A layover in Desroches is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Desroches Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by local transport, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Before heading into Desroches, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Seychelles vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Desroches is roughly 60 minutes from DES via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Desroches
From DES, the local transport gets you to Desroches in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at DES may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Desroches’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Desroches:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Desroches
Two recommendations for your time in Desroches:
Start with Giant Tortoise Sanctuary. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Snorkeling at Lighthouse Beach. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside DES, you can spend time at Desroches Island Airfield Welcome Area or try Four Seasons Resort Boutique. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
In Desroches
If you make it into town, The Lighthouse Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Castaway Bar.
Inside DES
If you’re staying in the terminal, Claudine Restaurant is your main option. The Lighthouse Bar works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and DES is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Desroches and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at DES.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Desroches doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from DES, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.