Car Rental in Mahe, Seychelles

Where to drive

• Drive the scenic coastal road from Victoria to Anse Royale, a journey of approximately 15 km (about 25 minutes) offering breathtaking ocean views and access to numerous beautiful beaches like Anse Takamaka.
• Explore the Morne Seychellois National Park, driving to viewpoints like Sans Souci (about 10 km from Victoria, 20 minutes) for stunning mountain and ocean panoramas, and access to hiking trails.
• Visit the craft village of Domaine de Val des Prés and the nearby Takamaka Bay Distillery, a pleasant drive of about 10 km south of Victoria (around 20 minutes), to experience local culture and rum production.
• Journey to the northern tip of Mahe to Beau Vallon Beach (approximately 5 km from Victoria, 10-15 minutes), known for its lively atmosphere, watersports, and stunning sunsets.
• Discover the less-frequented southern beaches like Anse Intendance (about 25 km from Victoria, 45 minutes), famous for its wild beauty and powerful waves, ideal for surfing during certain seasons.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Seychelles, you will typically need a valid national driving license from your home country, provided it is in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP). A passport is also required for identification. The minimum age for renting is usually 23 years, with at least two years of driving experience.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices on Mahe vary significantly by vehicle class and season. Economy cars might start from around 40-50 EUR per day during off-peak times, while SUVs and premium vehicles can range from approximately 70 EUR to 120 EUR or more daily. Peak tourist seasons, particularly December to April and July to August, generally see higher prices across all categories.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

Driving in Seychelles is on the left-hand side of the road. Speed limits are generally 40 km/h in urban areas and 65 km/h outside of towns. The legal alcohol limit for drivers is approximately 0.08%. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Child seats are required for children up to 5 years old and should be requested when booking your rental car. Headlights are not required during daytime but should be used in poor visibility conditions.

Parking

Parking in Mahe is generally free in most tourist areas and beaches. In Victoria, there are designated parking zones, some of which might require a small fee or parking disc during business hours. Always look for clear signage. Hotel parking is typically provided for guests.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available in main towns and along major routes on Mahe, though they are less frequent in remote areas. It is advisable to refuel when you see a station, especially before heading to the south or mountainous regions. Fuel prices are regulated and are generally similar across the island, typically paid in Seychellois Rupees (SCR) or by credit card. An approximate price for petrol is around 25-30 SCR per liter.

Which car to choose

For Mahe's narrow, winding, and sometimes steep roads, a compact or mid-size car with good maneuverability is often recommended. An automatic transmission is preferred by many visitors due to the challenging terrain. While SUVs offer higher ground clearance, they can be less practical on very tight roads. A smaller vehicle like a Toyota Yaris or Kia Picanto is generally suitable for navigating the island comfortably.

Frequently asked questions