In the Seychelles, public tap water doesn’t meet international safety standards for drinking.
The Seychelles use desalinated and surface water sources, but irregular treatment and storage practices create uncertainty around safety. Water quality is especially variable on smaller islands.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Source: CDC Travelers’ Health, WHO water safety reports, and regional public health agencies.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We’ve taken a close look at dozens of travel water filter bottles—comparing them on filtration quality, traveler convenience, durability, and packability. The ones we recommend make it easy to drink safely from taps, fountains, or even rivers, without relying on disposable plastic or constantly buying bottled water. You’ll find our top selections just below, based on what actually works for real-world travelers.
Health Risks for Travelers
Travelers may be at risk of water-related illnesses, even though locals seem unaffected. This is often due to differences in gut flora, immune response, and exposure to local pathogens.
- Health risks from unsafe drinking water may include:
- Acute diarrheal disease caused by E. coli
- Parasitic infections like giardiasis or cryptosporidiosis
- Viral illnesses such as hepatitis A, especially in areas with poor wastewater management
- Toxic exposure to heavy metals or residual industrial waste
Contamination is more likely in:
- Villages or isolated areas with untreated surface water
- Places where flooding or poor infrastructure compromises sanitation
- Dwellings with outdated plumbing systems or neglected storage tanks
Clear water isn’t always clean water—invisible pathogens, bacteria, and pollutants can pose serious travel health hazards if consumed unfiltered.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in the Seychelles, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in the Seychelles
Most drinking water in Seychelles is provided by the Public Utilities Corporation (PUC), which sources it from rivers and stores it in small reservoirs. On La Digue Island, groundwater is also used. Efforts are ongoing to promote water conservation—like encouraging rainwater harvesting—through campaigns led by the Ministry of Environment and NGOs such as Sustainability for Seychelles.
FAQs About Tap Water in the Seychelles
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Brushing your teeth with tap water in the Seychelles isn’t recommended, especially if you’re not used to the local microbes.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Most travelers wash up without issues, but if you’re especially cautious, stick with filtered water.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
Ask if the ice is made from bottled or treated water—if not, it’s safer to go without.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Yes, showering is generally safe—just avoid swallowing the water.
If you’re looking to be on the safe side—or just want to be kind to your skin and hair while you’re abroad—a travel-friendly shower filter can be a smart add-on. You can usually screw it right onto the showerhead in just a minute. Just make sure the connection point is exposed. Some showers are built into the wall, and in that case, a filter won’t do much good. Check the latest price here.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Tap water in the Seychelles may contain bacteria that stay on the surface of food—filter or bottled water is a safer bet.
Is bottled water expensive in the Seychelles?
Bottled water is usually affordable in the Seychelles, though prices may be higher in tourist areas.
The Seychelles is a popular stop on Indian Ocean routes that often include Mauritius, Madagascar, or Réunion. Review water safety for each island to stay informed.