Visiting Seychelles for the first time? If you’ve just arrived at the airport and found yourself on Mahé Island, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to go first or what to see.
To help you make the most of your island adventure, we’ve created a one-day road trip itinerary. With Kreol Services, we deliver your rental car straight to you, whether it’s at the airport, your hotel, or the ferry terminal. You also have a wide range of pick up and drop off locations to choose from.
Start with Breakfast in Victoria
We suggest you start your road trip early, at approximately 8 am. Grab a traditional Creole breakfast at one of the local eateries. Take a quick stroll through the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market to browse fresh produce, sample iconic spices, and perhaps grab a souvenir.
First stop at the Botanical Gardens
At 9 am, visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens and spend approximately 45 minutes admiring the famous Giant Aldabra tortoises, or you can also see the Coco de Mer palms, which are renowned for their unique double-lobed coconuts. The garden features a variety of other exotic species, including orchids and fruit trees.
Take a Hike on the Copolia Trail
At about 10 am, you can embark on a short but rewarding hike on the Copolia Trail, boasting panoramic views of Victoria, Eden Island, and the east coast from the summit. The time you can spend here is approximately two hours in total, and remember to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.
Lunch at Marie Antoinette Restaurant
After your scenic hiking excursion, it should be close to lunchtime. Head over to one of the oldest restaurants in Seychelles, Marie Antoinette Restaurant, located near Victoria and easy to reach after the hike. The restaurant serves traditional Creole cuisine in a colonial-era mansion.
Drive to Eden Island
Eden Island is a man-made island in Seychelles, lying about 3.5 km from the capital, Victoria. This 50ha artificial island is located off the coast of Mahé, and the project includes a luxury marina community with residences, shops, and restaurants. It provides a great contrast between the traditional Seychellois lifestyle and modern living. If you arrive here just before 2 pm, you can spend some time browsing the boutique shops, walking the marina, and enjoying a coffee or gelato with a view of the nearby yachts and luxury villas.
Visit the Le Jardin du Roi Spice Garden
Located near Anse Royale, about a 40-minute drive from Eden Island, you will find a peaceful plantation overlooking the southeast coast of the island. Here you can learn about medicinal plants and spices, take a walk through the scenic trails, and even spot some fruit bats. Sample some spiced tea or grab a bite at the hilltop café.
Spend Some Quality Time at the Beach
Anse Takamaka is a calm, wide beach located close by, where you can enjoy a lovely late afternoon swim or relax underneath the swaying palms. This beach is often less crowded than Anse Royale or Beau Vallon.
Make a Final Stop for a Sundowner at Surfer’s Beach Restaurant
Only a short drive from the beach, or if you prefer to walk, you can reach the restaurant within 30 minutes, depending on the pace and route you take. The restaurant is directly across the road from Anse Parnel Beach, locally known as Surfers’ Beach. This locale offers a tranquil setting with breathtaking views of the ocean, making it a popular spot to enjoy a relaxing dining experience.
Head back to Victoria
It should be about 7 pm, and if you’re planning to turn in for the night or head back to the airport, it might be time to hit the road. The trip back should take about 30 to 40 minutes, depending on where you are.
In total, this road trip itinerary is about 80 to 90 kilometres in distance, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. Ready to start your journey? Rent a car with Kreol Services and begin exploring the island of Mahé on your own schedule! Book now with our expert team.
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