Sainte Anne Marine National Park

A treasure trove of marine life with colorful coral reefs.

Overview

Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a stunning natural wonder situated off the coast of Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles. The park is steeped in history, having served as a quarantine station for slaves and a leper colony in the 19th century. Today, the park is renowned for its unparalleled beauty, with crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life, including over 150 species of fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. The park is also home to several endemic plant species, including the Seychelles paradise flycatcher and the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat. The park’s tropical climate makes it an ideal destination for visitors looking to escape the cold weather, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C year-round. Visitors to Sainte Anne Marine National Park can expect a breathtaking experience filled with natural wonder and awe-inspiring beauty.

Things to Do

Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a breathtaking destination located in the Seychelles archipelago. It is famous for its stunning natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and an abundance of marine life. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, there is something for everyone in Sainte Anne Marine National Park. Here are some of the top things to do in this spectacular destination:

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: With over 1,000 species of fish and a variety of coral reefs, Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant underwater world and discover the stunning marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and rays.

Island Hopping: Sainte Anne Marine National Park comprises six beautiful islands, each with its unique charm and character. Take a boat tour around the islands and witness the stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and exotic wildlife.

Nature Walks and Hiking: Sainte Anne Marine National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds and reptiles. Take a guided nature walk or hike through the lush forests and discover the hidden treasures of the park.

Relaxing on the Beaches: Sainte Anne Marine National Park boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with white sand and turquoise waters. Relax on the beaches, soak up the sun, and take in the scenic views.

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the calm and crystal-clear waters of the park by kayaking or paddleboarding. Enjoy the serene surroundings and get up close with the marine life.

Sunset Cruises: Witness the spectacular sunsets of Sainte Anne Marine National Park on a romantic sunset cruise. Sip on a cocktail and take in the stunning views as the sun sets over the horizon.

What to See

Coral Reefs: The coral reefs of Sainte Anne Marine National Park are some of the most spectacular in the world. They are home to an incredible variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and rays. Snorkeling or scuba diving is the best way to experience the beauty of these coral reefs up close.

Rare Birds and Reptiles: Sainte Anne Marine National Park is home to a variety of rare species of birds and reptiles, including the Seychelles warbler and the Seychelles giant tortoise. Take a guided nature walk or hike to discover these amazing creatures and learn more about their habitats and behaviors.

Pristine Beaches: The beaches of Sainte Anne Marine National Park are some of the most beautiful in the world, with white sand and crystal-clear waters. Relax on the beaches, soak up the sun, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding islands.

Marine Life: Sainte Anne Marine National Park is home to an incredible variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and whales. Take a boat tour or go snorkeling to see these amazing creatures up close.

Underwater Sculpture Park: The underwater sculpture park in Sainte Anne Marine National Park is a must-see for art lovers and scuba divers alike. The park features a variety of sculptures created by local artists, which have been installed underwater to create an artificial reef.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. The high season, from December to April, offers sunny and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities such as snorkeling and hiking, but also brings larger crowds and higher prices. The shoulder season, from May to June and from September to November, offers warm and sunny weather with smaller crowds and more affordable prices. The low season, from July to August, offers cooler weather with occasional rain and strong winds, but is a great time to visit for a relaxing getaway and to avoid the crowds. If you are interested in seeing specific marine life, plan your visit accordingly.

Getting there

By Air: The Seychelles International Airport is located on the main island of Mahé, which is just a short boat ride away from Sainte Anne Marine National Park. From the airport, you can take a taxi to the nearby Victoria Jetty, where you can catch a boat to the park. Several airlines operate flights to Seychelles from major cities around the world, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways.

By Road: If you are already on the island of Mahé, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Victoria Jetty. The journey takes around 20 minutes from the capital city of Victoria, and there is plenty of parking available near the jetty.

By Boat: The most common way to reach Sainte Anne Marine National Park is by boat. Several companies offer boat tours and transfers to the park from Victoria Jetty, as well as from other nearby islands. The journey takes around 15 to 20 minutes, and you will be able to enjoy the stunning scenery of the park and its surroundings during the trip. Once you arrive at Sainte Anne Marine National Park, you can explore the park by foot, kayak, or boat. The park is relatively small, and it is easy to navigate around the islands. If you plan to stay overnight, there are several accommodations available on the islands, including resorts, villas, and guesthouses

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Cerf Island Resort

Nestled within lush tropical gardens, Cerf Island Resort offers mid-range accommodation with a focus on eco-friendly practices. The resort features charming villas and suites, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a range of water-based activities such as snorkeling and kayaking.

Villas at Sainte Anne Island

Sainte Anne Island offers mid-range villas surrounded by pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. The villas are equipped with modern amenities and offer breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Guests can enjoy snorkeling, diving, and other water sports activities.

Luxury Accommodation:

Beachfront Suites at Sainte Anne Resort & Spa

Sainte Anne Resort & Spa offers luxurious beachfront suites with private pools and panoramic views of the ocean. The resort features a spa, fine dining restaurants, and access to a private beach, providing guests with an exclusive and indulgent experience.

Private Island Retreats

For the ultimate luxury experience, consider booking a stay at one of the private island retreats near Sainte Anne Marine National Park. These exclusive resorts offer unparalleled privacy and luxury, with spacious villas, personal butlers, and a range of personalized services.