Maldives vs Seychelles: Which Indian Ocean Paradise? (2026)

Maldives and Seychelles are two of the world's most photographed beach destinations — crystal lagoons, overwater bungalows, and some of the finest snorkelling on Earth. Both have uncomplicated entry systems. The Maldives offers free visa on arrival; the Seychelles charges $10 for a Travel Authorization. But beyond the paperwork, what's the real difference?
Maldives eVisa
9.4
Free gov. fee
Solicitar Maldives eVisa
VS
Seychelles Travel Authorization
8.9
Gov. fee $10
Solicitar Seychelles Travel Authorization

Detrás de esta comparación

Esta comparación se basa en datos gubernamentales oficiales para Maldives eVisa y Seychelles Travel Authorization, recopilados durante 6 meses. Las tarifas se basan en tarifas gubernamentales publicadas al April 2026.

Comparación de características

Característica Maldives eVisa Seychelles Travel Authorization
Entry requirement Free visa on arrival Travel Authorization ($10)
Processing time Immediate on arrival 24–72 hours online
Maximum stay 30 days (extendable to 90) 90 days
Number of islands 1,200 islands/atolls 115 islands
UNESCO Heritage None Aldabra Atoll, Vallée de Mai
Marine life Manta rays, whale sharks, reef fish Sea turtles, whale sharks, dugongs
Budget options Very limited Limited but more than Maldives

Nuestro veredicto

Maldives eVisa
Choose the Maldives for pure overwater-bungalow luxury, unbeatable house reef snorkelling, and the most iconic sunrise-over-turquoise-water experience on Earth. Budget travel is very limited.
Solicitar Maldives eVisa
Nuestra elección
Seychelles Travel Authorization
Choose Seychelles for the unique combination of granite boulder beaches (impossible anywhere else), giant tortoises, UNESCO jungle, and more island diversity — from Mahé's capital to remote Desroches.
Solicitar Seychelles Travel Authorization

Preguntas frecuentes

Which is more expensive: Maldives or Seychelles?+
Both are expensive. The Maldives can be extreme — resort islands are often all-inclusive with private water villas starting at $500+/night. Budget options on local islands (like Maafushi) exist but are limited. Seychelles is expensive too, but guesthouses on Praslin and La Digue offer more affordable options than Maldives resort islands.
Can I do both Maldives and Seychelles in one trip?+
It's possible but requires careful routing. There are no direct flights between the two destinations. The most efficient route connects via Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Nairobi. Most travellers choose one destination per trip unless they have an extended period available.