The Seychelles is an increasingly popular family destination, and arriving at SEZ with children is straightforward if you plan the ground transport in advance. The airport is small and easy to navigate. The transfer to your resort is where a little preparation makes the difference.
Child car seats
Seychelles taxis do not carry child seats. This is consistent across the island — you will not find one at the rank no matter how long you wait. If your child needs a car seat, you must either bring your own or request one through a private transfer provider at the time of booking.
Specify the type of seat your child needs: rear-facing infant carrier, forward-facing toddler seat, or booster. Not all providers stock all types, so confirming availability before your trip is important.
The roads on Mahe are winding, steep, and often narrow. Drivers navigate them confidently, but the terrain is reason enough to insist on a proper child restraint.
Luggage considerations
Families traveling to the Seychelles typically bring beach and snorkeling gear along with regular luggage. A standard taxi can handle two large suitcases and a couple of carry-ons. Add a stroller, a car seat, and a bag of snorkel equipment, and you need a larger vehicle.
A minivan transfer is the comfortable option for families with significant gear. When booking, list everything you are bringing so the vehicle matches your needs. There is nothing worse than standing at the curb trying to fit five bags into a sedan boot that holds three.
The airport with kids
SEZ is a small, single-terminal airport. The walk from the aircraft to immigration is short. Immigration can take 20-40 minutes — bring a snack and a small activity for younger children, as the queue area is basic with limited seating.
Baggage reclaim is compact. Trolleys are available. The arrivals hall has restrooms, a small shop, and SIM card vendors. There are no dedicated family facilities or play areas.
The overall atmosphere is relaxed. It is not a stressful environment for children.
Getting to beach resorts
Most family-friendly resorts on Mahe are on the north coast (Beau Vallon) or the southwest coast (Baie Lazare, Anse Intendance). Travel times from the airport:
- Beau Vallon: 25-35 minutes
- Constance Ephelia (Port Launay): 30-40 minutes
- Four Seasons (Baie Lazare): 30-40 minutes
- Kempinski (Baie Lazare): 35-45 minutes
- Banyan Tree (Anse Intendance): 35-45 minutes
Hotel transfers vs. independent booking
Many Seychelles resorts offer airport transfer as part of the booking — some complimentary, some at an extra charge. Check with your hotel before arranging independent transport. If the hotel provides a transfer with a child seat, that is the easiest path.
If you book independently, use a provider that explicitly confirms child seat availability and vehicle size. Do not leave either to assumption.
Recommended approach
Confirm whether your hotel offers family-friendly airport transfer with child seats. If not, book a private minivan transfer and request seats for each child who needs one. Have your resort name and any specific gate or entrance instructions saved offline. Keep a change of clothes and essentials for children in carry-on luggage. The transfer is short — once you are in the vehicle, you are 20-45 minutes from the beach.