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Mahe is the biggest of all 155 islands of Seychelles, the home of the capital city Victoria and home to 86% of the whole population of the archipelago. Whenever you are travelling to Seychelles, your first stop will be the Airport of Mahe where all international flights are arriving at. Whether you are flying into Mahe before heading to Praslin or La Digue, the island is definitely worth exploring as it offers some of the best beaches of Seychelles!
Mahe Island was named after the French Governor, Bertrand Mahe de Labourdonnais. The island is home to the endemic flora and fauna found only in Seychelles. Some of the species, like the Jellyfish tree, are growing only on Mahe Island.
Mahe Island offers a lot to its visitors. When you think of Seychelles, the islands are not really the most obvious road trip destination. BUT: Mahé is the biggest and the most diversified of all other islands. This fact makes Mahe the busiest island of all, but the word “busy” has a different meaning in Seychelles. When I say “busy” in this article, it means that you will see some people around you 😀 Not the “busy-busy” like an Italian beach in August!
With its 157.3 km², Mahé is a small piece of land, but you still need a car in order to explore the island at its fullest! Long story – short: The north of Mahé is where everything is happening. In the north, there is Beau Vallon Beach – the most visited beach of Mahe, and Victoria – the capital city of Seychelles. In the North of Mahé, the mountains are higher, and the weather is worse than in the south. It sounds ridiculous, but it is true! The clouds do not go to the south of the island 😉
So, if you are in the mood for a great road trip you must hire a car! Car hire costs around €45 a day and the route in Mahé covers about 100 km. From the furthest North point of Mahé to the furthest South point it will take you about 1h 15 min by car if you drive straight through. But why you should do that?! There are more than 20 beaches listed as the best beaches in the World, nature is unique, the viewpoints are stunning, the restaurants are good and there is a rum distillery on the way! So, it will take you more than 1h 15 min to explore the island, especially if you take the small, curvy roads through the mountains of Mahé.
Visit Victoria in Mahe, The Capital of Seychelles
Victoria is the capital city of Seychelles where a third of the whole population of 90.000 citizens is living. Although that sounds a lot, Victoria is the smallest capital city in Africa and one of the smallest capital cities in the world.
Yes, Victoria is small and literally, you can see almost everything in one hour or less if you want to. Although everything is rather unspectacular than overwhelming, the city of Victoria is a good place to get a better idea and feel the Seychellois life.
Victoria is situated on the northeastern side of Mahé Island which is also Seychelles main island. Victoria City was originally settled in the 19th century by French colonists and in the year 1814, the British colonial government gave it its name for what it is still known today. The economy of Victoria is primarily driven by the exports of vanilla, coconut oil, coconuts, soap and fish.
Things to see and visit when in Victoria: Victoria Clock Tower, Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, Hindu Temple, National Museum of History, Botanical Gardens, and Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception -The Cathedral of Our Lady.
Beach Hopping Mahe
Mahé Island has more than 20 tropical beaches that are listed as the best beaches in the whole world! Most of the beaches are secluded, almost empty and the synonym for paradise if you ask me. The South of the Island is wild, beautiful, empty, and underdeveloped – everything I needed to be! Here you can find my favourite beaches of Mahé: Anse Soleil and Petite Anse both located in the southwest of the Island. The best beach (for me) in the north of Mahe is Sunset Beach.
Eden Island
If you have enough of nature, snorkelling and beach hopping you can visit Eden Island located on the east side of Mahé. Eden Island is an artificial island completed in 2003. Eden Island is home to more than 70 luxury shops, restaurants and galleries. Here you can also enjoy Seychelles’ nightlife on Friday night.

Eden Island,
Visit the Takamaka Rum Distillery in Mahe
When in Seychelles, you will see, and you will drink Takamaka Rum EVERYWHERE! It is THE BRAND of Seychelles so if you are in Mahé you must visit the Takamaka Rum Factory! The Takamaka rum distillery was built and developed by brothers Richard and Bernard d’Offay in 2002. The two brothers wanted to produce a high-quality “Made in Seychelles” rum based on their grandfather’s original recipe.
So, the rum distillery is a great place to visit with a very interesting tour on Monday to Friday at 11:30 am and 1:30 pm (costs EUR 16 per person). Otherwise, you can visit the factory from Monday to Saturday between 10 am and 4 pm and you can walk around without booking a tour.
During the friendly visit of the only distillery in Seychelles, you can see the rum production, a colonial House and the beautiful garden. You can dine in a great restaurant which offers local and European dishes.
In the small shop, you can buy some rum and you can taste whatever you want to! The rum was delicious, and we brought 3 different rum bottles to Innsbruck 😀
Drive on Sans Souci Road, Mahe
Well, are you up for an adventure? Well, then you have to take Sans Souci road which connects the east side of Mahé with its west side. But if you are not a good driver or you don’t like driving on the left side of a steep, narrow mountain road with tiny bends – don’t do it!
The road will take you through the Mahé’s National Park which is a mixture between thick jungle and mangrove forest. I think it was totally worth it – the panoramic views are the best on the island and here you can visit the Mission Lodge and the Tea Factory of Mahé.
If you want to spend more time here there is a good trail from the tea factory up to the peak of Morne Blanc or up to the Trois Frères cliffs.
Visit the Viewpoint “Mission Lodge” in Mahe
The most famous and iconic viewpoint of Mahé is Mission Lodge located on Sans Soucie scenic road. It is also the most culturally and historically important site in Seychelles. The Mission Lodge, also known as Venns Town and Capucin, became a UNESCO world heritage site in 2013. Slavery was abolished in Seychelles in 1835. But until the late 19th century the children of freed slaves went to boarding school here. Nowadays you can see only some school ruins remaining.
Queen Elizabeth II visited Mission Lodge in the year of 1972 and enjoyed a cup of tea with a view here.
The smallest frog in the World is to be found here in the mountains of Mission Lodge, as well as many many other endemic species of plants and wildlife.

10 Best Beaches in Praslin You Can’t Miss, Seychelles
Go Diving and Snorkelling in Mahe
You are in the Indian Ocean which means Scuba Diving and Snorkelling is always a good idea! Some of the best diving spots around Mahé are Alice in Wonderland, Oscars Reef, Pirates Cove, Napoleon Inn, Grouper Point, Rays Point, Whale Rock and Sunset Rocks. What you can expect to see is whale sharks, corals, turtles and rays, reef sharks, and many others.
* Just to have it mentioned: Compared to other diving spots that we have already visited in Southeast Asia, diving and snorkelling in Seychelles was not the most incredible underwater experience. Don’t get me wrong – the underwater life is beautiful but not as spectacular as we expected it to be.
Where to Stay in Mahé
If you are looking for a good and affordable place to stay near Beau Vallon, I can recommend these accommodations: La Maison Hibiscus, Beau Vallon Residence, Flower Garden Self-Catering Apartments
If you are looking for a good and affordable place to stay near Baie Lazare, I can totally recommend these accommodations: Les Elles Guesthouse Self Catering, Hillside Retreat, Kanasuk Self-catering Apartments
If you are looking for a good and affordable place to stay near Anse Soleil, I can recommend these accommodations: Les Elles Guesthouse Self Catering, A Peace In Paradise
Where to Stay in Mahe
As you would expect from a major travel destination, Seychelles has no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation. As always, I’d suggest you stay somewhere central, to make accessing all the attractions as easy as possible.
Luxury Hotels in Mahe, Seychelles
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles: Nestled in a secluded bay, Four Seasons Resort offers luxurious villas with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. With impeccable service, private infinity pools, and direct beach access, this resort provides the ultimate indulgence for discerning travelers.
Constance Ephelia: Set amidst lush tropical gardens and overlooking the marine national park of Port Launay, Constance Ephelia offers a blend of luxury and natural beauty. The resort boasts spacious suites and villas, multiple swimming pools, a lavish spa, and a wide range of dining options.
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa: Perched on the hills of Beau Vallon Bay, this exclusive resort offers breathtaking ocean views and unparalleled privacy. Guests can unwind in luxurious villas with private balconies or indulge in rejuvenating treatments at the Eforea Spa. The resort also features a stunning infinity pool and a choice of dining venues.
MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa: Situated on the secluded Anse Louis beach, MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa offers an exclusive and intimate experience. With spacious villas featuring private pools and dedicated butlers, guests can indulge in privacy and luxury. The resort also boasts a world-class spa and exceptional dining options.
Kempinski Seychelles Resort: Located on the famous Baie Lazare beach, Kempinski Seychelles Resort offers a luxurious escape surrounded by pristine nature. The elegant rooms and suites provide breathtaking ocean views, and the resort features multiple swimming pools, a spa, and a variety of dining venues to enhance the guest experience.
Mid-Range Hotels in Mahe, Seychelles
Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel: Situated on the beautiful Beau Vallon Beach, Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning ocean views. Guests can enjoy direct beach access, water sports activities, and a variety of dining options within the hotel.
Carana Beach Hotel: Tucked away on the northeastern coast, Carana Beach Hotel offers a peaceful retreat with its intimate atmosphere and picturesque beachfront location. The stylishly appointed rooms, beachfront pool, and the open-air restaurant showcasing local flavors ensure a delightful stay.
Coco D’or Hotel: Located in the residential area of Beau Vallon, Coco D’or Hotel provides affordable accommodation with comfortable rooms and a range of facilities, including a swimming pool and a restaurant. The hotel’s central location allows guests to explore the island conveniently.
Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel: Nestled on the famous Beau Vallon Beach, Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel offers a comfortable and affordable stay with stunning ocean views. The hotel features spacious rooms, a beachfront restaurant, and a vibrant atmosphere. Guests can enjoy water sports activities, explore nearby attractions, and relax on the beautiful beach.
Carana Beach Hotel: Situated on the northeastern coast of Mahe, Carana Beach Hotel offers a charming and tranquil retreat. The hotel features stylish and modern rooms with private balconies or terraces overlooking the ocean. Guests can relax by the infinity pool, indulge in delicious cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and enjoy direct access to a picturesque beach
The Best Homestays in Mahe, Seychelles
Chez Plume Guesthouse: This family-run guesthouse offers cozy rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Located in Anse Royale, Chez Plume is close to the beach and offers a peaceful retreat with personal attention from the hosts.
Anse Soleil Beachcomber: Anse Soleil Beachcomber is a homestay nestled in a beautiful cove on the southwestern coast of Mahe. The property offers well-appointed rooms with direct access to the beach, allowing guests to enjoy stunning ocean views and the gentle sound of waves. The friendly hosts provide a warm welcome and ensure a memorable stay.
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Seychelles Tours
If you enjoy guided tours, here you ca
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