Occupying 156km2 and home to 86 per cent of the country’s population, Mahé is the largest island of the Seychelles. It is situated in the north-east region.

When to go to Mahe

Best Time to Go

Largest island in the Seychelles

Range of activities

beach picnic, mahe island, seychelles, africa safaris

Brilliant beaches

Attractions in Victoria

constance ephelia pool seychelles yellow zebra safaris

Luxury in the Seychelles

constance ephelia pool seychelles yellow zebra safaris

With its sparkling seas caressing beautiful beaches and thriving forests shouldering majestic mountains, Mahé makes for a dream destination for families, friends and couples alike. Many of its hotels and resorts offer the ultimate in luxurious living, not least Banyan Tree, Four Seasons, and the sprawling resort of Constance Ephelia.

Activities

Home to Seychelles’ capital city, Victoria, Mahé is a brilliant option for a beach holiday, offering plenty of watersports, sites of interest, and cultural experiences.

Enjoy the watersports

Tour the Capital, Victoria

  • Due to its numerous public beaches, Mahé offers a comprehensive range of watersports from most of its properties. However, there are restrictions, including the ban on motorised watersports at Maia and limited activities at Banyan Tree from May to October, due to rough seas.

    Aerial view of mahe island's bays and forests, Seychelles - Yellow Zebra Safaris
  • Seychelles’ capital city, Victoria, is located on Mahé, boasting a range of tourist attractions, including the Seychelles National Museum, Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, the Clock Tower, and botanical gardens. Wander through the Jardin du Roi, a spice garden featuring interesting exhibits, or explore Le Village Artisanal, which intrigues with its historic plantation house and craft workshops stocked with souvenirs.

    Aerial view of mahe island's bays and forests, Seychelles - Yellow Zebra Safaris

Where to Stay

Aerial View Hike, Mahe, Seychelles

History

Aerial View Hike, Mahe, Seychelles

Mahé is named after Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais, though some accounts claim that the name of the island was bestowed upon La Bourdonnais! A lieutenant in the French East India Company, in 1724, he fought to capture the island. In 1812, Mahé became a British colony, remaining so until 1976, when the Seychelles gained independence. Today, it accommodates a wide range of nationalities. Its port services the economy via tuna fishing and canning, but the bulk of its revenue stems from tourism.

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