Joanna James
As the largest and most cosmopolitan island in Seychelles, Mahé Island is a popular vacation Mecca for the masses. Here are some child-friendly activities to enjoy in this little piece of paradise.
Tipped to be one of the most rewarding and exciting activity options children can enjoy on Mahé Island, horseback riding excursions are organized by a plethora of private and resort based tour operators. Requiring no prerequisites, families with children can embark on a horse ride across the white, sandy beach or explore the interiors of the island's tropical landscape during an outing. Relaxing and slow-moving horseback rides afford visitors the luxury to experience the beauty of the island at a leisurely pace while also enjoying a once in a lifetime riding opportunity. Stables, as well as riding centres, are available on the island and in nearby islands including Anse Cimitiere for the benefit for families. Note that horseback riding adventures must be booked in advance due to logistical reasons.
While children of all ages may not be able to sign up for a diving lesson, the PADI Bubblemaker course allows children as young as 8 years of age to learn the basics of the sport and engage in diving activities. Ideal for families who love to explore and discover new environments together, Mahé Island's warm waters make it the perfect venue to spend time underwater. With visibility of 30m and nearly 300 marine species to its name, the submerged landscapes off the coast of the island are some of the best diving sites in Seychelles. Big Blue Divers and other local tour operators offer and resorts offer diving lessons for the whole family so even the kids can enjoy this peek beneath the waves.
With the country's highest mountain occupying its confines, it should come as no surprise that Mahé Island is one of the top hiking hotspots in Seychelles. Children and young visitors with a passion for hiking, trekking and uncovering mountainous landscapes on walking tours can sign up for a walk on the wild side with the Boismare Nature Guide, Basil Beaudouin or Eko tours to discover Mahé's unchartered territories. The Morne Seychelles is not the only hiking spot on the island as the rainforests surrounding the mammoth mountain contains scores of indigenous plant species and fauna to keep hikers young and old engaged and interested during the excursion. Visitors based at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino or any similar Seychelles Mahe hotels can book a hiking tour with a local tour organizer via their accommodation provider.
As an activity that requires no swimming skills or any previous experience, snorkelling is another water-bound activity that's open to children. Witnessing the colourful coral reefs that occupy the fringes of the island's coastline, kids and parents alike can enjoy this captivating activity without stepping too far into the ocean. Snorkelling tours are also available through most resorts on Mahé Island where the warm water conditions create a thriving breeding ground for coral reefs and countless fish species.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
