Seychelles National Park Wonders
Experience the unique beauty of Seychelles' National Parks, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts with their focus on preserving natural and marine ecosystems.
Visiting Seychelles National Park is one of the most unique and wonderful experiences, especially for wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts. With four terrestrial and six marine national parks, these islands are focused on preserving their natural beauty. One of the ways they promote sustainability is by creating these marine protected areas which help preserve marine ecosystems and endangered species.
Terrestrial National Parks
Morne Seychellois National Park
Located on the island of Mahe and covering about 20% of its territory this nature reserve is the largest one. The park features diverse habitats, such as mangrove swamps, tropical forests, coastal cliffs, and high mountains. The highest point in Seychelles, Morne Seychellois, is also located in the park.
This Seychelles national park has a crucial role in safeguarding the already delicate ecosystem by reducing the impact of human interference. It is home to numerous species of indigenous flora and fauna, including seven out of twelve endemic land birds. This place is a magnet for bird lovers and explorers from all around the world.
Good connected hiking trails are a perfect way of exploring the surroundings. A popular one is the Copolia Trail, which takes hikers through the park’s montane forests and up to a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of Mahe and neighboring islands. To reach the highest peak take the Morne Blanc Trail and Mare aux Cochons Trail to uncover the beauty of the mangrove swamps or roam along the coast.
Praslin National Park
With its high elevation and unspoiled palm forests, Praslin national park, situated on the second largest island – Praslin, offers breathtaking views that look like a work of art. Visitors can explore waterfalls and caves scattered among the park’s various habitats. It is also home to Vallee de Mai, a world heritage site since 1983. The rare and unique palm tree species, coco de mar, can also be found here and is endemic to the Seychelles Islands.
La Digue Veuve Reserve
The Seychelles national park La Digue Veuve, on La Digue Island, is primarily made up of forests and wetlands and was established to protect the endangered black paradise flycatcher, locally known as the “Veuve”. It is found only in La Digue forests and is one of the rarest birds in the world. The island is home to many other bird species, like the Seychelles bulbul, the Seychelles warbler, and the Seychelles blue pigeon. In the wetlands of La Digue live several species of freshwater fish, as well as the Seychelles terrapins, a critically endangered species of turtle.
Silhouette National Park
This relatively new protected region, situated within the marine protected area on Silhouette Island, is the third-largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. It was established in 2010 and named after the island, which is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity.
If you are lucky you may even get to spot the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat that lives on the island or encounter one of the giant tortoises, which can be seen wandering through the forests or along the beaches. Walk along the hiking trails that wind through the forest and lead to secluded beaches, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and explore the island’s coral reefs brimming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins and whales. Birdwatching is another popular attraction among visitors as the island is home to several species of rare and endangered birds, such as the Seychelles blue pigeon and the Seychelles scops owl.
Marine National Parks
Silhouette Marine National Park
A marine Seychelles national park that is located within its namesake terrestrial national park. Mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass meadows are the residency of diverse and rich marine life. It is managed by the Seychelles National Park Authority, which works to protect this unique marine ecosystem and promote sustainable tourism in the area.
Sainte Anne Marine National Park
As the oldest marine protected area in the Indian Ocean, it attracts thousands of visitors every year. Go on a glass-boat tour and take a closer look at the underwater life or experience it first-hand and swim with numerous sea creatures.
Baie Ternay
Known for its clear-turquoise waters and abundant marine life Baie Ternay is located on the northwest coast of Mahe Island and named after Baie Ternay Bay. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see the stunning underwater landscapes, such as pristine coral reefs and rock formations that are dotted with all kinds of ocean animals, varying in size and color. There are boat transfers available from Beau Vallon Beach, Mahe Island, a place where you will find the best resort on the island, Fisherman’s Cove Resort. It is a luxury hotel that will make your stay even more enjoyable and relaxing.
Port Launay
Port Launay is a Seychelles national park that was established to protect the coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests found in the area. The reefs in the park are some of the healthiest in the world, with a high diversity of coral species, more than 150 species of fish, whale sharks, sea turtles, and rays. The U-shaped beach is also part of the protected area and is a popular spot for picnics and barbeques, with several shaded parts and picnic tables.
Ile Cocos
This small but significant marine park is just off the coast of Praslin Island. Take a guided tour or a boat trip and learn more about the local ecology and marine life. Swim among the rays and sharks and experience thrilling underwater adventures.
Curieuse Marine National Park
Home to many endangered species, including giant Aldabra tortoises, hawksbill turtles, and the Seychelles black parrot, this area is a 20-minute boat ride away from the coast of Praslin. Aside from Praslin forests, this is the only other location where coco de mar palm trees grow. The park is also protective of its mangrove forests, which provide essential habitats for various marine organisms and nesting sites for birds.
Written by: Marko Pajovic
