Curieuse Island, Seychelles

Curieuse Island is a small granitic island in the Seychelles, known for its natural beauty, giant tortoises, and rich history. As part of the Marine Park, it is a protected area that hosts unique wildlife and historical ruins.

Note: It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.

There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. These are local guides who can help you plan a personal tour and get you back to your ship on time. You can check out [Rome2Rio](https://www.rome2rio.com/) for transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.

Location & Transportation

Since cruise ships cannot dock directly here, you will be tendered ashore. Once you arrive, you’ll find that Curieuse Island is compact and easy to explore on foot via well-marked nature trails. If you need to fly in before your cruise, the closest airport is Praslin Island Airport (IATA: PRI), which serves as a gateway to the surrounding islands.

Sightseeing

Curieuse Island packs a lot of interest into its 1.78 square miles. Here are some highlights I loved when I visited:

One of only two islands native to the famous Coco-de-mer palm.
Home to about 250 Giant Tortoises, originally brought from Aldabra, with a successful breeding program.
Historical ruins from its past as a leper colony, along with the restored colonial villa known as the Doctor’s House, where the island doctor lived in the 1870s.
Scenic nature trails that wind through extensive swamps, where you can spot eight different species of mangrove.

Tours & Excursions

If you have about 45 minutes, take the self-guided walking tour around the island to soak in its natural beauty and history. Local guides sometimes offer tours that provide deeper insights into the ecology and heritage of the island, so it’s worth asking upon arrival.

Shopping

There are no commercial shops or souvenir stands on Curieuse Island. The only buildings are part of the National Marine Parks Board facilities, so plan to bring any necessities with you.

Dining

You won’t find restaurants or cafés on the island. It’s best to pack your own snacks and plenty of water, as there are no refreshments sold once you step ashore.

Culture & Local Events

While Curieuse Island doesn’t host organized festivals or events, its natural and historical ambiance offers a unique cultural experience. Here are some local tips that will help you make the most of your visit:

• The local currency is the Seychelles rupee (SCR). Although you won’t find money changers on the island, you can exchange currency at main islands’ airports or banks.
• Communication is easy here, with Seychellois Creole, English, and French widely spoken by locals and park staff.
• There are no formal opening hours or retail operations on the island. If you need assistance or information, the facilities run by the National Marine Parks Board operate on a limited schedule.
• Always follow the guidelines posted by park officials to protect the vulnerable ecosystem and its wildlife.

Safety & Awareness

Stay on designated trails and heed any advice from park rangers.
Protect yourself from the sun—bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
For emergencies in Seychelles, dial 999.

Curieuse Island, Seychelles Guide