Morne Seychellois National Park
A lush rainforest with stunning hiking trails.
Overview
Morne Seychellois National Park, located on the island of Mahe in Seychelles, is a breathtaking natural wonder that boasts an impressive history, geographical coverage, climate, wildlife, and plant species. This park is the largest national park on the island and covers an area of 3,045 hectares. The park’s history dates back to the 18th century when it was used as a hunting ground for the French. Today, the park is a protected area that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endemic species. The park’s hilly terrain offers a variety of hiking trails that take visitors through dense forests, past sparkling waterfalls, and to the summit of the park’s highest peak, Morne Seychellois. The climate in the park is tropical, with temperatures ranging from 24-30°C throughout the year. Visitors can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including Seychelles black parrots, fruit bats, and giant tortoises, as well as a diverse range of plant species, such as the Coco de Mer palm tree. With its stunning vistas, unique wildlife, and rich history, Morne Seychellois National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Africa.
Things to Do
Morne Seychellois National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful nature reserve located in the Seychelles archipelago. It is the largest national park in the Seychelles, covering an area of over 3,000 hectares. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including more than 100 species of birds, as well as rare and endangered plants and animals. There are many things to do and see in Morne Seychellois National Park, and here are some of the top activities to consider:
Hiking: The park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy to challenging. The most popular trail is the Morne Blanc Trail, which takes you to the summit of Morne Blanc, the highest point in the park. The trail is about 3.5 km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete. Along the way, you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean.
Birdwatching: The park is home to more than 100 species of birds, including the Seychelles Bulbul, the Seychelles Blue Pigeon, and the Seychelles Sunbird. Birdwatching is best done early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the birds are most active.Â
Wildlife spotting: The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, fruit bats, and a variety of lizards and geckos. Keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures as you explore the park.
Picnicking: There are several picnic areas in the park, where you can relax and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Some of the most popular picnic spots include the Mont Plaisir Picnic Area and the Danzil Picnic Area.Â
Photography: Whether you are an amateur or a professional photographer, Morne Seychellois National Park is a paradise for shutterbugs. From panoramic vistas to close-up shots of exotic flora and fauna, the park offers endless opportunities for capturing stunning images.Â
What to See
Morne Blanc: Morne Blanc is the highest point in the park, standing at 905 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean, and is a popular hiking destination. The trail to the summit is about 3.5 km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.Â
Tea Plantations: The park is home to several tea plantations, which offer visitors a glimpse into the Seychellois tea industry. The tea plantations are located in the western part of the park, near the village of Grand Anse.Â
Waterfalls: The park is home to several waterfalls, including the popular Cascade River waterfall. The waterfall is located near the Danzil Picnic Area and can be reached by a short hike. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a refreshing break from the heat.
Endemic Flora: The park is home to a variety of endemic plants, including the Seychelles Pitcher Plant, the Jellyfish Tree, and the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher. These rare and endangered plants are found only in the Seychelles and are a must-see for nature enthusiasts.Â
Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giant tortoises, fruit bats, and a variety of lizards and geckos. Keep your eyes peeled for these fascinating creatures as you explore the park.
Historic Sites: The park is home to several historic sites, including the ruins of the Mission Lodge, a school for liberated slave children in the 19th century. The lodge offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the ocean, and is a popular spot for picnicking.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Morne Seychellois National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny, making it the perfect time for hiking and other outdoor activities. The temperatures are also cooler, making it more comfortable to explore the park.Â
Getting there
By Road: The most convenient way to get to the park is by road. You can rent a car from the airport or from various car rental companies on the island of Mahé. The park is located about 20 minutes from Victoria, the capital of the Seychelles. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for visitors.
By Air: If you’re traveling from another island in the Seychelles, you can take a domestic flight to Mahé and then rent a car or take a taxi to the park. The Seychelles International Airport, located on Mahé, is the main airport in the Seychelles and is serviced by several international airlines.
By Boat: If you’re traveling from another island in the Seychelles, you can also take a ferry to Mahé and then rent a car or take a taxi to the park. The Inter Island Ferry Seychelles is a popular ferry service that connects the islands of the Seychelles. Once you arrive on Mahé, you can easily get to the park by road. As mentioned earlier, renting a car or taking a taxi is the most convenient way to get to the park. The roads on Mahé are well-maintained and easy to navigate, so driving to the park is a popular choice for visitors.Â
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Morne Seychellois National Park ChaletsÂ
Offering comfortable and affordable accommodations, these chalets provide a convenient base for exploring Morne Seychellois National Park. The chalets are well-equipped with basic amenities, making them suitable for budget-conscious travelers.
Guesthouses near Morne Seychellois National ParkÂ
Several guesthouses located near Morne Seychellois National Park offer mid-range accommodations with a local touch. Guests can experience Seychellois hospitality while enjoying easy access to the park’s hiking trails and natural beauty.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Luxury Eco-Lodges in Morne Seychellois National ParkÂ
For a luxurious stay surrounded by nature, consider staying at one of the eco-lodges in Morne Seychellois National Park. These lodges offer upscale amenities, gourmet dining, and guided nature experiences, providing a truly immersive experience in the park.
Private Villas with Ocean ViewsÂ
Some luxury private villas near Morne Seychellois National Park offer exclusive accommodations with stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy spacious living areas, private pools, and personalized services, making for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Seychelles.
Other Attractions in Seychelles
Anse Lazio (Praslin Island)
Vallée de Mai
La Digue
Aldabra Atoll
Curieuse Island
Cousin Island
Sainte Anne Marine National Park
General Knowledge Base
General information about Morne Seychellois National Park, Seychelles.
Morne Seychellois National Park is a protected area located on the island of Mahé in Seychelles.
The park covers an area of 3,045 hectares, making it the largest park in Seychelles.
The highest point in Morne Seychellois National Park is the Morne Seychellois mountain, which stands at 905 meters above sea level.
The park is home to a variety of vegetation, including mangrove forests, tropical rainforests, and montane forests.
The park is home to a variety of animals, including Seychelles giant tortoises, Seychelles fruit bats, and a variety of bird species.
The park has several hiking trails, including the popular Morne Blanc Trail and the Copolia Trail.
The park is an important cultural and historical site for the people of Seychelles, as it contains several ancient ruins and is home to a variety of endemic plant and animal species.
Some of the park’s most popular attractions include the Morne Seychellois mountain, the tea plantation at Morne Blanc, and the panoramic views from the Copolia Trail.
