20 August,2026 03:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
You don’t have to be an avid hiker to experience this side of Seychelles. Photo Courtesy: Special Arrangement
An island destination does not always have to be all about water and beaches. Sometimes, the best way to see the islands is to follow a little path into the green and look at the scenic views from the top. The walk can take you through a changing landscape, from granite boulders and dense greenery to those beautiful stretches where the ocean suddenly appears in the distance.
Seychelles' nature trails are particularly appealing because there is something for every pace. Travellers looking for a relaxed experience can choose shorter, scenic routes that fit easily between beach days, while those seeking a little more adventure can venture through forested paths towards panoramic viewpoints. More experienced hikers can opt for challenging routes that climb higher into the islands' dramatic landscapes.
You don't have to be an avid hiker to experience this side of Seychelles. Choose a trail that suits your comfort level, lace up your walking shoes and explore; sometimes, a few hours on foot can reveal an entirely different side of the islands.
The Anse Major Nature Trail on Mahé is a great starting point for travellers who want to discover Seychelles on foot without committing to a demanding hike. The 2.4-kilometre trail takes around an hour, weaving through tropical vegetation and granite landscapes before arriving at the secluded Anse Major beach. With its relatively easy pace and rewarding coastal views, it can comfortably be paired with a leisurely day by the sea.
On Curieuse Island, the Nesting Sea Turtle Trail adds a wildlife element to the experience. The route leads towards Grand Anse, passing through areas used by green and hawksbill turtles for nesting. As the trail crosses environmentally sensitive areas, it can only be explored with a guide, allowing visitors to learn more about the island's wildlife and conservation efforts along the way.
The 1.4-kilometre Copolia Trail is a step up for anyone looking for a little more activity. It winds through the forests of Morne Seychellois National Park before reaching a rocky summit in about an hour. From the summit, Mahé stretches out below, with neighbouring islands visible beyond. It is long enough to feel like an achievement, but short enough to leave time for the rest of your day.
Trois Frères takes you into the hills above Victoria, where the forest gradually gives way to views of the capital and the east coast. The uphill sections are manageable, and the scenery keeps changing as you go. It also gives you a chance to see a quieter, greener side of Mahé.
For travellers looking to take their adventure a step further, the Morne Seychellois Nature Trail offers a more demanding experience through Mahé's mountainous interior. Beginning at Sans Soucis, the 2.3-kilometre route winds through dense forest, streams and granite terrain, with remnants of old cinnamon plantations appearing along the way. The trail leads towards Morne Seychellois, the highest point in the country at 905 metres, offering a striking contrast to the coastal landscapes Seychelles is best known for.
Dans Gallas is another option for travellers who enjoy a steeper climb. The trail makes its way through lush forest before gradually opening up to views across Mahé's coastline and surrounding islands. It is a rewarding choice for those who want to spend a little more time on the trail and experience the island from a different vantage point.
And that is the beauty of adding a nature trail to a Seychelles holiday. It can be as relaxed or adventurous as you want it to be. A scenic walk can fill a morning before lunch by the sea, while a more challenging hike can become an experience in itself. Either way, exploring on foot offers another way to discover the islands beyond their famous shores.
If you are planning a holiday to Seychelles, save a little room between the beach days and island hopping for a walk on the wilder side. Pick a trail that matches your pace; it could be an easy morning stroll or a climb that gets the heart racing. And in true Seychelles style, some of the best walks can begin surrounded by tropical greenery and end right by the beach, where a swim and a lazy afternoon await. So even if hiking has never made it to your holiday checklist, Seychelles might convince you to pack those walking shoes after all.
