While the dazzling beaches of Mahé are undoubtedly one of the main attractions of the Seychelles, it’s also rewarding to explore the island’s rugged interior…

One of the “must sees” in the Seychelles is the Morne Seychellois National Park.  It covers 20% of Mahé with a wide variety of habitats ranging from coastal mangrove forests to the country’s highest mountain.  The heart of the park is virtually deserted and can only be reached by hiking trails.  So you’ve got to be reasonably fit and you don’t have to walk far before the outside world feels a very long way away.  The park was established in 1979 and it boasts a wide variety of landscapes, panoramic views, unique flora and fauna, and colonial ruins. A trail network has been developed and guided walks are probably the best way to enjoy the incredible variety of wildlife and vistas.

Take in the fantastic views at the top of the Dans Gallas, Trois Frères, Copolia, and Morne Blanc trails or just marvel at stunning vistas like the valley of La Mare aux Cochons, the ‘glacis’ habitats unique to the Seychelles at Copolia and Trois Frères or the mangrove at Port Launay.  Here too you’ll see the ruins of cinnamon distilleries scattered in the valley of La Mare aux Cochons and the remains of the first school for freed slaves’ children at Mission.  Fascinating plants and wildlife also abound: from carnivorous pitcher plants to the surprisingly loud croak of one of the tiniest frogs in the world (Gardiners Tree Frog) and the unique song of the Scops Owl.