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Things to do in Mahé include exploring stunning beaches, hiking trails, and diving into the island’s culture. As the largest island in Seychelles, Mahé is home to Victoria, one of the world’s smallest capitals, and boasts clean shores, such as Beau Vallon and Anse Intendance. Whether you seek adventure in Morne Seychellois National Park or a relaxing retreat at a luxury resort, Mahé has something for everyone. With a mix of Creole heritage, tropical landscapes, and crystal-clear waters, this island offers a paradise waiting to be explored. Here are the options for what to do in Mahe.
10 Things To Do In Mahe
Things to do in Mahé range from beaches to mountain hikes, busy markets, and marine adventures, making it a must-visit island paradise.
1. Glass Bottom Boat Tour At Beau Vallon Beach
Photo: ElizabethZa / Wikimedia Commons
Glass-bottom boat tours in Beau Vallon offer a unique way to explore the underwater world without getting wet. These tours are perfect for all ages and cater to both novice and experienced snorkelers. You can relax under a shaded canopy and view green sea turtles, colourful tropical fish, and unique coral through viewing windows. Marine naturalists are often on board to answer questions about the marine life in the protected waters. For those seeking things to see in Mahé, glass-bottom boat excursions provide a memorable experience.
Location: Mahe, Seychelles
Best Time To Visit: April to May and October to November
Nearby Attractions: Anse Major, Morne Seychellois, Eden Island, Seychelles
2. Visit The Seychelles Largest Nature Reserve
Photo: Radosław Botev / Wikimedia Commons
Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest nature reserve in Seychelles, encompassing approximately 20% of the island. As one of the top things to see in Mahé, the park is dedicated to protecting its vulnerable ecosystem and minimising human impact. It is home to a wide array of indigenous flora and fauna, including twelve endemic granitic land birds and one of the world’s tiniest Sooglossid frogs. Its namesake, Morne Seychellois, is the highest point in the archipelago, reaching over 900 meters. Visitors can explore the park’s network of trails, with guided walks being an excellent way to experience the rainforest.
Location: N.Y.S. Village, Seychelles
Best Time To Visit: April to May and October to November
Nearby Attractions: Beau Vallon Beach, Aride Island Nature Reserve, Curieuse Island and more
3. Snorkelling At Sunset Beach
Photo: Diego Sandoval / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
For things to see in Mahé, Sunset Beach offers excellent snorkelling conditions in rock-free areas and breathtaking sunsets. It is a small but popular beach known for its clear water and impressive palm trees. The beach is especially famous for snorkelling, particularly off the south end near the reef, where diverse marine life such as sea turtles, colourful corals, and various fish species can be observed. It is a safe spot for families and novice snorkelers, though a sudden drop in depth near the coast requires supervision for small children.
Location: West coast of Mahé
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Anse Intendance, Petite Anse and Victoria Market
4. Stroll through The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market
Photo: Svetlana Gumerova / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market in Victoria is a hub of Seychellois culture, offering a sensory experience of local life. Named after a former governor of Seychelles, it’s a cultural landmark where visitors can find fresh produce, local spices, and handmade crafts. The market is known for its colourful displays of fruits, vegetables, and seafood caught around Mahé Island. Visitors can also find unique souvenirs such as colourful sarongs and woven baskets. For an authentic taste of the islands, the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market is a must-visit, making it one of the top things to explore in Mahé
Location: Market St, Victoria, Seychelles.
Best Time To Visit:
Nearby Attractions: St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, Cliff ‘N’ Coast Adventures Seychelles, French Cultural Center
5. Hike The Copolia Trail
Photo: David Stanley / Wikimedia Commons
The Copolia Trail is a must-do for those seeking things to explore in Mahé. It is a 1.4 km (0.87 miles) to 1.6 km (1 mile) path of moderate intensity that takes about one to three hours to complete. The trail leads through a green palm tree forest up to a granite plateau, offering stunning views of Mahé. Hikers can spot orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants, as well as birds like the Seychelles bulbul and white-tailed tropicbird. The summit sits at approximately 497 meters (1,630 feet).
Location: Seychelles
Best Time To Visit: April to September
Nearby Attractions: Mission Lodge Lookout, Morne Blanc, Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
6. Go Surfing At Anse Intendance
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Anse Intendance on Mahé is known for waves ideal for surfing and bodyboarding, especially when southwest swells and offshore northeast winds create the best conditions. This exposed beach break offers both left and right-hand waves. Swimming can be dangerous during this period due to the large waves and the lack of a protective coral reef. Anse Intendance is better suited for experienced surfers and those who enjoy playing in bigger waves. For surf enthusiasts, Anse Intendance is definitely one of the thrilling things to explore in Mahé.
Location: Takamaka area, about 20 miles south of Victoria
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Nearby Attractions: Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden, Kot Man-Ya Exotic Flower Garden, Takamaka Rum Distillery
7. Immerse Yourself In Seychelles culture
Photo: Alessandro Russo / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Le Domaine De Val Des Pres recreates a traditional Creole village to promote Seychellois cultural heritage. The site includes a plantation house built around 1870, craft workshops, and the Pomme Cannelle restaurant serving Creole cuisine. Visitors can explore traditional Creole architecture, crafts such as pottery and model boats, and a replica of a servant’s quarter. The site provides a glimpse into the Seychellois lifestyle of the past, aiming to preserve this cultural nostalgia for both older and future generations, making it one of the essential things to see in Mahé.
Location: St Roch Au Cap, 16 km from Victoria
Best Time To Visit:
Nearby Attractions: The Coco de Mer perfume factory, the “Lakaz Roza
8. Take A Dip At The Sauzier Waterfall
Photo: Andi258014A / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
At Sauzier Waterfall, you can take a refreshing dip in a deep swimming pool at the base of a tall, cascading waterfall. The water’s temperature is particularly incredible, especially after a long day in the sun. The waterfall flows from the fresh mountain waters of Morne Seychelles National Park. There is also a small pond down the river where children can play if they are unable to swim in the waterfall’s lake. Remember to be cautious of slippery rocks. With its clear blue waters and greenery, swimming in Sauzier Waterfall is one of the best things to see in Mahé.
Location: Rivière L’Isletta,, N.Y.S. Village, Seychelles
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Nearby Attractions: Spiaggia di Port Launay, Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden
9. Visit The Victoria Clock Tower
Photo: Radosław Botev / Wikimedia Commons
The Victoria Clock Tower, known locally as Lorloz, is a prominent historical landmark. Built in April 1903, it commemorates Queen Victoria, who died in 1901, and symbolises the historical ties between Seychelles and the British Empire. The clock tower is a replica of the one that was first built in London in 18971. The Victoria Clock Tower stands at the intersection of Francis Rachel Street, State House Avenue, Albert Street, and Independence Avenue. Its presence marks the centre of the capital city, making it a focal point and one of the symbolic things to see in Mahé.
Location: Victoria
Best Time To Visit: April and October
Nearby Attractions: The Victoria Market, the Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple (Hindu Temple), St Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, the Seychelles Natural History Museum
10. Take Boat Tours
Photo: Mihaela David / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Discover the underwater world and island beauty with boat tours from Mahé. A full-day marine park excursion on a glass-bottom boat visits Round Island, Cerf Island, and Moyenne Island. Enjoy snorkelling, fish feeding, and a BBQ lunch. Another option is a catamaran cruise to Praslin and La Digue, including Vallée de Mai, L’Union Estate, and Anse Source d’Argent Beach. A private full-day boat tour offers island and beach hopping around Mahé.
Location: Mahe Island, Pointe Au Sel
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Nearby Attractions: Anse Aux Pins Beach, Fairyland Beach, Anse Royale Beach
Things to do in Mahé offer a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation, making it a dream destination for travellers. Whether you’re unwinding on stunning beaches, hiking trails, or indulging in Creole culture, Mahé promises an unforgettable experience. The island’s energy, diverse landscapes, and welcoming locals ensure every moment is memorable. Plan a trip with TripXL and discover the best of Mahé.
Cover Photo: Ben Michel / Unsplash
