Discover The Magic Of Turtle Watching In Seychelles

Turtle watching in Seychelles offers an unforgettable experience, letting you witness the nesting and hatching of these incredible creatures. The best time to see nesting turtles is generally between October and February, while hatching season runs from January to April. Several beaches across the islands provide opportunities to witness these magical events, but Anse Intendance and Anse St. Jose on Praslin and Grande Anse on La Digue are some of the most popular spots.

The Allure of Seychelles: A Turtle Paradise

Seychelles isn’t just about pristine beaches and luxurious resorts; it’s a haven for biodiversity, and its turtle population is a prime example. Two main species frequent its shores: the Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Green turtle (Chelonia mydas). Both are magnificent, but they differ in appearance and nesting behavior. Let’s dive into figuring out each one a bit better:

Hawksbill Turtles: These turtles are known for their distinctive, beak-like mouth – hence the name Hawksbill. Their shells boast beautiful, amber-colored patterns. They are typically smaller than Green turtles, reaching about 3 feet in length. Hawksbills prefer nesting on secluded beaches with rocky outcrops and dense vegetation. They can be quite skittish, so keeping your distance during observations is very important. According to the IUCN Red List, Hawksbill turtles are critically endangered, making every effort to protect them vital. They are solitary nesters, meaning they are often seen nesting alone.

Green Turtles: They are larger than Hawksbills, growing up to 4 feet long. Their shells have a smoother texture and are typically olive to dark brown. Green turtles prefer sandy beaches with gentle slopes for nesting. These turtles are particularly vulnerable to bycatch in fishing gear, making marine protected areas crucial for their survival. Green turtles tend to nest in larger groups when they are on sandy beaches.

Planning Your Turtle Watching Adventure: When and Where

Timing is key to a successful turtle watching experience. Remember nesting season peaks during the period of October to February, with peak hatching season occurring between January and April.

Prime Turtle Watching Locations:

Anse Intendance, Mahé: This is one of the most famous beaches on Mahé, not only for its stunning beauty but also for the frequent turtle nesting activity. The Banyan Tree Seychelles resort actively participates in turtle conservation efforts, making it a great spot to get involved (or at least learn more).

Anse St. Jose, Praslin: Situated near the Constance Lémuria resort, Anse St. Jose is another excellent location. The resort has a turtle manager on staff who keeps a close eye on nesting activity and can provide valuable insights. You can generally find good information available to you by calling the resort directly and booking a time to talk to their turtle manager.

Grande Anse, La Digue: This beach is known for its powerful waves and untouched beauty, and it also serves as a nesting ground for turtles. Be mindful of the strong currents if you plan to swim.

Cousin Island Special Reserve: While requiring a boat trip, Cousin Island, managed by Nature Seychelles, offers a phenomenal opportunity to witness nesting and hatching. Entrance fees apply, but it’s well worth it for the comprehensive conservation efforts and abundant wildlife. You’ll need to plan ahead and book a guided tour; this isn’t a place you can just show up.

Other Potential Spots: Consider checking out beaches on Curieuse Island, Silhouette Island, and North Island. These islands are more remote and require some planning to visit, but the reward is often fewer crowds and a more intimate experience. The best thing you can do is contact local tour operators and ask for verified daily reports. The presence of turtles on nesting locations is always dependent on various conditions, and it pays to ask around.

The Nesting Process: A Night to Remember

Witnessing a turtle nesting is a truly humbling experience. Here’s what you can expect:

The Arrival: Under the cover of darkness, female turtles emerge from the ocean, driven by instinct to lay their eggs. They often arrive during high tide.

The Digging: Using their powerful flippers, they dig a deep pit in the sand, carefully creating a nest for their precious cargo.

The Laying: This is the most vulnerable part of the process for the turtle. She will enter a trance like state where she deposits her soft, leathery eggs into the nest. A female Hawksbill lays around 140-200 eggs while Green Turtles lay anywhere from 100-150 eggs per nest.

The Covering: Once the eggs are laid, she painstakingly covers them with sand, camouflaging the nest to protect it from predators.

The Return: Exhausted but driven by instinct, the turtle slowly makes her way back to the ocean, leaving behind the promise of new life.

Observing this process requires patience and respect. Keep a safe distance, ideally at least 10 meters. Use a red light if you need illumination, as bright white lights can disorient the turtles. Most importantly, avoid making loud noises or any sudden movements that might startle her. It is important to note: disturbing nesting turtles is illegal in Seychelles and can result in fines and even imprisonment

Hatching Season: A Race to the Sea

About 60 days after the eggs are laid, tiny hatchlings begin to emerge from their sandy incubator. This event is equally captivating and a testament to the power of nature.

The Emergence: Hatchlings use their sharp egg tooth to break free from their shells. All hatchlings from one nest emerge together for safety in numbers.

The Ascent: They then work together to dig their way to the surface of the sand, a collective effort that can take several days.

The Journey: Once they emerge, they instinctively head towards the brightest horizon, usually the ocean. This “sea-finding” behavior is crucial for their survival, as it helps them find the water.

The Perils: Sadly, hatchlings face numerous threats, from predators like birds and crabs to disorientation caused by artificial lights. This is why minimizing artificial light pollution near nesting beaches is so critical.

Turtle Hatchery: There are some turtle hatcheries, one prominently at the Banyan Tree Hotel on Mahe. During nesting season, they make every effort to incubate and protect turtle eggs. If you are interested in the experience, it is best to contact the hotel directly. Hotels such as the Four Seasons also participate in saving turtles. Some people object to such interventions but it should be noted that the majority of hatchlings that emerge on their own without protection do not survive.

Responsible Turtle Watching: Leave No Trace

Turtle watching is a privilege, and it’s our responsibility to minimize our impact on these fragile creatures and their environment.

Dos:

• Keep a safe distance from nesting turtles and hatchlings.
• Use a red light if necessary, as it’s less disruptive to their natural behavior.
• Stay on designated paths to avoid trampling nests.
• Report any disturbances or illegal activity to the local authorities and/or conservation organizations
• Pack out anything you pack in. Minimizing your plastic use and cleaning any litter you see helps protect their habitat.

Don’ts:

• Never use flash photography or bright lights.
• Never touch or handle turtles or hatchlings.
• Never make loud noises or sudden movements.
• Never disturb nests or attempt to dig up eggs.
• Never leave trash on the beach.

Getting Involved: Contributing to Turtle Conservation

Want to do more than just watch? There are several ways to contribute to turtle conservation efforts in Seychelles:

Volunteer Programs: Organizations like Nature Seychelles offer volunteer opportunities to assist with beach patrols, nest monitoring, and data collection. This is a great way to gain hands-on experience and make a real difference, but you will need to contact them regarding their availability and any associated costs.

Support Local NGOs: Donate to local conservation organizations dedicated to protecting turtles and their habitats. Every contribution, no matter how small, can help. Organizations like the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles are a great place to start.

Stay at Eco-Friendly Resorts: Choose accommodations that prioritize sustainability and support turtle conservation initiatives. Resorts like the Constance Lémuria and the Banyan Tree Seychelles demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and actively participate in turtle protection efforts.

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the threats facing turtles and spread awareness among your friends, family, and community. By educating yourselves with current turtle conservation efforts, you can spread awareness on various platforms.

Practical Tips for Your Turtle Watching Trip

What to Pack:

• Red light flashlight (essential for night viewing)
• Insect repellent (mosquitoes can be pesky, especially at night)
• Comfortable walking shoes (for navigating beaches)
• Camera (without flash!)
• Sunscreen and hat (for daytime activities)
• Reusable water bottle (to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste)

Getting Around:

Renting a car is recommended for exploring Mahé and Praslin, but make sure to research whether or not it is better to rent a 4×4, since the terrain can be rough. La Digue is best explored by bicycle. Ferries connect the main islands, but domestic flights are also an option. Getting a taxi is also an option, but remember to only ride in official taxis and agree on a price beforehand, or ensure that the meter is present and working.

Accommodation:

Options range from luxury resorts to guesthouses and self-catering apartments. Book in advance, especially during peak season. Consider staying near nesting beaches for easy access. Many people prefer to look through services such as AirBnB for better prices and locations. You should also check out local, family run guesthouses to support the local economy.

Respect Local Customs:

Seychellois people are generally friendly and welcoming. Dress modestly when visiting villages and religious sites. Learn a few basic Creole phrases to show respect for the local culture. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people. A simple “bonzour” (good morning) or “bonswar” (good evening) can go a long way.

Cost Considerations

A trip to Seychelles can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, depending on your choices.

Flights: Round-trip flights from Europe or North America can range from $800 to $2000, depending on the time of year and booking in advance. Always use incognito mode when surfing the internet, since many web locations will track your searches.

Accommodation: Budget guesthouses can cost around $50-$100 per night, while luxury resorts can easily exceed $500 per night. Booking in advance or during the off-season tends to bring steep discounts.

Activities: Turtle watching tours can range from $50 to $150 per person, depending on the location and duration. Entrance fees for national parks and reserves, like Cousin Island, also apply.

Food: Eating at local restaurants can be relatively inexpensive, while dining at resort restaurants is generally more expensive. Self-catering can help save money on food costs.

Sample Itinerary: A Turtle-Focused Trip

Day 1: Arrival in Mahé and Transfer to Accommodation

Arrive at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) and transfer to your chosen accommodation. Settle in and enjoy the beach or explore Victoria, the capital city.

Day 2: Anse Intendance and Turtle Conservation

Spend the day at Anse Intendance, relaxing on the beach and looking for signs of turtle nesting activity. In the evening, join a guided turtle watching tour (if available) or simply observe from a respectful distance. The Banyan Tree resort offers insights into their conservation efforts. Be sure to make dinner reservations to avoid any troubles.

Day 3: Praslin Island and Anse St. Jose

Take a ferry to Praslin Island. Check into your accommodation and head to Anse St. Jose. Contact the Constance Lémuria resort for information on their turtle monitoring program.

Day 4: Vallée de Mai and Beach Exploration

Visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the unique Coco de Mer palm. In the afternoon, explore other beaches on Praslin and keep an eye out for turtle activity.

Day 5: La Digue and Grande Anse

Take a ferry to La Digue, rent a bicycle, and explore the island. Spend the day at Grande Anse, enjoying the beach and watching for turtles. Remember to be cautious of the strong currents if you swim.

Day 6: Cousin Island and Snorkeling

Book a guided tour to Cousin Island Special Reserve for an exceptional turtle watching experience. Enjoy snorkeling in the surrounding waters (with tour).

Day 7: Departure

Take a ferry back to Mahé and transfer to the airport for your departure flight, filled with unforgettable memories of your turtle watching adventure in Seychelles.

FAQ Section

What is the best time of year to see turtles nesting in Seychelles?

The best time to witness turtle nesting is generally between October and February.

Where are the best beaches for turtle watching in Seychelles?

Anse Intendance (Mahé), Anse St. Jose (Praslin), and Grande Anse (La Digue) are some of the most popular and reliable locations.

Are turtle watching tours available in Seychelles?

Yes, some resorts and tour operators offer guided turtle watching tours, particularly during nesting season. It is recommended to contact local tour operators and resorts in advance.

What should I bring with me on a turtle watching excursion?

Bring a red light flashlight, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, a camera (without flash), sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.

Is it safe to swim on beaches where turtles nest?

Yes, but be mindful of strong currents and waves, especially at beaches like Grande Anse on La Digue. Avoid disturbing nesting turtles or hatchlings.

How can I contribute to turtle conservation in Seychelles?

You can volunteer with conservation organizations, donate to local NGOs, stay at eco-friendly resorts, and educate yourself and others about the threats facing turtles.

Are there any restrictions on turtle watching in Seychelles?

Yes, disturbing nesting turtles or hatchlings is illegal and can result in fines. Always keep a safe distance and avoid using bright lights or flash photography.

What types of turtles are commonly seen in Seychelles?

The Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) and the Green turtle (Chelonia mydas) are the two most common species.

Can I touch or handle the turtles?

No, you should never touch or handle the turtles or hatchlings as it can cause them stress and disrupt their natural behaviour.

What should I do if I see someone disturbing a nesting turtle?

Report the disturbance to the local authorities or a conservation organization. Try to document the incident with photos or videos if possible, without further disturbing the turtle.

By embarking on a turtle watching adventure in Seychelles, you’ll not only witness an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon but also contribute to the preservation of these incredible creatures for generations to come. So, pack your bags, book your flights, and prepare to be amazed by the magic of Seychelles’ turtle kingdom. Your journey into the wild awaits; are you ready to answer the call of the sea?

References

IUCN Red List of Threatened Species

Nature Seychelles