What to expect at the market
A visit to this busy, colourful market gives you a feel for the people of the Seychelles and the way they live. Built in 1840 and renovated in 1999, it is the bustling heart of the capital and by far the best place to buy fruit, vegetables, fish and spices.
A number of boutiques and shops selling souvenirs, clothing and local art add to the lively atmosphere, which is at its best on Saturday morning.
Namesake and history
The market is named after Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke, who was British Governor of the Seychelles from 1947 to 1951. The sign at the entrance gate still recalls him. The building was put up in early Victorian style, and locals simply call it the "Bazaar". In the historic building, the upper floor has souvenir shops and craft stalls. Some of the stalls are now run by traders rather than by the farmers and fishermen themselves.
Getting there and location
The market is in the middle of Victoria on Mahé. The capital is so small that everything can be reached on foot.
By bus
Almost all bus routes on the island start or end at Victoria bus station, and from there it is only a few minutes' walk to the market. Timetables are posted at the bus station, but expect frequent stops and no exact times.
By car or taxi
Parking in the centre is scarce, and visitors report having to hunt for a space, especially in the morning. You will have a more relaxed time by taxi or bus. If you come with a hire car, it is best to leave it a little way out and walk the last few minutes.
On foot
It is only a few minutes' walk from the clock tower (Victoria Clocktower). The market combines well with a stroll around town.
Opening hours and admission
| Day | Opening hours |
|---|---|
| Monday to Friday | 07:00 to 17:30 |
| Saturday | 06:00 to 14:00 |
| Sundays and public holidays | closed |
These times follow Karl's information. Other current sources sometimes give an earlier closing time, 4 pm on weekdays and 1 pm on Saturdays, and at the replacement site the hours may differ. It is therefore safest to plan your visit for the morning. Entry to the market is free, and you only pay for what you buy.
Duration, best time and tips
The market is compact. For a walk round with some shopping, 30 to 60 minutes is enough. It is busiest on Saturday morning, when farmers bring in their produce for the week and the choice is greatest. Fresh fish and crisp vegetables are best found early in the day. In the late afternoon it gets quieter, as the traders gradually start packing up.
What is nearby
Around the market, the capital's main sights lie close together:
- Victoria Clocktower, the little clock tower in the centre
- National Museum of History
- Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception and St Paul's Cathedral
- Hindu Temple Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar
- Senpa Esplanade Craft Kiosks for crafts
- Seychelles National Botanical Gardens, a little outside the centre
If you want to see spices growing rather than just buy them, the Le Jardin du Roi Spicegarden is a spice garden on Mahé.
