Book direct instead of through portals
You have chosen the Seychelles, which is wonderful. But as so often, everything is unfamiliar at first and a little opaque. Sometimes it is just a matter of mentality, local knowledge or those first steps where you would welcome a helping hand.
The former travel and booking service of Seychellen.com no longer exists. Hotels, holiday homes and transfers are no longer arranged here, and enquiries to Seychellen.com are not possible. Instead, the accommodation directory lists over 1,100 hotels, guesthouses and self-catering properties. Every property has an email address, telephone number or WhatsApp, and a website, so you can reach the host directly.
The easiest way to start is with the island: accommodation on Mahé, accommodation on Praslin and accommodation on La Digue. For places to eat in the evening, see the restaurant directory.
What booking direct gets you
Depending on the contract, booking portals usually keep 12 to 20 per cent of the room rate as commission, and more with additional programmes (as of November 2026). For a small guesthouse that is a noticeable share of income. Whether a host passes this saving on is their own decision. So always compare the portal price and the direct offer including all charges before you commit.
How to enquire directly
A short, complete enquiry is usually answered quickly. In your first message, include:
- Arrival and departure dates
- Number of guests, and the ages of any children
- Room preferences, for example a double bed or twin beds, sea view, air conditioning, or a kitchen for self-catering
- Arrival time and flight number, so the host knows if you arrive very late or very early
Before you confirm, also clarify the terms, ideally by email so that everything is in writing:
| Topic | What to Look Out For |
|---|---|
| Total Price | Ask for the final price for the entire stay, including all taxes and levies, and state the currency. |
| Tourism Levy | For larger properties it is added per person per night and collected on site (see note below). |
| Deposit | Amount, due date, and whether it is deducted from the final price. |
| Payment Method | Bank transfer, card, or cash on arrival, and what fees you should expect. |
| Cancellation Policy | Until when is free cancellation possible, and what is retained after that? |
| Confirmation | Have the room, dates, price, and conditions confirmed in writing. |
Tourist accommodation in the Seychelles needs a licence from the tourism authority. If a property seems unfamiliar to you, do not hesitate to ask about its licence. Entry also requires details of your accommodation; what is involved is explained under entry requirements. For how to manage cash and cards once you are there, see money and banks.
On the ground: transfers, tours and getting around
Airport and tours
Airport pick-up is available only through the airport transfer page. It is provided as part of a tour with Island Tour Seychelles, where you will also find that company's tours. Even so, tell your host your arrival time so that check-in works out.
Information for planning your trip
These pages help with getting between the islands and around once you are there:
- Getting around the Seychelles, with an overview of all means of transport
- Travelling by bus and hire cars on the main islands
- Domestic flights and boat trips
- Travel tips and the travel checklist
