From Praslin: Cousin, Curieuse & St Pierre Islands Day Tour

Traveling to Seychelles and craving a day packed with wildlife, vibrant marine life, and breathtaking scenery? This Cousin, Curieuse, and St Pierre Islands tour offers just that — and more. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed itineraries reveal a well-rounded experience that combines nature, adventure, and a touch of local charm.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to explore Cousin Island’s protected habitats, home to endemic birds and lush wetlands. Second, the interaction with giant tortoises on Curieuse—some approaching you curiously—and the chance to see them in their natural environment. Third, the snorkeling off St Pierre, which promises close encounters with Seychelles’ vibrant marine life.

However, one thing to consider is the entry fees for the islands — paid separately in cash or by card — which can add to the overall cost. The trip suits travelers who love wildlife, birdwatching, and snorkeling, and who appreciate guided tours that cover multiple islands in one day, offering both relaxation and adventure.

Key Points

• Wildlife-rich experience: Encounter endemic birds, giant tortoises, and marine life.
• Guided tour: Knowledgeable guides lead the way, enhancing your understanding of each location.
• All-inclusive feel: Includes transportation, BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, and safety equipment.
• Separate island entry fees: Paid on-site, with cash for Cousin and card for Curieuse.
• Weather-dependent: The experience relies on good weather for smooth boat rides and snorkeling.
• Ideal for nature lovers: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or large luggage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Seychelles’ Islands in Style and Substance

This full-day tour from Praslin takes you through some of Seychelles’ most treasured spots, with a focus on wildlife, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Starting with a hotel pickup, you’ll be driven to Baie Ste Anne jetty, where the adventure begins with a quick 2-kilometer boat ride to Cousin Island.

The Magic of Cousin Island

The journey to Cousin Island is brief but packed with anticipation. The boat itself is a small, off-shore cruiser that ensures a smooth and safe crossing — and according to reviews, the crew, like guide Lyly, makes the experience even more enjoyable with friendly service and insightful commentary. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable guides who share details in both English and French, making the day accessible and engaging.

Once ashore, a wardens-led tour reveals a treasure trove of endemic bird species like the Magpie Robin, Sunbird, and Warbler. The island’s habitats are remarkably diverse — from coastal mangroves and wetlands to forested hilltops. Expect to see Seychelles’ unique flora, such as mapou and Indian mulberry trees, which serve as nesting sites for seabirds like shearwaters and bridled terns. Reviewers highlight how close they got to the birds and endemic species, describing birdwatching moments as “amazing” and “up-close.”

Curieuse Island: Giant Tortoises and a Tasty BBQ

After about an hour exploring Cousin, it’s time to hop on a boat for a half-hour cruise to Curieuse Island. Here, the highlight is undoubtedly the large population of giant tortoises. Tourists frequently mention how curious and gentle these creatures are — with some reviewers even saying you can stroke the tortoises or feed them bananas during the BBQ. As one reviewer noted, “The turtles like to be stroked and are curious,” making it a truly interactive experience.

The island’s natural pond and surrounding landscape are equally impressive, with tortoises wandering freely across the terrain. The BBQ lunch on the beach is a major plus, with many describing it as “one of the best meals in Seychelles.” The setting is relaxed, with fresh seafood and local flavors served in a stunning seaside backdrop.

Snorkeling at St Pierre

The final leg of the tour takes you to St Pierre, a tiny island renowned for its vibrant marine ecosystem. Snorkelers will love the opportunity to see colorful fish and coral formations just a short swim from the island. The crew provides lightweight snorkeling vests, ensuring everyone, even beginners, can enjoy the underwater spectacle.

While reviewers mention that sometimes the sea can be a bit choppy, most still found snorkeling enjoyable, with “lots of fish to observe” and “a magical experience.” For those who prefer not to snorkel, simply relaxing on the beach and soaking in the sun is a fine alternative.

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What’s Included and What to Know

The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, making transportation hassle-free. It also includes a BBQ lunch, snorkeling gear, and life vests — essential for safety and fun. However, remember that entry fees for Cousin (SCR 600) and Curieuse (SCR 300 over 12) are paid separately, and only cash or card are accepted, respectively.

Travelers should bring swimwear, a towel, waterproof bags, and cash for the entry fees. Flip-flops and beachwear are recommended, along with a credit card for optional purchases or souvenirs.

This tour is weather-dependent, so days with rough seas or strong winds might affect boat rides and snorkeling. The operator also mentions that pickup times can shift, so flexible travelers should be prepared for potential schedule changes.

The Group Atmosphere and Guide Experience

Multiple reviewers highlighted the friendly, professional guides and crew, describing their knowledge and enthusiasm as a major highlight. Some mention the small group size, which enhances the personal feel of the trip. The boat pilot, in particular, receives praise for explaining the sights in both English and French, adding an educational layer to the fun.

Duration and Value

At around a full day, the experience offers a comprehensive look at some of Seychelles’ most iconic islands. For $153 per person, including transportation, lunch, and snorkeling gear, many travelers find the value quite reasonable — especially considering the chance to see Seychelles’ endemic species and interact with tortoises in their habitat.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

From the reviews, it’s clear that Cousin Island impresses visitors with its birdlife and lush habitats. One reviewer raved, “You can watch the birds up close — it’s amazing!” others appreciated the personalized guidance that helped them spot rare species like Seychelles Fody and Blue Pigeon.

Curieuse Island is frequently praised for its giant tortoises and the delicious BBQ lunch. Several mentioned how much they enjoyed feeding the turtles and seeing them roaming freely — “they like to be stroked and are curious,” said one.

The snorkeling at St Pierre garners mixed reviews: some found the sea rough but still enjoyed the spectacular fish, while others appreciated the gear provided that made snorkeling more accessible. The lightweight vests are a thoughtful touch, helping those unsure about swimming.

A Few Tips from Travelers

Many recommend bringing mosquito spray, especially for Cousin Island, which has a fair number of mosquitoes during certain times. Some noted the entry fees can be a surprise if not prepared, so keep cash handy for Cousin and your card for Curieuse.

Several travelers mentioned that scheduling could be a little better organized, with some waiting longer than expected for pickup or at certain stops. However, guides and staff generally kept things friendly and laid-back, making the overall experience enjoyable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for nature and wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Seychelles’ endemic birds, giant tortoises, and underwater life. It suits travelers who enjoy guided experiences, don’t mind a fair bit of walking, and are comfortable with boat rides.

If your idea of a holiday involves relaxing on white sandy beaches, exploring lush habitats, and getting up close with animals in their natural environment, this is a fantastic option. It’s less suited for travelers with mobility impairments or those looking for a purely relaxing beach day without the adventure aspects.

The Sum Up

The Cousin, Curieuse, and St Pierre Islands day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Seychelles’ natural beauty. The combination of birdwatching, wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and beach BBQ ensures plenty of memorable moments, especially for those who love discovering flora and fauna.

The tour’s professional guides and small group size contribute strongly to its appeal, making it both educational and fun. While the cost might seem steep at first glance, the inclusion of transportation, gear, and lunch adds to the overall value for a full day of adventure.

For travelers looking to experience Seychelles beyond the beaches, this trip delivers an authentic, engaging, and scenic taste of what makes this archipelago so special. Whether it’s spotting endemic birds, feeding giant tortoises, or snorkeling with colorful fish, you’ll leave with stories to tell and memories to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to pay the island entry fees separately?
Yes, the entry fees for Cousin Island (SCR 600) and Curieuse Island (SCR 300 over 12) are paid separately on-site. Cash is accepted for Cousin, and credit/debit cards for Curieuse.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally family-friendly, it’s best for children who can comfortably handle boat rides and walking. It’s not explicitly stated for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, towels, waterproof bags for your belongings, cash for island fees, and beachwear. Flip-flops are recommended, and don’t forget sunscreen and mosquito spray for Cousin Island.

How long is the boat ride from Praslin?
The crossing to Cousin Island is approximately 2 kilometers, with the boat ride to Curieuse taking about 30 minutes.

Is snorkeling equipment included?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life vests are provided, making it accessible even for beginners. The crew is on hand to help you make the most of the underwater experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. Rough seas or poor conditions might affect boat rides and snorkeling. The activity provider will inform you of any schedule changes, and refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this island-hopping adventure aligns with your Seychelles holiday plans. It offers a genuine blend of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and delicious local cuisine — a true slice of island life that many travelers find unforgettable.

You can check availability for your dates here: