Silhouette Island is the third-largest island in the Seychelles, out of 115 total islands. If you’re looking for a place where the rainforest meets the reef and the only sounds are waves and bird calls, this might be your spot. Roughly 30 km northwest of Mahé, this granite island is a protected national park and marine reserve, home to some of the highest levels of endemic species in the Indian Ocean. In this guide, we’ll cover the best hikes, beaches, and wildlife encounters, plus practical tips for getting there and making the most of your visit.
Silhouette Island is the third-largest island in the Seychelles, out of 115 total islands.
Nature lovers
Hikers
Snorkelers
Yes, if you prefer uncrowded trails, healthy coral gardens, and a chance to see giant tortoises and endemic birds. But it’s not a place for nightlife or budget dining — the only resort is upscale, and supplies are limited.
| Spot | Best For | Standout Feature | Time Needed | Key Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silhouette Island | Hiking, snorkeling, wildlife | Entire island is a national park with high endemism | 2–3 days minimum | Book the Hilton or a guesthouse in advance; no ATMs on the island |
Silhouette Island: A Living National Park
Silhouette Island isn’t just a pretty face — it’s a designated national park and marine protected area, often called the “Galapagos of the Indian Ocean” for its high rate of endemic species. The island’s granite peaks, dense rainforest, and fringing coral reefs support wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.
Approximate population of Silhouette Island, mostly living in the village of La Passe.
Hiking Mount Dauban and the Island Trails
The island’s centerpiece hike is Mount Dauban, rising 740 meters above the coastline. The trail winds through virgin rainforest, where you’ll spot endemic palms, incense trees, and perhaps the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat. The summit rewards you with views of the entire island and the surrounding ocean.
The trailhead is near the village of La Passe. A guided tour from the conservation centre is recommended for insights into the island’s biodiversity. The hike takes about 4–5 hours round trip, depending on pace.
The path is steep in sections, with granite steps and roots. Keep an eye out for endemic chameleons and geckos. The canopy provides shade, but humidity is high — bring at least 2 liters of water per person.
At 740 m, the summit offers panoramic views of the coastline, the lagoon, and Mahé on a clear day. It’s a good spot for a rest before the descent.
Start early, ideally before 8 a.m., to avoid the afternoon heat and potential rain showers that roll in during the wet season.
Anse Lascars and Anse Mondon: Snorkeling and Seclusion
The island’s beaches are uncrowded and pristine. Anse Lascars is a sheltered cove on the west coast, with easy access to coral gardens teeming with green turtles, rays, and colorful reef fish. Anse Mondon, on the east side, offers a longer stretch of sand and dramatic granite boulders.
During the wet season (November to April), the sea can be rough and visibility for snorkeling drops. The calmest conditions are from May to October.
For the best snorkeling, go at high tide when the water is deeper over the coral. The reef at Anse Lascars is just a few strokes from the shore.
Giant Tortoises, Bats, and Endemic Palms
Silhouette is a stronghold for several endemic species. The Seychelles sheath-tailed bat, listed as critically endangered, roosts in the island’s caves. Giant tortoises, reintroduced through conservation programs, roam the coastal areas. The incense tree (bois mangue) and several unique palm species grow only here.
The Seychelles sheath-tailed bat is found only on Silhouette and a few other islands, with a population of fewer than 100 individuals.
The conservation centre offers guided walks that link natural and human history, including visits to old plantation ruins and a cemetery.
Practical Tips for Visiting Silhouette Island
Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Getting There
The only way to reach Silhouette is by boat from Mahé. The journey takes about 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the vessel. The Hilton resort runs its own transfer, or you can arrange a private boat from the Beau Vallon area. There are no cars on the island — you’ll walk or use the resort’s golf carts.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Weather | Snorkeling Visibility | Hiking Conditions | Crowds |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | May–October | Less rain, lower humidity | Good to excellent | Best — trails are dry | Moderate (peak season) |
| Wet Season | November–April | Higher rainfall, more humidity | Reduced — rougher seas | Slippery trails, more clouds | Lower (but still pleasant) |
Where to Stay and What to Pack
The Hilton Seychelles Labritz Resort & Spa is the only full-service resort on the island, offering beachfront villas and multiple restaurants. For a more budget-friendly option, a few guesthouses in the village of La Passe provide basic rooms. If you’re still weighing which side of the island to sleep on, this interactive map of Seychelles hotels and rentals makes it easier to compare options.
Pack light but smart: reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, hiking shoes, snorkel gear (though the resort provides some), and cash — there are no ATMs on the island.
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For capturing the island’s scenery from above, a compact drone like the DJI Mini 3 gives you stunning aerial views of the coastline and rainforest. The 4K HDR camera and vertical shooting mode make it easy to share on social media, and the three-battery Fly More Combo provides enough flight time for a full day of exploration. If you want to document the underwater world, the DJI Osmo Action 6 is waterproof to 20 meters and shoots 8K video, perfect for the coral gardens at Anse Lascars.
Before You Go: Silhouette Island Questions Answered
How do I get to Silhouette Island?
Boats run from Mahé, typically from Beau Vallon or the Victoria area. The Hilton resort offers a transfer for guests, or you can book a private water taxi. The crossing takes 30–60 minutes depending on the boat.
There are no scheduled public ferries, so you’ll need to arrange your transport in advance.
Is Silhouette Island suitable for families?
Yes, but with caveats. The island is quiet and safe, with shallow beaches and gentle hiking trails. However, the only resort is upscale, and there are no shops or restaurants outside the hotel. We found that the slow pace and lack of screens actually helped Lily and Ethan engage with nature.
If your family needs constant activities or a kids’ club, this might feel too remote. But for nature-loving families, it’s a great escape.
What is the best time to visit?
The dry season from May to October offers the best conditions for hiking and snorkeling. The sea is calmer and trails are less slippery. The wet season (November to April) can still be enjoyable, but you’ll need to be flexible with plans.
Temperatures stay between 24–30°C year-round, so it’s never too cold.
What should I pack?
Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, hiking shoes, a rain jacket, snorkel gear (if you have your own), and cash. The island has no ATMs and limited supplies. A power bank is useful since the resort’s rooms may have limited outlets.
A good pair of over-ear headphones like the Apple AirPods Max 2 can be a lifesaver for quiet evenings — the ANC blocks out the resort’s ambient noise, and the Spatial Audio is great for watching movies after a long hike.
Is Silhouette Island expensive?
Yes, accommodation is pricey, and dining at the resort adds up. There are no budget restaurants on the island. If you’re on a tight budget, consider a day trip from Mahé instead of an overnight stay.
Explore Places to Stay in Seychelles
Feel free to zoom in and out of the map to explore the area and find the best place to stay for your trip.