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Silhouette SeychellesCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Silhouette

As your cruise ship approaches Silhouette, one of the Seychelles' largest granite islands by size, you will be tendered ashore as there are no docking facilities. Despite its size, Silhouette has a tiny population of only 130 inhabitants, offering a truly untouched natural experience. This island is distinct from its neighbors due to its volcanic origin and is named after an 18th-century French dignitary. It's even rumored that the famous privateer Hodoul buried treasure here.

Silhouette is a haven for nature lovers, completely devoid of modern progress, roads, or paths, accessible only by boat or helicopter. The island is dominated by Mount Dauban (740m), surrounded by a largely unexplored rainforest teeming with unique botanical species like the rare pitcher-plant, various orchids, rare hardwoods, and the incense tree, found exclusively on Silhouette. The island is encircled by a vast coral reef, providing crystal-clear waters perfect for diving, snorkeling, swimming, and fishing. This is a destination for those who wish to explore on foot and immerse themselves in pristine nature.

Getting Around from the Port

Silhouette island has no roads or paths, making walking the sole mode of transportation once you are tendered ashore. All exploration, whether to the rainforest or along the coast, will be done on foot.

Attractions and Activities

Given Silhouette's undeveloped nature, excursions focus entirely on its natural beauty and are primarily self-guided walks or water activities:

  • Rainforest Hiking: Embark on a hike into the largely unexplored rainforest surrounding Mount Dauban (740m). Keep an eye out for unique flora such as the rare pitcher-plant, various orchids, and the incense tree, which is found only on Silhouette.
  • Snorkeling & Diving: The island is completely surrounded by a vast coral reef, offering crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling and diving directly from the shore. Explore the vibrant marine life and pristine underwater landscapes.
  • Swimming & Fishing: Enjoy the calm, clear waters for swimming or engage in some local fishing.
  • Coastal Walks: Stroll along the untouched beaches and discover secluded coves, embracing the tranquility of this isolated island.

Dining & Shopping

Due to Silhouette's extremely limited population and undeveloped status (no roads or paths), there are virtually no independent dining or shopping options available directly from the tender landing. Visitors should plan to dine and shop back on the cruise ship. General shopping hours in the Seychelles are typically Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00, and Saturday from 08:00 to 12:00, with some shops closing for lunch between 12:00 and 13:00 on weekdays, but these do not apply to Silhouette itself.

Weather

Silhouette island in the Seychelles has a tropical oceanic climate year-round with temperatures between 77–88°F (25–31°C). The drier season from May to October is the most comfortable for cruising, with calmer seas and less humidity; the wetter season from December to March brings heavier rains. Light summer clothing, sunscreen, and a light rain layer for the wetter months are recommended for exploring this remarkably pristine island, the third largest in the archipelago.

Average Temperature (°F)
8278Jan8380Feb8480Mar8480Apr8480May8279Jun7977Jul7977Aug8178Sep8279Oct8279Nov8278Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
14.09Jan6.14Feb8.13Mar11.42Apr6.96May5.31Jun2.28Jul3.63Aug12.1Sep4.91Oct7.69Nov17.71Dec

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Seychelles rupee (SCR). While ATMs typically offer the best conversion rates, they are not available on Silhouette. Airports and banks on larger islands also facilitate currency exchange. As a reference, 1 Euro is approximately 8 rupees. Credit card acceptance is likely very limited, if available at all, given the island's undeveloped nature. The official languages spoken are Creole, English, and French.

Top Attractions

Show map
Mount Dauban
The highest peak on Silhouette Island, offering challenging hiking trails through dense forest and rewarding panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. It's a prime destination for adventurous trekkers.
Grand Barbe
A remote and pristine beach on the western side of Silhouette, known for its untouched beauty, coconut groves, and the ruins of an old plantation. It's a significant hiking destination and a nesting site for sea turtles.
Anse Mondon
A secluded and picturesque cove on the northern coast, accessible by a challenging jungle hike or boat. It boasts clear waters ideal for snorkeling and offers a tranquil escape amidst lush vegetation.
Silhouette National Park
Covering 93% of Silhouette Island, this protected area is a biodiversity hotspot, home to unique flora and fauna, including giant tortoises and endemic birds. It offers numerous trails for exploring its pristine rainforests and diverse ecosystems.
Anse Patates
A less frequented but beautiful small cove, offering a tranquil setting for those seeking solitude. Its rocky outcrops and clear waters make it suitable for quiet relaxation and exploring the shoreline.