Traffic Rules and Fines in Seychelles

Planning to explore the Seychelles by car offers unmatched freedom to discover the islands at your own pace. However, local traffic regulations differ from many other countries. Understanding these nuances helps ensure a smooth, stress-free driving experience throughout your visit.

Essential Driving Rules

Driving on the left side of the island nation is mandatory. The driver's seat in most rental cars is on the right side. Overtaking is also done on the right side.

Speed limits are notably conservative compared to many countries, reflecting local road conditions and terrain:

• Urban areas (towns, villages): 40 km/h
• Rural roads (highways): 65 km/h

There are no motorways in Seychelles. Mahé Island features a highway connecting Victoria (the capital) to the airport with an 80 km/h limit. On La Digue Island, most signs indicate maximum speeds of 25 km/h.

Horn use is permitted only to prevent accidents. Local residents report excessive horn use or loud music in vehicles to authorities, particularly in urban areas.

Additional key regulations:

• Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, front and rear seats
• Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited without hands-free systems
• Child restraint requirements: While not strictly enforced, car seats are recommended for children under 5 years. We strongly recommend age and weight-appropriate restraints for all children under 12 years or under 150 cm tall
• At roundabouts, yield to vehicles already in the circle
• Headlights must be used during evening and nighttime hours, and whenever visibility is reduced (fog, rain)
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.8‰. Police conduct random roadside checks. Violations carry substantial fines and potential imprisonment. We recommend avoiding driving after any alcohol consumption

Road conditions are generally good on Mahé and Praslin. However, some routes become narrow and winding, with steep gradients and sharp turns.

Road markings follow international standards, primarily using white and yellow lines to indicate lanes, hazardous sections, and pedestrian crossings.

Local Driving Characteristics

Despite generally courteous behavior, local drivers can display impatience. On narrow, winding roads, expect sudden overtaking maneuvers that may seem risky. Many drivers supplement turn signals with hand gestures extended from windows—this helps communicate intentions in traffic flow.

Important considerations:

• Night driving requires extreme caution. Beyond illuminated central areas, street lighting is sparse. Roads feature sharp turns, narrow sections, and minimal shoulders. Dogs and other animals frequently cross roadways after dark.
• Wet weather driving demands extra care. Road surfaces become extremely slippery, and mountain roads may have reduced visibility due to fog. Avoid driving in heavy rain when possible.
• Island variations: Mahé features predominantly narrow, two-way roads with pedestrians often walking on the roadway. Praslin offers wider, less winding routes.

Seychelles has three official languages: English, French, and Seychellois Creole. Most road signs appear in French. Basic French phrases prove helpful, though English is widely understood, especially in tourist and urban areas.

Fines in Seychelles

Fines are substantial. Never pay on-site—this constitutes bribery with serious legal consequences. Police issue official receipts specifying the violation and amount, payable at police stations within designated timeframes.

Approximate fine amounts (subject to change):

Police Interactions

If stopped by police patrol, remain calm and follow instructions. Present your driver's license, passport, and vehicle documentation.

Fixed checkpoints operate where officers conduct alcohol screening tests.

Practical Checklist

To avoid fines in Seychelles:

• Always wear seat belts
• Use headlights during low-light conditions
• Observe speed limits strictly
• Maintain public order standards

Local roads demand concentration—they're narrow, winding, and often unlit. Your attentiveness prevents unexpected situations. Selecting an appropriate vehicle makes car rental in Seychelles a source of memorable experiences and complete independence.

Car Rental in Seychelles