Location and character
The little beach of Anse Mondon lies in the north of Silhouette, the third largest island in the Seychelles. It is certainly not easy to get to, and that is exactly why it usually stays quiet. The bay sits on the northwest coast, surrounded by forest and granite rocks. It is part of the Silhouette National Park, which protects most of the island, and the water in front of it belongs to the Silhouette Marine National Park.
The abandoned Anse Mondon Village
Just before you reach the beach, you pass a few ruins: the former Anse Mondon Village. In 1827, 133 people lived here, 112 of them slaves. There were about 10 houses, and cocoa, cloves and coconuts were among the crops grown. Around 1990 only 2 residents were left, and today the village is completely abandoned. For more on the island's history, see the Plantation House and the Dauban Mausoleum.
Getting there and the hike
Crossing to Silhouette
Silhouette is about 40 to 45 minutes by boat from Labriz Jetty in Bel Ombre on Mahé. You can book the crossing directly at the Hilton, the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, which some booking portals also list as Niva Labriz. The jetty is about 20 minutes by car from the airport. In my time the price was around €100 including lunch. Recent travel reports now quote about €125 per person for the return trip (as of November 2026, not officially confirmed).
According to reports, the boat leaves Bel Ombre at 10:00 and 16:00, and returns from Silhouette at 8:30 and 15:00. These times are not confirmed. With that schedule a day trip to Anse Mondon is hardly feasible, as the walk there and back takes at least 4 hours in total. Whether and how day visitors can currently join the boat is best checked with the Hilton in advance. The resort is the only accommodation on the island, and there are no other restaurants.
The trail from Baie Cipailles
To reach Anse Mondon, allow about 2 hours each way. The trail is quite steep and slippery in places. You climb almost 400 metres over 3 km of trail. The trailhead is at the end of the beach Baie Cipailles, and there is a signpost every 0.5 km. Good footwear and plenty of water are strongly recommended.
Directions: From the jetty at La Passe head north, either through the Hilton hotel or, at low tide, along the beach Anse La Passe. Continue across the beach of Baie Cipailles, and the trail begins at its end.
| Section | Duration | Note |
|---|---|---|
| La Passe harbour to trail start | approx. 30 minutes | Through the Hilton grounds or along the beach at low tide |
| Trail start to Anse Mondon | approx. 1.5 hours | 3 km, markers every 0.5 km, steep and slippery |
| Total per direction | approx. 2 hours | Plan the same time for the return |
According to older sources, the Belle Vue viewpoint at about 2 km offers a wide view over the coast. The beach can also be reached by boat, according to the resort. Beyond Anse Mondon there is no path any further, according to hiking portals.
Swimming and snorkelling
Anse Mondon is a relatively sheltered beach. Between April and October, during the southeast monsoon, it is a great place for swimming, snorkelling and picnics. During the northwest monsoon between October and April, however, the beach disappears completely, and only at low tide can a few patches of sand be seen between the rocks. At that time of year the hike is worth it more for the forest, the views and the ruins. You will find more on the seasons under best time to travel and climate & weather.
The water is part of the marine national park. Do not touch any coral and do not take anything away. It is better to bring your own snorkelling gear, as hiring it at the resort can be expensive. General information on the subject is under diving & snorkelling.
Facilities and tips
As far as is known, there are no toilets, kiosk or sun loungers on the beach. You need to bring food for the whole day yourself and carry your rubbish back out.
Nearby
On the way you pass Anse La Passe, the longest beach on the island, and Baie Cipailles. If you want to get to know the wild north, you will find the beach Anse Lascars there. More tours are listed under hiking. Please also note the Do’s and Don’ts and the advice on nature and environmental protection. Emergency numbers are under hospital, clinics & emergency numbers.
