When you think of a tropical island like the Seychelles, golden sandy beaches and turquoise blue waters come to mind. This is not wrong. But Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean on the east side of African continent, offers more than a beach vacation. On a trip to Mahé Seychelles, we hiked the Copolia Trail. I can’t recommend it enough.
This hike is one of the best things to do in Seychelles. The easy-to-moderate Copolia hike is absolutely worth the panoramic views it offers at the end of the trail. If you love nature and scenic views, Copolia Trail is a must-do in Mahé — peaceful, rewarding, and a great way to see Seychelles from a different perspective. Here is everything to know before hiking the Copolia trail.
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Morne Seychellois National Park
Morne Seychellois National Park, located on the island of Mahé, is the largest national park in the Seychelles, covering over 20% of the island’s landmass. It is a vital protected area known for its dramatic granite landscapes, lush tropical forests, and exceptional biodiversity. It reminded me of the Black River Georges NP in Mauritius.
Morne Seychellois Park is home to some of the most rewarding hikes on the island. For experienced hikers, a tour to the top of the highest mountain, the 905-metre Morne Seychellois (3,000 ft), cannot be topped.
Other official trails consist of Copolia, Mare Aux Cochons, Salazie, Trois Frères, Anse Major, and Dans Gallas. Visiting these trails is free for residents. However, the Copolia, Trois Frères, Anse Major and Morne Seychellois Trails charge applicable entrance fees for non-residents above 12 years.
Trails are open from 8 am – 4 pm, 7 days a week, with the exception of the Morne Seychellois Nature Trail which opens from 8 am -12 pm.
Reaching the Copolia Trailhead
We didn’t want to battle the public bus system to the national park, so we hired a car and river (arranged by the laïla resort where we stayed) to take us to the Copolia trailhead. The trail starts at Sans Soucis Road, marked by an official sign. Even if you drive to it by yourself, you cannot miss the small cabin where you need to pay entrance fees (for any non-resident above 12 years).
Few things to remember:
- Remember to take a credit card to pay the fee, they don’t accept cash. We had to help out a couple who only had cash with them, and no international cards that worked.
- There are no cafes, shops or restaurants in this area. So bring whatever water and snacks you need before or after the climb.
- I saw a few folks in flip-flops, but they mostly turned back midway. So do wear trainers or hiking shoes or firm hiking sandals (not flip-flops).
- Carry enough water on the hike for each individual, it gets warm and humid, and you will sweat a lot.
- Go early in the morning to avoid the mid-day heat.
- Definitely put on sunscreen and insect repellent.
Easy start to Copolia hiking trail
The Copolia Trail hike is easy to moderate, only that the incline is steep and relentless (488 metres in about 1.4 km). It took us about 1 hour and 15 min to climb up, we stayed at the top for about 20-25 min to enjoy the panoramic views. It took us only 45 min to get down back to the trailhead.
The initial start of the Copolia hike is easy. So easy that it looks like you will climb it in less than an hour! This path is under tree cover which is lovely to walk through.
Rapid climb
The path winds through lush forest with granite rocks and tree roots along the way—so good shoes are essential. It is only a bit ahead in the trail that the incline becomes steep, and there are boulders to navigate (this will be difficult during the rainy season or anytime after it has rained a lot).
The whole path, all the way to the mountain top, is well maintained, making it a safe hike for all age groups.
Open area before the finale
As you ascend into the higher parts of the trail, the climate becomes more pleasant, providing a refreshing relief from the island’s warmth and humidity.
The final reward at the summit is worth every step—a narrow metal ladder will lead you to a vast granite plateau with awe-inspiring panoramic views of Mahé’s surrounding peaks, including Trois Frères, Morne Seychellois, and Morne Blanc.
As you explore the plateau, you’ll have the chance to discover intriguing endemic plant species, including the pitcher plant, thriving at altitudes over 350 meters. We sat patiently besides a pitcher plant open up and gobble a small insect hovering near it, and quickly shut the trap!
Breathtaking views at the top
At the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of Eden Island, Victoria, and the turquoise Indian Ocean that are simply breathtaking. It’s the perfect spot for photos and a quiet moment above the island. I have not been this excited for the summit views except for the Glymur Waterfall hike in Iceland when we saw the waterfall over the cliffs for the first time.
There is a small shaded area where you can take a break from the scorching sun.
FAQs on Copolia Trail
Where is the Copolia Trail?
The Copolia Trail is in the Morne Seychellois National Park, the largest park on Mahé Seychelles. It begins at Sans Soucis.
How long is the Copolia Trail?
The Copolia Trail is about 1.4 km long. It is easy to moderate intensity. The hike is medium intensity in parts because of the steep incline of approx. 488 metres to the top.
Is there an entrance fee for the Copolia Trail?
Yes, for non-residents of Seychelles, there is an entry fee of SCR 100 for anyone over 12 years of age. This has to be paid NOT in cash but by a card. There is a toilet at the ticket office at the entrance, it takes SCR 5 to use it.
What is the opening and closing time for the Copolia Trail?
The trail can be accessed any day from 8 am to 4 pm.
What do you need to carry for the Copolia Trail hike?
Carry plenty of water, some snacks, sunscreen and insect repellent. Make sure you have good shoes or hiking sandals on.
Read about all the Islands that I have visited in the Indian Ocean –
Best things to do in Seychelles
Hard Rock Hotel: Maldives’ first multi-island destination
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What a reward after that hike, views that like are best when they are earned! Thanks for sharing!
What a great guide! The tips at the beginning seemed super helpful – Little things like you have to pay by card or that you realllly should wear sunscreen, you don’t always remember when you’re planning to visit!
Sounds like a great hike to take! The view looks amazing.