When it comes to Seychelles on La Digue, most travelers flock to the iconic Anse Source d’Argent or the popular beaches like Grand Anse. But for those craving a truly off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Anse Marron Tour offers an experience that’s as rewarding as it is challenging. Based on hundreds of rave reviews, this tour is a favorite among travelers who love a blend of nature, physical activity, and authentic Seychelles scenery.
What makes this trip stand out? First, the guided hike through lush forests and rocky terrain promises stunning views and a sense of accomplishment. Second, the isolated beach of Anse Marron is one of the most beautiful and hard-to-reach spots on the island, giving you that “secret paradise” feeling. Third, the personalized small-group setting ensures you get the attention and insights of a knowledgeable guide. The only catch? It’s not a walk in the park—this tour demands a moderate level of fitness and a good pair of shoes. If you’re up for a physical challenge and love discovering untouched beaches, this experience is a must. Those with mobility issues or very low fitness levels might want to reconsider.
Key Points
- Small group size provides a more personal, engaging experience.
- Challenging terrain means good footwear and moderate fitness are essential.
- Stunning views and secluded beaches make the effort worthwhile.
- Expert guides like Gerard and Staina bring local knowledge and humor.
- Includes a delicious light lunch served on the beach.
- End your day at the famous Anse Source d’Argent or explore Union Estate Park.
What Makes the Anse Marron Tour Special?
This tour offers more than just a beach visit; it’s an adventure that combines hiking, nature, and local insights. While Seychelles is famous for its postcard-perfect beaches, Anse Marron remains relatively under-the-radar, accessible only via a rugged hike. This exclusivity appeals to travelers who want to escape crowds and experience something truly authentic.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start at Grand Anse — a beautiful, expansive beach, perfect for meeting your guide Gerard or Staina. From here, you’ll hop into transport and begin your trek toward Anse Marron. The walk takes you through dense tropical forest, across open fields, and over granite boulders—the kind of terrain that keeps things interesting and offers fantastic photo opportunities. One reviewer mentioned that the terrain “keeps being interesting,” with a changing landscape that prevents boredom.
Midway stop at Anse Marron — here, the landscape opens up into a vast sandy stretch with intriguing rock formations and a lagoon protected by rocks. The highlight? A light lunch served right on the sands, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Multiple reviews, including a featured one, describe this as a “paradise” with tropical fish swimming nearby, and the lunch is praised for being simple but delicious—mostly fresh fruits and refreshing water.
The final stop at Anse Source d’Argent — after your beach retreat, you’ll visit the world-famous beach with its iconic granite boulders. Travelers love this spot for its picture-perfect scenery and relaxing atmosphere. If you have extra time, you can walk towards the starting point with Gerard or just soak in the views.
Optional walk through Union Estate Park — if time permits, you can explore the estate with giant tortoises, a vanilla plantation, and an old plantation house turned museum. While not included in the tour price, it’s a popular add-on for those wanting to extend their island experience.
The Hiking Experience: Terrain and Challenges
This isn’t a casual stroll but rather a walk that involves scrambling over rocks, balancing on granite boulders, and navigating uneven surfaces. This aspect is often highlighted positively by reviews—many describe it as “spectacular,” “adventurous,” and “challenging but worth it.” Gerard, the guide, is especially praised for his safety awareness and his ability to make the group feel secure even through tricky passages.
Reviewers repeatedly mention that a good pair of shoes—preferably trekking or water shoes—is essential. Flip-flops are a no-go here. The terrain includes steep sections, narrow passages between rocks, and some water crossings, so confidence in your walking skills is necessary. One reviewer noted that the tour “really requires some balancing skills,” emphasizing that it’s best suited for travelers with a moderate fitness level and some agility.
What Reviewers Say About the Guide
The guides, especially Gerard and Staina, receive glowing praise for their knowledge and personality. Gerard, in particular, is seen as passionate, charismatic, and full of stories about the islands, making the hike not only scenic but educational. Several reviews mention how Gerard’s storytelling and friendly attitude turned the hike into a memorable adventure, with one describing him as “a real character” who clearly loves his land.
The Light Lunch
The included lunch is simple but highly regarded, often consisting of fresh fruit served on a woven basket, adding an authentic and personal touch to the experience. Many say that the lunch alone makes the trip worth it, especially after a challenging hike.
The Experience and Its Value
At $57.93 per person, this tour offers remarkable value when you consider the personalized guiding, the exclusive access to Anse Marron, and the quality of the experience. Compared to typical beach visits, this tour provides a combination of physical activity, education, and untouched scenery that’s hard to beat for the price.
It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate adventure, are physically capable, and want to see parts of La Digue that few visitors do. The tour is capped at 8 people, ensuring you get attention from your guide and a more intimate experience.
The Ending: Relaxing or Exploring More
Once back, you can choose to relax at Anse Source d’Argent, one of the most photographed beaches in the world, or spend extra time at Union Estate Park. Keep in mind that entrance fees to the estate are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to extend your stay.
Who Should Book This Tour?
This experience is best for active travelers who don’t mind a bit of effort for extraordinary scenery. It’s ideal for those who love nature, photography, and discovering hidden spots. If you’re traveling with children over 5, they should be confident walkers and comfortable with uneven terrain.
However, it’s not suitable for those with limited mobility or who prefer leisurely strolls. The physical nature of the hike and the rocky passages mean it’s more adventure than a casual beach day. If you’re looking for a laid-back experience, this might not be the best fit.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. If you’re after a unique, authentic experience on La Digue that combines adventure, education, and natural beauty, this tour delivers on all fronts. The chance to visit Anse Marron, one of the island’s most secluded beaches, paired with a guided hike through lush landscapes, makes it stand out.
You’ll leave with not only stunning photos and a sense of achievement but also stories about the island from a passionate guide. That personal touch sets this tour apart from the usual beach visits and makes it a memorable highlight of any Seychelles trip.
Best for:
- Adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking and nature
- Small groups seeking a personalized experience
- Those wanting to explore Seychelles beyond the busy beaches
- Travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity
Consider if:
- You prefer very relaxed, easy walks
- You have limited mobility or joint issues
- You’re looking for a tour included with hotel pickup or drop-off (note: this is not provided)
FAQs
Do I need special shoes for this tour? Yes, sturdy trekking or water shoes are recommended. Flip-flops are not suitable because of the rocky terrain and water crossings.
How long does the entire tour last? The tour runs for approximately 6 to 7 hours, including hiking, relaxing at the beaches, and lunch.
Is the tour suitable for children? Children over 5 years old can join, but they should be confident walkers and able to handle uneven terrain.
What should I bring? Bring at least 1.5 liters of water, a towel, swimwear, sunscreen, mosquito repellent if needed, and a camera to capture the scenery.
Are there any additional costs? Entrance to Union Estate Park is not included, so plan for that if you wish to visit. The tour price includes the guide and lunch.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Is it worth the price? Considering the personalized guides, exclusive access to Anse Marron, and the authentic experience, most travelers find it excellent value.
Can I extend my time at the beach after the tour? Yes, once the guided portion ends, you can stay longer at Anse Source d’Argent or Union Estate Park if you wish, but entry fees are extra.
The Anse Marron Tour is a standout choice for those craving a genuine adventure away from the crowded beaches. It offers a satisfying mix of physical challenge, breathtaking scenery, and insightful local guiding—all at a reasonable price. For travelers who love to explore, photograph, and push their limits in nature, this is a superb way to truly experience the wild side of La Digue.