Trek in Morne Seychellois National Park
Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé is the largest protected area in the Seychelles and offers a variety of rainforest treks across granite peaks, ridgelines and endemic cloud forest. Treks range from short viewpoint walks to full-day ridge hikes that reward you with panoramic views of Victoria, surrounding beaches and the inner islands. Expect rich native flora (coco-de-mer relatives, takamaka, palm species) and endemic fauna such as the Seychelles black parrot. Trails are well marked but can be steep, muddy and slippery after rain.
Location
Morne Seychellois National Park (examples: Morne Blanc, Trois Frères, Copolia, Mare aux Cochons), Mahé (nearest town: Victoria), Seychelles
Duration
Options from 1 hour (short viewpoint trails) to 6–8 hours (full-day ridge circuits). Typical popular hikes are 2–4 hours.
Best Time to Visit
Best in transition/drier months: April–May and October–November. The island is tropical year-round; avoid heavy squalls during the main monsoon periods if you prefer drier trails.
Pricing
Park entry: generally free (no formal gated entrance), but small conservation or parking fees may be levied at trailheads. Guided treks typically cost USD 40–120 per person depending on duration and group size. Private guide/transfer + full-day hike packages often range higher.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Sweeping panoramic views of Mahé, Victoria and nearby inner islands from ridge/summit viewpoints
Endemic flora: native palms, takamaka, and cloud-forest vegetation
Wildlife: sighting of the Seychelles black parrot, endemic reptiles and abundant birdlife
Granite peaks, mossy ravines and cool, shaded rainforest
Variety of trail options: short easy walks (Copolia), moderate ridgeline hikes (Trois Frères), and longer challenging routes (Morne Blanc / Mare aux Cochons)
Itinerary
Meet at agreed trailhead / pick-up in Victoria or nearby accommodation
Confirm guide if booked; check weather and sign any park registers.
Begin trek (example: Trois Frères or Morne Blanc trail)
Trail starts in shaded forest — expect uneven roots and stone steps. Keep steady pace.
Summit / viewpoint stop
Rest, snack and take photos. Views are best on clear days; bring a windproof layer.
Continue along ridge or descend towards secondary viewpoints (option to loop to Mare aux Cochons on longer hikes)
Some sections are narrow with loose rock — use trekking poles if needed.
Lunch break at sheltered spot
Pack out all waste. No formal picnic facilities on most trails.
Return descent to trailhead
Descents can be tough on knees; go slowly and use poles.
Transfer back to accommodation / end of trek
Debrief with guide if applicable and arrange onward plans.
Safety Requirements
Good hiking shoes with grip — trails can be steep and slippery
Carry at least 1–2 liters of water per person (more for full-day hikes)
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen) and a light rain jacket — weather changes quickly
Inform someone of your route/expected return if hiking independently
Consider hiring a local guide for remote or longer routes — mobile coverage can be patchy
Basic first-aid kit and insect repellent recommended
Be prepared for muddy sections after rain and reduced visibility in low cloud
Tips
Start early (before 08:00) to avoid heat and to maximize chances of clear summit views
Hire a licensed local guide for wildlife spotting, navigation and to support conservation-friendly tourism
Wear quick-dry clothing and layer — temperatures are cooler at higher elevations
Bring snacks and lunch, but carry out all rubbish — practice Leave No Trace
Check tide and travel schedules if combining beach visits on the same day (Mahé’s roads can be narrow and slow)
Respect park signs and private property boundaries near some trailheads
If aiming for black parrot sightings, ask a guide for the best trails/season and be quiet at lookout areas
