The largest island in Seychelles and home to its international airport, Mahé also boasts the world’s smallest capital town, Victoria, filled with colonial mansions. Mahé island is known for its secluded, pristine white sand beaches and lush, mountainous vegetation. Mahé boasts more than 70 beautiful beaches, but the best of the best include Anse Major, Anse Jasmin, Petit Anse and Anse Du Riz. Home to many hotels and resorts, Mahé is the ideal base from which to explore many of the other Seychelles islands, including nearby Praslin and La Digue. Those staying on Mahé in Seychelles enjoy exploring the bustling market in Victoria and the island’s Botanical Gardens to see giant tortoises, Coco de Mer trees and exquisite orchids.
Why visit Mahé
- From Mahé, there are many islands to discover, reached by foot, by boat, or from a private yacht.
- It’s the perfect introduction to the Seychelles islands and the ideal base from which to explore others.
- Its beaches are beautiful – and you can find plenty of secluded coves to call your own.
- Mahé boasts more resorts and hotels than any other island in Seychelles, giving you plenty of accommodation options.
The various hotels and resorts on Mahé offer guests a wide selection of water sports and other activities as well as entertainment. Exploring at your own pace is very much part of a holiday here, too. Whether you’re just searching for a secluded beach, or would like to go hiking or exploring, there’s plenty to keep you busy on Mahé. Let us create the perfect Mahé travel package for you, whether you’re travelling with family, friends or your partner.
Mahé is more than a stopover en route to exploring other Seychelles islands. Full of breathtaking white sand beaches and lush rainforest, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on Mahé island to keep you busy and entertained. You can take a ferry from Mahé to Praslin, or enjoy a day trip to La Digue. Spend the day snorkelling and scuba diving, or enjoy big game fishing. Hire a car and discover hidden coves and tropical forests, visit Victoria to find out about Mahé’s fascinating culture and history, or play golf at the Seychelles Golf Club. Enjoy a variety of walking and hiking trails while exploring the island’s natural beauty, visit historical sites and learn how tea and rum are made.
Things to do in Mahé
- Go shopping in Victoria’s bustling markets.
- Take a drive over the San Souci mountain pass to historical Mission Lodge.
- Visit a historic herb and spice garden.
- On Beau Vallon Beach, enjoy swimming and sunbathing.
- Tour the Takama Rum Distillery and enjoy a rum tasting.
- Discover hidden coves where you can sunbathe in seclusion.
- Visit Mission Lodge Lookout for panoramic views.
- Enjoy a guided nature hike through the Morne Seychellois National Park.
- Hire a car and explore Mahé at leisure.
Your days on the tropical island of Mahé offer so many possibilities, and your nights are just as busy, with a vibrant nightlife to enjoy at the hotels and resorts. Whatever type of holiday you’re looking for, whether it’s a relaxing break with your partner, fun with the family or active pursuits with friends, you’ll find it all in Mahé.
When is the best time to visit?
- Seychelles enjoys a warm, tropical climate.
- Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C.
- The best time to visit Seychelles is April, May, October and November.
- The wettest months are January and February.
- May to September is cooler, drier and windier.
Getting there
- There are frequent flights from South Africa to Seychelles.
- The flight duration from Johannesburg to Seychelles is 5 hours, 12 minutes.
- Beachwear is a must.
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing with a dressier outfit or two for dinners – think laidback luxury
- Don't leave home without sunscreen, lip balm, hat, and sunglasses.
- Mini first aid kit and regular prescription medication.
- Camera – or just use your phone.
- Travel adaptor.
- Buses and taxis are available on both Mahe.
- If you're planning to travel between islands, Seychelles' ferry services are both convenient and reliable.
- Support local artisans.
- Avoid single-use plastic; rather take fabric shopping bags with you and use refillable water bottles (when local drinking water is available).
- Respect each other's cultures and customs.
- Be safety conscious: don’t display cash or valuables. Leave jewellery and expensive watches at home.
- Contact the Thompsons Holidays 24-hour care line to assist.
