This 3-day itinerary gives you a mix of relaxation, adventure, and local culture—everything that makes Mahe so special! Find out why the largest island in the Seychelles should be on your travel list, even if you’re traveling on a budget.
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When you visit Seychelles, island hopping is probably high on your list—and for good reason.
But before you set off, make sure to spend time on Mahe, the largest island and the gateway to all that Seychelles has to offer.
While Mahe is home to Victoria, the capital, with its lively markets and culture, it still delivers that relaxed island feel you came for.
Although Seychelles is known for being pricey, Mahe has plenty of affordable local stays, takeaway restaurants, and free beaches, making it a great option for exploring on any budget (especially if you want to See the World, Save a Dollar!)
Having experienced it firsthand, I’ll share how you can make the most of your time here without overspending.
Ready to plan your perfect Seychelles getaway and make the most of your budget? >> Download the Explore Seychelles Travel Guide
Day 1: Arrival and Waterfalls
Mahe is often your first stop, as it’s home to Seychelles’ only international airport. Coming from the U.S., like us, it’s quite the journey.
Our flight from JFK took about 18 hours with a layover in Doha, Qatar. We used 38k points plus $7 USD per person—perfect for breaking up the long trip, and we couldn’t be mad at that price.
Want to know how to find cheap flights? We’ve put together a free resource on the best tools for flight deals worldwide, even if you’re not into using points and miles. Get it below!
How to Get Around Mahe
To explore the island freely, renting a car is your best bet.
We paid $54 USD per day, and it was worth every penny for the flexibility to visit all the unique spots on our own schedule.
Where to Stay in Mahe
Once you’ve got your rental, check into your accommodation. We stayed at Castaway Lodge, just a 15-minute drive from the airport.
The lodge has a spacious living area, open kitchen, laundry room, and a bedroom with AC. At $86 USD per night, it was the perfect affordable base for our stay.
For more accommodation options, check out our Explore Seychelles Travel Guide.
RELATED ARTICLE: Where to Stay on Platte Island, Seychelles: Waldorf Astoria Review
First Stop: B.O.B. Black Orange Blue Takeout
After settling in, grab a local lunch. One of the most affordable options is going to a takeaway restaurant.
We had chicken kebab, grilled prawn, and fried noodles with sweet chili sauce for only 130 rupees (~$5 USD per person) at B.O.B. Takeout.
It’s a delicious and budget-friendly find! Just remember to bring cash and note that it’s closed on Sundays and Mondays, and opens around 12:30 PM.
Afternoon Adventure: Port Glaud Waterfall
Next, head to Port Glaud Waterfall for a scenic break. During the rainy season, the falls are extra powerful, but it’s beautiful year-round.
Entry is $4 USD per person, and the waterfall is just a two-minute walk from the parking lot.
If you’re looking for an easy nature experience without a long hike, this is perfect.
For those who want a little more adventure, you can climb to the top along the left side of the waterfall for a different perspective – this was more my husband’s speed.
Whether you stay at the base (like me) or venture to the top, there’s plenty of rock seating to enjoy.
Just be sure to leave by 4 PM to avoid getting locked in! The parking lot gate closes at 4 sharp, and there’s only one way out.
Relax at Grand Anse Beach
After the waterfall, take a 15-minute drive to Grand Anse Beach for some relaxation. This beach has soft white sand and stunning blue water, but be mindful of strong currents and waves.
Always check the tides to know whether or not it’s safe to swim before visiting any beaches.
It’s free to visit, and while there’s not much natural shade, it’s still a beautiful spot to unwind (just be careful if sitting under palm trees—falling coconuts are no joke!).
Anse Royale
If you’re up for visiting another incredible, free beach, head to Anse Royale, not far from where we stayed.
With its famous granite boulders, it’s a great spot to end the day before dinner.
When we visited, there was quite a bit of seaweed, and the waves were rough during high tide, so definitely check the tide times before you go.
During low tide, it’s perfect for snorkeling, with crystal-clear waters and tons of fish.
Dinner at Maison Marengo
For dinner, we went to Maison Marengo, a sit-down restaurant with Creole food, fresh seafood, and live music.
Expect to spend around $25 USD per person. It was a fun, relaxing way to wrap up the day, and the friendly atmosphere made it even better.
RELATED ARTICLE: Tips for Seychelles Budget Travel
Day 2: Beaches & Hikes
Start your day early. Mahe’s tides can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check them before heading out.
High tide might cut your beach time short, but low tide can uncover some of the island’s hidden treasures.
Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable day!
Morning at Anse Takamaka
The day begins with a choice: are you looking to relax or ready for a bit of adventure?
- Relaxation: If you’re like me and love to take it easy, Anse Takamaka is perfect. The soft, white sand and bright blue waters make it a peaceful spot to lay out a towel and unwind. Plus, it’s free to access!
- Adventure: If you’re more like my husband and need more action, there’s a hike that leads to Ros Sodyer, a stunning natural rock pool. The hike takes about 40 minutes, winding through a rugged jungle trail. It’s a bit tricky to navigate, but arrows painted on the rocks will guide you. You’ll even need to climb a metal ladder at one point that’ll eventually lead you to Ros Sodyer.
Just make sure to go to this rock pool at low tide since the waves can get rough, and high tide might sweep you out to sea!
The Chez Batista Villas are beachfront at Anse Takamaka and they have a buffet breakfast available for about $10 USD per person for non-guests.
Beach Hopping: Anse Intendance
Next, head over to Anse Intendance, one of Mahe’s most breathtaking beaches, and also free to visit.
Its soft, white sand and turquoise waters make it a must-visit.
If you’re lucky enough to be there between October and February, you might even see turtles nesting on the beach!
There’s limited shade, so bring a sun hat or sun visor if you plan to stay for a while. And, of course, always wear your sunscreen.
Discover the Remote Beauty of Police Bay Beach
For a more secluded experience, drive south to Police Bay Beach—my personal favorite on the island. It’s much less popular than Beau Vallon Beach in the north part of Mahe.
Getting to Police Bay Beach can feel like an adventure itself, especially when the paved road gives way to a sandy, dirt road after you pass Petite Police Bay.
Keep going until you see some orange cones; that’s where you’ll need to park.
A short 2-minute walk through a narrow trail leads you to one of Mahe’s most stunning and remote beaches.
The water is a mix of vibrant blue hues, and since it’s less crowded, you’ll likely have the beach to yourself, making it one of the best beaches in Mahe.
It’s also a turtle nesting area, so if you come between October and February, you might spot some different species of turtles!
Best of all, it’s completely free to enjoy 🙂
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Beaches to Visit in La Digue, Seychelles
Takamaka Rum Distillery
End your day with a stop at the Takamaka Rum Distillery. The distillery offers free entry and you can also take a free guided tour.
They also offer a rum tasting session at the end of the tour for around $10 USD per person.
It’s a fun way to learn about Seychelles’ local rum while sampling the different varieties they produce.
If you’re hungry, there’s a food truck on-site offering sandwiches, seafood, and veggie samosas priced between $6 and $13 USD.
And if you happen to visit on a Friday evening, stick around for live music from local artists and DJs—a perfect way to end your night!
Day 3: Explore Victoria
It’s your last day in Mahe, so after checking out of your accommodation, it’s time to explore the island’s capital, Victoria.
There’s plenty to see before you head to the airport or ferry, so make the most of it!
Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market
Start your morning at the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, a colorful and busy landmark in the capital, Victoria. This is a great place to grab some fresh fruits to try and experience the liveliness of the locals.
You can also pick up some spices and souvenirs from the upstairs.
Keep in mind, the market is closed on Sundays, and they don’t accept credit cards, so make sure to have some Seychellois rupees on hand if you plan to buy anything.
Victoria Botanical Gardens
Next up, visit the Victoria Botanical Gardens. While the entry fee is around $20 USD per person—one of the pricier things to do on the island—it’s worth it if you want to see the famous giant tortoises and the coco de mer, which is the largest nut in the world.
The gardens are home to a variety of both endemic and tropical plants, offering plenty of space to stroll, relax, and take in the peaceful surroundings.
If you’re into wildlife, you’ll even have the chance to feed the large tortoises.
Leo’s Food Bus
Before heading to the airport or ferry, grab lunch at Leo’s Food Bus. For about $7 USD per person, you can enjoy some of the best takeaway food in Mahe.
They serve up prawns, hamburgers, and other tasty options. My husband said the sandwich he ordered was like a chopped cheese.
It’s conveniently located on the way to the airport from Victoria, making it the perfect final meal before you leave Mahe.
Departure
As your time in Mahe comes to an end, you’ll find yourself just 10 minutes from the ferry terminal or around 20 minutes from the airport, whether you’re driving, taking a bus, or catching a taxi.
If you’ve got some extra vacation time and want to squeeze in more adventure, consider hopping over to another one of Seychelles’ beautiful islands, like La Digue or Praslin, before heading home.
Exploring more than one island in this paradise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you won’t regret!
FAQs
How to get to Seychelles?:
- You can fly to Seychelles’ main airport, Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), located on Mahe.
How long to stay in Mahe?:
- A 3 to 5-day stay is ideal for exploring Mahe’s beaches, hikes, and capital, Victoria. This allows time to enjoy both relaxation and adventure.
How big is the Seychelles main island?:
- Mahe, the largest island, covers around 157 square kilometers (60 square miles) and is home to the capital and many popular (& free) beaches and waterfalls.
Is Seychelles African or Caribbean?
- Seychelles is an African island nation, located in the Indian Ocean, off the eastern coast of Africa.
Is going to the Seychelles expensive?
- Getting to the Seychelles can be pricey, but it’s possible to visit on a budget by staying in guesthouses, using public transport, and enjoying free activities like beach hopping.
Explore Seychelles Travel Guide
If you’re planning more island adventures, the Explore Seychelles Travel Guide is going to be your best friend, especially if you’re planning out your budget.
It’s packed with top recommendations not only for Mahe but also for La Digue, Praslin, and even Platte Island.
This travel guide will help you easily plan your time across the islands, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
Download the Explore Seychelles Travel Guide now!
