What to expect
Good to know about the Senpa Esplanade Craft Kiosks
Senpa was an organisation that supported and marketed small and medium-sized businesses and craftspeople in the Seychelles. Since August 2018 this role has been taken over by the Enterprise Seychelles Agency (ESA). You will still come across the name Senpa in guidebooks and on maps, though.
The Fiennes Esplanade Artisanal Kiosks reflect the colourful blend of cultures and traditions that is so typical of Seychellois society. The style mixes traditional and modern architecture, and the same mix shows in the products on sale.
The shady setting makes a pleasant place to browse and choose a souvenir. Several benches under the trees invite you to sit for a while.
What is on offer
The kiosks are small wooden huts painted in bright colours. They mostly sell classic holiday keepsakes: swimwear, T-shirts, sarongs, bags, bracelets and necklaces, wood carvings, shells, postcards and fridge magnets. If you are after authentic handicrafts, you will only find them here in part, as much of the range is aimed at tourists. The workshops at the Craft Village Domaine de Val des Prés offer a little more genuine craftsmanship. It is best to compare quality and prices between the stalls before you buy.
Name and history
The Esplanade has carried the name of a former British administrator of the Seychelles since 1919. Behind the kiosks runs the top edge of Victoria's original sea wall, which now sits at street level. The road therefore follows the old coastline, and land reclamation has since moved the sea a little further away.
Getting there and location
The kiosks are in the centre of Victoria, the capital of Mahé, on Rue de la Possession. This street used to be called Francis Rachel Street, and many maps and directories still list it under that name. The kiosks stand right next to the central car park.
On foot
From the Clock Tower it is just a few minutes' walk to the kiosks. The Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market is also in the town centre and combines well with a visit.
By bus
All public buses on Mahé start or finish at the bus terminal in Victoria, which is within walking distance of the kiosks. For current routes and timetables, ask the bus operator SPTC.
By car
Use the central car park next to the kiosks. Rue de la Possession was closed to through traffic for a time and was reopened on a trial basis in June 2024. Expect changes to the traffic layout and allow some extra time to find a parking space.
Opening hours and payment
| Day | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday to Friday | 9:00 to 17:00 |
| Saturday | 9:00 to 13:00 |
| Sunday | closed |
Entry to the Esplanade is free, and you pay only for what you buy. The following payment methods are accepted: cash only. Bring Seychelles rupees in small notes.
Duration, best time and tips
Combine your visit with a walk around Victoria. Close by you will find the Clock Tower, St Paul's Cathedral, the Hindu temple, the National Museum of History, the Natural History Museum and Kenwyn House.
Be careful when buying shells, coral or tortoiseshell. Products made from protected species often cannot be exported, and in many countries they cannot be imported either (under the CITES convention on endangered species). If in doubt, leave them and choose wood, fabric or coconut products instead.
