The Seychelles Nature Trail 2026 is gaining momentum with 100 runners already registered. Set for May 16 on Mahé, the 22 km race highlights the destination’s natural beauty while attracting elite international athletes and strengthening Seychelles’ position as a leading hub for nature-based and sports tourism.
The third edition of the Seychelles Nature Trail (SNT) is building strong momentum, with 100 runners already registered for the highly anticipated event. The announcement was made during a press conference held at Botanical House, underscoring growing excitement around the international trail running competition.
Scheduled for Saturday, 16 May 2026, the Seychelles Nature Trail continues to establish itself as a premier event on the global trail running calendar. Celebrating nature, wellness, and sustainability, the race showcases the breathtaking landscapes of Mahé while promoting Seychelles as a leading destination for nature-based and sports tourism.
Speaking at the press conference, Ms Bernadette Willemin, Special Advisor for Tourism and former Director General for Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, emphasized the event’s increasing international appeal.
“The Seychelles Nature Trail is a powerful showcase of our islands’ unique granitic landscapes and a key driver in positioning Seychelles as a leading nature and sports tourism destination. This edition offers one of our most diverse routes yet, combining athletic challenge with stunning scenery,” she said.
The 22-kilometer course, featuring a demanding 1,210-meter elevation gain, will take runners on a spectacular journey across Mahé. Starting from Port Glaud, the route winds through Cap Ternay, Anse Major, Mare aux Cochons, Cassedent, and Tomassin, before finishing at Grand Anse. Participants will experience a technical and rewarding challenge across coastal paths, dense forests, and mountainous terrain.
Seychelles Nature Trail Returns on 16 May 2026 for a 3rd Edition in 2026 – Tourism Seychelles
Following the resounding success of its second edition held in August this year, Tourism Seychelles announces the return of the Seychelles Nature Trail (SNT) for a third edition, scheduled to take place on 16th May 2026 on the island of Mahé. The event, which has quickly established itself as one of the international highlights
This year’s race will feature an impressive lineup of elite and returning athletes. Among them is Sylvaine Cussot, also known as “Sissi,” a renowned French trail runner based in Réunion Island. In the men’s category, defending champion Waqar Ahmad Nasir of Pakistan will return to defend his title, while Seychellois runner Jonathan Quatre, who placed third in the previous edition, is expected to be a strong local contender.
Following the success of its previous editions, the Seychelles Nature Trail has evolved into a flagship sports tourism event. It continues to attract a growing number of international participants while fostering greater local engagement with Seychelles’ rich natural heritage.
The event is organized by Tourism Seychelles in collaboration with ILOP Réunion and supported by an extensive network of partners. These include the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority (SPGA), Seychelles Defense Forces (SDF), National Sports Council (NSC), the District Administration of Grand Anse Mahé, Local Government, Seychelles Police, Seychelles Red Cross, Seychelles Fire and Rescue Services Agency, The Seychelles Challenge Outward Bound Association (SCOBA), and the Ministry of Health.
Key sponsors for the 2026 edition include Absa, Cable & Wireless, Constance Ephelia, Belliche, Skychef, Adesho Marine (Garmin), Slow Turtles, Coco de Mer Cosmetic Collection, HSI, La Scala, and Osteo Clinic.
With international participation steadily increasing, the Seychelles Nature Trail 2026 is poised to further strengthen Seychelles’ reputation as a premier hub for nature, adventure, and sports tourism.
