Anse Major Trail
Moderate hike through lush national park to a secluded beach, offering stunning coastal views and a chance to spot dolphins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Anse Major Trail
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Moderate hike through lush national park to a secluded beach, offering stunning coastal views and a chance to spot dolphins.
"Absolutely breathtaking, you’ll walk through lush tropical vegetation with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean."
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Proper footwear is crucial for the rocky terrain. Avoid sandals; boots are highly recommended!
💧 Hydrate & Snack Up
Carry plenty of water and snacks. Some reviews mention free food at the beach, but it's not guaranteed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Coastal Views
Along the Anse Major Trail
Hike through lush vegetation with stunning ocean vistas, granite cliffs, and hidden coves. Postcard-perfect photo ops abound.
Secluded Anse Major Beach
End of the Anse Major Trail
A peaceful, isolated beach offering a slice of paradise. Perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying the natural beauty.
Dolphin Spotting Opportunity
Offshore from the trail/beach
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins in the water; spotting them is a magical bonus to the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Footwear & Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Proper footwear is crucial for the rocky terrain. Avoid sandals; boots are highly recommended! +1
💧 Hydrate & Snack Up
Carry plenty of water and snacks. Some reviews mention free food at the beach, but it's not guaranteed.
☀️ Early Start is Key
Begin your hike early to avoid the midday sun and enjoy fewer crowds.
💳 Card Payment for Entry
The entry fee is 150 SCR and is payable by card only.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
Proper footwear is crucial for the rocky terrain. Avoid sandals; boots are highly recommended! +1
💧 Hydrate & Snack Up
Carry plenty of water and snacks. Some reviews mention free food at the beach, but it's not guaranteed.
☀️ Early Start is Key
Begin your hike early to avoid the midday sun and enjoy fewer crowds.
💳 Card Payment for Entry
The entry fee is 150 SCR and is payable by card only.
🌊 Be Mindful of the Sea
The sea can be a bit wild, so stay close to the shore when swimming.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Anse Major Trail's breathtaking scenery, describing lush vegetation, panoramic ocean views, and dramatic granite cliffs. The secluded beach at the end is a major highlight, offering a peaceful escape. While the hike is moderate and rocky, requiring proper footwear, the overall experience is highly recommended for its natural beauty and photo opportunities. Some mention the sea can be wild, but it's safe near the shore.
"Absolutely breathtaking, you’ll walk through lush tropical vegetation with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, granite cliffs, and hidden coves, t
he trail hugs the coast, offering postcard worthy photo opportunities"
Anis Izem
"The trail was amazing. Beautiful views almost all the way. If you are lucky, you will spot dolphins. I strongly recommend boots, not sandals or flip flops. There is free barbecue food and water once you get to the Anse Mayor beach. The sea is a bit wild, but it’s safe if you stay close to the shore."
Edita Styanová
"This trail is very nice and safe to do by yourself. No guide needed. It offers many very interesting points of view. End-up on the cute beach of Anse Major."
Arthur Mahieu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Anse Major Trail is located on the northwestern end of Mahé. You can reach it by hiking from near Beau Vallon or by taking a boat directly to Anse Major beach from Beau Vallon.
Information on specific parking near the trailhead is limited, but many visitors start from the Beau Vallon area. Consider local transport options or inquire locally upon arrival.
Taxis are available on Mahé, and you can likely arrange a drop-off near the start of the trail. However, be aware that roads can be crowded.
While public transport exists on Mahé, it may not directly reach the trailhead. Boat taxis from Beau Vallon are a popular alternative.
The most convenient alternative to hiking is to take a boat taxi directly from Beau Vallon to Anse Major beach.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee of 150 SCR (approximately €10). This fee is payable by card only.
The trail is officially open from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. However, some visitors suggest staying past 4 PM for a more private beach experience.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's always a good idea to check for any updates closer to your travel date.
Information on discounts is not widely available. It's best to assume the standard entry fee applies.
The fee grants access to the trail and the beach. Some reviews mention working toilets and showers at the beach, which may be included.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The hike typically takes about 1 to 2 hours one way, depending on your pace and the chosen route. Some opt for a shorter 25-minute climb.
The trail is considered moderate. It involves walking on rocks and can be challenging due to humidity, but it's generally safe to do alone. +1
Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots, comfortable clothing, and sun protection. Avoid flip-flops or sandals. +1
Yes, some reviews mention toilets and showers being available at the beach. A beach bar may also be present, though it might not always be open.
The sea can be a bit wild, but it's generally safe if you stay close to the shore. Enjoy the beautiful waters!
Yes, the trail is considered very nice and safe to do by yourself. No guide is needed.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers stunning viewpoints of the Indian Ocean, granite cliffs, and lush vegetation. Look for the bench viewpoint early in the hike for a great shot.
Sunset is highly recommended for breathtaking golden hour views. Early mornings also offer beautiful light with fewer people.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the Morne Seychellois National Park area.
The dramatic granite cliffs meeting the turquoise ocean, the lush tropical foliage, and the secluded beach itself are highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and water will help keep costs down, as dining options at the beach may be limited or closed. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive ocean and cliffside scenery. The secluded beach provides a serene backdrop for portraits or landscape shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Anse Major Nature Trail Experience
Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots due to the uneven and rocky terrain.
For those seeking an adventure with a stunning payoff, the Anse Major Trail offers a memorable experience. It's a chance to escape the crowds and discover a true piece of paradise. The opportunity to spot dolphins adds an extra layer of magic to this already spectacular hike.
Reaching Anse Major: Hike vs. Boat
+1Alternatively, a boat taxi from Beau Vallon provides a quicker and more direct route to Anse Major. This is a great option for visitors who prefer to save time and energy, or for those who may find the hike challenging. The boat ride itself offers a different perspective of the coastline and can be a relaxing way to arrive at the beach.
Both options have their merits. The hike offers a sense of accomplishment and immersion in nature, while the boat provides convenience and a different kind of scenic journey. Consider your fitness level, time constraints, and desired experience when choosing between the two.
+1
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