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Bird Island
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Island
Bird Island is the northernmost island of the Seychelles archipelago, located about 100 kilometers from Mahé at the edge of the Seychelles Bank. This coral island, covering approximately 0.7 square kilometers, was formed about 6,000 years ago through geological processes and ocean currents. It is most famous for its massive bird colonies, particularly the sooty terns, which nest here between May and October in numbers exceeding 1.5 million. Beyond its avian population, the island is home to Esmeralda, one of the world's oldest and heaviest giant tortoises, estimated to be over 250 years old. The island is privately operated as an eco-resort, where the preservation of natural cycles takes precedence over conventional luxury. The surrounding waters drop steeply to depths of over 2,000 meters, making it a prime location for observing large marine species.
- Location: Seychelles
- Top sights: Bird Island Museum · Passe Coco · Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtle Habitat
- Nearby: Machabee (60 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 | 158 | 75 | 66 | 91 | 96 | 71 | 50 | 62 | 100 | 88 | 105 | 143 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
This incredible island is typically reached via a short, scenic scheduled flight departing directly from the main island of Mahé. Small planes land gently on the very small, unpaved private airstrip that exclusively serves the coral landmass.
Best season
For witnessing the truly incredible sight of millions of actively breeding sooty terns, timing is absolutely everything. Planning a visit between May and October is generally considered the most phenomenally rewarding period by far.
Terrain & paths
Expect a beautifully flat, consistently low-lying coral environment that is remarkably easy to navigate on foot. It is entirely surrounded by incredibly soft sandy beaches and remarkably clear, dependably shallow tropical turquoise waters.
What to bring
Essential items typically include a good quality camera with a strong zoom lens to capture the birds without disturbance. Eco-friendly reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed sun hat, and very comfortable beach walking sandals are also must-haves.
Parking
Motorized vehicles are entirely, intentionally absent on this small, pristine eco-friendly island destination. Therefore, all travel across the island relies completely and solely on relaxed, unhurried walking along the designated coral pathways.
Safety
Visitors are usually asked to strictly maintain a very respectful distance from the massive, noisy nesting bird colonies to prevent any distress. It is completely essential to follow all lodge guidelines precisely to protect this fragile ecosystem.
Time needed
While an intense, focused birdwatching tour can technically be done as a very long, tiring day trip. Staying overnight at the beautiful local eco-lodge for at least two to three days is highly recommended for the full, immersive experience.
Geography
Facts
- Northernmost island of the Seychelles, located 100 km from Mahé.
- Covers an area of approximately 70 hectares (0.7 square kilometers).
- Home to Esmeralda, a giant tortoise estimated to be over 250 years old.
- Over 1.5 million sooty terns nest here between May and October.
- The island formed geologically only about 6,000 years ago.
- Operated as a private eco-resort focused on conservation since the 1970s.
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 Bird Island (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the main feature of the island?
Huge colonies of sooty terns.
When should one visit Bird Island?
Between May and October, bird activity is at its highest.
Is there Wi-Fi or TV there?
No, the concept focuses on slowing down and nature.
How to get there?
By domestic flight from Mahé.
Is the island safe for kids?
Yes, very quiet and without traffic.
Bird Island: where is it located?
Bird Island is located in Seychelles.
Bird Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bird Island Museum, Passe Coco, Green and Hawksbill Sea Turtle Habitat.
Bird Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Bird Island: why is it worth visiting?
Bird Island is the northernmost island of the Seychelles archipelago, located about 100 kilometers from Mahé at the edge of the Seychelles Bank.
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History & landmarks
More places
North Island
A private island known for its ambitious ecological restoration project called 'Noah's Ark'.
Silhouette Island
The third largest island in the Seychelles, almost entirely protected as a national park and known for its mountainous, jungle-like lands…
Silhouette Cinnamon Forest
Extensive forests on Silhouette Island where wild cinnamon grows, a relic from the era of cinnamon production.
Grand Barbe
A remote plateau on Silhouette Island, hiding a ghost town, mangroves, and a pristine beach.
Denis Island
A private coral island on the northern edge of the Seychelles Bank, ideal for nature lovers and divers.
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
An isolated granitic island hosting one of the most significant sooty tern breeding colonies in the Inner Seychelles.
Cousin Island
An important nature reserve and a sanctuary for endangered bird species and nesting sea turtles.