How Expensive Is Seychelles? A Realistic 2-Week Budget for Two

How Expensive Is Seychelles? A Practical Guide for Budget-Conscious Travelers

You’ve just graduated, your passport is ready, and Seychelles is calling. But then reality hits: “Is Seychelles really that expensive?” If you've done any online research, you've probably seen posts warning that the prices could ruin your vibe unless you budget like a pro.

We’re here to give it to you straight—Seychelles isn’t Southeast Asia cheap, but it doesn’t have to be a honeymoon-only, luxury-resort destination either. With the right game plan, a couple can enjoy two magical weeks in this Indian Ocean paradise without blowing through their savings.

This guide walks you through realistic costs (excluding flights and accommodation), transportation tips, where to eat, how to explore without overspending, and the best guesthouses on Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.

What's the Cost of Two Weeks in Seychelles (Excl. Flights & Accommodations)?

Here’s a clear breakdown for two people traveling in August, enjoying the islands without going overboard on luxury.

• Local Transportation: $35–60 per day
  Includes car rental on Mahe/Praslin ($45–55/day), bike rental on La Digue ($7–10/day), buses or occasional taxis
  ➤ Estimated Total (14 days): $490–840
• Meals (Takeaways + Occasional Dining Out): $45–80 per day
  Takeaway meals for $7–10 each, local restaurants around $15–25 per person, with a couple of nicer dinners mixed in
  ➤ Estimated Total: $630–1,120
• Drinks & Snacks: $10–20 per day
  Beach cocktails ($10–12), fresh juices, snacks, water
  ➤ Estimated Total: $140–280
• Excursions & Activities: $35–55 per day
  Island hopping, snorkeling tours, national park entry ($25 pp), scuba diving (from $100 for 2 dives)
  ➤ Estimated Total: $490–770
• Miscellaneous (Souvenirs, SIM card, tips, etc.): $5–10 per day
  ➤ Estimated Total: $70–140

✅ Total Cost Estimate for 2 Weeks (for 2 people, excluding flights & hotels):

$1,820 – $3,150 USD

This estimate allows room for splurging a few times while still traveling smart. If you go full minimalist—no car, mostly takeaways, limited excursions—you could even pull off a trip closer to $1,500.

Do You Need a Car in Mahe and Praslin?

Mahe: Absolutely—if you want to explore properly.
Public buses are cheap but slow and unpredictable, especially with luggage. Rental cars range from $45–55/day and give you access to hidden beaches, mountain trails, and local eateries. Google Maps works reliably here. Just be aware of narrow roads, no shoulders, and occasional aggressive local drivers.

Praslin: A car is recommended, especially if you’re not staying right by the beach. You’ll want flexibility to visit Anse Lazio, Vallee de Mai, or pop into small villages. You can rent from local guesthouses or agencies at the port or airport.

La Digue: No car needed. This is a bicycle island! Everything is reachable within 10–15 minutes. Bike rentals cost about $8–10/day, and most guesthouses will arrange one for you.

What About Food? Can You Eat on a Budget in Seychelles?

Yes—and you’ll still eat well. Here’s what to expect:

• Takeaways: $6–10 per person (curries, grilled fish, creole dishes)
• Casual Restaurants: $12–20 per person
• Mid-Range Dining: $25–40 per person for seafood or beachfront meals
• Cocktails: $10–12
• Beer: $3–5
• Groceries: Affordable if you cook—shops carry pasta, eggs, fruit, and snacks

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Book a guesthouse with a kitchen. Cook breakfasts, prep lunch, and enjoy the occasional dinner out. Also, bring some snacks from home for beach days.

Excursions That Are Totally Worth It

You don’t need to book much in advance—except during peak travel months like August. Here’s what to prioritize:

• Vallee de Mai (Praslin): $25 entrance fee per person
• Snorkeling tours: Around $35–60 per person
• Scuba diving: ~$100 for two dives per person
• Curieuse Island tour: $40–50 with BBQ lunch
• Boat to Anse Marron (La Digue): Guided hikes or kayaking tours ~$30–50
• Takamaka Rum Distillery (Mahe): Free tours, but tastings and bottles cost extra

Booking excursions through your guesthouse often saves money and time compared to online platforms.

Best Budget Guesthouses on Each Island

Here are some solid options travelers recommend over and over again:

Mahe

• Anse Soleil Beachcomber – Mid-range, beachfront
• Chez Plume Guesthouse – Comfortable and close to Anse Boileau
• Oceanica Resort Seychelles – Affordable self-catering with ocean views

Praslin

• Côte d’Or Footprint – Walkable to beach, good value
• Villa Bedier – Right on Cote d'Or Beach, simple and clean
• Hide Away Holiday Apartments – Budget-friendly with kitchens

La Digue

• Pension Hibiscus – Around $95/night, great reviews, family-run
• Calou Guesthouse – Peaceful setting with breakfast included
• Domaine Les Rochers – Slightly more expensive, but lush and beautiful

💡 Direct Booking Tips:
Email guesthouses directly to ask for their best rate. Many offer discounts for direct bookings and may throw in perks like free breakfast, early check-in, or complimentary bikes. Just be patient—some take a few days to reply.

Best Areas to Stay

• Mahe:
  • Beau Vallon: Best for first-time visitors, beachside dining, dive shops
  • Anse Royale: More local vibe, quieter beaches
  • Intendance & Takamaka: Great for honeymoon-style seclusion
• Praslin:
  • Cote d'Or: Close to everything—shops, beach, excursions
  • Grand Anse: Cheaper and quieter, but less swimmable beach
  • Near the ferry terminal: Convenient for arrival/departure days
• La Digue:
  • Anywhere! The island is small, and no matter where you stay, you’ll be close to the action.

Final Take: Is It Worth It?

If you’re a traveler who values wild nature, crystal-clear beaches, and authenticity over non-stop nightlife and shopping malls—Seychelles is absolutely worth it. With a smart budget and realistic expectations, you can have an unforgettable, paradise-level escape for under $3,000 total (for two).

So go ahead—book that guesthouse, rent those bikes, and enjoy beach hopping with your feet in the sand and your wallet still intact.