MAHÉ • PRASLIN • LA DIGUE
Island Hopping in Seychelles
Build a multi-island trip without turning your holiday into a race between ferries and airports.
For many first-time visitors, the classic combination is Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. It offers variety without complicated logistics: a main-island base, Praslin’s beaches and nature, and La Digue’s slower bicycle-friendly atmosphere.
Ferry Routes, Prices & Timings
Cat Cocos runs the main inter-island ferry network, and is the ferry most visitors use. Sailing times, fares, availability and ticket conditions can change by date and season, so use the operator’s live booking information for the current journey you are planning.
- Mahé ↔ Praslin: around 1 hour. Check the operator for the current fare and departure times.
- Mahé ↔ La Digue: around 1 hour 45 minutes on services that call at Praslin. Check the current itinerary when booking.
- Praslin ↔ La Digue: around 15 minutes on direct ferry services. Check the current sailing schedule and fare for your date.
Book ahead when your dates are fixed, particularly during busy travel periods. Domestic flights between Mahé and Praslin are another option if you prefer to fly or if ferry availability does not suit your itinerary.
Mahé → Praslin
Passenger ferries connect the islands, while domestic flights are another option. Ferry travel is scenic, but sea conditions can affect crossings.
Praslin → La Digue
La Digue is normally reached by ferry from Praslin. Check the current operator timetable for your travel date because schedules can change.
Outer Island Hopping
Remote islands require different transport arrangements. Check access, flights, accommodation and permits before adding an Outer Island to your route.
How Many Nights?
There is no perfect formula. A straightforward holiday might use Mahé for arrival and departure, with several nights on Praslin and a shorter stay on La Digue. Longer trips can justify an additional island if transport and accommodation fit naturally.
Don’t Overpack the Itinerary
Moving islands costs time and money. Staying longer in fewer places often gives you more time for beaches, hikes, local food and spontaneous exploring. Treat transfer days as part of the holiday rather than squeezing a full sightseeing day around them.
Outer Island Hopping
The Outer Islands are a different proposition entirely. Some have resorts or organised visitor programmes, while others are protected, privately managed, working or uninhabited. Access typically means a chartered flight from Mahé rather than a scheduled ferry — do not assume an Outer Island can be added to a normal Cat Cocos itinerary.
Entry Requirements Before You Travel
Seychelles is visa-free for visitors who meet the country’s entry conditions, but every visitor must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before departure. Check the current requirements and apply through the official Seychelles Electronic Border System before travelling. You may be asked for evidence such as onward travel and confirmed accommodation. A Visitor’s Permit is issued on arrival to eligible visitors, subject to the current immigration requirements.
For the latest requirements, use the official Seychelles Immigration visitor information.
Plan Your Route
- Choose the islands that match the experience you want.
- Check live transport schedules before committing to accommodation.
- Leave breathing room around ferry and flight days.
- Book the most limited accommodation or transfers first.
Start With Your Islands
Compare Mahé, Praslin, La Digue and the more remote islands.
Choose Your Trip Length
Match the number of nights to a realistic island combination.
For entry, travel and practical questions, also see Seychelles FAQs.
Ferry prices, schedules, entry requirements and processing arrangements can change. Always confirm current information directly with the relevant official authority or operator before booking.
Comparing places to stay for your trip? Check rates on Booking.com → Check rates on Agoda →
Hotel facilities, services, prices and availability can change. Confirm current details directly with the property before booking. Booking links may generate a commission for Best in Seychelles if you book through them, at no additional cost to you.