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Curieuse Island
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Island
Curieuse Island is located in close proximity to Praslin and is famous for its distinctive red soil, which is why it was formerly called "Île Rouge." The island has a poignant history, having served as a leper colony from 1829 to 1965; the ruins of the quarters and the renovated "Doctor's House" still testify to this era. In the 1970s, a successful relocation project for Aldabra giant tortoises was launched, and their population has now grown to over 300 individuals. Curieuse is the only place in the world besides Praslin where the Coco de Mer palm grows naturally. The landscape is characterized by extensive mangrove forests that can be explored via wooden walkways, providing vital nursery grounds for fish and crabs. The island is part of a Marine National Park, meaning the surrounding coral reefs and seagrass meadows are strictly protected. For scientific research, Curieuse is particularly important for studying the effects of sea-level rise on shallow coastal ecosystems. Despite its historical use as a plantation, extensive conservation efforts have restored much of its original biodiversity.
- Location: Seychelles
- Top sights: Anse Badamier · Anse St. José · Anse Mandarin
- Nearby: Grand Anse (Praslin) (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 207 | 109 | 106 | 115 | 94 | 80 | 55 | 62 | 108 | 117 | 124 | 164 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The island is accessible only by boat, typically via short guided excursions or water taxis from nearby Praslin. Trips usually depart from Cote D'Or or Baie Sainte Anne.
Best season
April to May and October to November offer calm seas and excellent visibility for snorkeling. The southeast trade winds bring rougher waters from June to September.
Terrain & paths
Visitors navigate sandy beaches, rocky granite outcrops, and purpose-built wooden boardwalks. The trails crossing the island connect the turtle sanctuary with mangroves.
What to bring
Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, and comfortable walking sandals are essential items. Don't forget snorkeling gear and a dry bag for boat transfers and beach activities.
Parking
You will need to leave your vehicle at the marina or beachside parking areas on Praslin. From there, organized tours handle the maritime transport to the protected island.
Safety
Be mindful of strong ocean currents if you decide to swim outside of sheltered bays. Do not disturb the wild giant tortoises or stray from boardwalks in fragile mangrove areas.
Time needed
Most visitors spend a half-day exploring the breeding center, walking the trail, and enjoying a beach barbecue. A full-day trip allows for more relaxed snorkeling time.
Geography
Facts
- Formerly named 'Île Rouge' due to its red soil
- Served as a leper colony from 1829 to 1965
- Home to over 300 free-roaming Aldabra giant tortoises
- One of only two locations where Coco de Mer grows naturally
- Features an extensive and accessible mangrove ecosystem
- Protected as part of the Curieuse Marine National Park
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Curieuse Island (5)
Anse Mandarin
A beach on Curieuse Island, surrounded by mangroves.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where can one see the giant tortoises?
They roam freely on the island, especially on the beach.
Is an entrance fee required?
Yes, there is a landing fee for park visitors.
Can one go there from Praslin?
Yes, accessible in about 15 minutes by boat.
How long is the hike across the island?
The path through the mangroves takes about 45 minutes.
Is there a restaurant there?
There are picnic areas, but usually no restaurants.
Curieuse Island: where is it located?
Curieuse Island is located in Seychelles.
Curieuse Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Anse Badamier, Anse St. José, Anse Mandarin.
Curieuse Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Curieuse Island: why is it worth visiting?
Curieuse Island is located in close proximity to Praslin and is famous for its distinctive red soil, which is why it was formerly called "Île Rouge." The island has a poignant history, having served as a leper colony from 1829 to 1965; the ruins of the quarters and the renovated…
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Nearby cities
Cote d'Or
The tourist heart of Praslin, home to the famous Anse Volbert beach and many water sports activities.
Baie Sainte Anne
The gateway to Praslin Island, where most ferries dock, and a key commercial hub.
Consolation
A secluded coastal area in the south of Praslin with wild beaches and granite rocks.
Newton Mearns
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Clarkston
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East Kilbride
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Giffnock
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Barrhead
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Shawlands
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Rutherglen
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La Passe
The main village on La Digue, home to the harbor and the pulse of island life.
Cambuslang
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Blantyre
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Strathaven
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Stewarton
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History & landmarks
More places
Booby Island
A steep islet north of Praslin named after the boobies that once nested here in large colonies.
Glacis Noir (Black Rock)
A distinctive viewpoint on Praslin, known for its dark granite formations and the view over Praslin National Park.
Vallée de Mai
A UNESCO World Heritage site on Praslin Island, home to a prehistoric palm forest and the famous Coco de Mer.
Black Parrot Habitat
A specific area within the Praslin National Park that hosts the only population of the rare Seychelles Black Parrot.
Fond Ferdinand
A nature reserve on Praslin, more than six times larger than Vallée de Mai and also home to the Coco de Mer.
Zimbabwe Viewpoint
The highest point on Praslin accessible by road, named after the radio station at the summit.
Anse Lazio
Anse Lazio is often ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, known for its fine white sand and iconic granite boulders.
PUC Baie Sainte Anne Power Station
The main source of energy for the islands of Praslin and La Digue, guaranteeing a stable power supply for residents and tourism.