Silhouette Island

Silhouette Island is a mountainous granitic island in the Inner Islands of the Seychelles, known for steep forested slopes and a largely undeveloped interior. It is the third-largest granitic island in the archipelago and retains large areas of native forest and endemic species.

The island’s main attraction is its rugged interior and biodiversity, with hiking routes that rise to the central ridge and summit of Mont Dauban at about 740 metres. Coastal beaches and a small number of accommodation options serve visitors arriving by boat from Mahé.

Historically the island supported small plantations and limited settlement; in recent decades conservation measures and private reserve management have reduced development and emphasised nature protection. Parts of the island are managed for conservation and scientific study while a small tourism sector operates from the coast.

Silhouette sits approximately northwest of Mahé in the Inner Islands group and is reached by boat transfers from the capital, Victoria, on Mahé.

• Size and access: The island is the third-largest granitic island of the Seychelles archipelago at roughly 20 square kilometres, and access is by boat or limited scheduled transfers from Mahé.

What to See #

• Mont Dauban: A 740-metre peak forming the island's central ridge and main hiking destination, offering steep trails through native forest and panoramic views from the summit.
• Silhouette protected area: A marine and terrestrial nature reserve covering much of the island's interior and adjacent reef, protecting endemic plants and restricted wildlife habitats.