Beyond the beaches, Seychelles has excellent hiking, especially in the Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahe. Popular trails include the short, rewarding Copolia with its granite-dome view over Victoria, the coastal Anse Major walk to a hidden beach, and longer routes up the peaks. Praslin has forest trails like Glacis Noir. Trails can be hot, steep and slippery, so go early, bring water, and use a guide for the harder routes.
Most people come to the Seychelles for the sea, then discover the islands are mountainous, green and laced with trails. Stepping off the beach into the forest is one of the best ways to see another side of the country, with granite domes, hidden beaches and wide views over the islands. Here are the walks worth doing and how to do them safely.
The Morne Seychellois National Park, Mahe
The heart of hiking in the Seychelles is this large national park covering the mountainous spine of Mahe. It holds most of the best trails, from short walks to a serious peak climb, in cool forest above the coast. The variety means there is something for casual walkers and for fitter hikers alike.
The best trails on Mahe
- Copolia. The most popular short hike, a steady climb through forest to a bare granite dome with a stunning view over Victoria, the east coast and the Ste Anne islands. Manageable for most people and the best reward for the effort.
- Anse Major. A coastal trail from Bel Ombre that contours the cliffs to a quiet beach reachable only on foot or by boat, a lovely half-day with a swim at the end.
- Morne Blanc. A short but steep climb to a high viewpoint over the west coast.
- Trois Freres and the higher peaks for fitter hikers wanting a longer, tougher day.
Hiking on Praslin and beyond
Praslin has forest trails too, including the Glacis Noir and the paths through and around the Vallee de Mai, where you walk among the rare coco de mer palms. La Digue is small and flat enough that its exploring is done by bike rather than serious hiking, though the walk over to Anse Cocos and Anse Marron is a rugged adventure.
Difficulty, heat and safety
The honest part. Trails here can be hot, humid, steep and slippery after rain, and some are poorly marked. Start early to beat the heat, carry plenty of water, wear proper shoes with grip, and bring sun cover and insect protection. For the longer peak routes, or the rugged La Digue coastal walks, a local guide is well worth it for safety and for finding the path.
What you will see
Endemic plants and the pitcher plant on the higher slopes, endemic birds, glittering day geckos, and views that stretch across the islands and the reef-streaked sea. The forest is cool and quiet, a complete change from the beach, and the granite-dome viewpoints are among the best photo spots in the country.
How to plan
Pick one or two trails to match your fitness, do them early in the day, and pair a hike with a beach afternoon. A hire car gets you to the trailheads on Mahe easily. Browse verified places to stay in our directory and combine the walks with the parks and beaches nearby.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best hikes in Seychelles?
On Mahe, the short Copolia trail to a granite-dome viewpoint over Victoria, the coastal Anse Major walk to a hidden beach, and the steeper Morne Blanc and peak routes in the Morne Seychellois park. Praslin has forest trails like Glacis Noir.
Is the Copolia trail hard?
It is a steady forest climb that most reasonably fit people manage, and it rewards you with one of the best views on Mahe from a bare granite dome. Go early, bring water and wear shoes with grip.
Do you need a guide to hike in Seychelles?
For short, popular trails like Copolia, usually not. For the longer peak routes and the rugged La Digue coastal walks to Anse Marron, a local guide is well worth it for safety and route-finding.
What should you bring hiking in Seychelles?
Plenty of water, proper shoes with grip, sun cover and insect protection. Start early to beat the heat and humidity, and take care on steep sections that get slippery after rain.
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