Cousin Island Special Reserve
A tiny island sanctuary, Cousin Island is a global conservation success story, teeming with exotic birds and giant tortoises.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Cousin Island Special Reserve
Best Time
Wildlife is most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tiny island sanctuary, Cousin Island is a global conservation success story, teeming with exotic birds and giant tortoises.
"A paradise for the bird watchers. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent and enjoy the company of big tortoises."
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Don't forget to pack strong mosquito repellent; they can be quite active on the island.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Birdwatcher's Paradise
Witness thousands of native seabirds, including the endemic Seychelles warbler, in their thriving natural habitat.
Giant Aldabra Tortoises
Encounter these magnificent, ancient reptiles roaming freely across the island. A truly awe-inspiring sight!
Pristine Beaches & Marine Life
Enjoy the clean, well-maintained beaches and explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish during snorkeling stops.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Guided Tour in Advance
Pack for Nature's Embrace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Don't forget to pack strong mosquito repellent; they can be quite active on the island.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
🚤 Boat Trip from Praslin
Hire a taxi boat from Cote d'Or beach on Praslin for easy access to Cousin Island.
📸 Guided Tours are Essential
Visits are guided only, offering in-depth insights into the island's conservation efforts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Don't forget to pack strong mosquito repellent; they can be quite active on the island.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on trails, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for exploring.
🚤 Boat Trip from Praslin
Hire a taxi boat from Cote d'Or beach on Praslin for easy access to Cousin Island.
📸 Guided Tours are Essential
Visits are guided only, offering in-depth insights into the island's conservation efforts.
🐢 See Conservation in Action
Learn about the island's success story in protecting endemic species and habitats.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cousin Island is widely praised as a pristine natural paradise, especially for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Visitors highlight the incredible wildlife encounters, from abundant exotic birds to giant tortoises, and the well-maintained environment. Some note the prevalence of mosquitoes and the necessity of guided tours.
"A paradise for the bird watchers. Don’t forget your mosquito repellent and enjoy the company of big tortoises."
Svetlana Dynin
"The beach is so clean and well maintained. Never give up on a once in a lifetime experience of seeing the different varieties of exotic birds. The bird reserve tour is a guided one and you get to see crabs and tortoises as well. Boat tours to Cousin is very less during August due to the rough seas. But we were lucky as we booked with Sagittarius and they gave the all clear to go ahead with the visit."
Eber Shibin
"Otherwise known as Bird island, a conservation success story where an island was bought out for the purpose of saving a unique bird habitat and endemic species like the Seychelles warbler.
Lots of mosquitoes, be prepared !"
Eugen Frantiu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Cousin Island is by hiring a taxi boat from Cote d'Or beach on Praslin. Some tour operators also offer day trips that include Cousin Island.
Boat tours can be limited, especially in August due to rough seas. It's advisable to check with local operators and book in advance.
No, visits to Cousin Island Special Reserve are guided only. You cannot explore the island on your own.
The boat ride from Praslin to Cousin Island is relatively short, typically around 15-20 minutes.
Contacting local tour operators or your accommodation on Praslin is the best way to arrange a boat trip. Sagittarius is mentioned as a reliable operator.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee for Cousin Island Special Reserve, which contributes to its conservation efforts. It's usually included in guided tour packages.
Cousin Island is typically open for guided tours during daylight hours. It's best to confirm specific timings with your tour operator.
There is an admission fee for Cousin Island, which supports the ongoing conservation work on the island.
While direct online booking might be limited, it's recommended to book your guided tour through a reputable tour operator or your hotel on Praslin.
Guided tours typically include a walk around the island to observe birds, giant tortoises, and learn about the unique flora and fauna.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Cousin Island is famous for its diverse birdlife, including the Seychelles warbler, as well as giant Aldabra tortoises, lizards, and various insects.
Absolutely! Cousin Island is a premier destination for bird watchers, with an estimated 300,000 birds at certain times of the year.
Yes, all visits to Cousin Island are guided. Knowledgeable guides will share fascinating information about the island's ecosystem.
Wear comfortable walking shoes and light clothing. Bringing insect repellent is highly recommended due to mosquitoes.
While the primary focus is conservation and wildlife viewing, some tours may include snorkeling opportunities around the island's coral reefs.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of exotic birds in flight, giant tortoises up close, lush vegetation, and the beautiful coastline.
Yes, the wildlife is accustomed to human presence, making it relatively easy to get close for photos, especially the tortoises and many bird species.
A camera with a good zoom lens is beneficial for capturing distant birds, while a wide-angle lens can be useful for landscapes and tortoises.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the wildlife and follow your guide's instructions. Avoid using flash directly on animals.
Drone usage is typically restricted in nature reserves to avoid disturbing wildlife. It's best to check specific regulations before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's essential to come prepared by packing mosquito repellent and ensuring that children wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking along the island's trails. The unique experience of arriving by boat and landing directly on the beach, combined with close encounters with diverse wildlife, ensures that Cousin Island creates lasting memories for families.
🐦 Bird Enthusiasts
The guided tours offer invaluable knowledge from local experts about the various species, their unique behaviors, and the ongoing conservation projects. With an estimated 300,000 birds present during peak seasons, the island provides an incredibly immersive and rewarding experience for anyone with a passion for ornithology.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Conservation Success Story
This pivotal acquisition marked the beginning of a dedicated effort to restore and protect the island's fragile ecosystem.The reserve is globally recognized for its crucial role in the recovery of the Seychelles warbler, a species once on the brink of extinction. Intensive conservation programs have led to a significant increase in its population, demonstrating the profound positive impact of targeted environmental stewardship. Visitors on guided tours gain valuable insights into these successful initiatives.
In addition to the Seychelles warbler, Cousin Island serves as a critical nesting site for a multitude of seabird species and offers a sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises and endemic reptiles. The island's ecological transformation underscores the vital importance of habitat preservation for maintaining biodiversity.
Navigating to Cousin Island
Alternatively, numerous tour operators based on Praslin offer comprehensive day trips that frequently feature Cousin Island. These excursions may also incorporate visits to other nearby islands like Curieuse and St. Pierre, providing a multi-faceted island-hopping experience.
To ensure a smooth visit, booking your boat transfer or tour well in advance is highly recommended, particularly during busy periods. This proactive approach helps secure your spot and allows tour providers to assess and confirm trips based on prevailing weather and sea states. The experience of landing directly on the beach adds to the adventure.
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