About Coco de Mer trees
The Coco de Mer palms near Anse Possession on Mahé offer a quietly rewarding encounter with one of the world's most botanically remarkable species. Unlike the established groves on Praslin, this coastal setting places the trees within a landscape that feels genuinely undisturbed, free from formal tourism infrastructure. It appeals to travelers with an interest in Seychelles' endemic flora and a preference for natural attractions that require a little effort to reach.
Observing the Coco de Mer Palms at Anse Possession
The Coco de Mer is best known for producing the largest seed of any plant species on earth, and seeing specimens in a natural coastal environment gives that fact a tangible weight. The trees are visually commanding: tall, straight trunks rising into broad fan-shaped fronds that create a distinctive canopy unlike anything else in the Indian Ocean region. Their scale tends to make the surrounding vegetation feel proportionally smaller. The unhurried atmosphere here contrasts with more visited sites, and the coastal setting adds a particular quality of light and air that makes the observation genuinely pleasurable rather than purely educational.
Reaching the Coco de Mer Site
The area is accessible by rental car along Mahé's coastal road network, though visitors should be prepared for a short walk on arrival. A public bus route also serves this part of the island. IslandTour Seychelles, a Mahé-based family business licensed by the Seychelles Tourism Academy, can arrange transport to this and other natural sites using their 7-seater vans. Visiting in the cooler, drier months between May and September is generally more comfortable. Sturdy footwear is advisable, and carrying water is recommended.
- Wear sturdy closed shoes for walking on uneven ground
- Bring water and sun protection
- No formal entrance fee or managed visitor facility on site
- Best visited in dry-season months for more comfortable conditions
📷 Photos
📍 Location
Curieuse, PP9F+R72, Cap Samy, Seychelles, Anse Possession, Praslin, Seychelles Get Directions
🗺 Is the pin in the wrong place? We'd really appreciate your help — drag the marker to the correct spot and let us know. We review every suggestion and update the listing when it checks out.
💬 Reviews & Ratings
Know something about this entry?
Rate it, share what you know, or both — anything you know about this business, recent updates, or your experience. Submissions appear after moderation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Anse Possession on Mahé to see the Coco de Mer palms?
Mahé has a public bus network, but reaching Anse Possession typically requires a taxi or rental car, as the area is not well-served by regular bus routes. The road network on Mahé is standard, so self-driving is a practical option for visitors comfortable with local roads.
Is there an entrance fee or permit required to visit the Coco de Mer trees at Anse Possession?
No formal entrance fee or permit is mentioned for this site, which has no established tourism infrastructure. Visitors should confirm current access conditions locally before heading out, as rules around protected endemic species can change.
Does Anse Possession have toilets, a café, or other visitor facilities on site?
The description notes the site is free from formal tourism infrastructure, so visitors should not expect toilets, refreshments, or a staffed entrance. Bringing your own water, food, and any other supplies is strongly advised before leaving the main tourist areas of Mahé.
Unlike the well-known Coco de Mer groves on Praslin, what makes the specimens at Anse Possession distinctive?
The trees here grow in a coastal setting that the listing describes as genuinely undisturbed, placing them in a natural landscape rather than a managed grove. This means visitors see the species — famous for producing the largest seed of any plant on earth — without the signage, paths, or visitor infrastructure typical of Praslin's dedicated reserves.
What is the best time of year to visit, and are there weather conditions to be aware of?
Seychelles has two main seasons: the drier southeast trade wind season roughly from May to October is generally considered more comfortable for outdoor exploration. The northwest monsoon period from November to March brings higher humidity and heavier rain, which can make a coastal, trail-dependent site like this harder to access and less pleasant underfoot.
What should I bring or wear for a visit to this site?
Sturdy closed-toe shoes or hiking sandals are recommended given the lack of formal paths. Sun protection, insect repellent, and at least one litre of water per person are practical essentials, as there are no facilities on site to purchase anything.
Don't see your business listed?
Add your business to the Commercial Register — it takes less than a minute and your listing goes live after our team reviews it.
+ Add your business