Step off the beaten track with a family hike in the Indian Ocean and you’ll not only discover spectacular views but a new adventurous spirit.
Revel in panoramic views from the peak of the Mountain aptly called ‘The Thumb’
From mountain tops in national parks to UNESCO World Heritage sites here are our recommendations for family hikes with rewarding views.
Seychelles
Morne Blanc, Mahé
Set in the heart of the forested Morne Seychellois National Park, the trail up to Morne Blanc will take you through stunning mist forests only to emerge above them to reach the peak itself. Views over the mist forest to the west of Mahé and to the ocean beyond are truly breath-taking.
Glacis Noire, Praslin
Walk the trail up through the ancient palm forests of Praslin National Park and let the kids giggle at the suggestively shaped Coco de Mer, endemic to the island. At the peak you’ll discover a fire tower with views over the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Vallée de Mai, and the neighbouring island of La Digue.
Mauritius
With spectacular views inland towards Lion Mountain and out towards the lagoon with views of Ile de la Passe, Ile aux Fouquets and Ile au Phare the relatively low peak of Mount Brise in the southeast of Mauritius is well worth the hike.
Lion Mountain, one of the many spectacular views from Mount Brise
Named Le Pouce (the thumb) because the peak resembles a big thumbs up, the trail, which starts in Port Louis, is a long but easy one. From the top you’ll get sweeping, panoramic views of the island, with particularly cool views of Port Louis and the ocean beyond.
Madagascar
Bermaraha
This UNESCO World Heritage Site with its dramatic landscape of otherworldly limestone needles (known locally as tsingys) has a number of hiking trails leading to spectacular views. Some trails include crossing canyons of tsingys by rope bridge, which may not be for the feint-hearted, but the kids will love it.
Read More
- Check out our guide to the top views on Mahé
- Find out more about hiking in Mauritius
- Discover wild swimming in the Indian Ocean
- Read our guide to the top 5 walks in Madagascar.
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