07/02/12 , 03:00:28

 

 


Services

  • Accommodation
  • Car Rentals
  • Excursions
  • Flights
  • Handling
  • Private Tours
  • Transfers

From impeccable five-star sophistication, to charming family run guesthouses Seychelles offers accommodation to meet the needs of each and every visitor. Seychelles’ holiday hideaways can be found nestled amidst lush vegetation and tropical gardens, or within a few steps of sandy white beaches and the warm Indian Ocean, from mountain side retreats to private island exclusivity, there is accommodation for anybody with a taste for topical paradise.

Each hotel category offers an assortment of hotels, from the deluxe five star island resorts to the smaller boutique style guesthouses or the family friendly beach resorts.

Island Retreats

For an exclusive level of privacy and luxury, Seychelles currently offers 14 private island escapes, each offering the unparalleled exclusivity of only one establishment.

Excelling in barefoot luxury, from traditional rustic beach bungalows to lavish, award winning luxury villas, these scattered islands are all within easy access by boat, helicopter and in some cases plane from the main island of Mahé.

The island retreats offer some of Seychelles’ most beautiful and unspoilt beaches and spas and provide not just the most relaxing experience in Seychelles, but arguably in the world.

Large Hotels

Unlike crowded tourist resorts elsewhere, in Seychelles a hotel which offers more than 25 rooms is considered as a large hotel, and there are very few which offer over 100 rooms. However, for visitors looking for the amenities offered by larger establishments – such as restaurants, bars, water sports facilities, activities for children, and evening entertainment – properties on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue, and ranging from deluxe to family hotels, are available and operating at the highest international standards.

Small hotels

Seychelles’ large range of small hotels each provides visitors with a unique introduction to tropical rest and relaxation. Each property boasts its own special character and style, from high-end luxury to the more family oriented ‘Creole’ properties, which offer a more intimate and homely feeling, with all accommodation in the small hotels category offering less than 25 rooms.

Self-catering

For a less restricted holiday, ideal for the more independent traveller, Seychelles offers a wide range of self catering properties. Seychelles’ self catering options provide the visitor with complete privacy and enable them to fashion their own unique itinerary and create a complete home away from home.

Island Hopping Holidays

Discover the rich environmental, geographic and cultural variety of the Seychelles archipelago, with an island hopping holiday.

A three island holiday, featuring the three main islands of Mahé, Praslin and LA Digue, lets visitors explore Mahé’s bustling market and soaring mountains, the legendary Vallee de Mai on Praslin and the laid back tranquillity of La Digue. And for a more deluxe island hopping tour, Mason’s recommends including an island retreat. Let Masons tailor make an island hopping holiday to suit you.

Floating accommodation

For a more adventurous holiday, and a chance to be able to explore the Seychelles islands more freely, Masons also offers yachting and sailing accommodation. Providing both “per cabin” and “charter your own yacht” options, life afloat allows visitors to explore Seychelles at their own pace, and discover hidden, isolated coves and beaches inaccessible by land.

Yachts are available fully crewed with skipper and chef so that guests can be chauffeured across the islands without lifting a finger. Contact us for a quote and be prepared to be pleasantly surprised by our competitive prices.

Self-Drive Rental Cars

Go where you want, when you want and explore Seychelles in complete independence by renting a car during a visit to Mahé or Praslin.Traffic in Seychelles drives on the left and all cars available for hire are right-hand drive, and unless otherwise specified have a manual gear shift,
Masons can organize rental delivery to the door of a visitors’ hotel and, whether you require a small run around, family size mini-van or soft top 4x4, Mason’s works with a variety of car rental agencies to provide a broad selection of vehicles to our clients.

Please contact us for a quote before arrival in Seychelles or see the Masons representatives at your hotel during your stay.

Driver's Credentials

To hire a car in Seychelles the driver must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid, non-endorsed national or international driving licence, which may be used in Seychelles for three months consecutively.

Collection/Delivery

Rentals begin with delivery at 10h00 and collection at 08h00. Timings may be changed on request, and subject-to-availability.

Collison Waiver Damage

Most rental agencies stipulate a compulsory supplement payable by the client at the beginning of the lease. Most rental agencies also stipulate a deposit is paid, in cash or held on the hirer's credit card account, to cover any damage in excess of the insured amount. In the event of any accident where the hirer has not paid the Collision Damage Waiver, the hirer will be responsible for all damages.

Liability

Hirers are encouraged to record any discernable damage with the Agency prior to signing the lease agreement.

Reservations & Availability

In your booking request, please specify whether Air-conditioned or Non-Air-conditioned ; Manual or Automatic Gear vehicle is required. Mason's Travel cannot guarantee availability of any particular brand, but will do our utmost to source the specified car or a close alternative. Vehicles with Automatic Transmission are limited and subject to availability.

Conditions

The Pre-booking Rates below are quoted nett, in Euro, per Car, Per Day. The rates are valid up to 15 days prior to rental date and include unlimited mileage, Third Party Insurance and Delivery/Collection to/from Airport or Hotel.

Name Category Closed Air Condition Transmission Picture
Subaru Vivio Small Saloon Yes No Manual Show picture
Kia Picanto Convertible Small Saloon Yes No Manual Show picture
Suzuki Jimny Soft-top Jeep Open No Manual Show picture
Hyundai Atos Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Daihatsu Charade Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Daihatsu Cuore Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Kia Picanto Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Daihatsu Sirion Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual/Auto Show picture
Kia Rio Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Peugeot 206 Medium Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Suzuki Baleno Large Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Suzuki Liana Large Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Mazda 323 Large Saloon Yes Yes Auto Show picture
Mitsubishi Lancer Large Saloon Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Toyota Corona Large Saloon Yes Yes Auto Show picture
Subaru Impreza Large Saloon Yes Yes Manual/Auto Show picture
Daihatsu Terios Jeep Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Daihatsu Terios [New Model] Jeep Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Suzuki Jimny Jeep Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Honda HRV Jeep Yes Yes Manual Show picture
Kia Sportage Jeep Yes Yes Manual/Auto Show picture
Suzuki [8 Seater] Mini Bus Yes Yes Manual Show picture


Reef Safari Full day

Mason’s Travel offers you the opportunity to visit the Sainte Anne Marine Park, only a short boat ride from the capital, Victoria, where you will be immersed in the park’s teeming underwater ecosystem in our semi-submersible.

Start your journey with a gentle cruise past the reclaimed island of Hodoul, home to large numbers of herons and cattle egrets. Then motor out into the marine park where you will board our semi-submersible to keep your feet dry while exploring the teeming reefs.

Climb back up on deck where you can reach out to hand the fish their breakfast before diving in for your own sub-marine adventure. We provide lightweight snorkelling vests and snorkelling equipment to allow you to get up close to the fascinating underwater world.

Enjoy a mouth-watering buffet, prepared in the traditional Seychellois style and savoured outdoors, while relaxing in the sun. Our multitalented crew will enliven the lunch with some traditional Creole rhythms. After lunch there is always time for a relaxing swim or perhaps nothing more strenuous than a lazy afternoon snooze.

Then join us on the scenic route back to Port Victoria, with a leisurely cruise around the islands of the marine park.

 

Praslin - La Digue Full day

Join Mason’s unforgettable, full-day guided tour of two of Seychelles most enchanting islands, Praslin and La Digue, to experience their unique character and their breathtaking natural beauty.

La Digue is still steeped in the tranquil atmosphere of days gone by, which is yours to savour as you travel along the island’s meandering pathways by ox cart, admiring the picturesque harbour, fine examples of old Creole architecture and the restored copra mill at L’Union Estate.

La Digue’s Anse Source d’Argent is one of the world’s most famous beaches, renowned for its spectacular granite formations standing since the dawn of time, the jealous sentinels of a perfect beach.

La Diue’s island neighbour, Praslin is home to the legendary Coco-de-Mer which grows in an ancient valley of towering palms, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden and home to the rare Seychelles black parrot. Then on to Anse Lazio, one of Seychelles’ most magnificent beaches. During your Praslin adventure we’ll make time for you to enjoy a delicious Creole buffet lunch of freshly grilled fish, piquant curries simmering in coconut milk and succulent fresh fruits

Peaks of Paradise - Seasonal

An opportunity to experience a thrilling adventure trekking along Mahé’s northern coast before cruising back to Victoria aboard our catamaran Catalina. Starting from Danzilles, the palm-fringed trail along the deserted northwest coast follows the contours of ancient granite boulders. Our experienced guides will point out some of Seychelles’ unique flora and fauna along the way. The 1.5 hour walk ends at Anse Major, where Catalina is moored in the sheltered bay.

After boarding by dingy from the pristine beach, the day’s excursion continues with a cruise to Bay Ternay Marine Park, stopping at undisturbed snorkelling sites, where guests not wishing to swim can spend time feeding the fish or sunbathing on the spacious deck. A delicious Creole buffet lunch is served on board during the gentle cruise home.

Full day Cruise: Instead of participating in the walk, you might choose to board Catalina from its mooring in Victoria and enjoy the sights while relaxing on a day-long cruise along the coast for a different perspective of Mahé.

Mahé Bus Tour - Full day

Experience the diversity and inspiring scenic beauty of Mahé, Seychelles’ largest island, in air-conditioned comfort, passing imposing granite peaks and verdant hillsides down to golden-sanded beaches fringed by clear tropical waters.

Begin with a tour of the capital, Victoria, and the picturesque charms of its ancient clock tower and colourful market, while our guides recount for you the history of the islands. After the market tour they will enchant you with tales of folklore as you journey on to the enchanting old Mission Lodge by way of a winding mountain road, where breathtaking panoramas of rambling tropical vegetation, towering granite peaks and the azure ocean await.

Travel on to the Jardin du Roi, where the most delicate Creole dishes are prepared and served to you in the midst of the spice, fruit and vegetable gardens which supplied the succulent flavours. End your day in the traditional ambiance of the Craft Village where an inviting collection of arts, crafts and tropical wares are created.

 

La Digue - Full day

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of La Digue, Seychelles’ fourth largest island, where the rhythms of true island living still beat loud and where the bicycle and ox-cart are the main modes of transport.

Upon arrival at the picturesque island jetty, we will guide you - slowly - down the island’s rustic pathways to L’Union Estate where a magnificent old Creole house, restored copra mill and boat yard each recall a tradition of times gone by.

Nearby Anse Source d’Argent is counted among the finest – and certainly the most photographed – beaches in the world where imposing granite boulders and crystalline waters conspire with a beach of the finest sand to create a bather’s paradise. Then take time to enjoy a delicious Creole lunch in the warm and welcoming ambience of La Digue.

Bird watchers may even be fortunate enough to catch sight of the Paradise Fly Catcher, one of the world’s rarest birds, as it flits among the island’s verdant hillsides.

Vallee de Mai - Anse Lazio - Full day

Discover the timeless charms of Seychelles’ second largest island, home to the renowned Vallée de Mai, where the magnificent Coco-de-Mer, the world’s heaviest nut, grows on ancient palms in a primeval forest once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden.

Delve into this mysterious glade of towering palms, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the rare Seychelles Black parrot flits between unique species of endemic flora.

From here we will introduce you to the island’s most magnificent beaches, Anse Lazio, where magnificent boulders grace silver sands lapped by clear turquoise waters – the perfect spot for a refreshing dip or just a lazy, tropical afternoon.

Vallee de Mai - Half day

Enter the forgotten world of Praslin’s legendary Vallée de Mai, still miraculously untouched by man, where the once mythical Coco-de-mer, the world’s heaviest seed sensuously shaped in the form of a female pelvis, was first discovered.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai – once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden – still nurtures several rare species of flora and fauna for you to enjoy, such as the famous Seychelles Black Parrot, the tiger chameleon and the diminutive Seychelles tree frog.

Cousin, Curieuse, St-Pierre - Full day

Enjoy a day out the ocean and a boat ride that will introduce you to the marine and avian wonders of a trio of spectacular island sanctuaries.

Begin your day on the small charming harbour of Baie Ste-Anne, then cruise the picturesque Praslin coastline to arrive at the island of Cousin, a special nature reserve, home to some of Seychelles’ rarest birds. Here, in the company of the island’s knowledgeable guides, you will discover the secrets of its pristine environment.

Then island hop to Curieuse Island National Marine Park where a unique island eco-system awaits as you follow a twisiting path through mangrove swamps to the site of a tortoise breeding colony. Enjoy a delicious barbecue lunch on the soft sand beach; surrounded by freely roaming giant tortoises.

Finally, the tiny islet of St. Pierre awaits you with a chance to relax or to snorkel into a kaleidoscope of underwater activity, amid vibrant colours and crystal clear waters.

Private Tours & A la Carte Services

At Mason’s, we pride ourselves on our individual and personalized approach as well as our intimate knowledge of the islands, culture, heritage and people of Seychelles. We can perfectly design and create tailor-made itineraries to suit every need and rhythm.

Whether you are dreaming of a glass of champagne at sundown on a secluded beach, cruising on board a private yacht, being whisked off on a helicopter or simply have our guide regale the secrets of our islands in your own language!

Our team can make it come true.

Nature Trails

Walk inland from any of Seychelles’ beautiful beach and you will discover the unique beauty of the mysterious interior of our granitic islands.

And by participating in one of our nature trail excursions and you will be introduced to its inhabitants of endemic birds, insects, reptiles and plants.

The forests of Mahé are home to plants and animals seen nowhere else on earth, including insectivorous pitcher plant, five species of palm trees, pandanus, Bois Rouge and other plants, many of them used in local medicine. It is also home to one of the world’s smallest frog, the finger nail sized Sooglossids.

Our nature trail tours will keep you in good shape during your holidays; you will enjoy the spectacular “bird’s eye” views of the coast and the neighbouring islands of Mahe.

Cruise Mahé’s South Coast - Seasonal

Cruise on our 80 foot catamaran Catalina from Victoria along the east oast to the beautiful south and follow in the footsteps of pirates three centuries ago. Reaching Anse Royale, the site of the Jardin du Roi, the catamaran will skirt the reef edge giving you the best views the South Coast has to offer, which have remained unchanged for centuries. Sail along the beach of Anse Forbans, frequented by pirates to careen their ship and stock up on food and water. It is also believed that treasure is buried here! The majestic boulder of Cap Mason is believed to have been the place where witch doctors used to perform their ancient rituals.

The unspoilt coves of Anse Marie Louise, Capucin, Petit Boileau and Pointe Police are now among the last nesting beaches on Mahé of the Hawkbill turtles, a species threatened with extinction. A snorkelling stop is also scheduled at Police Bay to view the underwater world in all its splendour.

Catalina will then turn north and cruise back to Anse Royale, this time slipping into the bay through a channel in the reef and coming to anchor while you enjoy a mouthwatering Creole barbecue lunch onboard.
After lunch, stretch out and relax on deck, hop aboard the dinghy and motor ashore or stay in shape with a quick swim to the golden Anse Royale beach.

Cruising back to Victoria, if the wind is fair, the captain will rasie the sails and, this time further from the coast, lines will be set for a bit of game fishing.

 

Full day Sister & Coco Islands

A deserted island experience, with Guide, Lunch and Coach/Boat Transfers. These tiny granitic ‘gems’ are located to the north of La Digue and are accessible by a 30-minute motorboat ride from Praslin. Sister Island boasts one of the finest beaches in Seychelles, and is un-inhabited, excep for the warden and his wife.

The reef on the western side is ideal for snorkeling, while the island's prolific coconut plantation lends itself well to exploration. A typical Creole barbeque is served under the shelter of an old ‘boat house’ by the beach.

The tour's highlight is the afternoon's snorkeling off Coco Island, an experience second to none. Coco Island is a small granitic outcrop sporting few palm trees - its real treasure lies in the surrounding depths, which is often compared to a living aquarium. For the un-initiated, our crew is on hand with lightweight snorkeling vests to ensure that no-one misses this unique experience.

Click here to view our Private Tours...

Domestic Flights

Enjoy the unique experience of seeing Seychelles’ emerald islands from the air! From the short hop flight between Mahé and Praslin, to the longer inter island journeys to the outer islands, domestic flights in Seychelles provide unforgettable views that whet the appetite ahead of arrival, and stay in the memory long after departure.

The two main islands (Mahé and Praslin) are linked by air from dawn till after dusk, every day, more than once an hour, by a fleet of Twin Otters and Shorts 360s.

For visitors seeking a more exclusive getaway, the national airline, Air Seychelles, and outer island management body, the Island Development Corporation, provide services to the more remote airstrip-equipped islands, all of which can be arranged and booked in advance by Masons.

IDC Flights

The Island Development Company (IDC) offers flights to Desroches and Alphonse.

They also offer chartered flights to all the other islands. IDC is the only company that offers flights to the farthest Outer Islands via Assumption Island.

International Flights

A wide range of well respected airline provide flights to Seychelles from numerous European, Middle Eastern, African and Asian hubs and provide onward air links to the rest of the world.

Seychelles is currently served by flights by Air Seychelles, Emirates Airways, Qatar Airlines, Kenya Airways, Condor and Eurofly, with Masons on hand to meet all flights and offer exceptional travel care to clients from across the globe.

In addition to working alongside Seychelles’ scheduled flight servers, Masons also has a well established reputation for working with chartered carriers. Israeli carrier Medraft has entrusted the management of its weekly charter service to Seychelles entirely to the Masons team, thanks to our long standing experience and world class reputation.

Tali Yativ, General Manager, Medraft:

Medraft has been running regular charter operations to Seychelles for the last four years. Since the early 2000’s Masons has run all of its operations in Seychelles, covering everything from hotels and transfers to large group special events, for the thousands of Medraft clients who have visited Seychelles.

"We work with a lot of different companies around the world, lots of companies, lots of people, but all of the staff prefer to work with Masons. It has become like a family, much more than just working together.

When we had some difficulties, that’s when I knew I was in good hands, because they did everything they could to find a resolution. I really believe in Masons."


Flight Schedule (will open a new window)

Helicopter Flights

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of paradise, cruising over lush forested mountains and turquoise tropical seas with a helicopter flight over Seychelles’ islands. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the islands from the comfort of a helicopter on an inter island transfer or on a simple pleasure cruise around the islands.

Masons organised helicopter flights can range from 15 minute scenic flights, inter-island transfers and lunchtime island tours, served from numerous, professionally maintained and equipped helipads across the islands.

Tailor made helicopter excursions are a Masons speciality and we would be delighted to arrange an exclusive itinerary prior to your arrival in Seychelles.

Ground Handling

Masons’ ground handling staff provide the perfect welcome to paradise. Our friendly staff, proficient in a wide range of languages, can be on hand from touch down to take off to ensure that your Seychelles holiday constantly exceeds your expectations.

Our staff, your hosts in Seychelles, aim to match their service to your requirements. On hand when you need them, but out of sight when you want peace and tranquillity, they aim to provide a discerning service, perfectly tailored to your requirements.

We can be on hand to meet and greet you upon arrival, provide assistance with hotel check in and keys, offer aircraft and boat boarding assistance, accompany you on departure and arrival at island jetties, visit you in your hotel and be on hand around the clock to provide the personalised, professional assistance on which our success and reputation for excellence is based.

We also provide round the clock customer service ready to spring into action twenty four hours a day to take care of everything from hotel changes to medical assistance. Our dedication to consistently high service delivery and reputation for unfailingly delivering on our commitments has led to Masons being appointed the travel operator of choice by the majority of the world’s leading insurance providers, who trust Masons to meet their clients needs in the face of any emergency.

Premium "Privilege" Handling

For the ultimate in creole luxury, Masons is proud to offer the Privilege experience.

Forget all about the stress and strain of work and home and allow Masons to ensure your holiday is offers nothing but pampered tranquillity from start to finish.
Enjoy fast track service upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport, where you will be met by our expert staff, escorted through an express immigration process and assisted with baggage reclaim. Be pampered with chilled mineral water, cold towels and Masons’ exclusive Privilege pack, containing maps, gifts, discount cards and more, before being spirited on to your final destination.

Enjoy the comfort of our luxurious Toyota Prado SUV or upgrade to the Privilege Deluxe option and make your journey in either a BMW or Mercedes saloon, for the ultimate luxury drive through paradise.

Contact Masons directly and allow us to tailor make a package of the most luxurious sights, sounds and experiences that Seychelles has to offer.

Today's discerning traveller continues searching for exclusive pursuits in maximum comfort. We have compiled the guided Private Tours below to satisfy the expectations of our mutual clientele. The Private Tours are all conducted in a 5-seater, air-conditioned Jeep/executive minivan: Driver, Guide and 3 guests with window seats.

Full day Private Car Tour of Mahe Island, with Lunch, English/French-speaking Guide, cold water & cold towels + Entrance Fees: This 8-hour programme is tailor-made according to the guest's wishes, with a choice of two programmes... Read More

Full day Private Marine Park Reef Safari, with return private car & yacht transfers, English/French-speaking Guide & Creole Buffet Lunch... Read More

Full day Private Tour of Praslin island, with Lunch & including English/French-speaking Guide, return private car transfers in Mahe, return domestic flights from / to Mahe island, cold water & cold towels + Entrance Fees... Read More

Full day Private Tour of La Digue island, via Praslin, including English/French-speaking Guide, return private car transfers, return domestic transit flights between Mahe & Praslin islands, cold water & cold towels + Entrance Fees and Creole Lunch... Read More

Full day Private Tour of Praslin & La Digue islands, including English/French-speaking Guide, return private car transfers, private boat transfers, cold water & cold towels + Entrance Fees and Creole Lunch... Read More

Full day Private Tour of La Digue & Coco islands, including English/French-speaking Guide, return private car transfers, private boat transfers, cold water & cold towels + Entrance Fees and Creole Lunch... Read More

Contact us for more info...

Land Transfers

Travel around Mahé and Praslin in the style that suits you best, with a Masons organised transfer. We can provide transport options around the main islands to meet any requirement, from large groups to personalised, luxurious escapes.

For an intimate and exclusive transport option, choose our Private Car transfer. We will provide the air-conditioned luxury of a Toyota Prado SUV, whose uniformed driver will offer you ice cold bottles of water before transporting you to your destination.

For larger travelling parties our Mini Vans can carry up to 12 passengers, allowing wedding parties, large families, corporate parties and any other large group to experience the sights of the islands together.

Alternatively opt for our fast, efficient coach transfer service to take you quickly and comfortably from airport to hotel and the real start of your holiday.

Whatever the needs of you and your travelling companions, Masons has the transport solution for you!

Sea Transfers

Island hop the traditional way with a Masons organised sea transfer between the islands. Jump aboard a fast ferry  for a quick crossing from Seychelles’ main island, Mahé, to the second island of Praslin, a 1 hour journey from the hustle and bustle of Mahé’s inter island quay, to the peace and tranquillity of a tropical sanctuary.

Take a step further back in time with a gentle sea transfer from Praslin to Seychelles’ most relaxing island, La Digue, and slip into the laid back lifestyle aboard a traditional slow moving schooner. Alternately take the fast track to the good life, hopping onboard a quick catamaran to zip across the short strait between the two islands.

And whether crossing from Mahé to Praslin or Praslin to La Digue be sure to keep your eyes open for turtles, dolphins and giant (and vegetarian!) whale sharks, the biggest fish in the world, which can grow to over twelve metres long.

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