Moyenne Island National Park - a grassy field with a body of water in the distance
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Moyenne Island National Park

4.8
·152 reviews·, Seychelles

A small island sanctuary in Seychelles, home to free-roaming giant tortoises and unique natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
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Moyenne Island National Park - a grassy field with a body of water in the distance

Moyenne Island National Park

Best Time

Mornings

Beat the heat and crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A small island sanctuary in Seychelles, home to free-roaming giant tortoises and unique natural beauty.

4.8
(152 reviews)

"Great natural reserve to spend 1-2 hours hiking with terrific views and lots of turtles."

Vertical photo
TIP

🐢 Walk with Giants

Observe and gently pet the Aldabra giant tortoises; they're a highlight for many visitors!

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

The 1-hour trail offers history, nature, and stunning views. Wear comfortable shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant Tortoise Sanctuary

Giant Tortoise Sanctuary

Wander among nearly 50 Aldabra giant tortoises freely roaming this lush island paradise.

Clamshell Rock

Clamshell Rock

Discover unique jagged rock formations, reminiscent of Madagascar's Tsingys, offering stunning photo opportunities.

Panoramic Island Views

Panoramic Island Views

Enjoy breathtaking views of neighboring islands from various vantage points across the island.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Hopping Essential

Moyenne Island is best experienced as part of a boat tour from Mahé, often combined with other islands in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. Book in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

Tortoise Encounters

Prepare for close encounters with Aldabra giant tortoises roaming freely. While friendly, remember they are wild animals and should be observed respectfully.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Beat the heat and crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy lunch at Jolly Roger
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Moyenne Island is a small island in the Sainte Anne Marine National Park off the north coast of Mahé, Seychelles. Island of exceptional beauty, now home to diverse plant and bird life, and nearly 50 Aldabra giant tortoises roam freely here. It’s free for visitors and can hike around the island. You can book a tour from local guides to this island with other island hopping. #travelphotography #trav...
girlwith.compass
45 likes • 1.6K views

🐢 Walk with Giants

Observe and gently pet the Aldabra giant tortoises; they're a highlight for many visitors! InstagramReddit

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

The 1-hour trail offers history, nature, and stunning views. Wear comfortable shoes! TikTokInstagram

Moyenne island is a small island situated in the Ste Anne marine park. It is the world's smallest national park! Home to more than 50 adults giant tortoises roaming around freely, Moyenne island is a unique place to visit. On the easy 1h trail that goes all around the island, you will learn about the history of the island, get to discover lots of endemic plant species, discover 2 beautiful seclud...
creoleodysseaseychelles
20 likes • 578 views
Our first close interaction with those beautiful creatures was an indescribable feeling! 🥹🐢 On our second day in Mahé we went on a boat trip with @creoletravelservices to explore St. Anne National Marine Park 🏝 and meet these cuties on Moyenne Island. It was a truly unforgettable experience. Facts about the 🐢: They are around 200 of them roaming freely on this island and we got the chance to see...
wholesomeboholife
1.1K likes • 37.6K views

🍹 Jolly Roger Bar

Enjoy excellent food and fruit shakes with beautiful views at this laid-back beach bar. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the unique clamshell rock and panoramic island vistas for great photos. Reddit

Book this tour @seyislandsadventures 🌊 The Marine National Park extends from Mahé’s coast around the five small islands: Sainte Anne, Cerf Island, Long Island, Moyenne Island and Round Island. 🏝️ From the small harbor at Eden Island we take the glass bottom ship towards Sainte Anne Marine Park. Without getting our feet wet, we explore the fascinating and colorful underwater world. An ideal excur...
seyislandsadventures
27 likes • 674 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🐢 Walk with Giants

Observe and gently pet the Aldabra giant tortoises; they're a highlight for many visitors! InstagramReddit

🥾 Hike the Loop Trail

The 1-hour trail offers history, nature, and stunning views. Wear comfortable shoes! TikTokInstagram

🍹 Jolly Roger Bar

Enjoy excellent food and fruit shakes with beautiful views at this laid-back beach bar. InstagramReddit

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the unique clamshell rock and panoramic island vistas for great photos. Reddit

🚤 Book a Boat Tour

Tours from Mahé are common and often include snorkeling and visits to other islands. InstagramReddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(152 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Moyenne Island is a highly recommended nature reserve, praised for its free-roaming giant tortoises and stunning island views. Visitors enjoy the easy hiking trails and the unique Clamshell Rock formation. While generally a positive experience, some find the island tours can feel a bit rushed.

"It’s one of the spots they take you to on the St Anne-Moyenne-Cerf island hop. Nice little hike, a little under an hour if you cover all the spots. There’s a lot of giant tortoises roaming around the trailhead and you can pet and stroke them.

The island has views of all the neighboring islands on a clear day. Not to be missed is the clamshell rock, the jagged features reminiscent of the Tsingys of Madagascar."

Khidhir Azali

"Very nice island. You can take an island tour following the path. Big turtles free. All tour takes around 2 hours with stop for photos in the nice points."

Petru Tichindelean

"Great natural reserve to spend 1-2 hours hiking with terrific views and lots of turtles."

Yotam Kadishay

What People Like

Giant tortoises
Island views
Nature reserve

What People Dislike

Tours can feel rushed

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Moyenne Island is accessible via boat tours from Mahé, typically departing from Eden Island or Beau Vallon. These tours often combine visits to other islands within the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, such as Cerf Island and Sainte Anne Island. Booking a tour in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, Moyenne Island is a key part of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, which encompasses several small islands off the coast of Mahé. Instagram+2

The boat ride from Mahé to Moyenne Island is quite short, usually taking around 15-30 minutes depending on your departure point and the sea conditions. Instagram

While it's possible to arrange private boat hire, most visitors experience Moyenne Island as part of an organized boat tour. This is often the most convenient and cost-effective way to visit. Instagram

There are no public ferries directly to Moyenne Island. Access is primarily through organized boat tours or private charter. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Moyenne Island is a national park and typically requires a fee for entry, which is often included in the price of boat tours. It's best to confirm this when booking your excursion. TikTok

Moyenne Island is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of day tours. The Jolly Roger bar has its own operating hours. Instagram

It is highly recommended to book your boat tour to Moyenne Island in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability. Instagram

Ticket options usually depend on the tour operator. Some tours might focus solely on Moyenne Island, while others combine it with snorkeling and visits to other islands. Instagram+1

The ticket price for a tour typically covers the boat transfer, island access, and sometimes guided walks. Food and drinks at the Jolly Roger bar are usually an additional cost. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can hike the island's loop trail, encounter giant tortoises, explore unique rock formations like Clamshell Rock, and enjoy the beaches. The Jolly Roger beach bar offers food and drinks. InstagramReddit+1

A typical visit to Moyenne Island takes about 1 to 2 hours for the hike and exploring the main attractions. Tours often extend this with snorkeling or beach time. InstagramReddit

Yes, you can swim in the shallow waters around Moyenne Island. The waters are crystal clear and offer a refreshing experience. Instagram+1

Yes, children often love the experience of seeing and interacting with the giant tortoises. The easy trails are also suitable for families. Instagram

Light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, and sturdy walking shoes or sandals are recommended for the hike and exploring the island. Don't forget sunscreen and a hat! Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Jolly Roger beach bar is a popular spot on Moyenne Island, offering excellent food, including fresh seafood, and delicious fruit shakes. InstagramReddit

The Jolly Roger typically serves local Creole dishes, grilled fish, and other light meals. Their fruit shakes are a must-try! Reddit

Food and drinks at the Jolly Roger are usually not included in the tour price and must be purchased separately. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to check with your tour operator. However, supporting the local establishment at Jolly Roger is encouraged. Reddit

Prices are generally considered reasonable for a tourist destination, offering good value for the quality of food and the unique setting. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the giant tortoises, the unique Clamshell Rock, panoramic island views, and the crystal-clear turquoise waters. InstagramReddit

Yes, the tortoises are accustomed to people and often come close, making it easy to get great close-up shots. Remember to maintain a respectful distance. InstagramReddit

Mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. However, the vibrant colors of the island are beautiful throughout the day. Instagram

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a waterproof case if you plan on getting close to the water or doing any snorkeling. Instagram

There are no specific restrictions mentioned for general photography. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Moyenne Island is a fantastic destination for families. Children are often thrilled by the chance to see and interact with the Aldabra giant tortoises up close. Instagram The easy-to-navigate trails make it accessible for younger explorers, and the island's natural beauty provides plenty of opportunities for discovery. Reddit

Consider booking a boat tour that includes snorkeling, as many families enjoy this combined experience. The Jolly Roger bar also offers kid-friendly food options and a relaxed atmosphere for a break. Remember to bring sun protection and hats for everyone. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Adventurers

For solo travelers, Moyenne Island offers a peaceful yet engaging experience. The loop trail is perfect for a self-guided exploration, allowing you to set your own pace and immerse yourself in nature. Instagram+1 The opportunity to encounter giant tortoises and enjoy stunning island views provides ample photo opportunities and memorable moments. Reddit

Many boat tours cater to solo travelers, offering a chance to meet other visitors. The Jolly Roger bar is also a great place to relax, enjoy a drink, and perhaps strike up a conversation with locals or fellow travelers. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Moyenne Island is a photographer's dream, offering diverse subjects from wildlife to landscapes. The free-roaming giant tortoises provide incredible close-up opportunities, while the unique Clamshell Rock and panoramic island vistas offer dramatic compositions. Reddit

Aim for morning light for softer shadows and fewer crowds. The crystal-clear waters also present opportunities for underwater photography if you bring a waterproof camera or case. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Brendon Grimshaw

Moyenne Island's transformation from a neglected wasteland to a thriving nature reserve is largely thanks to the vision of Brendon Grimshaw. He purchased the island for a mere £8,000 in the 1960s/70s, intending to preserve its natural beauty rather than develop it for luxury. Instagram+2

Grimshaw, a former newspaper editor from Yorkshire, England, dedicated his life to this project. He single-handedly planted trees, cleared paths, and worked to restore the island's flora and fauna. His efforts laid the groundwork for its designation as a national park and a sanctuary for wildlife, particularly the Aldabra giant tortoises. His story is a testament to conservation and a unique chapter in the Seychelles' history. Instagram+1

Visitors can still see remnants of his work, including his former home's foundations and some of the graves on the island, adding a layer of historical intrigue to the natural beauty. Reddit

Encountering the Gentle Giants

One of the most captivating aspects of Moyenne Island is the presence of Aldabra giant tortoises. These magnificent creatures roam freely across the island, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity for close encounters. InstagramReddit+1

With nearly 50 adult tortoises calling Moyenne home, sightings are almost guaranteed. Visitors often describe the experience of walking among them as 'indescribable' and 'unforgettable.' While they are wild animals, they are generally docile and accustomed to human presence, allowing for gentle petting and observation. InstagramReddit

Conservation efforts on the island have been crucial in maintaining this thriving tortoise population. Observing these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat is a highlight for many, providing a unique connection to nature and a memorable part of any visit to Moyenne Island. Reddit

Exploring the Island's Trails and Views

Moyenne Island, despite its small size, offers a rewarding hiking experience. A well-maintained loop trail, taking approximately one hour to complete, circumnavigates the island, revealing its diverse landscapes and historical points of interest. Instagram+1

As you traverse the paths, you'll encounter lush vegetation, unique rock formations like the striking Clamshell Rock, and numerous Aldabra giant tortoises. The trail also leads to various vantage points offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding islands, including Mahé, Cerf Island, and Sainte Anne. Reddit

These viewpoints are perfect for photography and appreciating the beauty of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. The combination of natural scenery, wildlife encounters, and historical remnants makes the island hike a comprehensive and engaging activity. Reddit

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