Silhouette Island, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Silhouette Island, a hidden paradise in the Seychelles with unspoiled nature, rich biodiversity, and a fascinating history.

Home
Travel Guides
Seychelles
Silhouette Island

Silhouette Island is a hidden gem in the Seychelles, offering an untouched paradise for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. The island is the third largest in the archipelago and is renowned for its dense tropical forests, mountainous terrain, and pristine beaches. The stunning landscapes are perfect for hiking, with trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints and secluded beaches. Silhouette Island is also home to a rich biodiversity, with many species of plants and animals unique to the island. The marine life around the island is equally impressive, making it a fantastic location for snorkeling and diving. Coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, turtles, and even the occasional shark can be found just off the coast. The island’s history is fascinating, with remnants of its past visible in the old plantation houses and the Dauban Mausoleum. Visitors can learn about the island’s colonial history and the colorful legends of pirates that once roamed its shores. The local Seychellois culture is evident in the warm hospitality of the island's residents, offering a taste of authentic island life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Silhouette Island.

Pack light, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking shoes to explore the island's trails and forests.
Bring your snorkeling gear to make the most of the island's vibrant coral reefs.
Visit the Dauban Mausoleum for a glimpse into the island's intriguing history.
Stay hydrated and use eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the delicate marine environment.
Respect local customs and traditions to enjoy a more enriching experience.

Explore Silhouette Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Pointe Ramasse Tout

Explore the serene beauty and vibrant marine life of Pointe Ramasse Tout, a hidden gem in the Seychelles perfect for adventure and relaxation.

4.9

Anse Patates

Discover the tranquil beauty of Anse Patates, a hidden gem on Silhouette Island, offering stunning beaches and serene natural landscapes.

4.7

Jardin Marron

Explore Jardin Marron, a breathtaking hiking area in Silhouette, Seychelles, offering stunning views and a rich diversity of flora and fauna.

4.8

Landspitze Dasha

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Landspitze Dasha on Silhouette Island, a tranquil paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Seychelles.

5.0

Best landmarks in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Constance Ephelia Mahe Seychelles

Discover the luxurious Constance Ephelia Mahe Seychelles, where stunning beaches meet gourmet dining and unforgettable adventures await every traveler.

4.7

Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Experience the ultimate luxury retreat at Kempinski Seychelles Resort, where pristine beaches and world-class amenities await your arrival.

4.7

Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa

Experience luxury and natural beauty at the Savoy Seychelles Resort & Spa, your perfect getaway in the heart of the breathtaking Seychelles islands.

4.4

Victoria Botanical Gardens

Discover the enchanting beauty of Victoria Botanical Gardens, a lush haven showcasing the unique flora of Seychelles and its rich biodiversity.

4.2

Best restaurants in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Del Place Restaurant

Experience exquisite dining at Del Place Restaurant in Seychelles with breathtaking waterfront views and exceptional culinary delights.

4.5

The Boat House Restaurant

Discover exquisite Creole cuisine and breathtaking ocean views at The Boat House Restaurant in Beau Vallon.

4.3

La Perle Noire Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Perle Noire Restaurant in Beau Vallon – where culinary excellence meets breathtaking ambiance.

4.6

La Gaulette Restaurant

Discover authentic Seychellois cuisine at La Gaulette Restaurant in Mahé, where stunning views meet delightful flavors.

4.4

Best bars in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa

Discover unparalleled luxury and breathtaking natural beauty at Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, your perfect island getaway.

4.5

Beach Shak Seychelles

Discover the flavors of Seychelles at Beach Shak, your go-to grill and cocktail bar for a perfect beachside dining experience.

4.4

Gecko Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and tropical delights at Gecko Bar in Beau Vallon, where relaxation meets island culture.

4.0

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience the perfect blend of dining and nightlife at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill on Eden Island, where delicious food meets stunning marina views.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa

Experience luxury and natural beauty at Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, an exquisite retreat on Silhouette Island with stunning beaches and world-class amenities.

4.5

Beach Shak Seychelles

Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of Beach Shak Seychelles, the perfect grill and cocktail bar by the sea.

4.4

The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Discover the lively ambiance and delectable cuisine at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill on Eden Island, a culinary and nightlife gem by the marina.

4.3

ＲＯＹＡＬＢＡＹＢＥＡＣＨＣＬＵＢ

Discover the vibrant Royal Bay Beach Club, where stunning ocean views meet delicious cuisine and endless water adventures in the heart of Seychelles.

4.9

Best shops in Silhouette Island

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market

Discover the heart of Victoria at Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where local culture, fresh produce, and unique crafts come together in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Eden Plaza

Explore the vibrant Eden Plaza in Seychelles for an unforgettable shopping experience with local charm and diverse dining options.

4.1

La Belle Tortue Lodge & Restaurant

Experience the tranquility and culinary richness at La Belle Tortue Lodge & Restaurant on Silhouette Island, a perfect getaway for every traveler.

4.7

Orion Mall

Discover Orion Mall in Victoria for a vibrant shopping experience with diverse stores, dining, and local culture.

3.8

Explore Silhouette Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Silhouette Island, mapped for you.

Silhouette Island Essentials

Silhouette Island is located approximately 20 kilometers northwest of Mahé, the main island of Seychelles. The most convenient way to reach Silhouette Island is via a 45-minute boat ride from Mahé, typically departing from the Bel Ombre jetty. Alternatively, helicopter transfers are available from Mahé's Seychelles International Airport, offering a quick and scenic 15-minute flight to the island.
Silhouette Island is a car-free zone, preserving its pristine natural environment. Most transportation on the island is done by foot or via electric carts provided by hotels and resorts. Bicycles can also be rented for a leisurely way to explore the island. Hiking is a popular mode of transportation, with well-marked trails leading to various parts of the island.
The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Major hotels and resorts on Silhouette Island accept credit cards, but it is wise to carry some cash for smaller transactions or tips. ATMs are not available on the island, so it’s advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Mahé.
Silhouette Island is considered very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings. The island does not have specific high-crime areas, but it is best to avoid isolated parts of the beaches at night.
In case of an emergency, contact the nearest hotel or resort staff, as they are equipped to handle medical and other emergencies. There are basic medical facilities on the island, but for serious medical issues, evacuation to Mahé may be necessary. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergency medical evacuation.
Fashion: Do dress in lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for tropical climates. Don't wear overly revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although Silhouette Island is not particularly conservative. Public Transport: Do embrace walking and cycling as primary modes of transport. Don't expect motorized public transport, as the island is car-free. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Bonjour.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and fresh seafood. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Silhouette Island like a local, take the time to explore its nature trails and discover hidden beaches. Visit the village of La Passe to see traditional Creole architecture and meet local residents. Engage in fishing or snorkeling excursions organized by locals for an authentic experience. Don't miss the chance to try freshly caught fish grilled on the beach.

When is the best time to visit Silhouette Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Silhouette Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Silhouette Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonzour
  [bɔ̃zʊʁ]
- GoodbyeOrevwar
  [ɔʁɛvwaʁ]
- YesWi
  [wi]
- NoNon
  [nɔ̃]
- Please/You're welcomeSilvouplé
  [silvuple]
- Thank youMersi
  [mɛʁsi]
- Excuse me/SorryEskize
  [ɛskiːze]
- How are you?Koman ou y?
  [kɔmɑ̃ u i]
- Fine. And you?Bien. E ou?
  [bjɛ̃ e u]
- Do you speak English?Es ou koz Anglé?
  [ɛs u koʊz aŋɡle]
- I don't understandMwen pa konpran
  [mwe pa kɔ̃pʁɑ̃]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ti a kontan vwar meni, silvouplé
  [mwe ti a kɔ̃tɑ̃ vwar mɛni silvuple]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manz vyann
  [mwe pa mɑ̃z vjɑ̃]
- Cheers!Sante!
  [sɑ̃te]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ti a kontan pey, silvouplé
  [mwe ti a kɔ̃tɑ̃ pe silvuple]
- Help!Sove!
  [sove]
- Go away!Alé!
  [ale]
- Call the Police!Apel polis!
  [apɛl pɔlis]
- Call a doctor!Apel en dokte!
  [apɛl ɛ̃ dɔktɛ]
- I'm lostMwen perdi
  [mwe pɛʁdi]
- I'm illMwen malad
  [mwe malad]
- I'd like to buy...Mwen ti a kontan achte...
  [mwe ti a kɔ̃tɑ̃ aʃte]
- I'm just lookingMwen zis pe gade
  [mwe zis pɛ ɡad]
- How much is it?Konbyen sa kosté?
  [kɔ̃bje sa kɔste]
- That's too expensiveSa tro chè
  [sa tʁo ʃɛ]
- Can you lower the price?Es ou ka redwi pri?
  [ɛs u ka ʁɛdwi pʁi]
- What time is it?Ki ler i ete?
  [ki lɛʁ i ete]
- It's one o'clockI en ler
  [i ɛ̃ lɛʁ]
- Half past (10)Demi aprez (10)
  [dəmi apʁɛ (10)]
- MorningMatin
  [matɛ̃]
- AfternoonApre midi
  [apʁe midi]
- EveningSwar
  [swaʁ]
- YesterdayYer
  [jeʁ]
- TodayOzordi
  [ozɔʁdi]
- TomorrowDemain
  [dəmɛ̃]
- 1En
  [ɛ̃]
- 2De
  [de]
- 3Trwa
  [tʁwa]
- 4Katre
  [ka.tʁe]
- 5Senk
  [sɛ̃k]
- 6Siz
  [siz]
- 7Set
  [sɛt]
- 8Huit
  [ɥit]
- 9Nef
  [nɛf]
- 10Dix
  [dis]
- Where's a/the...?Koté en...?
  [kote ɛ̃]
- What's the address?Ki l'adresse?
  [ki ladʁɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Es ou ka montré mwen (lo kat)?
  [ɛs u ka mɔ̃tʁe mwe lo kat]
- When's the next (bus)?Kan i annan (buss) swivan?
  [kɑ̃ i anɑ̃ (bys) sɥivɑ̃]
- A ticket (to ....)En tiké (pou....)
  [ɛ̃ tiˈke pu]

History of Silhouette Island

Silhouette Island, one of the largest granitic islands in the Seychelles, was initially inhabited by indigenous people long before European explorers arrived. Archaeological evidence suggests that the island was a temporary stopover for seafarers and traders in the Indian Ocean region.
In the late 18th century, French colonists arrived in the Seychelles, and Silhouette Island was named after Étienne de Silhouette, the French Minister of Finance. The French brought African slaves to work on the island's plantations, primarily producing coconuts and cinnamon.
The Seychelles, including Silhouette Island, came under British control after the Napoleonic Wars in 1814. The British continued the agricultural practices established by the French and expanded the cultivation of vanilla, coconut, and other tropical products.
Silhouette Island has a rich history of pirate legends, with tales of hidden treasure and pirate hideouts. It is believed that the infamous pirate Olivier Levasseur, also known as La Buse, buried treasure on the island, sparking numerous treasure hunts over the centuries.
In the mid-19th century, the Dauban family acquired Silhouette Island and developed it into a thriving agricultural estate. The family built a grand plantation house, which still stands today, and introduced new crops and modern agricultural techniques, significantly influencing the island's economy and culture.
In the 20th century, Silhouette Island became a focal point for conservation efforts. The island is home to a number of endemic species, including the Seychelles sheath-tailed bat and giant tortoises. Conservation programs have been established to protect the island's unique biodiversity and promote sustainable tourism.
Silhouette Island is a melting pot of cultures, reflecting its diverse history. The island's population includes descendants of African slaves, French settlers, and British colonists. This multicultural heritage is evident in the island's customs, cuisine, and traditions, which offer a unique glimpse into the Seychelles' rich cultural tapestry.