Getting Around Mahe. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

The bus system operated by the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) serves as Mahé's main public transport. It is an extensive network.

The main bus terminal is in Victoria, near the iconic Clock Tower. Routes connect Victoria to most major towns, villages, and popular beaches.

Bus Details

Route maps are generally available at the bus terminal or online.
Fares are fixed and inexpensive, typically SCR 12 per journey. Payment is directly to the driver; exact change is useful.
Buses operate from early morning (around 05:30) until late evening (around 20:30-21:00).
Frequency varies by route; main roads see more frequent services.

Route Coverage

Extensive bus network covers most towns, villages, and popular beaches on Mahé.

Offline Maps

Download offline map applications to monitor your location and identify nearby bus stops.

Ask Locals

Do not hesitate to inquire with locals or bus drivers for assistance with routes or stops.

Accessibility and Pace

Accessibility Notes

Public buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.
Crowded conditions and getting on/off with large luggage can be challenging.
Taxis or rental cars may be more suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Travel Pace

Buses often travel along picturesque coastal roads.
Travel can be slow due to frequent stops plus winding roads.
Allow ample travel time for your journeys.

Ticketing and Fares

Fixed Fares

Bus fares are fixed per journey.

Inexpensive

Fares are inexpensive, typically SCR 12.

Cash Payment

Pay directly to the driver upon boarding.

Exact Change

Have small denominations ready.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a practical method to get around Mahé. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not available.

Taxi Identification and Fares

Licensed taxis are typically white and have a prominent taxi sign on the roof.
Negotiate and agree on the fare before starting your journey to avoid disputes.
Fares are relatively expensive; a short ride within Victoria might cost SCR 150-250.
Payment must be usually in cash (SCR), though some taxis might accept major foreign currencies.

Hailing and Safety

Taxis are at designated stands (airport, Victoria, large hotels) or hailed on busy streets.
Traditional ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft do not operate in Seychelles.
Always use licensed taxis. Agree on the fare beforehand.
Be cautious on tight, winding roads, especially at night, if self-driving.

Airport Taxi Arrangements

Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal upon arrival.
Pre-booking a transfer through your hotel is a convenient option.
Pre-booked transfers may be more expensive than a hailed taxi.

Taxis can be found at designated stands throughout Mahé.
Some local apps or WhatsApp groups might facilitate taxi bookings.
Victoria and popular beach areas are common taxi pick-up points.

Typical Fare Examples

Victoria Ride

Short ride within Victoria: SCR 150-250.

Airport Transfer South

Airport to a resort in the south: SCR 600-800+.

Comparison

Taxis are a more expensive alternative to the public bus system.

Rental Options

Car rentals provide flexibility for exploring Mahé's diverse landscapes. Other rental options are less common.

Car Rental Information

Valid driver'a license from your home nation.
International Driving Permit (IDP) if your license is not in English or French.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 23, with a minimum of one year of driving experience.
Local companies (Maki Car Rental, Bliss Car Hire, Au Cap Car Hire) are common.

Booking and Delivery

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Delivery to and pickup from the airport or your accommodation is often offered.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common and generally not recommended.
No island-wide bicycle sharing programs; some hotels offer rentals.

Driving Laws and Conditions

Driving Side

Drive on the left-hand side of the road.

Be aware if coming from right-hand driving countries.

Speed Limits

Generally 40 km/h in residential areas, 65 km/h outside.

Enforcement is present; drive carefully.

Road Network

Roads are narrow, steep, and winding, especially inland. Expect blind corners.

A small, agile car may be beneficial.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Victoria town center is walkable, with sidewalks.
Many beaches are great for walking, though some are short.
Botanical Garden and Morne Seychellois National Park have designated walking trails.

Cycling Infrastructure and Safety

No dedicated bike lanes exist on Mahé.
Cycling is generally limited to flatter coastal areas due to hilly terrain.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Avoid walking or cycling on main roads during peak traffic hours.
Especially if roads are steep, narrow, and have limited shoulder space.
Deserted areas or beaches at night should be avoided for safety.
Areas without clear pedestrian routes are unsuitable.

Some trails may be too rugged for casual cycling.
Always be aware of your surroundings when on shared roads.
Respect area traffic laws and road conditions.
Self-guided walks for Victoria and park trails are popular.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Mahé offers specialized transport for tours and inter-island travel.

Tour Buses and Water Transport

Some local tour operators offer organized bus tours of Mahé.
No formal hop-on-hop-off service operates on the island.
Private boat rentals are available for island hopping, snorkeling trips, or reaching secluded beaches.
These can be set up via tour operators or directly with local boat owners.

Accessibility and Unique Transport

Amenities for travelers with mobility impairments is limited.
Some newer hotels or resorts may offer accessible rooms.
Private taxis or pre-arranged accessible transfers are most viable.
No cable cars, funiculars, or equivalent unique local transportation methods are available.