The challenge to climb the highest peak in the country is on, with the official reopening of the Morne Seychellois Nature trail.
The trail was reopened yesterday following months of renovation work to beautify the area and to make it more secure for hikers.
The project is a joint partnership between H Savy Insurance and the Seychelles Parks and Garden’s Authority.
Morne Seychellois trail, which is located in the Morne Seychellois National Park, is 2.3km long and it takes about 3 hours to reach the 905m peak.
Following its official opening yesterday, a first group of visitors which included HSI and SPGA staff together with the local media got the opportunity to experience the first part of the trail.
It took them about 2 hours to reach the first viewpoint and back to the entrance of the trail.
“I’ve been on numerous trails in the country such as Trois Feres, Anse Major, Mare Aux Cochons and others, but Morne Seychellois certainly is the toughest I’ve ever been on,” said HSI staff, Chrissy Hoareau.
“Despite being the hardest, the hike was the most fun I’ve had on a trail. The new accessories, such as ladders and climbing ropes was a fresh and exciting experience, which made the journey more thrilling. Not forgetting the view, which was without a doubt, breathtaking. I will certainly return to complete the trail one of these days,” said Chrissy.
The Morne Seychellois Nature Trail which is opened daily is free for locals, and a fee of SCR250 applies for non-residents. For safety reasons, all hikers must register at the kiosk before they access the trail and non-residents must be accompanied by a licensed tour guide.
As one of the main partners in the project HSI hopes that hikers will enjoy the rich biodiversity that the highest peak in the country has to offer. And that the nature trail will contribute positively towards efforts by local tourism partners to promote Seychelles not only as a Sun, Sea and Sand destination, but also offer cultural and environmental attractions that are unique to the archipelago.