Morne Seychellois, Mountain summit at Mahe Island, Seychelles.
Morne Seychellois is the highest mountain peak on Mahe Island, rising to 905 meters within a national park. The terrain features steep slopes, dense jungle vegetation, and several trails of varying difficulty that wind through the landscape.
The mountain was designated as a protected area during the 20th century and incorporated into a national park system. This protection prevented development and allowed the forest and wildlife to be preserved for future generations.
Local Catholics traditionally make pilgrimages through certain sections of the mountain range during Good Friday, particularly following traditional walking routes. These practices connect the community to the natural landscape and its spiritual role in daily life.
The hike requires good physical fitness and mountain experience, as trails are steep and poorly marked in places, winding through unmarked bushland sections. Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and take care to stay on established paths to protect the vegetation.
The summit area hosts several bird species found nowhere else in the world, including a tiny rare owl species. These wooded slopes serve as a critical refuge for species that have vanished from elsewhere in the region.
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