Can you drink the tap water in Seychelles? Here are our top tips to keep you healthy and happy on your vacation.
Photo © Tommaso Nervegna on Unsplash
There are a few health hazards to be aware of before your trip to Seychelles. Insects and staying sun-safe are just two important things to be prepared for.
Applying sunscreen is crucial, as the sun's rays are intense here – the islands are close to the equator – and can cause serious sunburn burn.
Pack insect repellent in your luggage, particularly because it's expensive in the country, and if you purchase it from home at least you know and trust the brand you usually use.
Health Risks in Seychelles
There are some nasty insect-borne diseases affecting the island, such as chikungunya, which causes ailments resembling flu-like joint pain. The virus can cause death, and symptoms can last for months. Other illness possible in Seychelles are leptospirosis, a bacterial infection caused by contaminated water.
Cercarial dermatitis (swimmer's itch), can infect ocean swimmers. While there is no presence of Yellow Fever in Seychelles, but you will be required to have proof of vaccination should you enter the country after visiting another country where Yellow Fever is present.
Other bugs to look out for will just be a bit scary, but not very dangerous. Palm spiders are visible by their huge nests, and ants, sand fleas and roaches also hang out on the islands. One recent traveler described "Harry Potter-sized arachnids" clinging from electricity wires at Beau Vallon in the area of Mahe.
Strong Currents and Waves
There are dangers lurking in the waters surrounding Seychelles. Strong currents strike beaches due to seasonal changes, particularly on Beau Vallon beach, and drowning occurs on occasion. Lazio Beach on Praslin is subject to large, unpredictable waves – travelers report seeing swimmers getting sandwiched between rocks during rough surf at this beach.
Part of the issue is the monsoons that occur off the coast of Seychelles, which is affected both by the southeast area monsoon from May to September and the northeast monsoon from November to March. Some beaches that are okay during one season are not okay during the other.
Tap Water in Seychelles
Drink tap water with caution in Seychelles, especially in the very undeveloped sections. Be on the safe side and only drink purified or boiled water (try to avoid purchasing bottled water). Also avoid opening your mouth and ingesting water from ponds, lakes and rivers.
If something happens to you on your trip, the 24-hour emergency number is 999. Be aware that hospitals in Seychelles, especially the very remote islands, are quite limited. There is only one government hospital. Medication also costs a lot if obtained from a chemist, so you might want to bring your own if you fear you'll fall ill.
Stay Safe Outdoors in Seychelles
Don't swim alone at remote beaches or at night and take caution when swimming or snorkeling. Be careful of injuring your feet or other exposed areas on coral rocks. Also, going topless is illegal on most beaches.
If venturing into the rugged areas of Seychelles for outdoor activities or driving, take special precautions.
The mountainous area of Mahe has narrow and winding roads with little protection. Sharp turns and steep drop-offs are common.
Don't travel on rural, isolated roads at night. If you rent a car, get in writing that no damages to the vehicle occurred while you had it in your possession. Also avoid damaging any natural resources or land while in Seychelles, as it can incur severe penalties.
If you don't want to bother driving, your remaining methods of transport are buses, organized shuttles or taxis. Buses don't cost much, but they don't run often in certain areas either, so try to obtain schedules if there are ones to avoid getting stranded. Like in other island nations, the custom when taking a taxi is to set a price with the driver beforehand.
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