St. Pierre Island & Curieuse Marine National Park Praslin
Discover Curieuse Island's giant tortoises and snorkel the vibrant reefs of St. Pierre Islet, a pristine marine park adventure.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tortoise viewing
St. Pierre Island & Curieuse Marine National Park Praslin
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better tortoise viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Curieuse Island's giant tortoises and snorkel the vibrant reefs of St. Pierre Islet, a pristine marine park adventure.
"A must-visit for wildlife lovers and snorkelers seeking paradise."
💰 Tour Price Tip
Aim for tours around €70 pp for a great day trip including boat, entry, BBQ, and snorkeling.
👟 Wear Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring Curieuse Island's trails and mangrove boardwalks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Giant Tortoise Encounters
Curieuse Island
Wander among hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises roaming freely in their natural habitat. A truly unique wildlife experience!
Snorkeling St. Pierre Islet
St. Pierre Islet
Dive into crystal-clear waters around granite boulders for vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. A snorkeler's dream!
Curieuse Mangrove Boardwalk
Curieuse Island
Explore a serene mangrove forest on a well-maintained boardwalk, spotting unique flora and fauna along the way.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Island Adventure
Pack for Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Tour Price Tip
Aim for tours around €70 pp for a great day trip including boat, entry, BBQ, and snorkeling.
👟 Wear Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring Curieuse Island's trails and mangrove boardwalks.
☀️ Seek Shady Beach Spots
If your tour lands on Curieuse, walk slightly left for more secluded beach spots.
🐢 See Turtles in Sea
Keep an eye out for small sharks and tortoises in the water during snorkeling.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Tour Price Tip
Aim for tours around €70 pp for a great day trip including boat, entry, BBQ, and snorkeling.
👟 Wear Walking Shoes
Essential for exploring Curieuse Island's trails and mangrove boardwalks.
☀️ Seek Shady Beach Spots
If your tour lands on Curieuse, walk slightly left for more secluded beach spots.
🐢 See Turtles in Sea
Keep an eye out for small sharks and tortoises in the water during snorkeling.
💧 Bring Water
Crucial for the 45-minute walk on Curieuse Island, especially in the heat.
🐠 Snorkel Paradise
St. Pierre offers clear waters and vibrant fish, perfect for underwater exploration. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible opportunity to see Aldabra giant tortoises roaming freely on Curieuse Island and the excellent snorkeling at St. Pierre Islet. The scenic beauty, clear waters, and well-organized tours are frequently praised, making it a highly recommended day trip from Praslin. Some note that tours can feel a bit structured, but the natural wonders more than compensate.
"The island is home to around 200 Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely, making every visit feel like a wildlife encounter in paradise. Seeing them up close, especially the 127-year-old elder among them, is something truly special.
The island also has a lovely mangrove boardwalk and some stunning beaches, all surrounded by crystal-clear waters. It’s peaceful, not crowded, and perfect for nature lovers. A must-visit if you’re in the area!"
Ihar Beliauski
"Nice trip from Praslin. Do not expect too much from the trip, they drive to Curieuse island and then wait you with BBQ on the other side, and some snorkeling. It is OK like this for us, because you can enjoy on your own all the turtles and park. We saw some small shark and tortoise in the see."
Tomas Janik
"There is a good chance that you will be brought to this island with a tour operator. Don't pay more than €70 pp, that's a great price for what you get. Usually this includes a boat trip, entrance fee, BBQ and at the end the boat stops at St Pierre for a snorkeling hour. You start on the island where there are a few turtles and a nursery. Then you walk a trail of 45 minutes. Be sure to bring a liter of water with you. You arrive at a beach where you have to wait for lunch to be prepared. All the tourists are gathering together. tip: walk slightly to the left, then you have a large beach with several shady spots. The BBQ is well taken care of and you have your own table per boat. It is a kind of buffet with meat, fish and salads. It is all well organized and for €70 you have a nice day!"
Pedro El Toros
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to visit St. Pierre Island and Curieuse Marine National Park is by taking a boat tour from Praslin Island. These day trips are widely available and often include transportation, park fees, and activities like snorkeling and a BBQ lunch.
While it's possible to arrange private boat charters, most visitors opt for organized tours due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness. Independent travel to these smaller islets can be challenging.
Boat is the only way to travel between Praslin and St. Pierre/Curieuse. Tours typically use speedboats or larger tour boats, offering scenic views of the surrounding ocean.
No, there are no public ferries that go directly to St. Pierre Island or Curieuse. Access is primarily through organized boat excursions.
The boat journey from Praslin to Curieuse Island typically takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Curieuse Marine National Park, which is usually included in the price of organized tours. If booking independently, confirm this fee.
Day trips typically range from €70 to €100 per person, depending on the tour operator and inclusions. It's advisable to compare prices and what's offered.
The park is generally accessible during daylight hours as part of organized tours. Specific timings will depend on your chosen excursion.
While some tour operators might have availability on the day, it's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid disappointment.
Most tours include boat transportation, park entrance fees, a guided walk on Curieuse, snorkeling at St. Pierre, and a BBQ lunch.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Curieuse Island is famous for its large population of Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely. You can also explore a beautiful mangrove boardwalk, enjoy stunning beaches, and hike scenic trails.
St. Pierre is a small, uninhabited granite islet known for its clear waters, ideal for snorkeling. It's characterized by large granite boulders and coconut trees, offering a picturesque backdrop.
Yes, snorkeling at St. Pierre is excellent. The waters are clear and shallow around the islet, teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs, making it a popular spot for underwater exploration.
Facilities are generally basic. Restrooms are usually available at the main landing points on Curieuse, especially near the BBQ area. Changing facilities are limited, so it's best to wear swimwear under your clothes.
On Curieuse, the main attraction is the Aldabra giant tortoises. You might also spot various bird species, crabs, and potentially small sharks or tortoises in the sea around St. Pierre. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Most day tours include a BBQ lunch, often served on Curieuse Island. This typically features grilled fish, meat, and salads.
There are no shops or restaurants on St. Pierre or Curieuse. It's essential to rely on the food provided by your tour operator or bring your own snacks and water if permitted.
The BBQ usually includes a buffet-style selection of grilled fish, chicken or other meats, and various salads. It's generally well-organized and caters to different tastes.
While not always guaranteed, it's worth inquiring with your tour operator in advance if you have specific dietary requirements like vegetarian or vegan meals.
Yes, absolutely. Bringing your own reusable water bottle is highly recommended, especially for the walk on Curieuse. Staying hydrated is important.
📸 📸 Photography
St. Pierre offers stunning shots of its iconic granite boulders against the turquoise sea, especially during sunrise and sunset. The clear waters also make for great underwater photography.
Focus on the Aldabra giant tortoises in their natural environment, the unique mangrove ecosystem, and the beautiful, often secluded, beaches.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some videos show drone footage,
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the natural beauty. Sunsets over St. Pierre are particularly spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Waterproof camera gear or a GoPro is perfect for capturing underwater shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Most boat tours are family-friendly and include a BBQ lunch, making it a convenient full-day outing. Ensure children wear hats and sunscreen, and bring plenty of water. The snorkeling at St. Pierre is generally shallow and calm, suitable for supervised children who are comfortable in the water.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider packing your own snacks and drinks to supplement the provided lunch, and bring your own snorkeling gear if you have it to save on rental costs or ensure comfort. While the islands themselves are free to explore once you're there, the tour is the primary expense.
💑 Couples & Honeymooners
The opportunity to snorkel together in clear waters and encounter giant tortoises adds a unique charm to your trip. Opt for a tour that offers a more intimate experience, perhaps a smaller boat or one that allows for more flexibility. The BBQ lunch on Curieuse can be a lovely shared meal amidst stunning scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majestic Aldabra Giant Tortoises
These tortoises are a symbol of the Seychelles' commitment to preserving its unique biodiversity. Their presence transforms the island into a living, breathing natural history museum. The experience of walking among them is often described as surreal and deeply moving, making it a must-see for nature enthusiasts.
When visiting, wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven, and bring plenty of water. The tortoises are most active during the cooler parts of the day, so an early morning visit can be particularly rewarding for observing their behavior.
Snorkeling Adventures at St. Pierre Islet
+1The islet itself is a picturesque sight, with its dramatic granite boulders and sparse vegetation creating a striking contrast against the azure sea. It's a popular stop on many boat tours, offering a chance to cool off and explore the marine life. Keep an eye out for small sharks and even tortoises that sometimes venture into these waters.
For the best experience, visit during calm weather conditions. While tours often provide snorkeling gear, bringing your own mask and snorkel can ensure a better fit and comfort. The shallow depths make it accessible for beginners, while the diverse marine life appeals to seasoned snorkelers.
Exploring Curieuse's Mangrove Ecosystem
The boardwalk allows visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquil environment without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. It's a great spot for photography, with the intricate root systems and the dappled sunlight creating a serene atmosphere. Listen for the sounds of birds and the gentle lapping of water against the roots.
This part of the island is relatively flat and easy to navigate, making it accessible for most visitors. It's a peaceful contrast to the more active pursuits like snorkeling or interacting with the tortoises, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst nature.
Social
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