Gorilla Hike on Mahé

The Gorilla Hike: a playful walk on Mahé

The granite of the Seychelles is very old, and on Mahé you see it everywhere: in huge boulders on the beaches, in smooth rock faces on the mountains and in strange shapes along the trails. Rain and wind have rounded and carved the stone over a very long time. Some rocks look like animals or faces, and locals have given them names.

One of these rocks is the goal of our Gorilla Hike. It is a granite formation that looks like a gorilla. When you stand in the right place, the resemblance is hard to miss. It is a fun destination for families and for everyone who likes a hike with a little surprise at the end.

What to expect on the Gorilla Hike on Mahé

A guided trail through the nature of our island

The hike leads through the typical landscape of Mahé: green forest, granite and views that open up between the trees. Along the way your guide shows you plants and trees, explains which ones grow only in the Seychelles and tells you their Creole names. You may hear or see some of the island's birds and lizards.

The trail has a few climbs and some uneven ground with roots and stones, as on most hikes on Mahé. You do not need special experience. Good shoes, a normal level of fitness and some water are enough. We walk at a relaxed pace and take breaks whenever you like.

The gorilla and the view

At the rock formation we take a proper break. Your guide shows you the best spot to see the gorilla, and the best angle for your photo. From here you also enjoy wide views over the green landscape of our island. It is a good moment to sit down, drink some water and simply enjoy being outdoors on Mahé.

Why hike with a local guide?

Many trails on Mahé are not well signposted, and the paths can be confusing. Without local knowledge it is easy to take a wrong turn or to walk past the most interesting details. Your guide knows the way, knows the island and knows what to do in case of an emergency. Our team has completed first aid courses, we are insured and we always carry a first aid kit for minor injuries.

There are no dangerous animals in the Seychelles, so you can walk completely relaxed. The tropical climate is the main challenge: heat and humidity make every climb feel harder. That is why we keep a calm pace and plan enough time for breaks.

Your private tour with Island Tour Seychelles

Island Tour Seychelles is a family business on Mahé, run by Sheena Jean since 2020. Our whole team is licensed: each of our guides holds an official tour guide certificate. Together with our guides Chris, Kevin, Yannick and Keeto, we love to show you the many faces of our island. Our guides speak English and French, and Sheena also speaks a bit of German.

Every tour is private: only you and your partner, family or group walk with us, at your own pace. We pick you up free of charge anywhere on Mahé, whether you stay at a hotel, a guesthouse, on Eden Island or with friends, or arrive at the airport, the cruise terminal or the jetty in Victoria. The tour is paid in advance online, and you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start.