Hi, I’m Ezhil, and in this blog, I want to share my personal journey of exploring the breathtaking islands of Seychelles with the help of Papa Car Rental. Before my trip, I did quite a bit of research, and one thing was clear—if I wanted flexibility, comfort, and the freedom to explore at my own pace, renting a car in Seychelles was the way to go. And I was right—this decision completely transformed my experience on both Mahe and Praslin islands.
Why I Decided to Rent a Car in Seychelles
Seychelles is an archipelago of natural wonders—white sandy beaches, emerald hills, and roads that hug the coastline. While public buses exist, they are not very frequent, and taxis can quickly burn a hole in your pocket if you plan to travel extensively.
That’s when I realized: having my own rental car would give me full control over my itinerary. With a car, I didn’t have to stick to schedules or compromise on destinations. Instead, I could drive down hidden lanes, stop at secluded beaches, and take scenic detours whenever I felt like it.
Papa Car Rental stood out to me because of their simple booking process, competitive prices, and wide range of vehicles.
First Impressions of Papa Car Rental
Papa Car Rental
When I landed at Mahe International Airport, my car was already waiting for me—clean, well-maintained, and ready to hit the road. That’s when I knew I had made the right choice.
Here’s what stood out in my first authentic travel experience:
- Seamless Pickup & Drop-off: No long waits or complicated procedures.
- Friendly Service: The staff walked me through everything, including road safety tips.
- Vehicle Variety: From small budget cars like the Kia Picanto to bigger SUVs for families, they had something for everyone.
I started my trip with a compact car, which was perfect for Mahe’s narrow mountain roads.
Driving Through Mahe – A Road Trip to Remember
Mahe is the largest island in Seychelles, and driving here was pure joy. From my first morning drive along Beau Vallon Beach to winding routes through Morne Seychellois National Park, every turn offered postcard-worthy views.
Highlights from my Mahe road trip:
- Beau Vallon Beach: The perfect spot for an early morning swim.
- Victoria City: Driving into the capital to experience local culture and markets.
- Anse Intendance & Takamaka: Beaches that felt untouched and less crowded.
Having a car meant I could stop whenever I wanted, whether it was for coconut water at a roadside stall or just to admire a cliffside view.
Exploring Praslin with Papa Car Rental
Next, I took the ferry to Praslin, where another Papa Car Rental vehicle was ready for me. Praslin may be smaller than Mahe, but it is home to some of the most iconic sites in Seychelles.
With my rental car, I explored at my own pace:
- Vallée de Mai: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with towering coco de mer palms.
- Anse Lazio: Often ranked among the world’s best beaches—absolutely stunning.
- Anse Georgette: A quieter, more secluded alternative for a peaceful afternoon.
Public transport would have made this itinerary difficult, but with my car, it was effortless.
Travel Experience
Why I Recommend Papa Car Rental in Seychelles
Here are the top reasons I’d suggest choosing them for your trip:
- ✅ Flexible Options: Whether you need a budget car or a spacious SUV, they have it.
- ✅ Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees—everything was clearly explained at booking.
- ✅ Unlimited Mileage: I could explore without worrying about distance limits.
- ✅ Extras Included: Free additional driver, child seats, and even GPS options.
- ✅ Convenience: Cars are delivered to airports, hotels, or ferry terminals.
For me, the balance of affordability and comfort was what made Papa Car Rental stand out from the rest.
Helpful Tips for Renting a Car in Seychelles (From My Experience)
Here are some things I wish I had known before renting:
- Book Early: Especially during December–March and July–August, cars sell out fast.
- Choose Based on Travel Style: Solo travelers can go for smaller cars, but families or groups should pick SUVs.
- Insurance Matters: Consider reducing the excess for peace of mind.
- Inspect the Car: Take photos of any scratches or dents before starting your trip.
- Drive Carefully: Roads are often hilly and winding; take your time and enjoy the views.
The Real Benefits of Renting a Car in Seychelles
Looking back, renting a car gave me so much more than just transport—it gave me experiences I would’ve missed otherwise. Watching the sunset from a random coastal viewpoint, pulling over for impromptu photo stops, and reaching off-beat beaches became possible only because I had my own car.
If I had relied on buses or taxis, I would have lost time and flexibility. Instead, I created my own schedule, and that freedom was priceless.
Final Thoughts
As a traveler, I believe that some destinations are best explored on your own terms—and Seychelles is one of them. My journey with Papa Car Rental not only gave me freedom but also turned my trip into an unforgettable adventure.
If you’re planning your trip to Mahe or Praslin, I strongly recommend giving Papa Car Rental a try. Trust me—driving across these islands with the ocean breeze on your face is an experience you’ll carry forever.
