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Things to Do in Mahe

Things to Do in Mahe

Mahe Seychelles Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Mahé's diverse landscape perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Trekking Routes

Copolia Trail Moderate

Approximately 1.5-2 hours return. This trail a granite peak with panoramic views of Victoria and the east coast.

Morne Blanc Trail Moderate-Difficult

Shorter but steeper than Copolia, to the second highest point on Mahé with stunning western coastal views.

Trois Frères Trail Easy-Moderate

Great views of Victoria and the coast, a popular choice for a less strenuous hike.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Snorkeling AND Scuba diving: Excellent coral reefs and diverse marine life characterize Mahé's underwater world. Explore options on GetYourGuide.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Available at most resorts and water sports centers, especially in calm bays.
  • Sailing & Boat Trips: Numerous operators full-day or half-day boat tours, island hopping excursions, sunset cruises, and deep-sea angling trips.
  • Personal Watercraft riding & Parasailing: Available at Beau Vallon Beach for those seeking more exhilarating water activities.

Adventure Sports

  • Zip-lining: At Constance Ephelia Resort, thrilling rides over lush canopy.
  • Rock Climbing: Also available at Constance Ephelia for experienced climbers.
  • Mountain Biking: Trails are limited and challenging due to hilly terrain.
  • Explore booking on GetYourGuide.

Wildlife Encounters

  • Giant Tortoises: Rehabilitated giant tortoises at the Plant Gardens in Victoria.
  • Birds: Morne Seychellois National Park home to several endemic bird species, opportunities for birdwatching.
  • Explore animal tours on GetYourGuide.
  • Remember to observe from a distance.

Cycling

  • Cycling mostly confined to flatter coastal roads or in resort grounds.
  • Limited mountain biking trails.
  • Rentals available in popular areas like Beau Vallon.
  • Enjoy scenic rides along the coast.

Important Safety Note

Always use caution when swimming in unfamiliar waters, especially during changing tides or powerful currents.

Cultural Immersion

Connect with the local Creole culture through various experiences.

Workshops & Classes

  • Craft Village (Domaine de Val des Prés): Opportunities to observe local artisans at work and purchase their crafts, insight into traditional techniques. Explore on GetYourGuide.
  • Some hotels may rudimentary Creole language or cooking sessions.
  • Local music and dance workshops sometimes organized by cultural centers.
  • Art classes demonstrating local styles.

Cultural Performances

Resort Evenings

Resorts often host Creole dance and music evenings, showing traditional rhythms and movements.

Public Events

Check local event listings for public cultural performances, especially around national holidays or festivals.

Traditional Dances

Sample traditional sega and moutia dances.

Community Initiatives

Some guesthouses insights into local life, allowing for more authentic interaction. Support local small businesses for genuine cultural exchange.

Language Learning

No formal short-term language courses commonly available for tourists. Learning basic Creole phrases a polite and rewarding way to engage.

Cultural Festivals

Festival Kreol (October): A major annual festival celebrating Creole society with music, dance, food, and art. Subios (November): An underwater festival demonstrating marine life and conservation efforts. Check GetYourGuide for events.

Relaxation & Wellness

Mahé numerous opportunities to unwind and rejuvenate.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Luxury resorts like Four Seasons, Constance Ephelia, and Hilton Seychelles Northolme world-class spa facilities. Find spas on Booking.com.
  • DIFFERENT kinds of treatments including massages, facials, and body wraps.
  • Smaller independent spas also available across the island.
  • Many resorts excellent beach and pool clubs, day passes to non-guests.

Natural Healing & Yoga

Hot Springs

No natural hot springs on Mahé.

Yoga & Meditation

Some resorts yoga classes. Dedicated retreats less common but can be found with specific research. Check Agoda for resorts with wellness options.

Traditional Remedies

Traditional medicine and remedies using local herbs exist, but are not typically marketed to tourists.

Beach & Pool Club Access

Resort Day Passes

Many resorts excellent beach and pool clubs, day passes to non-guests (check availability and pricing).

Enjoy Facilities

This allows you to savor their facilities for a day, including pools, chaise lounges, and beach access.

Premium Experience

A way to sample luxury amenities without a full stay.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Mahé's nightlife a mix of live music, dancing, and relaxed bar atmospheres.

Live Music & Venues

  • Many larger hotels and resorts, especially in Beau Vallon, feature live bands, especially on weekends.
  • Some local bars might live music on specific nights.
  • Formal theater limited. Cultural performances more likely at resorts or the National Cultural Centre during special events. Explore events on GetYourGuide.
  • Check local listings for specific schedules.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Lovenut Victoria

A popular nightclub for dancing.

Katiolo North Mahé

One of the oldest and most well-known outdoor nightclubs, an unique atmosphere. Find hotels nearby on Booking.com.

Boardwalk Bar & Grill Eden Island

A lively atmosphere and often live music, popular with both locals and tourists.

Bar Districts

Beau Vallon a concentration of bars and restaurants that lively in the evenings. Victoria also several bars worth exploring. Find nearby accommodations on Agoda.

Late-Night Options

Casino Seychelles (Victoria) and Casino Paradiso (Beau Vallon) gambling and entertainment late into the night. Check IHG Hotels for resort casinos.

Nightlife Pointers

Dress code is generally relaxed but smart casual for upscale venues. Transport options are limited late at night, plan accordingly.

Safety at Night

Use reputable taxi services or pre-arranged transport for late-night returns, especially if consuming alcohol.

Shopping & Markets

Discover local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce while shopping on Mahé.

Traditional Markets

  • Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market (Victoria): The best place for fresh produce, fish, spices, and some local crafts. Book a tour on GetYourGuide.
  • An authentic shopping experience.
  • Go early for best selection.
  • Great for photos.

Artisan Workshops & Crafts

Domaine de Val des Prés Craft Village

Purchase regional artisanal products, souvenirs, and art directly from the artisans. Book a see on GetYourGuide.

Authenticity & Support

This authenticity and local talent.

Unique Gifts

Find unique gifts and reminders of your trip.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Coco de Mer: The unique double-lobed coconut. Purchase only from licensed vendors with an official permit for export.
  • Regional Spices: Vanilla, cinnamon, and various curry powders aromatic gifts.
  • Takamaka Rum: A popular alcoholic souvenir, locally produced.
  • Creole Art & Crafts: Paintings, wood carvings, and shell jewelry unique reminders.

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

  • Eden Plaza (Eden Island): A modern shopping complex with boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, a more upscale retail experience.
  • Resorts often their own boutiques selling high-end items.
  • Pearls: Cultured pearls from local pearl farms (e.g., on Eden Island). Find hotels on Eden Island via Booking.com.
  • Duty-free shopping in the airport.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

  • Support local artisans and businesses to your spending benefits the community directly.
  • Mindful of purchasing items made from endangered species (e.g., certain shells) and avoid such purchases.
  • Ensure any Coco de Mer purchase a formal export permit to its legality.
  • Consider carbon-neutral tourism.

Shipping & Customs Information

Customs Regulations
  • Check customs regulations for your home country regarding agricultural products, shells, and alcohol limits before attempting to bring them back.
  • Specific rules apply to certain items like Coco de Mer.
  • Consult official government websites for the latest information.
International Shipping
  • International shipping services like DHL and FedEx are available for larger purchases or items.
  • Packing services for fragile items are available at some shops.
  • Inquire about shipping costs and insurance beforehand.

Value of Local Currency

While major currencies accepted in resorts, carrying local Seychellois Rupees for market purchases and small vendors.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor Focus

  • Allocate time for at least one scenic hike.
  • Book water sports in advance, especially during high season.
  • Consider guide for challenging trails.
  • Relax on secluded beaches.

Cultural & Wellness Focus

  • Visit the Craft Village for local artistry.
  • Indulge in a spa treatment for relaxation.
  • Explore Victoria Market for local flavors.
  • Experience Beau Vallon nightlife.