The Ultimate Guide and Tips for Planning Your Trip to the Seychelles

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⛰️ Exploring the Seychelles’ Natural Sanctuaries

The Seychelles are a global model for conservation. Here’s how to visit the most iconic sites while respecting their fragile ecosystem.

📍 Mahé: Between Land and Sea

Morne Seychellois National Park

Covering 20% of the island, it’s Mahé’s green lung. It shelters dense rainforest and the highest granite peaks.

  • How to visit: Mainly via hiking trails (Copolia, Morne Blanc, Dans Gallas). Accessible by car or bus via Sans Soucis Road.
  • Opening hours: Open all day.
  • Price: Park access is free, but some marked trails (like Copolia) cost 100 SCR (~€7) for tourists.
Wild nature

Sainte Anne Marine National Park

The oldest marine park in the Indian Ocean, grouping 6 islands. A sanctuary for seagrass meadows and eagle rays.

  • How to visit: Only by boat. Day trips departing from Victoria (Eden Island Marina or the fishing port).
  • Price: The marine park entry fee is 200 SCR (~€14), often included in the price of your boat excursion (approx. €90–€120).
  • Tip: Visit Moyenne Island (within the park) to see its 120 giant tortoises roaming freely.
Must-see

📍 Praslin: The Birthplace of the Coco de Mer

Vallée de Mai Reserve (UNESCO)

Nicknamed the “Garden of Eden,” this prehistoric forest is the sanctuary of the famous Coco de Mer (the largest fruit in the world).

  • How to visit: On-site parking, easy access by bus. Very well-marked, shaded trails.
  • Opening hours: 8:30am – 4:30pm.
  • Price: 450 SCR (~€30) per person. Free for children under 12.
  • Note: A certified guide at the entrance (extra fee) is recommended to spot the rare Black Parrot.
World Heritage

Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve

A wilder, larger alternative to Vallée de Mai. The trail leads to a viewpoint overlooking the sister islands and La Digue.

  • How to visit: Located in the east of Praslin (Anse Marie-Louise). Less crowded.
  • Opening hours: Guided visits are mandatory (fixed departures: 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm).
  • Price: 150 SCR (~€10). The best value for money on the island.
Insider ❤️ pick

📍 La Digue & Nearby Islands

L'Union Estate (La Digue)

Much more than a park, it’s a living museum: vanilla plantations, a copra factory, and a giant granite boulder home to tortoises.

  • How to visit: By bike—it’s the mandatory passage to reach Anse Source d'Argent beach.
  • Price: 150 SCR (~€10) per day. Keep your ticket—it’s valid all day.
Culture & Beach

Curieuse Island National Park

A former leper colony, the island is now a fully protected reserve where giant tortoises live in complete freedom on the beach.

  • How to visit: By boat excursion departing from Praslin (Côte d'Or). 15-minute crossing.
  • Price: The entry fee is 300 SCR (~€20) (includes access to the island and the neighboring St Pierre marine park).
  • Must-do: The walk on the wooden boardwalk through the wild mangroves.
Nature adventure

💳 Important payment information

Since 2023, most national parks managed by the SPGA (Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority) prefer card payments. Cash is less and less accepted at official ticket offices (Vallée de Mai, Curieuse, Ste Anne). Always carry a valid debit/credit card with you.