What our local film fixers has to say about filming on location in Seychelles
The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean, is a breathtaking filming destination renowned for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, lush tropical vegetation, and diverse marine life. Whether capturing the serenity of coral atolls or the grandeur of granite peaks, the Seychelles offers an unrivalled natural backdrop for film and television productions.
If you are interested to film in this region, please visit our regions we fix in page for more information on Visa Applications, crew and equipment, drone permits and safety & security.
A Unique Filming Destination
The Seychelles’ three main islands—Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue—are granitic, while the remaining islands are coral-based. Many of these islands are either privately owned or designated as nature reserves, ensuring that the landscapes remain unspoiled. The varied topography includes lush hills, surf beaches, glacial boulders, and vibrant coral reefs, making it ideal for underwater photography and nature documentaries.
Climate and Weather Considerations
The Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate, with hot temperatures year-round. There are two distinct seasons:
- November to March: The rainy and humid season, influenced by the northwest monsoon.
- June to September: A drier, slightly cooler season dominated by southeast trade winds.
Tropical showers typically occur in the afternoons during the rainy season and at night during the dry season. Filmmakers should plan accordingly to optimize shooting schedules and ensure ideal lighting conditions.
Language and Currency
The official languages of the Seychelles are Creole, English, and French. Seychellois Creole (Seselwa) is the most widely spoken language. The local currency is the Seychelles rupee (SCR), with 15 SCR roughly equivalent to 1 Euro. Both Euros and US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in the tourism sector.
Infrastructure and Accessibility
The Seychelles has a well-developed infrastructure in the northern Mahé group of islands, while the remote southern coral islands have limited facilities. The government has made significant investments in expanding roads and transportation networks to attract international visitors and filmmakers alike.
- Island-Hopping & Transport: Traveling between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue is straightforward via ferry, while other islands require chartered boats or private helicopters.
- Public Transport: The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation operates bus routes throughout Mahé and Praslin, offering a cost-effective option for crews.
- Car Rentals: Available on Mahé and Praslin, with well-maintained road networks.
- International Access: Seychelles International Airport on Mahé is serviced by multiple international airlines, providing seamless connectivity for cast and crew.
Film-Friendly Locations
The Seychelles provides a wealth of visually stunning film locations, including:
- Beaches & Coastal Scenes: World-famous white sand beaches, surf-friendly coastlines, and crystal-clear waters ideal for aquatic sequences.
- Agricultural Settings: Coconut, cinnamon, vanilla, lime, and tea plantations offer rustic, tropical backdrops.
- Luxury Resorts: Exclusive island resorts provide picturesque locations for high-end productions.
Accommodation for Film Crews
Several film-friendly hotels cater to production teams, offering comfortable stays and logistical support:
- Lemuria Resort of Praslin
- Chateau de Feuilles
- Banyan Tree Seychelles
Permits and Production Support
Film permits are required for productions in the Seychelles, with approvals generally being straightforward. While the country does not currently offer tax incentives or rebates for filmmakers, the ease of obtaining permits and the natural beauty of the islands make it a desirable shooting location. It is recommended to work with local production service companies or location managers to navigate logistical requirements.
Why Choose the Seychelles for Your Next Production?
The Seychelles presents filmmakers with a paradise-like setting that is both visually diverse and easily accessible. Its striking landscapes, unique biodiversity, and well-established infrastructure make it an excellent choice for a range of productions, from commercials and documentaries to feature films.
Plan Your Shoot with Local Experts
Working with experienced local fixers ensures smooth production logistics, from securing permits to scouting the best locations. If you’re looking for a unique and breathtaking setting for your next project, the Seychelles is ready to bring your vision to life. Contact us today to explore filming opportunities in this extraordinary destination!
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