Car Travel

Having your own car is the only way to fully explore all of Mahé's charms. At least a day exploring this beautiful island—particularly the far southern reaches—is highly worthwhile. Though the paved roads are good, the combination of left-hand driving, numerous tourists in rental cars, and Mahé's frequently steep roads with hairpin bends and no shoulders (the roads literally drop off into ditches) can be nerve-wracking. The main rule of the road: drive slowly. On Praslin a car could also be handy, though the frequent shuttle services offered by many resorts to the islands' other "main" beaches and a decent public bus service (also present on Mahé) render the need for your own wheels less keen. None of the other islands offers car rentals. Numerous car rental agencies are at the international terminal of the airport, as well as at points around the island. Most agencies can arrange delivery/drop-off at your hotel or the jetties for a small fee. Prices are fairly standard: the cheapest you're likely to find is about US$60 a day for an economy hatchback. If you take a car for more than three days, the price can be reduced to about $45 You can book at the airport, through a tour operator, or from your hotel. Most companies will accept your national license.

Contacts

Aventure. Amitié, Praslin, Inner Islands. 423–3805; 252–7291; 252–6805; [email protected].

Avis. Seychelles International Airport, Victoria, Mahé, Inner Islands. 422–4511; 251–4512; www.avis.com.sc.

Capricorn Car Rental. Bay St. Anne, Praslin, Inner Islands. 258–1110; 251–0446; [email protected].

Hertz. Seychelles International Airport, Victoria, Mahé, Inner Islands. 432–2447; 432–2669; www.seychelles.net/hertz.

Omega Cars. Seychelles International Airport, Victoria, Mahé, Inner Islands. 437–6932; 251–1562; www.omegacarhire.com.

Palm Cars. Anse a la Mouche, Mahé, Inner Islands. 436–1221; 271–2106; 271–2102; [email protected].