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Few scams

Eastern Africa

Tourist scams in Seychelles

The main concern in Seychelles is theft of unattended bags and valuables, especially around quieter beaches. There is no indication of widespread tourist scams, but basic care with your belongings is sensible.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalTheft of unattended beach belongingsThieves may wait just off a beach or across nearby narrow streets. Bags and valuables left unattended can give them an opportunity to steal.Beaches on Mahé, especially quieter beaches and the narrow streets beside them. 3Read

Where to stay alert

  • Quieter beaches on Mahé and nearby narrow streetsPotential thieves may linger just off the beach or across nearby streets. Keep bags attended.
  • Secondary road behind Beau Vallon beach, left from the Boathouse restaurantSome suspicious activity is described along this shaded road, though people there generally ignore passers-by. No specific scam is identified.

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep bags attended, especially while swimming.
  • Leave unnecessary valuables in secure storage.
  • Avoid taking valuables when sailing. If you must bring them, keep them concealed and secure.
  • Avoid dark lanes and swimming alone on isolated beaches.

Money

  • Check the exchange rate and any fees before changing money.
  • ATMs usually offer the best conversion rates. Banks and the airport also exchange money.
  • Count your cash and keep the receipt before leaving an exchange counter.

Cards and ATMs

  • Cover your PIN when using an ATM.
  • Keep your card in sight when paying.
  • Enable payment alerts so you can spot unexpected transactions quickly.

Police and officials

  • Ask the tourist police for help or advice if you feel uneasy.
  • On Mahé beaches, look for blue or white golf shirts with a sewn-on tourist police badge.
  • If you are unsure who someone is, ask to see identification before sharing personal details.

Nights out

  • Plan your journey back before going out.
  • Use well-lit routes and avoid dark lanes.
  • Keep your bag and phone close throughout the evening.

What travellers say about Seychelles

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in Seychelles?

There is no indication of widespread tourist scams. The clearest concern is theft of unattended belongings around beaches.

Can I leave my bag on the beach while I swim?

Keep it attended. Take fewer valuables and arrange for someone you trust to watch your belongings.

Is it safe to swim alone on an isolated beach?

Swimming alone on isolated beaches is not advisable. Choose somewhere less isolated and swim with someone.

What should I do with valuables on a sailing trip?

Avoid bringing them if possible. If you must take them, keep them concealed and secure.

How can I recognise tourist police?

Tourist police on Mahé beaches wear blue or white golf shirts with a sewn-on tourist police badge. You can approach them for help and advice.

Is there anywhere near Beau Vallon beach where I should be more alert?

Some suspicious activity is described along the secondary road behind the beach, left from the Boathouse restaurant. People there generally ignore passers-by, and no specific scam is identified.

Where can I exchange money?

Banks and the airport exchange money. ATMs usually offer the best conversion rates. Check fees and the rate before accepting a transaction.

Does a higher hotel drink price mean I am being scammed?

A higher price alone does not show fraud. Beer bought from roadside stores can cost less than beer bought at hotels. Check the price before ordering.

Is there anything to check before buying a coco-de-mer souvenir?

Yes. A coco-de-mer requires an export licence. Check this before buying one to take home.

What should I do first if my wallet is stolen?

Move somewhere safe, freeze your payment cards and report the theft. Keep a record of what was taken and ask the police for a report reference.

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