Mahe Island, situated in the Indian Ocean, is a breathtakingly beautiful paradise. With crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, it is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world. From catamaran cruises to leisurely strolls through the quaint, picturesque villages, Mahe Island offers a wide range of activities for all ages and preferences. In this article, you can learn about the history, culture, and attractions of this beautiful island.
Getting to Know Mahe Island
Mahe Island is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean and is the largest of the 115 islands that comprise the Seychelles. With a population of roughly 90,000, the island’s time zone is UTC+4. French and English are the official languages of Mahe, though many people also speak the Creole language. The island’s currency is the Seychelles rupee (SCR). While the Seychelles rupee is the only official currency, the US dollar is accepted in many places.
Climate and Weather
Mahe Island is the largest island in Silhouette Island, in the Seychelles Archipelago. The climate of the island is tropical, with the temperatures usually ranging from 24°C to 33°C. Humidity on the island is usually high, with an average of 77%, but it can reach up to 93% in the months of November and December.
Rainfall on Mahe Island is quite frequent throughout the year, with an estimated amount of 2,500 mm annually. However, the rainiest months are January and April, with an average of 327 mm and 250 mm in each month, respectively.
Mahe Island also enjoys trade winds (mostly from the Southeast) that help in keeping the temperatures cool between April and August. This, paired with the warm temperatures during the rest of the year, make the climate of the island very conducive to tourism.
Touring Mahe Island: Airport and Transportation
There are two airports in Mahe Island: Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) and Praslin Island Airport (PRI).
You can get from the main airport (SEZ) to downtown in Mahe Island by taxi and it should cost around 80-90 SCR ($7-8 USD).
Yes, you can change money at Mahe Island airport in the arrivals area.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Mahe Island
- Mahe Island is among the oldest inhabited islands in the world and is steeped in centuries-old cultural traditions and heritage
- Tourists visiting the island can explore authentic Indian cuisine and culture, as well as enjoy a plethora of beach, nature and wildlife activities
- There are many interesting archaeological sites on the island, such as the sacred Hindu temple and the Anse aux Pins Church, which illustrate the island’s unique history