26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles – 2023 Guide

A complete and up-to-date Seychelles travel guide featuring the 26 best things to do on Mahé Island for your next trip.

White sand, turquoise water, abundant wildlife, and soaring granite peaks– Mahé Island is a dream travel destination that is a true tropical paradise. There are so many amazing things to do on Mahé Island, from unwinding on the beautiful tropical beaches to hiking the incredible nature trails in Morne Seychellois National Park.

In order to help you narrow down your itinerary and get inspired, I’ve formulated this travel guide to Mahé!

I’ve included the 26 best things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles based on my personal experience. I’ve included photos from my adventures and formulated a useful travel guide with transport tips, accommodation recommendations, and adventure inspiration to get you pumped for your Seychelles vacation!

Mahé Island Map

If you're planning your vacation and looking for things to do on Mahé, check out this useful map. Here, I've pinned all of the highlights, attractions, and must-see landmarks listed in this travel guide.

Tip: If you're arriving at Mahé Island Airport, book a private airport transfer in advance. This is only €30 and will save you money instead of trying to organize a taxi to your resort or hotel at the airport.

26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island

Without further ado, let's get into this list of the best things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles. This list is based on my personal experience traveling around Mahé and the Seychelles. And, like always the photos (unless listed otherwise) are all taken by me.

1. Hike to One of the World's Most Beautiful Beaches: Anse Major

When you think Mahé or the Seychelles, blue-water beaches and palm-lined white-sand beaches spring to mind. In fact, beaches like the Anse Source D'Argent on La Digue put the Seychelles on the map as a travel destination.

However, in my opinion, the most beautiful beach in the Seychelles is not Anse Source d'Argent nor is it the world-class Anse Lazio on Praslin.

2. Mahé Island Hopping & Snorkeling at Sainte Anne Marine Park

If you've come to the Seychelles to explore the underwater world, then there's no better place to do it than by going island hopping at Sainte Anne Marine Park. This area has the richest marine life and is home to over 150 species of fish and other magnificent underwater life.

The marine park is the first of its kind in the West Indian Ocean and consists of six small islands and several coral reefs. These include St Anne Island, Ile Moyenne, Ile aux Cerf, Chachée Island, Ile Ronde, and Ile Longue.

3. Visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens

Due to the remote location in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles is abundant with unique and endemic species. Its tropical climate has allowed some incredible plants that are found nowhere else. This includes the famous coco de mer palm from Vallée de Mai on Praslin, which produces the largest seed on earth.

For those visiting Mahé Island, wonder down to the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens in Victoria. Here, you'll find many endemic plants, excellent examples of tropical flora from around the world and even a giant tortoise enclosure.

4. Discover the Popular Beaches of Mahé Island

While I've already recommended Anse Major, there are actually many, many more popular beaches on Mahé Island. Depending what you are looking for, or what mood you're in, there'll be a perfect spot for you. Whether you want to sit back and soak in the rays, or enjoy some wild water sports or surfing, you'll find it right here on Mahé.

At many of the amazing beaches, you'll often find small shops and beach shacks selling fresh fruit, Creole BBQ fish, and even cocktails!

I've written a comprehensive guide summarizing the 12 best beaches, but here are my top four, not including the (spoiler) two pristine beaches on this featured list of things to do on Mahé.

• Grand Anse
• Beau Vallon Beach
• Anse Takamaka
• Anse Royale

Book: 5 Beach Seychelles Day Tour

5. Visit the Mission Lodge

The Mission Lodge at the historic Venns Town is a UNESCO World Heritage listed cultural site. There are ruins here of a 19th century school dedicated to children dumped on the island following the abolition of slavery.

The school itself was built by the London Missionary Society but is now in rubbles. There are information plaques throughout the site which details the history. Furthermore, if you continue on you'll find an amazing viewpoint overlooking Morne Seychellios National Park. Entry to the Mission Lodge Venns Town is 100 SCR for tourists.

6. Dine at Eden Island

Eden Island is an artificial island located just off the coast of Victoria on the east coast of Mahé Island. This island is referred to as reclaimed land by Seychellois and was constructed during the 2000s by funds from Dubai investors.

Today, Eden Island is a luxury area complete with beautiful villas, luxurious hotels, shopping complexes, and a high-class marina full of super yachts. If you're looking for things to do on Mahé before departing at the airport, go for a stroll at Eden Island and sit down at one of the incredible restaurants. Alternatively, stay here a night or two at one of the amazing hotels.

In fact, I chose to stay at Eden Island at the incredible Eden Bleu Hotel overlooking the marina with the amazing granite peak backdrop. I couldn't recommend this enough if you are looking for a Mahé resort or hotel near Victoria.

7. Go Catamaran Sailing on Mahé Island

One of the most popular activities on Mahé Island is to charter a yacht or jump onboard a catamaran sailing trip. The amazing Indian Ocean surrounding the Seychelles is prime for sailing, with many small islands reachable within hours.

One of the top-rated catamaran day trips is onbard the Starfish. This is a great way to enjoy a cruise through the Sainte Anne Marine Park and discover the vibrant marine life of the Seychelles.

Book: Starfish - Odezir Catamaran Sailing

8. Hike the Morne Blanc Trail in Morne Seychellois National Park

For the adventurers chasing amazing viewpoints or a once-in-a-lifetime sunrise or sunset spot, make sure to check out the Morne Blanc Trail in the Seychellois National Park.

Morne Blanc is one of the highest peaks on Mahé Island and offers arguably the best views of the west coast. The summit is reachable via a short but steep nature trail hike. You'll find the trailhead on Sans Soucis Road, which is the cross-island road connecting Victoria to Port Glaud.

If you'd prefer to hike this one with a guide, you can call or text my friend Roddey on Whatsapp: +248 259 6425.

Roddey is an amazing guide and knows absolutely everything about the history and nature of Mahé Island and the Seychelles.

9. Go Scuba Diving on Mahé Island

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner looking to immerse yourself in the underwater world of scuba, Mahé Island is a great place to go diving.

That's because the Seychelles is the only place on earth where you can dive at a granitic rock site, since this geology is unique to the archipelago. There are dozens of great dive sites on Mahé, ranging from 8 meters to 30 meters in depth.

I went diving with Big Blue Divers and was taken to three amazing sites. Each was unique, including a wreck dive, a coral reef dive and a granitic rock slope dive. Highlights for me were the dozens of turtles outside Beau Vallon Bay, as well as spotting a huge Manta Ray on the northwest tip of the island near Anse Major.

If you're visiting Mahé Island during the months of October and November, you can even experience a whale shark dive! Whale sharks are not stationary in the Seychelles but migrate here every year.

10. Explore the Island Via Beach Buggy

Looking for a unique way to explore Mahé island? Why not book a full-day tour via beach buggy?

This is a famous tour on the island ran by Francois. This man has been running this tour for over 20 years and grew up on the island. He speaks several languages, including English, French, and German and will show you some great spots you might miss otherwise!

Book: Island day trip via beach buggy

11. Stay on a Private Island

Are you visiting Mahé Island and the Seychelles for your honeymoon? You're not alone. The Seychelles is one of the best places to enjoy a tropical honeymoon and one of the best ways to do it is to enjoy your stay in complete privacy on a private island!

One of the best private island experiences on Mahé is the Ja Enchanted Resort. This resort is located on Round Island (Ile Ronde) in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. This is a five-star resort with some of the best reviews in the Seychelles! Each suite features amazing, sweeping views of the incredible Indian Ocean and the rich coral reef systems below.

12. Hike the Mare Aux Chochon Nature Trail

Private islands not your thing? Prefer to adventure and hit the hiking trails? I hear you.

Due to the mountainous topography and rich biodiversity, hiking on Mahé is easily one of the best things to do on the island. For a challenging but rewarding hike, consider the Mare aux Chochon trail. This hike begins from the villages near Beau Vallon and crosses the island to finish at Port Glaud.

Along the way, you'll pass amazing mountain wetlands, dense forested areas and clear mountain plateaus. You might also get a chance to spot the very rare and unique jellyfish tree!

I completed this trail with my good friend and guide Roddey in roughly 4 hours (Whatsapp number above). We took our time as Roddey taught me everything about the rare and endemic plant and wildlife species we discovered along the way.

If you search the Mare aux Chochon trail on Google, it states that it's permanently closed. However, this is not the case and the trail is actively maintained. With that said, I'd certainly recommend a guide for this one, not just because navigation can be tricky, but you'll enjoy the experience much more with a local guide who adds a whole lot more to the experience than just the directions.

13. Unwind at Sauizer Waterfall

Located at Port Glaud, on the west coast of Mahé Island (coincidentally where you finish the Mare aux Chochon trail), is the best waterfall on Mahé. This waterfall is called Sauzier and is easily accessible via the village at Port Glaud.

To get to the falls, you'll only need to complete a very short walk on even ground. The nature trail is only 5-10 minutes and at the end you'll discover an amazing jungle waterfall complete with a deep swimming hole.

Entry fee: 50 SCR

I highly recommend visiting Sauzier Waterfall if you're wondering what to do on Mahé Island and want to experience a freshwater swim in the jungle!

14. Day Trip to Port Glaud

Suazier Waterfall isn't the only draw to the west coast of Mahé Island. The small village of Port Glaud is absolutely beautiful and a relaxed, quiet alternative to Beau Vallon Bay.

Port Glaud has beautiful beaches and is considered as one of the best places for snorkeling on the island. Furthermore, you'll find a beautiful small island just off the coast called L'Islette that is great for photos.

If you're stopping by, make sure to check out Del Place restaurant. This waterfront restaurant is rated as one of the best on the island and I couldn't agree more!

15. Check Out the Hindu Temple in Victoria

If you trace your steps back to the capital, you'll find that there are many unique attractions and hidden gems in Victoria!

One of the most interesting Mahé landmarks is the Hindu Temple located right near the market street. This amazing architectual building is called Sri Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple and it's a site you won't miss if you're strolling through the streets of Central Victoria.

The building is much smaller than those you'll find in India or Sri Lanka. However, this small but brightly painted monument is very attractive and stands out as it is the only Hindu temple in the Seychelles archipelago.

Tip: If you enter the temple, be sure to remove your hat and shoes.

16. Wander Through The Victoria Market

The most famous market in Mahé and all of the Seychelles is the Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke markets, also simple known as the Victoria Markets. Wandering through the narrow streets of this sprawling market is a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and everyday life of the Seychellois community.

Tourists can take the opportunity to pick up some souvenirs or keepsakes at the market. Furthermore, if you're staying in self-catering lodging, the Victoria Markets are an excellent spot to stack up on fresh fruit and local produce, seafood and spices. If you wander down Market Street, you can also purchase local food and Creole BBQ'd fresh fish.

Alternatively, I took the opportunity to stroll through the markets on an early Sunday morning before my flight out and captured some photos as my personal keepsake.

Fun fact: Victoria on Mahé Island is one of the smallest capital cities in the world and boasts some incredible colonial architecture.

17. Learn the Traditional Art of Seychelles Sun Printing

Looking for a unique and cultural activity to add to your list of things to do on Mahé Island or in the Seychelles?

Why not take an interactive class to learn the traditional art of Seychelles Sun Printing? This unique and interesting art form involves using the sun to print patterns onto textiles. It has been used for centuries by local communities in the Seychelles, who use native plants to paint colorful fabrics.

Tourists can join in on a fun interactive workshop class where you can make your own take-home printed textile design by booking on Viator on the link below.

Book: Seychelles Sun Printing Class

18. Hike The Copolia Trail

The Copolia Trail is an excellent nature trail hike on Mahé Island that offers spectacular views over Victoria and Eden Island on the east coast. Similarly to the Morne Blanc trail, the Copolia Trail begins on Sans Soucis Road, but this time closer to Victoria than Port Glaud.

Also similarly to Morne Blanc, this hike is fairly steep and finishes at an amazing viewpoint atop a granite peak. This out-and-back hike isn't too difficult and only 1.9 kilometers (1.2 mi) return.

If you're game, I highly recommend heading up the Copolia trail early for sunrise for an incredible view. Again, my friend Roddey can organize the trip for you.

19. Meet an Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Nature and animal lovers have to see a giant tortoise when visiting Mahé Island! These tortoises are endemic to the Aldabra atoll, but are now found throughout the Seychelles archipelago. These tortoises are among the largest in the world and can live up to 200 years!

You can spot giant tortoises on Moyenne Island, at the Jardin Du Roi Gardens, the Takamka Rum Distillery, or at the Seychelles Botanical Gardens in Victoria.

Alternatively, if you're planning to visit Praslin, then make sure to include a Curieuse Island day-trip. This is the largest tortoise sanctuary within the inner islands and a place where the tortoises are free to roam in the wild.

20. Swim in the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool

One of the most unique things to do on Mahé Island in the Seychelles is to cliff jump into a deep, circular tidal pool called Ros Sodyer.

This amazing turquoise water rock pool is located Mahé's southwest coast near the breathtaking Takamaka Beach (Anse Takamaka). To reach it, you'll need to complete a short nature trail hike through the jungle and around the coast.

Book in advance: Rock Pool Organized Trip

If you arrive during low tide and with calm ocean conditions, you can swim in this private little pool sheltered by an impressive, sloping granite slab. I did a depth check and found that this little pool was super deep so decided to do some cliff jumping into the pool from the rock above.

21. Visit the Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden

Due to its strategic geographical location between East Africa and India, the Seychelles has long been part of an important trading route for spices. This, combined with a tropical climate that is perfect for growing crops like vanilla, cinnamon and nutmeg, means that spice gardens are very common.

However, one of the best examples of a Seychellois spice garden is at Jardin Du Roi. This is a beautiful colonial-style plantation and the gardens are open to the public and tourists are free to wander through the fruit and spice gardens. At the Jardin Du Roi, you'll find everything from bananas to breadfruit trees and even a giant tortoise pen!

22. Sip Rum at the Takamaka Rum Distillery

Want to channel your inner pirate? They say that if you're visiting the Seychelles, you have to drink the local Takamaka Rum! While this is available in almost every Mahé Island resort, bar, and liquor store, visiting the Takamaka Rum Distillery is easily one of the best things to do for rum-enthusiasts.

A guided tour of the distillery is a great way to learn about the history of the famous Seychelles rum and includes free tastings. The distillery is located on the east coast of Mahé, south of Victoria. The site where locals distill the rum is called La Plaine St. André, which is an iconic heritage site. Here, you'll find a museum, medicinal garden, historical ruins, and even two Giant Aldabra tortoises– Taka and Maka.

Book in advance: Shared Island Tour Including Takamaka Rum Distillery

23. Photograph the Victoria Clock Tower

The Victoria Clocktower in Mahé is one of the most iconic historical monuments in the Seychelles. It's an exact replica of the one at Victoria Station on Vauxhall Bridge Road in London and was erected way back in 1903!

If you're passing through Victoria, make sure to stop by the famous Victoria Clock tower located at the end of Independence Avenue.

24. Sunset at Petite Anse

Of course, the Mahé beaches are going to be the biggest attraction for many tourists visiting the island. While I've touched on a few already in this Mahé travel guide, make sure to add Petite Anse to your beach-hopping list.

Situated on the west coast, Petite Anse is a beautiful small beach at the bottom of a hill. While the beach is owned by the famous and very popular Four Seasons Hotel situated at the end of the beach, it is free to visit for the public! The trip out here is well worth it as it's an incredibly scenic drive.

The view over the magical Indian Ocean during sunset at Petite Anse is unmatched and should definitely be added to your list of what to do on Mahé!

25. Snorkel at Port Launay National Marine Park

Tropical island life is all about the underwater world! While you can certainly get some great snorkeling in at Sainte Anne, make sure to also visit Port Launay Marine National Park.

This is a quieter alternative and offers great snorkeling on coral reefs right off the shores of Port Launay Beach. Here, you'll get to swim with hundreds of fish species and even get a chance to spot a cruising green turtle!

Tip: Also visit Baie Ternay Marine National Park, located just beyond Port Launay.

26. Relax in a Private Pool

After all that exploring, one of the best things to do on Mahé Island is to simply sit back and relax in your very own private swimming pool.

If you haven't noticed by now, the Seychelles is a travel destination very much catered to the luxury crowd. Mahé Island is a favorite vacation spot for everybody from honeymooners to luxury couple and business travelers.

So, as you'd expect, there are dozens of great hotels, resorts and even guest houses that include private plunge pools during your stay. If you want complete privacy and ultimate relaxation, keep reading on for an up-to-date accommodation guide for a run-down on where to stay!

Where to Stay on Mahé: Accommodation Guide

About the Island of Mahé in the Seychelles

Mahé is the largest island in the inner islands of the Seychelles. It's also the main island of the archipelago, with the country's capital Victoria found on the east coast. Approximately 90 percent of the Seychelles 98 000 people live on Mahé!

Seychellois People and Culture

This remote island has a rich and diverse history, being settled by Arab merchants, British and French colonialists, Chinese and Tamil traders and African slaves. As a result, the modern Seychellois or Creole culture is rich and unique, abundant with lively customs, foods, dance, and art.

The vast majority of Seychellois speak three languages; their mother-tongue Creole, as well as excellent English and French. As a result, travel on Mahé and in the Seychelles is very easy for native English and French speakers.

Location

Mahé Island is located approximately 1000 miles off the east coast of Africa in the Indian Ocean. It's likely that Mahé is going to be your first stop when traveling through the beautiful Seychelles islands since most land at the Mahé Island Airport. From here, it's easy to visit both La Digue and Praslin Island via a scenic flight or public ferries.

Landscape

Mahé Island is a granitic Island. This is a unique feature of the Seychelles and exists nowhere else on earth. The coast has sections of coastal mangrove forests and is lined with some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. The Mahé beaches attract countless visitors each year thanks to the impressive granite boulders, soft white sand and crystal clear waters.

You'll also find plenty of nature reserves including the Morne Seychellois National Park (Morne Seychelles National Park), which is abundant in tall granite peaks and well-maintained walking trails. Morne Seychellois is located in this park and is the highest peak in the Seychelles at 2,969 ft or 904 meters.

Mahé Island Travel Guide

Now that you have all the information you need on things to do and where to stay on Mahé, let me help you out with even more travel and logistical advice.

How to Get to Mahé Island

Unless you're coming in on a cruise ship or private vessel, the only way to get to Mahé Island is via the Seychelles International Airport.

This airport is located just south of Victoria. As you'd expect for a nation of only 98 000 individuals, this airport is very small.

The Mahé Island airport serves as the international gateway to the Seychelles and the most popular routes stop via Dubai.

When booking flights, make sure to first check CheapOAir, where you'll often find the cheapest and best fares available to the Seychelles.

Getting Around on Mahé Island

Since Mahé is the largest island in the inner island group, getting around is best done by car. Depending on what you'd like to do and see on the island, you can either rent a car, book organized tours, ride the bus, or take a taxi.

Rental Cars on Mahé
If you're going to be doing a lot of exploring, it might work out cheaper and easier to simply hire a rental car. DiscoverCars is going to be your best resource for finding cheap and reliable cars on Mahé.

Most car rentals can be picked up in Victoria once booked online.

Book organized tours
In this Mahé travel guide I've included links to only the best and top-rated tours for many of the attractions and things to do on the island. All of these tours include private or shared transport, which is going to save you money. Alternatively, if you want a flexible way to explore, remember to book the customizable tour to add all your must-see destinations to your itinerary.

Public buses
There's also a regular bus service connecting several points on the island. These buses are very cheap at only 14 SCR per trip. There are bus stations around Mahé and the best way to find routes is to ask locals and the driver once you board.

Taxis
Uber, Lyft, Grab and other ride-share services do not exist on Mahé. Therefore, old-fashioned taxis are going to be your best bet for getting around. These taxis are often metered but you can also barter a price for a day-trip as well.

Best Time to Visit Mahé

Situated near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone, the Seychelles enjoys a tropical and stable climate with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C.

Mahé Island weather is a little wetter than some of the other inner islands due to the higher mountains. In saying that, you can generally expect sunny weather year-round with no risk of cyclones. However, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit Mahé Island is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, I visited in December and as you can see from the photos, I enjoyed excellent weather!

FAQS: Visiting the Island of Mahé

Q. What language do people speak in Mahé?

The mother tongue in the Seychelles is Seychellois Creole. However, nearly all locals speak excellent English and some level of French as well. Since tourism makes up 90% of the Seychelles' economy, you can expect many local guides to speak several languages, including German and Arabic.

Q. What is the Seychelles Currency?

The currency used in Mahé and the Seychelles is called the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). However, due to the large amount of tourism stemming from Europe, tourists can often pay in Euros at major resorts, hotels, and even bars.

Q. What do people of Mahé do for fun?

The people of Mahé live in one of the most beautiful destinations on earth. Seychellois enjoy the same activities as you'd likely want to do on your vacation, from beach hopping, to hiking, to shopping in the capital.

Q. How long should I spend on Mahé Island?

There are so many amazing things to do on Mahé Island that I'd suggest staying at least a week here! However, if you're short on time or want to island hop to some of the other inner islands like Praslin or La Digue, then 3 days would also be a good amount of time.

Q. Can I go to La Digue or Praslin from Mahé?

As Mahé has the only international airport in the Seychelles, the only way to get to Praslin and La Digue is by first landing in Mahé. For both islands, you'll have the options of taking the ferry called Cat Cocos at the Victoria ferry terminal, or the scenic island-hopper flight operated by Air Seychelles.

If you're planning to visit several islands, make sure to read my detailed guides on how to get to La Digue and how to get to Praslin from Mahé as well.

Q. Which Country is Mahe Island?

Mahé is located in, and is the capital of The Republic of Seychelles.

Q. Is Mahé Island safe?

Mahé Island and the Seychelles in general is considered very safe. The country has some of the lowest crime rates of any African country and very little crime involves tourists. You are arguably going to be safer in Mahé than you would be taking public transport in New York city or wandering the streets of Berlin.

Q. Why is Mahé Island attractive to tourists?

Mahé is very attractive to tourists looking for amazing beaches, beautiful nature trails, and a luxury vacation.

Q. Mahé has how many islands?

Mahé is considered one of the 115 islands of the Seychelles. However, surrounding Mahé are 10 smaller islands. The most notable include Conception Island, Therese Island, Saint Anne, Moyenne, and L'Islette.

Beyond Mahé: More Seychelles Things to do & Travel Inspiration

And that's a wrap for this comprehensive and detailed Mahé Island travel guide featuring the 26 best things to do on Mahé! I hope that it has better prepared you for the vacation of a lifetime, or inspired you to visit this amazing travel destination.

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other articles as well. I've spent a great deal of time compiling the most up-to-date and inspiring travel guides and content for the Seychelles. Below you'll find a handful of other relevant articles, with more of my photography and guides to lesser-visited hidden gems!

Mahe: Vacation Story

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023