Full Day Excursion of Cousin, Curieuse, and St. Pierre Islands from Praslin Island
Setting out on a full-day tour around Seychelles’ stunning islands from Praslin offers a convenient way to explore some of the archipelago’s most captivating spots. While it’s not perfect, it does pack quite a bit into about 8 hours, making it ideal for those who want an overview of Seychelles’ unique flora, fauna, and beaches without the hassle of organizing multiple transport arrangements.
What we love about this tour are the easy hotel transfers, the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and the chance to enjoy a beach barbecue lunch in a gorgeous setting. Plus, all transportation between islands is covered, saving you time and stress. A potential downside is that some reviews mention issues with accessibility and hidden fees, so it’s worth staying aware of what’s included and what might cost extra.
This experience suits travelers who enjoy guided day trips, want a balance of wildlife, snorkeling, and beach relaxation, and prefer to have everything arranged in advance. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to tick off Seychelles’ top islands, this tour could be just what you need. However, if you’re after a highly personalized or in-depth experience, you might want to explore other options.
Key Points
- Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off make for a smooth day.
- Variety of sites: Visit three different islands—Cousin, Curieuse, and St. Pierre—each offering unique sights.
- Wildlife & nature: Snorkeling, birdlife, and giant tortoises provide authentic wildlife encounters.
- All-in-one experience: Combining sightseeing, snorkeling, and a beach BBQ saves planning time.
- Mixed reviews: Some guests report issues with accessibility and unforeseen fees.
- Group size: Limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Looking for more options in Praslin Island? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Cote d’Or Beach & Cousin Island Reserve
Your day begins with a pickup from your Praslin accommodation, which sets the tone for a hassle-free experience. After a short drive, you’ll arrive at Cote d’Or Beach, a picture-perfect stretch where you’ll start your exploration at the Cousin Island Nature Reserve. This island is famed for its birdlife, especially its breeding colonies of seabirds and endemic species.
One of the highlights here is the opportunity to see rare bird species in their natural habitat—something bird-watchers and nature lovers will appreciate. Reviewers have described the island as a paradise with “very well-preserved” bird populations, and a guide often provides insights into the conservation efforts ongoing there.
However, a word of caution from past travelers: Cousin Island’s entrance fee is SCR 600 (~$40 USD) per person, payable on-site. Some reviewers mention feeling disappointed when they found out certain parts weren’t accessible or that the boat to the island was unwell, with occasional claims that this was misrepresented. Despite this, many praise the opportunity to get close to rare birds and observe their natural environment.
The Boat Ride & Transfer to Curieuse Island
Post exploration, you’ll hop on a 30-minute boat ride to Curieuse Island. The boat experience can vary depending on weather and boat conditions—reviewers note that the speedboat can be quite rough, with some mentioning uncomfortable jumps and backaches. It’s advisable to be prepared with waterproof bags for your belongings and to wear a life jacket for safety, especially if the sea is choppy.
Once on Curieuse, you’ll encounter giant tortoises and mangroves. The island is famous for its Giant Tortoise Sanctuary, where you can walk among these gentle giants. Many reviews mention spotting large tortoises roaming freely, and guides are usually knowledgeable about their habits and conservation status.
Lunch: Beach BBQ
Midday, it’s time for a barbecue lunch right on Curieuse’s beach. This is often highlighted as a relaxing part of the trip, with good-quality food served in a scenic setting. Reviewers mention that the lunch is copious and flavorful, providing a nice break before the afternoon activities. Expect simple grilled meats, salads, and fresh fruit—ample enough to satisfy after a morning of wildlife spotting.
Snorkeling at St. Pierre Island
The final leg of the day involves a snorkeling session at St. Pierre, a tiny island known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Snorkelers can expect to see tropical fish, coral reefs, and a variety of marine creatures. Gear is provided, but reviewers advise bringing waterproof sunscreen and being comfortable in the water.
Many guests find snorkeling here to be a highlight of the trip. As one reviewer put it, “The waters are so clear, and I saw more fish than I ever expected.” However, some mention that the experience can be affected by weather conditions, so a calm day will offer the best visibility.
Transportation & Practical Considerations
Group Size & Comfort
This tour is limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable. Smaller groups tend to mean more personalized attention from guides, who are often praised for their knowledgeable commentary. Past guests mention that guides like Samuel are friendly and informative, adding value to the trip.
Timing & Duration
Starting at 8:30 am, the tour lasts approximately 8 hours. The schedule is tightly packed but designed to maximize island time while allowing for relaxation. Keep in mind that weather can influence the day’s flow—some guests have noted that if seas are rough, the boat rides can be uncomfortable.
Cost & Value
At $176.18 per person, this tour offers good value considering it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation between islands, a BBQ lunch, and snorkeling gear. The only notable extra is the entrance fee for Cousin Island (SCR 600). While some guests felt the fee was steep, most agreed that seeing the island’s protected bird populations was worth it.
Potential Drawbacks
Some reviews mention issues with accessibility—for instance, the boat to Cousin Island sometimes isn’t operational, which can lead to disappointment. Others found that hidden fees or last-minute changes caused frustration. It’s advisable to clarify details beforehand and prepare for the possibility of weather-related cancellations or modifications.
Authentic Experiences & Review Insights
Multiple reviews praise guides like Samuel for their supportiveness and knowledge, which enhances the overall experience. One guest highlighted that they “happened to see rare birds and giant turtles,” emphasizing the opportunity for authentic wildlife encounters.
Conversely, a few travelers felt misled when told that certain islands or activities weren’t accessible, highlighting the importance of confirming details with the tour operator before booking.
Several travelers appreciated the scenic views and snorkeling, calling the waters “crystal clear” and noting that the marine life was plentiful. On the other hand, some critique the rough boat rides or the lack of detailed information during the trip, which could be improved for a more enriching experience.
Is This Tour Right for You?
This full-day excursion suits travelers who enjoy wildlife, photography, and snorkeling in a guided setting. If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one island-hopping experience that minimizes planning, this tour delivers. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer to meet other travelers in a small group and want a scenic, nature-focused day.
However, if your priority is flexibility or you’re highly sensitive to boat rides, you might want to consider alternatives or look into private options. Be prepared for potential hidden costs and variable weather conditions that could impact your experience.
The Sum Up
This tour offers a convenient and engaging way to explore some of Seychelles’ most iconic islands from Praslin. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and opportunities for wildlife spotting and snorkeling, it’s a well-rounded day out for those seeking a taste of Seychelles’ natural beauty.
While there are some concerns about accessibility issues and extra fees, many travelers find the experience to be worth the price—especially given the hassle-free logistics and the chance to see rare birds, giant tortoises, and vibrant marine life. It’s most suitable for visitors who want a guided, all-inclusive day that balances adventure with relaxation.
For travelers eager to tick off some of Seychelles’ top sights in a single day, this trip provides a practical, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience—just keep expectations in check and go with an open mind.
FAQ
Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off on Praslin Island, which saves you time and effort.
What is the cost of the entrance fee for Cousin Island?
The entrance fee is SCR 600 (~$40 USD) per person and is paid on-site.
How long are the boat rides?
The boat ride from Cote d’Or Beach to Cousin Island lasts about 30 minutes, and the journey to Curieuse Island is also approximately 30 minutes.
Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling equipment is included, allowing you to explore the marine life around St. Pierre Island.
What should I bring for the trip?
Waterproof bags for belongings, sun protection, and possibly a hat or sunglasses. Be prepared for boat rides and outdoor activity.
Is the group size small?
Yes, the tour limits to 15 travelers, making for a more intimate experience.
Can I expect a detailed guided commentary?
Most guides are praised for their knowledge, and they typically share insights about the wildlife and islands, enhancing the experience.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Apart from the tour price and the Cousin Island entrance fee, food and beverages during the lunch are included, but other optional extras are not.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
In essence, this tour is a solid choice for those wanting an organized, wildlife-rich day out with scenic snorkeling and beach time. It offers good value for travelers who prioritize convenience and guided insights over high flexibility or private experiences.