Insider tips: Explore Mahe like a local
Olly Gaspar is a professional adventure travel photographer and blogger known for his captivating visual storytelling and immersive travel guides. Olly has spent the last five years traveling full-time and posting about his adventures on We Seek Travel.
What should I do on my first trip to Mahé?
Mahé is the largest and most populous Seychelles island, and one of the best things to do for first-time visitors is to visit Morne Seychelles National Park. This lush forested area covers over a fifth of the island and offers many amazing nature hikes where you can spot diverse flora and fauna. Travelers will find some amazing beaches along the coast, like the famous Beau Vallon Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sands.
What are some hidden gems to see in Mahé?
One hidden gem you won’t want to miss is the Sainte Anne Marine Park, just a short boat ride from Mahé. This protected marine reserve comprises six small coral-reef-lined islands with some of the best snorkeling in Seychelles — a perfect day trip. A hidden gem on Mahé is the Anse Major trail, which winds through the lush jungle to the secluded Anse Major beach. The hike takes about two hours for the return trip and offers stunning views of the island’s coastline. The beach is amazing, and easily one of the best places to swim and relax in the Seychelles.
How much time should I spend in Mahé?
With plenty to see and do most visitors can comfortably explore Mahé’s major attractions within a week. To make the most of your time on Mahé, you’ll want to do some day trips exploring the islands and take advantage of the laidback atmosphere by relaxing on the beach. Each island area has its unique charm, with highlights including the Morne Seychelles National Park in the north, the city of Victoria and its surrounding areas in the east, and the stunning beaches and far-flung marine reserves of the south. When visiting Seychelles, you should also check out the nearby Praslin and La Digue Islands. Many choose to break up their Seychelles vacation by spending a week in Mahé and two or three days on Praslin or La Digue.
What food is Mahe known for?
As a remote island in the Indian Ocean, Mahé’s food scene has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and it is known for colorful and flavor-packed dishes influenced by African, Indian, and French cooking. One dish particularly beloved on the island is the Seychellois curry, a fragrant and spicy meat or fish dish made with coconut milk and served with rice or lentils and papaya chutney.
What is the best way to get around Mahé?
Many travelers choose to rent a car to explore Mahé and there are rental shops at the airport and in Victoria. Alternatively, taxis are plentiful on the island and convenient for shorter journeys. Travelers on a budget or who want to experience local life can use public buses — a cheap and reliable way to get around most of the island.
What are the best months to visit Mahé?
April and May are the best months to visit Mahé when it's typically warm and sunny with low humidity and less chance of rain. This makes it the perfect time to enjoy the island’s amazing beaches and fun outdoor activities like hiking.
What are the best annual events in Mahé?
The Creole Festival takes place in October and celebrates the vibrant traditional Creole culture through music, dance, and food. Visitors arriving in April can experience the Seychelles Carnival. This national carnival is a vibrant celebration of the islands’ diverse cultures, with music, food, performances, and colorful parades over several days attracting international crowds.
What are the best beaches around Mahé?
As the largest and most popular island in the Seychelles, there are plenty of great places to stay in Mahé. While many choose to stay in Victoria, the best neighborhood to stay in for beaches is Beau Vallon. You’ll find various accommodations, restaurants, and great bays for swimming, snorkeling, and other water sports here.