Mahé Island,Seychelles

• Victoria (clocktower, Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, botanical gardens)
• Morne Seychellois National Park (hiking, viewpoints, endemic flora)
• Beau Vallon (beach, water sports, sunset views)
• Anse Intendance and Anse Takamaka (dramatic surf beaches)
• Mission Lodge viewpoint and tea plantations**
• Anse Major (coastal hike to secluded cove)
• Local craft markets and Creole restaurants

• Granite mountain scenery uncommon in tropical islands
• Healthy coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity for snorkeling/diving
• Vibrant Creole culture expressed in music, cuisine, and festivals
• Close access to inter-island ferries (gateway to Praslin, La Digue)

• Beach relaxation and swimming at sheltered bays like Beau Vallon
• Snorkeling and scuba diving at nearby reef sites
• Hiking trails in Morne Seychellois (Copolia, Morne Blanc and others)
• Scenic drives and viewpoints (Mission Lodge, Sans Souci)
• Fishing charters and sailing around the inner islands
• Cultural walks in Victoria (market, colonial architecture, tea plantation visits)

April–May and October–November (shoulder seasons with good weather, fewer crowds). December–March is warmer and wetter; June–August is cooler and windier.

Tropical climate: average temperatures 24–30°C (75–86°F). Two main seasons — wetter, warmer Nov–Mar and drier, cooler May–Sep. Occasional heavy rains and short-lived storms; cyclones are rare but possible during the northwest monsoon season.

Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) is on Mahé near Victoria — the main international gateway. Inter-island ferries and domestic flights connect Mahé with Praslin, La Digue and other islands. Roads are narrow, hilly and winding; car hire, taxis and local buses are common. Many beaches and trails require short walks; some remote coves are accessible only on foot or by boat.

5–7 days to explore Mahé’s highlights comfortably; 10+ days if you plan island-hop to Praslin, La Digue or outer islands.

Light, breathable clothing for daytime; a light rain jacket for sudden showers; sturdy walking/hiking shoes for trails; reef shoes for rocky shorelines; strong sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen). Bring a dry bag for boat trips.

Try Seychellois Creole dishes: fish curry, octopus curry, grilled fish, coconut-based stews and local desserts (ladob). Sample local rum and fresh tropical fruits. Good souvenirs: vanilla pods, local spices, handmade wicker and wood crafts, Creole art. Note: protected items (certain shells, whole Coco de Mer seeds) are regulated — buy only from reputable sellers with proper documentation.