Curieuse Island
Baie Sainte Anne
Curieuse Island, located near Praslin in the Seychelles, is a small granitic island covering 2.9 square kilometers. It is known for its distinctive red soil and the iconic coco de mer palms, which are endemic to only this island and its neighbor. Historically, the island served as a leper colony from 1829 until 1965, which inadvertently preserved much of its natural environment. After a devastating fire in 1967, the government initiated restoration efforts and in 1979 established the Curieuse Marine National Park to protect its unique ecosystem. The island hosts over 300 Aldabra giant tortoises relocated from Aldabra and features a mangrove swamp with a visitor walkway. Curieuse is also home to rare flora, including several endemic plant species, and fauna such as the Seychelles black parrot, although breeding occurs only on nearby Praslin. Today, it serves as a vital conservation site with active volunteer programs monitoring its diverse wildlife and marine life.
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Tip: The best time to visit Curieuse Island is during the dry season when weather conditions are ideal for exploring its natural trails and beaches. Visitors are advised to purchase tickets for the marine park in advance to ensure entry and to consider guided tours for a comprehensive experience. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. As the island is a protected area, visitors should respect conservation rules and avoid disturbing wildlife, especially the giant tortoises and rare bird species.
Interesting facts
- •Curieuse Island is home to more than 300 Aldabra giant tortoises relocated from Aldabra between 1978 and 1982.
- •The island hosts the rare Seychelles black parrot, which is only found here and on Praslin, although breeding occurs solely on Praslin.
- •Curieuse's red soil gives it the original name 'Ile Rouge'.
- •A devastating fire in 1967 destroyed over 150 coco de mer palms, leading to conservation initiatives.
- •The island's mangrove swamp is accessible to visitors via a dedicated walkway.
History
Originally named Ile Rouge for its distinctive red soil, Curieuse Island was claimed by the French in 1768 and named after the schooner La Curieuse.
It functioned as a leper colony from 1829 until 1965, which helped protect its environment from extensive human impact.
A major fire in 1967 destroyed much of its vegetation, prompting government-led restoration and conservation efforts.
In 1979, the island and its surrounding waters were designated as the Curieuse Marine National Park.
Between 1978 and 1982, Aldabra giant tortoises were introduced to the island to aid in ecological restoration.
Place Guide
Mangrove Walkway
A scenic boardwalk through the southern mangrove swamp, allowing visitors to experience the island's unique wetland ecosystem and observe diverse bird species and marine life.
Leper Colony Ruins and Physician's Residence1829-1965
Remnants of the island's historical leper colony, including the former physician's house at Anse St. Joseph, now serving as an educational center and museum highlighting the island's history and conservation efforts.
Giant Aldabra Tortoise Habitat1978-1982
Home to over 300 Aldabra giant tortoises introduced as part of a conservation project, many of which can be seen roaming freely near the Ranger's Station and across the island.
Coco de Mer Palm Forest
A unique forest of coco de mer palms, a species endemic to only Curieuse and Praslin, known for producing the largest seeds in the plant kingdom and a cultural icon of Seychelles.
