Around the midriff of the earth, very close to the equator, an archipelago constitutes the sovereign state of Seychelles. To the readers who are thinking right out of their geography books, who says that equator is the hottest part of the earth with an extreme climate etc., You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the breathtaking landscapes, maritime climate and the rich natural resources of this place. One of the most popular islands in the whole of the archipelago is Mahe. Mahe is known for its picturesque landscapes and the Morne Seychellois National Park. The national park occupies a total area of 3,045 hectares which comprise of 20 percent of the total area of Mahe. The national park stretches right from the coast to the highest point of the mountain.
Morne Seychellois National Park: Things you need to know
How to reach Morne Seychellois National Park
Morne Seychellois National Park can be approached from the bay of Anse Major. Though the national park cannot be entirely covered by car, bus or any other vehicle, you can reach up to Bel Ombre or Danzil by can and then again board to bus till the terminus. Thereafter, your only vehicle will be your own feet. The thick mangrove makes it impossible for any vehicle to trespass. Also it is advisable to take a guide along as long as you don’t want to find a home for yourself for the rest of your life in this forest.
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Best time to visit Morne Seychellois National Park
It is to visit Morne Seychelles National Park during the months of April, May, October and November. During this time the climatic conditions are milder for trekking through the wild or getting involved into some beach activities. These are the transition time between the hot and humid weather and the colder months. Though the climatic conditions are by and large the same throughout the year, the spring and autumn months are considered to be a wee bit pleasant that the rest of the year.
Must Read: Seychelles Food: From Shark Chutney To Bat Curry, Try The Bizarre Cuisine On The Island
History of Morne Seychellois National Park
Seychelles has been under the French and the British rule consecutively till the year 1976 when it became independent. The forests on the island of Mahe has attracted traders from all over the world for timber and spices reserve it has hidden under it thick mangroves. However, now, the Seychelles Government has become very strict about their policies of conservations for protecting the endemic species of flora and fauna in Morne Seychellois National Park.
Flora and fauna at Morne Seychellois National Park
A thick web of secondary forest, shrubs, intermittent cliffs and huge blocks of granite are some of the features that greet you as you begin your journey to the highest peak of the island. It is not before walking 600 meters upwards that you get to enter the primary forest. Innumerable endemic plant species greet you on your way – half of them you have never imagined could even exist. This area is also seat for some rare and most sought after spices, tea plantation and many more. One of the star attractions here is the pitcher plant that is known to consume insects that sit on them. Like these there also many poisonous plants so tread with care.
The national park is home to some of the beautiful birds that include blue pegions, kestrels, scoop owls, bulbuls, swiftlets, white eyes and sunbirds of Selchelles. The Aladabra Gian turtle can be seen lazing around on the beach or clustered on granite boulders. Other mammals found in this region include fruit bats and tenrecs; and chameleons, frogs, stick insects and snakes among reptiles.
Suggested Read: 5 Water Sports In Seychelles That’ll Let You Dive In The Azure Ocean!
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Places of attraction at Morne Seychellois National Park
The very first look of the island welcomes you with its powdery beaches, granite boulders, coral reefs and crystal clear water. The island is a beautiful blend of oceanic beach, caves, mountains and waterfalls. The landscapes seem to have come to life from an artist’s canvas. The thick web of the rainforest is home to diverse plants and animals, many of which are even rare and endangered. A guided tour through the Morne Seychellois National Park will prove to be a life-changing experience for a traveler.
The world of wonders that it opens in front of makes your eyes go wide open and at the same time you are skeptical to even touch it. Be it the giant coconuts or the giant tortoises lazing and sunbathing on the sea beach will make you get the real essence of nature. There are many places of attraction around Morne Seychellois National Park.
Suggested Read: Praslin Island: A Picturesque Emerald Of The Seychelles!
1. Copolia Trail
The breathtaking view while you stride up through the rainforest to the top of the plateau takes more or less 25 to 45 minutes. Here you can get the top view of the entire Mahe island. With the forest at your back, the entire city can be seen and the view is awesome to say the least. It is advisable to start early and be completely prepared with all your trekking gears.
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2. La Misere Exotics Garden Centre
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The vivid range of tropical plants that are found in this garden is simply unthinkable. It is a perfect heaven for botanists and gardening enthusiasts. Once you enter the garden, a guided map is handed over to you for a successful self tour. The compact and composed garden is also marked with turtles, birds and a pond full of fishes. Most importantly, the staff is very cooperative and hospitable towards the guests.
Suggested Read: Silhouette Island: A Pristine & Stunning Isle Of Seychelles
3. Trois Freres Trail
Yet another green belt that is easy for even lone travelers. The trek route is marked with small streams and granite boulders with ropes reinforced to facilitate climbing. There is also a tea factory for people who want to take a look. The picturesque view from the top is worth the trek and the sweat. The forest is nothing different, but the view of the city, the beach and the ocean is something really refreshing and rejuvenating to the core.
Further Read: How To Plan The Perfect Honeymoon Trip To Seychelles
Irresistible, isn’t it? You can also plan a trip to Seychelles with your partner or family to enjoy in this heaven-like island nation.
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A journalism graduate with a love for reading, writing, and travel, Kiran has trekked through various offbeat paths in the Himalayas. She writes travel stories and indulges in landscape photography every now and then, which, considering where you’re reading this, makes perfect sense.
