Experience the Seychelles up close on guided tours
Experience the Seychelles up close, know exactly where everything is and feel safe while you do it: that is the service we offer with guided tours in German.
Whether you want a five-hour hike through the national park and jungle, or just a short one-hour walk to a bay you can only reach on foot, both are possible.
Perhaps you are set on seeing a particular sight but would rather not go alone, or you need information, a transfer if required, or simply some company? We are there for that too.
A local guide finds bays and paths that appear on no road map, knows the names of plants and birds, and can tell when a trail is too slippery or too hot. This is especially useful in the interior of the islands and along stretches of coast with no road.
What tours are available
Hikes
On Mahé, most of the hiking trails lie in the Morne Seychellois National Park, around the highest mountain in the Seychelles. A popular destination is the bay of Anse Major, which you reach on foot from Danzil in the north-west of the island. According to reports the path is about 2.5 km long and mostly in the sun, so the morning hours are better than the afternoon. Longer routes such as the trail to Mare aux Cochons take 5 to 6 hours, according to reports.
For an overview of the best routes, see Hiking in the Seychelles. The page on flora and fauna describes the plants and animals you may see along the way. On Praslin and La Digue too, a guide is worthwhile if you want to leave the main paths.
Round-island tour of Mahé
You can also simply let us surprise you: we plan a lovely tour around the island in our own vehicle, including some of the key sights and a Creole lunch.
On Mahé this is a relaxed alternative to a hire car: the roads are narrow and winding, traffic drives on the left, and you neither have to drive nor look for a parking space. Possible stops are listed under sights and dream beaches.
Boat trips
Guided boat trips around Mahé and to the nearer islands are also possible.
Popular destinations are Sainte Anne with its marine park, Curieuse with its free-roaming giant tortoises, and Cousin. There are no public ferries to Curieuse, so it can only be reached by boat. When booking, check whether the park fee is included in the price, as this varies from one provider to another. More providers and tips can be found on the boat trips page.
Out in the evening
Would you like to experience the nightlife and the clubs, but are not sure where to go or how? That is no problem either. We are happy to accompany you there too, right through to the next morning if you wish.
Where a guide is especially worthwhile
| Destination | Role of the guide | What to watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Vallée de Mai (Praslin) | Private guided tour, bookable in advance or on site | Entry 450 SCR (as of November 2026); not included in the price for some tours |
| Morne Seychellois, summit trail (Mahé) | According to recent reports, only accessible with a licensed guide | Ask the national park authority in advance for current rules and fees |
| Anse Major (Mahé) | Optional, helps with orientation and plant knowledge | Little shade, better in the morning |
| Curieuse | Usually as a boat tour with a guide | Park fee: included in the package price or separate? |
Recognising licensed guides
Anyone working as a tourist guide in the Seychelles needs a licence from the Seychelles Licensing Authority. Among other things, this requires proof of completion of the guide course run by the Seychelles Tourism Board, a first aid certificate and insurance covering personal injury and property damage during the tour. The licence is valid for five years. Do ask to see it, as reputable guides are happy to show it.
Tour operators who organise excursions need their own local licence. Island Tour Seychelles states that all its guides are state-licensed and certified by the Seychelles Tourism Board.
According to the licence conditions, guide licences do not cover journeys between hotel and airport or ferry pier. For those, there is the airport transfer.
Planning and preparation
The price of a tour depends on its length, group size, transport and any entrance fees. There is therefore no fixed price list, so ask for a quote for the date you have in mind. For the main travel season, it is best to enquire a few weeks ahead. For when the weather is at its best, see Best time to travel and Climate and weather. What belongs in your rucksack is covered by Travel luggage and the Travel checklist. Rules of conduct in nature are explained under Do’s and Don’ts and Nature and environmental protection.
Much is possible, so get in touch with Island Tour Seychelles. We look forward to meeting you!
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a guide for hikes?
Not everywhere. Many trails are marked and perfectly doable on your own. For demanding routes such as the summit trail in the Morne Seychellois National Park, a licensed guide is required according to recent reports. You can find out the current rules from the national park authority or the tour provider.
Are there tours in German?
Yes, Island Tour Seychelles tours are led in German. With other providers, you should ask explicitly about the language before booking.
Is the entrance fee included in the tour price?
It varies. For the Vallée de Mai and for marine parks such as Curieuse, the fee may be charged separately. Have exactly what is included confirmed in writing.
How do I find more excursions?
For overviews, see Boat trips, Diving and snorkelling, Leisure and culture and Domestic flights for day trips between the islands.
