra incentive to dive in.
2. Choose budget-friendly accommodations - one of the best tips for a budget trip to Seychelles
Luxury resorts and Airbnb are quite costly in Seychelles ranging between 150-300 euros per night. Look for guesthouses, hostels, or inexpensive apartments. You would still have to pay a minimum of 60-100 euros for decent budget accommodation though. Just remember to read the reviews of the property that you are planning to park. If you research and book well in advance, you could get a nice Airbnb property at a decent price. I mean I paid some 80 euros per night for an ocean-facing apartment in Praslin, which my husband booked 40 days in advance.
Good to know: The guesthouses and hostels are not in large numbers. So, try and book them as early as you can. Also, these options are often congested and not very great aesthetically. So, choose what appeals to you the most.
3. Visit supermarkets as often as needed
If you are a pure vegetarian, you are going to have a hard time finding good vegetarian food on any of the islands. Takeaway options are there but it gets boring after a couple of times. I was able to find a good Indian restaurant - Le Relax Hotel and Restaurant, but it turned out to be super expensive - 20 euros for 3 tandoori rotis and 1 dal. Yes, you read that right.
Supermarkets would prove to be an ultimate rescue. Stock up on some instant cup noodles, snacks, and chocolates, and you are sorted. In addition, bring some ready-to-eat poha, upma, khichdi, pasta, etc. from home. It would save you euros far more than you can imagine.
If you are a non-vegetarian, you can always opt for local eateries and street food stalls instead of upscale restaurants.
Good to know: Since tap water is not potable in Seychelles, you have to rely on packaged water. Avoid buying a 1-liter or a 2-liter bottle. Instead, buy a 5-liter can since it is much cheaper. It is convenient as well to keep it in your rental car. You can keep refilling your small bottles from that can.
Good to know: Alcoholic beverages can be quite expensive in Seychelles. You could enjoy a few pints of beer though that are available in supermarkets.
4. Use public transportation - one of the best tips for a budget trip to Seychelles
Renting a car in Seychelles is the ultimate way to explore the island. The taxis in Seychelles come with a high price tag. Just a few days back, I was sorting out my travel items, bills, and souvenirs, when I came across an invoice from a car rental company in Praslin (one of the most beautiful islands in Seychelles). And the amount was 100 euros for 2 days. Yes, it is expensive. But, if I would have hired a full-day taxi, it would have been some 150-180 euros a day. So, of course, we preferred to drive. And driving around the island is such a pleasure. We absolutely loved it.
Now the money-saving part - when we visit Seychelles the next time, we would prefer to make use of the public buses to get around the islands.
Research the bus schedules well in advance, and plan your itinerary accordingly. Buses provide a more budget-friendly option. If the climate is good, walking around the island would make you experience pure bliss, soaking in the beauty with every step. In La Digue, riding a bicycle is the only option that you have.
Good to know: In Mahe, there is a big common parking space near Victoria Market, behind the Bank of Baroda. Ask your rental car provider if they have a monthly pass for parking. You could save some euros.
5. Shop at local markets
Do not enter the boutique shops with an attractive display of items. In fact, the most local you could go to in Seychelles is Victoria Market in Mahe. I am not saying that you could enjoy cheap shopping there, but the prices here would be far better than in any other market/ shop.
Bargain hard with the vendors, but, do it politely. Although negotiating is common in Seychelles, talking politely with the locals would help to get items at better prices.
Good to know: I would advise you to refrain from purchasing the popular vanilla tea from the market, as you can obtain the same package for less than half the price at supermarkets, including those in Praslin and La Digue.
Good to know: Avoid purchasing flavored jams like guava, papaya, etc. They are not like the usual jams that we eat. To be blunt, they do not taste good.
6. Indulge in cost-free activities in Seychelles
Once you have sorted out the budget-friendly options for flight, accommodation, food, etc. there are a large number of attractions and activities that you could enjoy for free in Seychelles.
The exotic haven offers many natural attractions that you can enjoy without spending much. Visit public beaches, go hiking in national parks, and explore local markets and cultural sites, which often have little to no entrance fees.
You can also research well in advance if there are free guided tours/ walking tours available at some sites. Many to-be guides (in many countries) do that to learn on the job or improve their communication skills. You can probably pay a small tip at the end of the tour.
Good to know: Vallee De Mai Nature Reserve is the most popular tourist attraction in Praslin. The entrance fee is about 20 euros per person. In case you want to take a guided tour, the amount comes to about 35(20+15) euros per person. However, you can always save 15 euros by visiting the reserve between 9 am to 2 pm, the slot where they offer free guided tours.
7. Bring your own snorkeling gear
Now, this can contribute to cost savings to a large extent, especially, if you are fond of it, and going to go underwater often. Who wouldn't want to explore the mesmerizing marine world in Seychelles?
By having your own equipment, you can avoid rental fees or the need to purchase expensive gear. Plus, using your familiar and properly fitted equipment enhances your comfort and overall snorkeling experience.
Conclusion
These were some tips for a budget trip to Seychelles. By being mindful of your expenses and making savvy choices, you can enjoy the beauty of Seychelles while keeping your budget intact.
So, embrace the allure of Seychelles and start planning your visit to paradise today.
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