Seychelles is a group of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, 1,100 miles off the coast of East Africa. No matter how many beaches you have been to or what nature and wildlife hotspots you have explored, Seychelles will be special. The extreme beauty of the nation has always attracted visitors from across the globe. Needless to say, it tops region’s vacation search results.
Where on Earth can you find sea turtles coming to the shore during daylight hours to lay eggs? Seychelles. That is how wonderfully preserved nature is in this country. In Seychelles, you will see an unparalleled blend of natural conservation and urban development.
There is a lot to do and see in Seychelles. Ready to start exploring natural beauty in its rawest form? Before that, you need to have travel medical insurance—previously optional, now mandatory. You also need to comply with the travel guidelines and fulfill the Seychelles travel medical insurance requirements set by the government.
So, what exactly are the perks of traveling to Seychelles? Let’s find out.
Seychelles Travel Requirements
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Seychelles has updated its entry requirements numerous times. Per official government sources, these are the current entry requirements as of July, 2023:
- All visitors are required to fill out a mandatory travel authorization form.
- Travel insurance that covers COVID-19 is still mandatory.
Top Things to Do in Seychelles
Deciding what to do in Seychelles can be tough. Every experience you have at these heavenly islands is bound to stay with you forever. Here are a few attractions and activities that you should definitely not miss:
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A Walk in the Vallée de Mai (Praslin)
The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, informally known as the “primeval forest”, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From clusters of coco de mer palm trees and singing Seychelles bulbuls to the sound of rain and the rare sight of a black parrot for lucky birdwatchers, this site has it all.
Don’t forget to carry proper insect repellents and sunscreen to stay safe.
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Hit the Beach
This probably is not something that you would pass up anyways. The powerful waves, terrific sunsets, and pristine white sand are all sights to behold. Classic granite boulders dot the landscape as far as the eye can see, and picturesque experiences are practically guaranteed.
While you are on the beach, keep your belongings close and your sunscreen closer.
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Hikes on Mahé
Don’t forget to pack your walking shoes; Seychelles has plenty of scenic hiking opportunities. Hikes on Mahé, including the Copolia Trail and Morne Blanc, offer the perfect experience and include majestic views.
Be sure to follow all of your hiking guide’s instructions to minimize the possibility of a mishap.
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Boat Trips
What fun is a visit to an island nation if you don’t take a boat trip? Also, make sure to add snorkeling and exploring wildlife to the itinerary. Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a guide by your side are the perfect way to enjoy safe travels.
Travel Risks in Seychelles
Travel to Seychelles is safe in most cases. However, some risks you should be aware of include:
- Mosquito-borne diseases are common.
- As Seychelles is close to the Equator, the sun might be a little too strong for some travelers.
- Water-related accidents ranging from small cuts in rocky areas to drowning are possible.
The best way to combat these risks is to practice caution. Insurance coverage in Seychelles also helps mitigate damages on the off chance of any incidents or accidents.
Buying Travel Insurance in Seychelles
No country is completely safe from risk. Travel insurance is the best way to minimize your risk of financial loss—and in fact, in Seychelles, travel insurance is mandatory for visitors to the country. Before you decide to purchase the first policy you find, it is important to consider a few factors.
When buying Seychelles travel insurance, check to be sure that it covers:
- Medical expenses
- Costs of delayed and canceled flights
- Accidents and injuries
- Lost baggage claims
- Any other risks that you might face
Under the category of medical expenses, check if your insurance provides for repatriation and medical evacuation. Quality healthcare in Seychelles is mostly available in the capital and bigger islands. For critical cases, however, medical evacuation or repatriation to your home country would be better.
Seychelles travel insurance for tourists is not a mere formality. It is, no doubt, mandatory by law. However, it also ensures complete peace of mind while exploring the exquisite islands.
What is the best way to make the right choice when it comes to travel insurance? Analyze and compare quotes from a number of policy providers. Consider factors like the premium, level of coverage, and the financial cap on expenses that are covered. No matter which policy provider you choose, ask questions before investing. This will help you be completely sure of what is covered and what isn’t. If anything in the policy statement seems dubious or unclear, clarify it beforehand.
Peace of mind and assurance that you are completely covered are important aspects of any travel insurance plan. Consider, compare, and then choose.
Have an enjoyable and memorable stay in Seychelles with the right insurance coverage.