A Visit at Seychelles Botanical Gardens: My Honest Thoughts on What to Expect
Have you been wondering how to plan a visit to the Seychelles botanical gardens and whether it’s actually worth your time? You’re in luck!
If the destination is your first visit to Seychelles, you know the struggle of planning all too well; you feel unsure about squeezing every little place into your already packed itinerary, especially when beach time is calling.
I understand your situation, as I have been there myself.
During our exploration of Mahé on our trip to Seychelles, my husband and I visited this place.
While it’s not a full-day activity, it offered a peaceful escape and some unexpected highlights (yes, including giant tortoises!).
So, if you love nature, a bit of history, and quiet strolls, this guide is for you.
Why should you visit the Seychelles Botanical Gardens?
If you’re a nature lover visiting Seychelles for the first time, the Seychelles Botanical Gardens could be just the peaceful break you need from all the beach-hopping.
Tucked away in the heart of Mahé, this garden is a quiet, green escape where you can slow down, enjoy the shade, and learn a bit about the island’s unique plants and wildlife.
Here’s a brief look at it to help you decide if you should go:
- Location: Found in Victoria, the capital of Mahé Island. It’s easy to reach, especially if you’re already exploring the town.
- History: A man named Paul Evenor Rivalz Dupont started the gardens more than a century ago, in 1901. He was a naturalist who wanted to protect rare plants. Learn more about the garden’s origins and its founder, Paul Dupont
- Size and layout: The garden covers around 15 acres. It’s not too big, so you can enjoy it in about an hour or two. Check out details about the garden’s walking trails and sections here. You’ll follow simple paths through different sections, from spice gardens to palm-lined trails.
- Why it matters: These gardens help protect Seychelles’ native plants and show visitors the country’s deep connection to nature. It’s a living museum of local culture and ecology.
If you love greenery, peaceful walks, and learning a little something new while travelling, this spot offers a gentle change of pace from sand and sea.
How to Get to Seychelles Botanical Gardens?
Getting to the Seychelles Botanical Gardens is super easy, especially if you’re already spending time around Victoria or staying nearby on Mahé Island.
It’s a wonderful little stop to add when you feel like a break from the sun and want to be surrounded by trees, flowers, and fresh island air.
Here’s how to get there:
From Victoria City Centre: The gardens are just a short 5- to 10-minute walk from the heart of town. It’s perfect if you’re already exploring Victoria’s markets, museums, or shops
From popular tourist spots: If you’re coming from areas like Beau Vallon Beach or Eden Island, it’ll take about 10–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic
Transport options:
- Bus: Budget-friendly and simple to use! Local buses run relatively often and stop close to the gardens; just ask the driver to drop you near Mont Fleuri Road
- Taxi: A quicker option if you’re short on time. But, it’s quite expensive to take taxis in the Seychelles
- Walking: As long as you’re already in Victoria, walking is a wonderful option. The garden entrance is easy to find and safe to reach on foot
- Guided tours: Some day tours around Mahé include a stop at the gardens. This is a beneficial option if you want someone else to do the planning.
There’s a small parking area just outside the garden entrance, so if you’re renting a car, you won’t have trouble finding a spot.
Whether you’re travelling on a budget or just love taking things slow, getting to the gardens is easy and low-stress.
How much does it cost to visit the Botanical Gardens?
What you should know regarding the price of admission to the Seychelles Botanical Gardens is as follows:
For non-residents aged 12 and up, the admission fee is 250 Seychelles Rupees (SCR), or roughly £16, while locals can visit free of charge.
Methods of Payment: I think we paid with a card on-site. Don’t worry; debit or credit cards are accepted. Check before your visit to see what methods of payment are accepted.
Opening Times: Every day from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. We went there at midday.
I can’t say when the best time to visit is, but it was less crowded than other famous tourist spots.
What You Can Expect to See at Seychelles Botanical Gardens?
The Seychelles Botanical Gardens is a calm, shady place that’s perfect for a slow, leisurely walk. It’s not too big, so you won’t feel rushed.
Relax and enjoy the sounds of birds and the smell of fresh plants. Here are five fun things to look out for:
1. Giant tortoises
Inside the Seychelles Botanical Gardens, you’ll find a special area where you get up close with Seychelles’ famous giant tortoises.
These gentle giants are one of the main highlights of the garden. You can see them up close and even feed them if you like. They’re slow, friendly, and super cool to watch.
These slow-moving creatures can live for over 100 years and are native to the islands. Visiting this area gives you a chance to learn about their size, behaviour, and importance to the environment.
I have to admit that when we went to these gardens, I didn’t know that, by feeding and interacting with the animals, I was unknowingly adopting many of the unsustainable habits that other travellers have.
So, visiting here is a wonderful way to understand why protecting these gentle animals matters. But now that I know better, I do think that these poor tortoises are being used for profit because, from what I remember, the guide almost literally encouraged every visitor to feed them in this area.
When you visit, remember that seeing them in a safe, natural space makes you more aware of conservation efforts and how you can help save these unique species.
2. Coco de Mer palms
These rare palm trees grow only in Seychelles. They have huge fan-like leaves and produce the world’s biggest seed. It’s a must-see for plant lovers! Sadly, we didn’t see the actual seed on our visit.
🤩 Also Read: Mahe to La Digue Day Trip: Is the Tour Worth It? (Tips & Guide)
3. Orchid House
Step into this colourful little greenhouse and see lots of beautifully blooming orchids. It’s a quiet space filled with unique flowers that feel like a hidden treasure.
4. Fruit Bat Trees
Look up, and you might spot fruit bats hanging in the trees. They’re harmless and just chill in the shade during the day. It’s a fun surprise if you’ve never seen one before.
5. Spice Alley
Walk through a path lined with spice trees like cinnamon and nutmeg. You can smell the different plants as you pass by; it’s kind of like walking through a natural kitchen!
This garden is perfect if you want a quiet break from the beach, surrounded by nature and a few amazing surprises along the way.
My Honest Thoughts & Tips for First-Time Visitors
After visiting the Seychelles Botanical Gardens, here’s what I honestly think. It was a peaceful and relaxing stop, but there are a few things to keep in mind before you go. Here are my takeaways:
- What I loved: I thoroughly enjoyed how quiet and calm it felt. The big trees gave lots of shade, which was perfect on a hot day. The giant tortoises were such a fun surprise, and I loved that they had a cafe to stop for a drink after exploring the garden areas
- What could be better? Some parts of the garden felt a bit old and could use a little care. I would have liked more signs explaining what the plants were and more colourful flowers because everything just seemed green. To be honest, as budget travellers, we thought it was a little expensive for what it was. But if we’re talking about budget-friendly activities for” Seychelles,” then visiting here is definitely cheaper than most of what we paid for other activities around the island. Also it’s a short visit, so don’t expect it to take a whole day
- Was it touristy or authentic? It felt more local than touristy, which I liked. It’s not super crowded, and you can take your time walking around without bumping into lots of people
- How long should you spend there? You’ll only need about 1 to 2 hours. It’s a nice way to take a break from the beach or sightseeing, especially if you want something slower and more peaceful
- Who would enjoy it most? After visiting here, I think this place is perfect for:
Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
If you’re a nature lover searching for a peaceful spot to take a break from all the beach hopping, then yes, the Seychelles Botanical Gardens is worth a visit.
It’s calm, shady, and filled with amazing green plants and animals you won’t see anywhere else, like the giant tortoises and the Coco de Mer palms.
It’s not a big or fancy place, but it’s a lovely way to slow down and enjoy something different.
It’s perfect for families, solo travellers, and anyone who loves nature and quiet walks. And since it only takes about 1–2 hours, it fits easily into your Seychelles trip.
Read More Seychelles Travel Guides
- How to Visit the Seychelles on a Budget (Yes, It’s Possible!)
- Mahe, Seychelles, to La Digue Day Trip: Is the Tour Worth It? (Tips & Guide)
