Island Sights & Sounds
The island of Mahé offers an array of Seychelles activities and attractions for all tastes. Discover the rich history, heritage and cuisine of Seychelles, Mahé and capital Victoria.
Bel Air Cemetery
This monument is the oldest historical structure on the island and was built as the foremost burial site immediately after the French colonized the country. Some of the individuals buried here include Charles Dorothée Savy, a nine-foot-tall giant, and Jean-Francois Hodoul, who was a corsair.
Clock Tower
A focal point of Mahé, the Clock Tower in Victoria bears an uncanny resemblance to London’s Big Ben, and for good reason. Sir Ernest Sweet Escott – an ex-governor of Seychelles – ordered it to be built in 1903 as a copy of the British landmark, due to his fascination with the structure.
Le Jardin Du Roi Spice Garden
Discover the vast array of indigenous spices that once played a pivotal role in the Seychelles' economy, and which gives Creole cuisine its distinct flavour. Sample true Creole-style food at the restaurant, or simply take a stroll around the lush plantation on a guided nature walk.
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 17:30 every day
Mission Lodge
Found high up on the Sans Souci Mountain Pass, the Mission Lodge provides arguably the best views of the Mahé coastline and mountains. A large, wooden gazebo, under which Queen Elizabeth II once had tea, provides a delightful seating area from which to take in the spectacular views.
Morne Seychelles National Park
Established in 1979, this national park is the largest in the Seychelles, covering a fifth of the area of the Mahé Island. There are 12 separate hiking trails, and a vast array of other Seychelles activities, making this the perfect site of exploration whilst on vacation.
National Botanical Gardens
Home to some of the rarest indigenous plant species in the world, the 15 acre National Botanical Gardens in Seychelles is the perfect tourist destination. Pack a picnic, or simply enjoy genuine Creole cuisine at the nearby restaurant.
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 17:00 daily
Natural History Museum
The museum is located on Independence Avenue in the capital city of Victoria. Not only does the museum have crucial artefacts on the natural history of the Seychelles, but it also educates visitors on ecological issues in the form of dioramas and exhibits as well as documentaries and resource archives. Entry fee is only applicable to those above 12 years of age
Opening Hours: 08.30 - 16:00 Monday – Thursday; 08:30 – 12:00 Friday; 09:00 – 13:00 Saturday
Tea Factory
Found on the Sans Souci Road, The Tea Factory is one of the most famous and popular tourist spots of Mahé Island, and one of the most popular Seychelles activities. A tour of this site will give you a detailed idea of a functional tea plantation and its manufacturing process, as well as allowing you to taste and buy the different teas.
Opening Hours: 08:00 - 16:00 Monday - Friday
Victoria Market
A visit to Mahé's busy and colourful market is the way to get a feel for the Seychellois and their way of life. Built in 1840 and renovated in 1999, it remains the bustling heart of the capital and definitely the best place to buy fresh fruits, fish, vegetables and spices. An attractive array of boutiques and shops selling a variety of souvenirs, clothing and local works of art further complement the lively atmosphere that is especially vibrant on Saturday mornings.
Hindu Temple
The Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple is the only Hindu temple in the Seychelles. Built in 1992, the temple was named after Lord Vinayagar, the Hindu god of safety and prosperity.
Eden Aquarium
Situated in the Eden Plaza, the Eden Aquarium allows guests to experience the incredible Seychelles marine life without getting their feet wet. Set your eyes on starfish, octupus, sea urchins, soft coral, seahourses, curious Moral eels, and colourful sea slugs. This is a great place to take the kids, not only for the visual appeal, but because the aquarium was primarily established to educate children on the importance of marine conservation.