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Cousin Island

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Island
—°1
Cousin Island (Seychelles)

Weather…

Cousin Island is a granitic island reserve located about two kilometers off the west coast of Praslin and represents a major conservation success story. In 1968, the former coconut plantation was purchased by the International Council for Bird Preservation (now BirdLife International) to save the Seychelles Warbler from extinction. Through consistent reforestation with native plant species, the population recovered from just 26 individuals to several thousand. Today, the entire island is a strictly protected Special Reserve and serves as a vital breeding ground for over 300,000 seabirds of various species. Furthermore, Cousin is one of the most important nesting sites in the western Indian Ocean for the critically endangered Hawksbill sea turtle. The island is managed by Nature Seychelles and is open to ecologically guided tourism, with strict rules in place to prevent the introduction of invasive species. The surrounding marine area up to a distance of 400 meters is also protected, hosting intact coral reefs and high fish biomass.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828292827262627272727
Rain mm20710910611594805562108117124164

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The island is strictly accessed via short, organized boat transfers departing from the neighboring island of Praslin. Private boats are strictly prohibited from landing on the beaches to protect the extremely sensitive ecological balance.
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Best season
The reserve is open year-round, but April to October features calmer seas for the crossing and prime bird nesting observations. Sea turtle nesting is most commonly witnessed if visiting between the months of September and March.
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Terrain & paths
Visitors traverse flat, well-maintained sandy trails cutting through dense coastal forests that cover the entire small island. The walks are generally unchallenging, designed specifically to avoid disturbing the numerous ground-nesting birds.
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What to bring
Strong mosquito repellent is absolutely mandatory, as the dense forest hosts dense populations of insects year-round. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals and light, breathable clothing are excellent for the guided nature trails.
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Parking
There are no vehicles or parking facilities on the island; all transportation is strictly maritime. Visitors typically park their rental cars at the designated departure points or hotels back on Praslin Island.
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Safety
The island imposes strict conservation rules; visitors must always stay precisely on the trails and follow their guide closely. Touching wildlife, including turtles or chicks, is completely forbidden to protect the fragile ecosystem.
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Time needed
Guided tours usually last about two hours, which perfectly covers the main circular trail through the forest. Combined with the boat transfers, a visit requires dedicating a half day from your itinerary.

Geography

Coordinates
-4.33100, 55.66200

Facts

  • The world's first island reserve, established in 1968
  • Saved the Seychelles Warbler from extinction
  • Key nesting site for critically endangered Hawksbill turtles
  • Home to over 300,000 breeding seabirds
  • Currently managed by the NGO Nature Seychelles
  • Formerly a commercial coconut plantation monoculture

Explore nearby

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Baie Sainte AnneBaie Sainte Anne10 km · NExplore →

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 Cousin Island (1)

Round Island, Praslin📍 landmark

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can one visit Cousin Island independently?
No, only possible with an organized boat tour.
What is there to see on the island?
Rare bird species and tortoises in their natural habitat.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, but always keep a respectful distance.
Are there toilets on the island?
Facilities on the island are very basic.
How long is the visit?
Usually, guided tours last about 2 to 3 hours.
Cousin Island: where is it located?
Cousin Island is located in Seychelles.
Cousin Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cousin Island: why is it worth visiting?
Cousin Island is a granitic island reserve located about two kilometers off the west coast of Praslin and represents a major conservation success story.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Denis Island Lighthouse — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Denis Island Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse dating back to 1910, serving as a guide for ships at the northern edge of the Seychelles Bank.

More places

Aride Island — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Aride Island
The northernmost of the granitic islands and home to one of the most important seabird colonies in the Indian Ocean.
Mamelles Island Seabird Colony — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Mamelles Island Seabird Colony
An isolated granitic island hosting one of the most significant sooty tern breeding colonies in the Inner Seychelles.
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Recif Island Bird Sanctuary
A small granitic island hosting a significant colony of sooty terns and other tropical seabirds.
Beacon Island (Île Sèche) — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Beacon Island (Île Sèche)
A small, rocky island east of Mahé that serves as an important nesting and resting site for various seabird species.
Denis Island — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Denis Island
A private coral island on the northern edge of the Seychelles Bank, ideal for nature lovers and divers.
Frégate Island — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Frégate Island
An eastern granitic island serving as a sanctuary for rare species and luxury eco-tourism.
Île aux Vaches Marines Habitat — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
Île aux Vaches Marines Habitat
An important bird and marine habitat west of Mahé, named after the dugongs (sea cows) that used to frequent these waters.
North Island — Cousin Island (Seychelles)
North Island
A private island known for its ambitious ecological restoration project called 'Noah's Ark'.