Seychelles reopening on August 1 — but Americans won't be allowed in
Editor's Note
Editor's note: This post has been updated to reflect that commercial flights to the Seychelles will be resuming on August 1, 2020.
The Seychelles are thought of as a luxury destination by most, as evidenced by the country's initial reopening plan which only allowed visitors traveling on private and chartered flights. Beginning August 1, the Seychelles will open to even more tourists as it resumes commercial flights, but many (including Americans) still won't be welcome.
Related coverage: Country-by-country guide to reopening
Visitors from 17 approved low-risk countries (including China, Japan and New Zealand) will be required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to the date of travel. If a PCR test is not available, they will need to submit to a rapid antigen test. Visitors from medium-risk countries are required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72 hours prior to the date of travel.
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In addition, visitors must submit their negative test as well as their flight itinerary and accommodations to visitor@health.gov.sc prior to arrival, or they may be subject to additional COVID testing upon arrival. Guests can only book stays at licensed establishments or liveaboards, and are required to have valid travel insurance with full medical coverage for the duration of their stay.
Related Coverage: State-by-state guide to coronavirus reopening
Visitors from high-risk countries (which are all countries excluding the 37 designated as low and medium-risk) will not be permitted to enter the Seychelles at this time.
Where to stay
If you're traveling from one of the approved low and medium-risk countries, check out some of TPG's past coverage for advice on where to stay:
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