Elections in Seychelles 2025 – What Tourists Need to Know

Update 29/09/2025

Update: Presidential Election Heads to Second Round

The 2025 Presidential elections will see Linyon Demokratik Seselwa’s (LDS) Wavel Ramkalawan go head-to-head against Dr. Patrick Herminie of United Seychelles (US) in a second round of voting scheduled for 9, 10, and 11 October 2025.

The same rules will apply — expect peaceful proceedings, some road closures, and a temporary alcohol ban during the voting period. Visitors can still enjoy their holidays as normal, with only minor disruptions similar to those experienced in the first round.

Elections in Seychelles 2025 – What Tourists Need to Know

Seychelles is gearing up for its general elections from Thursday, 25 to Saturday, 27 September 2025. While the spotlight is on the ballot boxes, life on the islands will still carry on much the same way for visitors. If you’re holidaying in paradise during this time, here’s a light-hearted guide to help you know what to expect.

Will this affect my holiday?

Not really! Beaches are still sandy, the water still clear, and sunsets still perfect.

Elections here are peaceful, and tourists usually only notice a few colourful campaigns and perhaps a little extra buzz in town.

Shops & Restaurants

Thursday & Friday → open as normal (though some small family-run places may close briefly so staff can vote).

Saturday → 🛑 official public holiday! Expect most shops, restaurants, and attractions to be closed. Great excuse for a lazy beach day! Load of traffic and road closures!

Also, please note that Emirates and other airlines are advising clients to arrive at the airport 4 hours early on Saturday 27th and Sunday the 28th because of expected traffic congestion caused by the Presidential elections.

Liquor Sales Notice

From 11:00 p.m. Friday, 26 September until 8:30 a.m. Sunday, 28 September, Seychelles goes dry — at least in public. Shops, bars, clubs, discos, casinos, and even local toddy, lapire, and baka spots won’t be serving alcohol. But don’t worry! If you’re staying at a hotel or guesthouse, you can still sip your cocktails and sundowners inside the premises. Best tip? Stock up early if you fancy a beach beer or balcony wine, then sit back and enjoy the island vibes — elections here are calm, colourful, and just another part of the Seychelles story.

Roads & Transport

Victoria (Mahé’s capital) will be the busiest spot, especially around Mont Fleuri near the Electoral Commission office.

🚦 Sunday heads-up: once the winner is announced, expect a full-blown motorcade celebration by the winning party. That means music, dancing, flags, and…you guessed it…traffic and road closures! Many businesses may remain closed to join the celebrations.

Public buses should still run their usual daytime schedules, but delays and diversions are possible.

Greetings from the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority.

Please be advised that the National Botanical Garden at Mont Fleuri will be exceptionally closed on Saturday, 27th September 2025 due to road closures in the surrounding area, in light of the 2025 General Elections.

The Vibe

Expect a cheerful and peaceful atmosphere. Locals take voting seriously, but in true island style…it’s calm, friendly, and sometimes even festive. You may see:

Campaign trucks with music – Mini gatherings in town – Proud voters showing off their inked fingers

Final Word

For tourists, Seychelles’ elections are more of a curiosity than a disruption. So pack your sunscreen, keep your plans flexible, and soak in the atmosphere while the locals head to the polls.

Democracy in paradise—it’s just another part of the Seychelles story.

Written by J.R

Inside Seychelles is your guide to what’s on, where to go, and what to do in Seychelles – Click on the link below and be sure to stay up to date with all upcoming events and activities in Seychelles.