Question 1

What is the "Fake Inter-Island Package Sellers" scam in Mahé?

Accepted Answer

Touts operating near the Eden Island marina and along the Victoria waterfront approach tourists offering discounted island-hopping packages to Praslin and La Digue. These individuals are not licensed tour operators and either collect deposits that are never refunded or sell seats on overcrowded, uninsured pirogues at prices far above the legitimate Cat Cocos or Zoodio ferry tickets. The official Cat Cocos return ferry from Mahé to Praslin costs approximately SCR 700–800 (around $50 USD) and departs from the Inter-Island Ferry Terminal near Victoria. Book inter-island ferries only through the official Cat Cocos ticket office at the Inter-Island Ferry Terminal on the Victoria waterfront, or through your hotel. Never pay cash deposits to street touts for any island package. Verify the operator holds a Seychelles Tourism Board licence.

Question 2

What is the "Boat Charter Bait-and-Switch" scam in Mahé?

Accepted Answer

Private boat charter operators — particularly those advertising catamaran day trips to uninhabited islands or snorkeling spots around Mahé — advertise inclusive packages (lunch, equipment, guide) and then arrive with a smaller or poorly maintained vessel substituted for the pictured catamaran, absent or broken snorkeling gear, and a "catering supplement" demanded in cash on the day. Some operators simply cancel on the morning of departure and offer a partial refund, having already held the deposit for weeks. Book charters only with operators holding a current Seychelles Licensing Authority maritime licence. Request the vessel registration number before paying a deposit. Pay the balance on the day of departure after inspecting the boat, and ensure all inclusions are itemized in writing on a receipt or booking confirmation.

Question 3

What is the "Unofficial "Island Guide" Approaches at Beau Vallon" scam in Mahé?

Accepted Answer

Individuals at Beau Vallon beach approach tourists offering guided walks, snorkelling spots, or transport to lesser-known beaches at agreed prices. Once the activity ends, they demand significantly more than the quoted amount, citing additional "park fees," fuel costs, or the involvement of a supposed partner. Refusal to pay can result in aggressive behaviour in a semi-isolated setting. Only arrange tours and activities through registered operators at your hotel or through the Seychelles Tourism Board. Agree on a total all-inclusive price in writing or via a hotel booking before departing. Avoid accepting spontaneous guide offers on the beach.

Question 4

What is the "Morne Seychellois Trail Guide Scam" scam in Mahé?

Accepted Answer

Around the trailheads leading into Morne Seychellois National Park — the forested highland covering the interior of Mahé — unofficial individuals present themselves as licensed park guides, charging SCR 500–1,500 upfront for a guided hike. They may lead visitors partway up a trail before claiming the path is closed or dangerous and abandoning the group, or they may simply take the fee and disappear. The national park itself is free to enter and most marked trails do not require a guide. The official park management office can be contacted through the Seychelles Islands Foundation. If you want a licensed guide, book through your hotel or a registered tour operator. Verify any guide's licence number with the Seychelles Tourism Board before paying. The main trails (e.g., Morne Blanc, Tea Factory trail) are clearly marked and free to walk independently.

Tour & Activity Scams in Mahé

Fake Inter-Island Package Sellers

Boat Charter Bait-and-Switch

Unofficial "Island Guide" Approaches at Beau Vallon

Morne Seychellois Trail Guide Scam

Experienced a scam here?