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Mare aux Cochons
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Lake
Mare aux Cochons is a freshwater wetland on Mahé Island, located 3 km south of Victoria. Spanning 15 hectares, it is a critical habitat for resident and migratory birds, including the endangered Seychelles fody (Foudia sechellarum) and the yellow bittern (Ixobrychus sinensis). The wetland is fed by underground springs and seasonal rains, maintaining a constant water level. Declared a nature reserve in 1987, it is managed by the Seychelles Islands Foundation. A 500-meter boardwalk allows visitors to observe the ecosystem without disturbance. Invasive water hyacinth was removed through biological control in the 1990s. The site also supports the rare Seychelles tree frog (Tachycineta sechellensis) and over 20 dragonfly species.
- Location: Seychelles
- Top sights: Sauzier Waterfall · Morne Seychellois · Dans Gallas
- Nearby: Mont Fleuri (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 207 | 109 | 106 | 115 | 94 | 80 | 55 | 62 | 108 | 117 | 124 | 164 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this upland swamp typically involves a strenuous hike along designated trails starting from the higher mountain roads. Local trailheads are often clearly marked, though some entirely unmarked, wild paths certainly exist.
Best season
The drier months, generally running from May to September, are considered the safest and most comfortable for strenuous hiking. The wet season brings heavy downpours that can easily make the steep jungle trails extremely slippery.
Terrain & paths
Hikers will navigate rugged, unpaved terrain that twists deeply through dense tropical mountain forests. The ground is often heavily uneven, crossed by massive roots, and typically very humid and soft under the thick forest canopy.
What to bring
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent traction are absolutely essential to tackle the notoriously muddy trails. Carrying sufficient drinking water, strong mosquito repellent, and a lightweight rain jacket is firmly recommended.
Parking
Parking options are generally quite minimal and strictly restricted to small pull-offs near the trailheads along the winding mountain roads. Arriving early in the day helps immensely to secure a safe spot for your vehicle.
Safety
The dense forest environment makes it incredibly easy to lose one's bearings, so strictly staying on clearly marked paths is crucial. Sudden tropical downpours can surprisingly quickly alter the actual trail conditions entirely.
Time needed
A comprehensive hike deep into the wetland area and back out typically requires a solid time commitment of three to five hours. This heavily depends on individual fitness levels and the exact exploration plans chosen on site.
Geography
Facts
- Area: 15 hectares.
- Protected since 1987.
- Over 30 bird species.
- 500-meter wooden boardwalk.
- Water hyacinth control in the 1990s.
- Home to Seychelles tree frog (Tachycineta sechellensis).
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Mare aux Cochons (10)
Summit of Morne Seychellois
Top of Morne Seychellois (905 m), panoramic view across the island.
Aldabra tortoise enclosure
Enclosure for Aldabra giant tortoises within the national park.
Trail junction
Path intersection in Morne Seychellois National Park, several routes meet.
Port Glaud Beach
Sandy beach on Mahé's west coast, calm waters.
Anse Marie Laure
Sandy beach on Mahé's north coast, surrounded by granite boulders and palms.
Port Launay
Sandy beach in a sheltered bay, calm waters for swimming.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is Mare aux Cochons easy to reach?
The hike is moderate but muddy when it rains.
What is there to see?
A beautiful freshwater lake and lush vegetation.
Can you swim in the lake?
It is more of a marshy area, not suitable for swimming.
How long is the hike?
Plan for about 2-3 hours.
Is it a hidden gem?
Yes, off the tourist trails on Mahé.
Mare aux Cochons: where is it located?
Mare aux Cochons is located in Seychelles.
Mare aux Cochons: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sauzier Waterfall, Morne Seychellois, Dans Gallas.
Mare aux Cochons: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Mare aux Cochons: why is it worth visiting?
Mare aux Cochons is a freshwater wetland on Mahé Island, located 3 km south of Victoria.
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Bel Ombre
A coastal village in the northwest of Mahé, the starting point for hikes to the secluded Anse Major beach.
Foret Noire
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Beau Vallon
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Quincy Village
A suburb north of Victoria offering a mix of residential areas and local shops.
Perseverance II
The second phase of the Perseverance project, providing additional housing and community facilities.
Machabee
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Fisherton
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History & landmarks
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A prominent granite mountain on Mahé offering popular hiking trails with fantastic coastal views.
Point Lookout
An exposed rocky outcrop on the north coast of Mahé, offering broad views over the Port Launay Marine National Park.
🗺️
UCPS Quarry Cascade
A large granite quarry providing construction materials for infrastructure projects and house building in Seychelles.
Mont Jasmin
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Glacis-Trois Frères Habitat
A mountainous area on Mahé known for its pitcher plants and some of the world's smallest frogs.
Mont Bernardia
A mountain in the west of Mahé, falling steeply to the Indian Ocean and a prominent feature of the coastline.
Copolia
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Île aux Vaches Marines Habitat
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