Morne Seychellois National Park
Parc National du Morne Seychellois
A mountain rainforest park covering about one-fifth of Mahé, with its highest peak at 905 meters; hiking offers views over Victoria and the islands of Sainte Anne Marine Park.
Morne Seychellois National Park is the largest national park in Seychelles, covering about 20% of north-central Mahé, including the country's highest peak, Morne Seychellois (905 m). The park is humid mountain rainforest, home to pitcher plants, the jellyfish tree (Medusagyne oppositifolia, endemic to Seychelles, of which only a few hundred survive worldwide), and many endemic orchids and frogs. Popular hiking routes: 1) The Copolia Trail, about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, leads to a huge bare granite boulder with views over Victoria Harbour and the islands of Sainte Anne Marine Park. It is the best value route. 2) The Morne Blanc Trail, about 1.5 to 2 hours round trip, climbs about 250 meters and ends at a viewpoint on a steep cliff overlooking the west coast. 3) Along the Sans Souci Road that crosses the mountains, you can visit the tea plantations and the Seychelles tea factory (tea tasting and shopping), as well as the Mission Ruins, the remains of a school founded in the 19th century to educate children of freed slaves. Its viewing platform has excellent views. Trailhead entry is free or costs a small fee, and some routes are best done with a guide. Note: mountain trails are slippery and steep, so wear hiking shoes and bring plenty of water. Afternoon showers are common, so set out in the morning.
Opening hours
Daytime (07:00–16:00 recommended for hiking)
Nearby sights
- Port Launay Marine National Park
- Mission Ruins of Venn's Town
- Beau Vallon Beach
- Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
- Copolia Trail
- Anse Major Trail
- Victoria Clock Tower & Market
- Sainte Anne Marine National Park