Morne Seychellois National Park

The largest national park in Seychelles, covering over 20% of Mahé Island, offering diverse hiking trails through lush mountain forests. It's a haven for...

Morne Seychellois National Park at a Glance

Location
Mahé Island, Seychelles, Indian Ocean Islands
Coordinates
-4.676926, 55.451027
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
April to May and October to November for diving and birdwatching. Year-round destination.

Getting to Morne Seychellois National Park

Nearest airport: Aéroport International de Seychelles - Pointe Larue (SEZ), 8 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International de Seychelles - Pointe Larue (SEZ), 8 km away.

Weather & Climate in Morne Seychellois National Park

The warmest temperatures in Morne Seychellois National Park occur in March, averaging 27.5°C (up to 28.4°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 25.1°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in August with average rainfall of 72.1mm. Average humidity: 83.1%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.6°C (rainfall: 353.6mm)
  • February: 27.2°C (rainfall: 172.8mm)
  • March: 27.5°C (rainfall: 186.3mm)
  • April: 27.4°C (rainfall: 251.9mm)
  • May: 27.4°C (rainfall: 207.3mm)
  • June: 26.4°C (rainfall: 102.9mm)
  • July: 25.2°C (rainfall: 99.9mm)
  • August: 25.1°C (rainfall: 72.1mm)
  • September: 25.8°C (rainfall: 162.2mm)
  • October: 26.4°C (rainfall: 93.0mm)
  • November: 26.6°C (rainfall: 190.9mm)
  • December: 26.3°C (rainfall: 407.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Morne Seychellois National Park

The best months to visit Morne Seychellois National Park are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 26.55°C, rainfall 353.6mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 81.1%
  • February: Good, temperature 27.16°C, rainfall 172.8mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 78.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.46°C, rainfall 186.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • April: Good, temperature 27.43°C, rainfall 251.9mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 80.3%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.45°C, rainfall 207.3mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • June: Great, temperature 26.39°C, rainfall 102.9mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 80.7%
  • July: Great, temperature 25.2°C, rainfall 99.9mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 83.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 25.13°C, rainfall 72.1mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 83.1%
  • September: Good, temperature 25.75°C, rainfall 162.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 82.3%
  • October: Great, temperature 26.36°C, rainfall 93mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • November: Good, temperature 26.59°C, rainfall 190.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • December: Good, temperature 26.31°C, rainfall 407.6mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 81.7%

Wildlife in Morne Seychellois National Park

Home to 20 recorded species including 15 waterbirds, 1 reptiles, 1 marine & freshwater, 1 iconic birds, 1 tropical birds, 1 birds of prey.

Recommended Packing List for Morne Seychellois National Park

Based on average temperature of 26.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 81%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 26°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Morne Seychellois National Park

50 safari lodges available.

Other

ultra-luxury

Visitor Tips - Morne Seychellois National Park

Morne Seychellois offers a refreshing counterpoint to Seychelles' famed beaches, inviting us to delve into its verdant, mountainous heart. We love the challenge of its trails and the reward of panoramic views, revealing a wilder, less-trodden side of Mahé that few visitors truly experience. It's an essential journey for those seeking adventure beyond the sand.

Gate Times

Morne Seychellois National Park is largely open access, but for safety and enjoyment, we recommend planning your hikes during daylight hours, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. There are no formal gate times or entry fees for most trails, though some guided experiences may require advance booking. Always check local conditions, especially during the wetter months, as some trails can become slippery or temporarily inaccessible.

Tipping

While tipping isn't deeply ingrained in Seychellois culture, we believe it's a thoughtful gesture for exceptional service. If you hire a local guide for a challenging trail, we suggest around SCR 200-300 per person for a half-day hike, or SCR 400-500 for a full-day excursion, depending on the group size and the guide's expertise. Always offer discreetly and with genuine appreciation for their knowledge and effort.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Seychelles

Travel advisory for Seychelles

Morne Seychellois National Park FAQs

When is the best time to hike in Morne Seychellois National Park, and what kind of experience should I expect?

The best time to visit Morne Seychellois National Park for hiking is during the drier months from May to November, when trails are less slippery and the weather is cooler. Expect a challenging yet rewarding experience exploring diverse mountain trails, ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Mahé.

Beyond the Seychelles scops owl and bulbul, what other unique wildlife can I hope to spot in Morne Seychellois National Park?

While the Seychelles scops owl and bulbul are highlights, keep an eye out for other endemic species like the Seychelles kestrel and the rare Seychelles swiftlet, especially along higher elevation trails. The park's dense forests also harbor unique amphibians and reptiles, making every hike an opportunity for a special sighting.

Are there entrance fees for Morne Seychellois National Park, and do I need a guide for the hiking trails?

Access to many trails within Morne Seychellois National Park is generally free, though some specific, well-maintained routes or guided tours might incur a small fee. While many trails are well-marked for independent exploration, hiring a local guide is highly recommended for more challenging routes or for enhanced birdwatching opportunities and insights into the park's unique flora and fauna.

Given the moderate malaria risk, what specific precautions should I take when visiting Morne Seychellois National Park, and are there other safety concerns?

Despite the moderate malaria risk, it's advisable to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis and always use insect repellent, especially during dawn and dusk. Beyond malaria, ensure you wear sturdy hiking shoes, carry sufficient water, and be aware of slippery conditions on trails, particularly after rain, as the terrain can be steep.

How accessible are the trails in Morne Seychellois National Park, and are there options suitable for families with children?

Morne Seychellois National Park offers a range of trails varying in difficulty, from relatively flat, easy walks near the park's edges to strenuous climbs up Morne Seychellois itself. Families with children can enjoy shorter, well-maintained trails like the Copolia or Salazie trails, which offer manageable distances and rewarding views without extreme difficulty.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.