Desroches Island
A remote island paradise in Seychelles with pristine beaches, lush nature, and unique giant tortoise encounters, featuring an upscale resort.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas and sunny skies
Desroches Island
Best Time
Calm seas and sunny skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remote island paradise in Seychelles with pristine beaches, lush nature, and unique giant tortoise encounters, featuring an upscale resort.
"Paradise - combination of white sand beaches with coconut trees, tropical forests, coconuts groves and giant tortoise wandering freely."
Book Flights Early
Secure your 35-min flight from Mahé well in advance, as it's the primary access. :airplane_departure:
Embrace Island Pace
Desroches is about relaxation. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and disconnect from the hustle. :palm_tree:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sand Beaches
Circumference of the island
Miles of untouched white sand beaches fringed by coconut palms, perfect for serene strolls and relaxation.

Giant Tortoise Sanctuary
Tortoise Sanctuary
An incredible opportunity to see and interact with giant tortoises, some even available to hold as babies.

Coral Reefs & Marine Life
Surrounding waters
Explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, ideal for snorkeling and diving adventures.

Four Seasons Resort Amenities
Four Seasons Resort
Enjoy luxury amenities including a lighthouse restaurant, spa, and bicycle rentals for island exploration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Desroches
Island Vibe & Activities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Flights Early
Secure your 35-min flight from Mahé well in advance, as it's the primary access.
:airplane_departure:Embrace Island Pace
Desroches is about relaxation. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and disconnect from the hustle.
:palm_tree:Explore by Bicycle
Rent a bike from the resort to easily traverse the island's paths and discover hidden spots.
:athletic_shoe:Tortoise Encounters
Don't miss the chance to see and interact with the gentle giant tortoises at the sanctuary.
:turtle:Tips
from all over the internet
Book Flights Early
Secure your 35-min flight from Mahé well in advance, as it's the primary access.
:airplane_departure:Embrace Island Pace
Desroches is about relaxation. Enjoy the quiet atmosphere and disconnect from the hustle.
:palm_tree:Explore by Bicycle
Rent a bike from the resort to easily traverse the island's paths and discover hidden spots.
:athletic_shoe:Tortoise Encounters
Don't miss the chance to see and interact with the gentle giant tortoises at the sanctuary.
:turtle:Pack Light Layers
Light clothing is best, but bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
:shirt:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Desroches Island is overwhelmingly praised as a slice of paradise, with visitors captivated by its pristine white sand beaches, lush tropical scenery, and the unique opportunity to interact with giant tortoises. The well-maintained environment, largely thanks to the Four Seasons resort, and the tranquil atmosphere contribute to an unforgettable, relaxing escape. Some find the dining options limited outside the resort, and the cost can be a factor for budget-conscious travelers.
"Desroches island is a amazing Along its circumference of 13 km is a beach of fine sand."
Marc Barrallon (#barrallonlife)
"One of the beautiful island in Seychelles"
Roshan Ismail
"Paradise - combination of white sand beaches with coconut trees, tropical forests, coconuts groves and giant tortoise wandering freely around the island"
Veronika Hudecova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Desroches Island is by a 35-minute domestic flight from Mahé International Airport (SEZ). Several charter and scheduled flights operate this route daily.
It's recommended to book these flights in advance, especially during peak season.Yes, Desroches Island has its own airstrip, which accommodates the domestic flights from Mahé. This makes arrival and departure relatively straightforward.
While direct travel from other outer islands might be limited, the primary route is via Mahé. You would typically fly into Mahé and then take a connecting flight to Desroches.
The flight from Mahé to Desroches Island is approximately 35 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the archipelago.
Ferry services are not a common or practical way to reach Desroches due to its distance from the main islands. Flights are the standard mode of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to book your domestic flight to Desroches Island in advance, as this is your entry ticket to the island. There are no separate 'entry tickets' for the island itself, but access is controlled by the resort and flight schedules.
Attractions like the Tortoise Sanctuary are generally accessible during daylight hours. The Four Seasons Resort has its own operating hours for dining and spa services.
While specific fees can vary, visiting the Tortoise Sanctuary is often included as part of the island experience, especially for resort guests. It's best to inquire locally or with your accommodation.
The primary accommodation is the Four Seasons Resort, which offers various packages, including all-inclusive options. It's worth researching these to see what best fits your honeymoon or holiday plans.
Desroches Island is largely dominated by the Four Seasons Resort, and access is typically managed through resort bookings or specific charter arrangements. Day visits might be possible but are not the standard.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Must-do activities include relaxing on the pristine beaches, visiting the Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, snorkeling or diving in the coral reefs, and enjoying the amenities at the Four Seasons Resort.
Absolutely! Desroches Island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving to explore the rich marine biodiversity.
You can expect to see giant tortoises roaming freely, as well as abundant marine life in the surrounding waters. Coconut palms and tropical trees are also characteristic of the island's flora.
Bicycles are a popular and convenient way to explore the island, provided by the resort. Golf carts are also available for transport, though flight schedules may influence their availability.
Yes, Desroches Island is highly regarded as a romantic and tranquil honeymoon destination, offering privacy, luxury, and stunning natural beauty.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Four Seasons Resort offers several dining venues, including a lighthouse restaurant, providing a range of culinary experiences.
The island's small population means dining is primarily resort-based.The value of an all-inclusive package depends on your dining habits. Some travelers find it convenient for budgeting, while others prefer to dine a la carte. It's a common discussion point for honeymooners.
While the resort offers diverse cuisine, authentic local Seychellois food might be more limited due to the island's remote nature and resort focus. Dining is predominantly at the resort.
Given that the Four Seasons is the sole resort and the island has a small population, dining options are primarily concentrated within the resort premises.
The Four Seasons Resort typically offers a variety of international and local Creole-inspired dishes, catering to diverse palates.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the white sand beaches, the giant tortoises, the lush tropical foliage, and the picturesque sunsets. The lighthouse and resort architecture also offer great photographic opportunities.
Golden hours, just after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most beautiful light for landscape and wildlife photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing the vibrant turquoise waters.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens for wildlife and landscapes, and a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive beaches and ocean views. Waterproof protection is advisable for water activities.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the Four Seasons Resort or local authorities regarding drone usage to ensure compliance with privacy and safety rules.
Yes, photographing the giant tortoises is a highlight. They are accustomed to people, so you can get close, but always maintain a respectful distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly package at the Four Seasons Resort, which can cater to specific needs and provide amenities like kids' clubs or babysitting services. The island's small size and lack of busy roads make it a secure place for children to roam and explore under supervision.
💍 Honeymooners & Couples
Consider booking an all-inclusive package to simplify your stay and budget for your special trip. The island's natural beauty, from the turquoise waters to the lush greenery, provides endless opportunities for stunning photos and cherished memories.
✈️ Day-Trippers & Short Stays
Your experience will likely be centered around the Four Seasons Resort, which may offer day passes or specific excursion packages. Be sure to coordinate your travel and any resort access well in advance, as spontaneous day visits can be challenging due to the island's remote nature and resort-centric operations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Island Access and Transportation
The island's layout is designed for tranquility and easy exploration. Paths are well-maintained, leading to various beaches and points of interest. The absence of extensive public transport reinforces the feeling of seclusion and personal discovery. This focus on natural exploration, facilitated by bicycles and walking, allows visitors to truly immerse themselves in the island's serene environment.
Wildlife Encounters and Conservation
Beyond the tortoises, the waters surrounding Desroches are rich with marine life. The coral reefs are vibrant and healthy, making snorkeling and diving incredibly rewarding experiences. You can expect to see a diverse array of tropical fish, and if you're lucky, perhaps even sea turtles or rays gliding through the clear turquoise waters. The island's commitment to preserving its natural environment is evident in the well-maintained paths and the thriving ecosystems, both on land and in the sea.
The Four Seasons Experience
To facilitate exploration, the resort provides bicycles, encouraging guests to discover the island's 14 kilometers of beaches and hidden coves. This approach to island exploration aligns with the resort's ethos of providing a relaxed yet engaging experience. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family holiday, the Four Seasons aims to deliver exceptional service and unforgettable memories, all within the context of Desroches' unparalleled natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit