Victoria

Victoria is a miniature and colourful capital located on Mahé Island, serving as the main gateway to the exotic Seychelles Islands. This cozy city, nestled amidst tropical greenery, is the archipelago's only major port and the starting point for most travellers.

Getting to Victoria is easiest by plane, as the country's main transport hub is located here, but there is also a well-developed ferry service connecting with neighbouring islands.

The primary way to reach the region is by air, arriving at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ). This aviation hub receives flights from all over the world and serves as the key entry point for tourists planning a holiday in the archipelago.

The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city centre, so the transfer to your hotel will not take much time. The airport is well connected to Victoria and other parts of the island, ensuring a comfortable start to your journey.

There is absolutely no railway service in the Seychelles, so it is impossible to reach Victoria by train. The mountainous terrain of Mahé Island and its small size make railway construction impractical.

Tourists accustomed to trains will have to switch to alternative modes of transport here. Cars and buses are used for land travel, while high-speed ferries and small aircraft serve as "intercity" transport between the islands.

Since Victoria is located on an island, the concept of intercity buses is replaced by a developed network of routes across Mahé Island. The blue buses of the local transport company connect the capital with almost all beaches and villages, being the most budget-friendly way to get around.

A trip from remote corners of the island to the central bus station in the capital usually takes from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and the complexity of the winding roads. This is an excellent opportunity to see local landscapes for a nominal fee.

Travelling by car is one of the most comfortable options to reach Victoria from anywhere on Mahé Island. The roads here are picturesque but often narrow and winding, so drivers should exercise caution and remember to drive on the left side of the road.

From popular resort areas, the drive to the centre usually takes no more than 20–30 minutes. A rental car or taxi will allow you not to depend on public transport schedules and enjoy the views on the way to the capital.

When planning a visit to Victoria, it is worth considering the tropical climate and the relaxed island pace of life to ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Essentials: Choose light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen), as humidity is high year-round. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.
2. Transport: The city centre is very compact and is best explored on foot. For trips around the island, use the local blue buses (cheap) or taxis (agree on the price in advance).
3. Finance: The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee. Cards are accepted in hotels and supermarkets, but you will need cash at the market and in souvenir shops.
4. Health and Safety: The sun is very strong here, so high SPF sunscreen is mandatory. It is recommended to drink only bottled water.
5. Communication: The official languages are English, French, and Creole. Locals speak English well, so there will be no communication problems.
6. Local Etiquette: Life here flows slowly. It is not customary to walk around the city in swimwear; for walking on the streets and visiting shops, one should dress more modestly and respectfully.
7. What to Avoid: Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches and try not to walk alone in deserted places after sunset.
8. Opening Hours: Remember that many shops and institutions in the city close quite early, around 16:00–17:00, and may operate on a reduced schedule on weekends.

Following these simple recommendations will help you immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the smallest capital in Africa without unnecessary worries and enjoy its unique charm.