Seychelles isn’t just about pristine beaches; it’s a treasure trove of unique wildlife encounters. From swimming alongside whale sharks to witnessing nesting sea turtles, the islands offer unforgettable experiences for nature lovers. This guide pinpoints the best spots and reveals how to make the most of your Seychelles wildlife adventure.
Exploring Vallée de Mai: A Primeval Paradise
Vallée de Mai, located on Praslin Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for anyone interested in Seychelles’ botanical wonders. This ancient palm forest is home to the iconic coco de mer, the largest seed in the world, and several other endemic plant species. The atmosphere is truly primeval, with towering palms creating a cathedral-like canopy.
What to Expect: You’ll be walking on well-maintained trails through the dense forest. Keep an eye out for the Seychelles black parrot, one of the world’s rarest birds, and the Seychelles bulbul. The forest floor is also home to various insects, reptiles, and amphibians, though they can be difficult to spot. Guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the flora and fauna. Guides can point out hidden gems, explain the unique ecosystem, and share interesting facts about the coco de mer.
Getting There: From Praslin Airport, take a taxi or bus to Vallée de Mai. The bus is a more affordable option, but taxis offer greater flexibility. If you are staying near Baie Sainte Anne or Grand Anse, the journey will be relatively short. The entry fee to Vallée de Mai is approximately €25 per person.
Practical Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, and light clothing. Bring water to stay hydrated. The forest can be quite humid. Respect the environment by staying on the trails and avoiding touching the plants. Book a guided tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Cousin Island Special Reserve: Birdwatcher’s Heaven
Cousin Island, a protected nature reserve managed by Nature Seychelles, is a haven for seabirds and other endemic species. This small granitic island is a true success story in conservation, having been transformed from a coconut plantation into a thriving wildlife sanctuary.
Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see thousands of nesting seabirds during the breeding season (April-September), including the lesser noddy, white-tailed tropicbird, and fairy tern. You’ll also encounter giant tortoises roaming freely on the island. The island is also home to the Seychelles magpie-robin, which was once critically endangered but has been successfully reintroduced thanks to conservation efforts.
Visiting Cousin Island: Access is restricted to guided tours to minimize disturbance to the wildlife. Tours typically last for a few hours and are led by knowledgeable rangers who provide insights into the island’s ecology and conservation efforts. Book your tour in advance through Nature Seychelles or your tour operator. The cost is approximately €75 per person, which includes the boat transfer and guided tour. Tours usually depart from Praslin Island.
Important Information: Landings on Cousin Island are “wet landings,” meaning you’ll need to wade ashore from the boat. Wear appropriate footwear, such as sandals or water shoes. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are essential. Photography is allowed, but drones are prohibited. Remember to follow the ranger’s instructions and avoid getting too close to the birds or tortoises.
Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoise Kingdom and Doctor’s House History
Just off the coast of Praslin, Curieuse Island is famous for its population of giant tortoises. It was once a leper colony. Today, it’s a protected national park. Walking around you will see hundreds of these gentle giants roaming freely. The island also has a fascinating history, including the ruins of a Doctor’s House (a former leper colony settlement) that has been converted into a museum.
Tortoise Interaction: Curieuse allows you to get up close and personal with the giant tortoises. You can feed them leaves, stroke their shells, and take photos. Remember to be gentle and respectful of these animals. The tortoises are accustomed to human presence but are still wild animals.
Doctor’s House and Nature Trails: Explore the restored Doctor’s House to learn about the island’s history as a leper colony. The small museum provides valuable insights into the lives of the patients who lived there. Take a hike along the mangrove boardwalk, which connects Anse José to Baie Laraie. This scenic trail offers views of the mangrove forests and the surrounding coastline. Keep an eye out for the Seychelles black parrot, which can also be found on Curieuse Island.
Getting to Curieuse: Most tours to Curieuse Island depart from Praslin. You can book a tour through your hotel or a local tour operator. The tour usually includes a boat transfer, lunch (often a BBQ on the beach), and a guided tour of the island. The cost is around €80-€120 per person. Some tours also include a visit to St. Pierre Island, a small islet known for its excellent snorkeling. The snorkeling gear is often provided as part of the tour.
Whale Shark Encounters Around Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue
Swimming with whale sharks is an unforgettable experience. These gentle giants migrate through the waters around Seychelles between August and November. Whale shark season is between August and November. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, the chances are highest during this period.
Where to Find Them: Whale sharks are most commonly sighted around Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Tour operators run specialized whale shark tours that take you to the best locations. Keep an eye out for them while snorkeling or diving, as they sometimes swim near the surface. Save Our Seas Foundation is a great resource for learning more and supporting conservation efforts.
Responsible Whale Shark Tours: Choose responsible tour operators who adhere to guidelines that minimize disturbance to the whale sharks. These guidelines typically include maintaining a safe distance, limiting the number of swimmers around each shark, and avoiding the use of flash photography. Look for operators that are members of the Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label (SSTL) or have been certified by reputable organizations like the World Cetacean Alliance.
Snorkeling and Diving with Whale Sharks: When swimming with whale sharks, it’s essential to maintain a respectful distance and avoid touching or feeding them. Let the shark come to you. Use snorkeling gear to observe them from the surface. Divers can also have incredible encounters but should follow the guidelines provided by their dive operator. The average cost of a whale shark tour is between €100 and €150 per person, depending on the duration and inclusions.
Aride Island: Seabird Sanctuary of the Granitic Seychelles
Aride Island, a small island north of Praslin, is a crucial breeding site for seabirds in the Indian Ocean. Managed by the Island Conservation Society (ICS), it’s one of the most important seabird islands in the granitic Seychelles. This place is only available to visit from October to April when the seas are most favorable.
Seabird Spectacle: During the breeding season (May-September), tens of thousands of seabirds flock to Aride. You can witness massive colonies of sooty terns, lesser noddies, fairy terns, and roseate terns. The island is also home to the world’s largest colony of Audubon’s shearwater and the Seychelles’ only population of frigatebirds.
Conservation Success: Aride Island is a testament to successful conservation efforts. Years of habitat restoration and invasive species removal have transformed the island into a thriving wildlife sanctuary. The ICS conducts ongoing research and monitoring to protect the island’s biodiversity.
Planning Your Visit: Visits to Aride Island are limited and must be booked in advance through the Island Conservation Society or a licensed tour operator. The cost is around €80 per person, including the boat transfer and guided tour. Tours typically last for a few hours and provide a fascinating insight into the island’s ecology and conservation efforts. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven terrain and be prepared for a wet landing. Sunscreen, a hat, and water are also essential. Keep a safe distance from the birds and avoid disturbing their nests.
Anse Intendance on Mahé: Turtle Nesting Season
Anse Intendance, on the south coast of Mahé, is renowned for its beauty. However, it’s also an important nesting site for sea turtles, particularly hawksbill turtles. Witnessing a sea turtle nesting or hatchlings emerging from their nests is an incredible experience.
Nesting Season: The turtle nesting season in Seychelles typically runs from October to February. During this time, female turtles come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The eggs incubate for about 60 days, and then the hatchlings emerge and make their way to the sea.
Turtle Watching Guidelines: If you encounter a nesting turtle, observe it from a distance and avoid using flash photography, as it can disorient the turtle. Do not disturb the turtle or its nest in any way. Report any sightings to local conservation organizations or the Seychelles National Parks Authority. If you see hatchlings emerging, allow them to make their way to the sea without assistance, unless they are in immediate danger. The sight of baby turtles rushing to the sea is a must-see.
Beach Safety: Anse Intendance can have strong currents and big waves, especially during the southeast monsoon season (May-September). Be cautious when swimming, and avoid swimming far from shore. The beach is generally safe, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
St. Pierre Island: Snorkeling Paradise
St. Pierre Island, a tiny islet off the coast of Praslin, is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Its picturesque granite boulders and crystal-clear waters provide an ideal habitat for a variety of marine life. This is an easy one-day trip.
Marine Life: Expect to see colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasionally reef sharks. The waters around St. Pierre are also visited by dolphins and whales, although sightings are less frequent. The snorkeling is shallow enough for most swimmers; the water is crystal clear.
Snorkeling Tips: Bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it from a local dive shop or tour operator. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. Avoid touching or stepping on the coral, as it can be easily damaged. Be aware of currents and waves, especially if you are snorkeling independently. It’s a good idea to snorkel with a buddy for safety.
Getting to St. Pierre: Most tours to St. Pierre Island depart from Praslin. You can book a tour through your hotel or a local tour operator. Tours usually include a boat transfer, snorkeling gear, and lunch. The cost is around €50-€80 per person. The island is uninhabited and very small, so you’ll only need a few hours to explore it.
Bird Island: The Ultimate Bird Sanctuary (A Bit Further Afield)
Okay, Bird Island requires a little more effort to reach. A privately owned island 60 miles from Mahé. It used to be a coconut plantation. Now it is a dedicated nature reserve and home to millions of sooty terns and the world’s heaviest land tortoise, Esmeralda.
What Makes Bird Island Special? Imagine an island that bursts into life with the arrival of millions of sooty terns each breeding season (May to October). It’s the kind of spectacle that ornithologists dream about. But there’s more than just sooty terns. You’ll also find fairy terns, noddies, and other seabirds in abundance. And, of course, Esmeralda, the celebrity tortoise, who you might even spot wandering around.
How to Visit: Access to Bird Island is primarily through the Bird Island Lodge, the only accommodation on the island. This exclusive lodge prioritizes eco-tourism, providing a comfortable stay while minimizing impact on the environment. Getting there involves a 30-minute flight from Mahé. It’s not the cheapest option, but the experience is truly worth it for nature enthusiasts.
What to Expect on Arrival: The island’s charm lies in its simplicity. There are no TVs, no phones, and limited internet access. This is all about unplugging and immersing yourself in nature. Days are spent exploring the island on foot, birdwatching, and swimming in the clear waters. The lodge also arranges guided nature walks, where you can learn about the island’s ecology and conservation efforts. You won’t forget it.
Exploring the Underwater World: Diving and Snorkeling in Seychelles
Beyond the terrestrial wonders, Seychelles boasts a rich underwater world. The coral reefs surrounding the islands provide habitat for a diverse array of marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner snorkeler, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the underwater beauty of Seychelles. The reefs have been damaged a little by coral bleaching but there is still so much to see.
Top Dive Sites: Some of the best dive sites in Seychelles include:
- Ennerdale Wreck: A sunken British tanker that attracts a lot of marine life.
- Shark Bank: As the name suggests, this spot is known for its shark sightings, including reef sharks and whale sharks.
- Brissare Rocks: A group of granite boulders surrounded by colorful coral reefs.
- Île Cocos: Part of a marine park, known for its diverse fish and coral.
Snorkeling Hotspots: For snorkeling, consider the following locations:
- Anse Lazio (Praslin): Known for its calm waters and diverse marine life.
- St. Pierre Island (Praslin): Offers exceptional visibility and a variety of fish.
- Anse Source d’Argent (La Digue): Shallow and sheltered, perfect for beginners.
You can easily spend a whole day swimming and snorkeling. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Choosing a Dive Operator: Select a reputable dive operator with experienced guides and well-maintained equipment. Look for operators that are certified by PADI or SSI. Check their safety record and environmental practices. A good dive operator will provide a thorough briefing before each dive and ensure that you are comfortable and confident in the water. Diving courses are available for beginners, ranging from introductory dives to full certification programs. The cost of a dive trip is around €70-€100 per dive, including equipment rental.
Practical Tips for Wildlife Encounters in Seychelles
Planning your wildlife adventure in Seychelles involves more than just booking tours. Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your trip.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Seychelles for wildlife encounters depends on what you want to see. Birdwatching is best during the breeding season (May-September). Whale shark season is from August to November. Turtle nesting season is from October to February. The dry season (May-October) generally offers the best weather for outdoor activities.
What to Pack: Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent. Bring sturdy walking shoes for hiking and exploring nature reserves. A waterproof camera is essential for capturing underwater moments. Binoculars are useful for birdwatching. If you plan on diving or snorkeling, you may want to bring your own mask and snorkel for a better fit.
Respect the Environment: Seychelles is a fragile ecosystem. Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your impact on the environment. Avoid using single-use plastics, dispose of your trash properly, and respect wildlife. Do not touch or feed animals. Support local businesses that are committed to sustainable practices.
Health and Safety: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Seychelles. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach problems. Be aware of sun exposure and stay hydrated. Avoid swimming in areas with strong currents or rough seas. Protect yourself from mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants in the evenings. The crime is low, but always be vigilant.
Getting Around Seychelles
Seychelles consists of many islands, but the main ones are Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Each has convenient ways to get around.
Mahé:
- Rental Cars: Provides flexibility. Roads are generally in good condition, but can be narrow and winding. An international driving permit is often required.
- Buses: An affordable way to get around, but can be infrequent.
- Taxis: Readily available and can be hailed on the street.
Praslin:
- Rental Cars: You can rent a car to explore the island.
- Buses: A cost-effective option, but routes and schedules can be limited.
- Taxis: Available.
La Digue:
- Bicycles: The primary mode of transport. Rentals are widely available.
- Ox-carts: A more traditional way to see the island.
- Walking: La Digue is small and easily explored on foot. You will need to walk a little.
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
What is the best time of year to see whale sharks in Seychelles?
The best time to see whale sharks in Seychelles is typically between August and November, when they migrate through the area.
Are guided tours necessary for visiting nature reserves like Cousin Island and Aride Island?
Yes, guided tours are compulsory for visiting Cousin Island and Aride Island to minimize disturbance to the wildlife and ensure conservation efforts are maintained.
What should I wear when visiting Vallée de Mai?
Wear comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and insect repellent when visiting Vallée de Mai.
Is it safe to swim at Anse Intendance on Mahé?
Anse Intendance can have strong currents, so be cautious when swimming and avoid going far from the shore. The currents tend to be stronger during the southeast monsoon season (May – September).
What should I do if I encounter a nesting sea turtle on the beach?
Observe the turtle from a distance without disturbing it. Don’t use flash photography. Report the sighting to local conservation organizations or the Seychelles National Parks Authority.
Can I touch or feed the giant tortoises on Curieuse Island?
You can gently stroke their shells and feed them leaves, but be respectful and avoid harassing them.
Are there any recommended books or field guides for identifying Seychelles wildlife?
A Field Guide to the Birds of Seychelles by Adrian Skerrett, Ian Bullock, and Tony Disley is an excellent resource. Also, The Marine Atlas of Seychelles is helpful.
References
Please note those are only references, without links.
- Nature Seychelles Official Website
- Island Conservation Society (ICS) Official Website
- Save Our Seas Foundation
- A Field Guide to the Birds of Seychelles by Adrian Skerrett, Ian Bullock, and Tony Disley
- The Marine Atlas of Seychelles
- Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Label (SSTL)
- World Cetacean Alliance
- PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors)
- SSI (Scuba Schools International)
Seychelles is calling you! Imagine yourself snorkeling alongside gentle whale sharks, witnessing the spectacle of thousands of seabirds nesting, or walking among giant tortoises. The islands offer a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife encounters. So, don’t just dream about it. Book your trip today and experience the unforgettable wildlife wonders of Seychelles!