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Curieuse Island SeychellesCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island is a small, protected granitic island spanning 1.78 square miles, located off the north coast of Praslin in the Seychelles. As cruise ships cannot dock directly, passengers are tendered ashore. This island is renowned for being one of only two places where the rare coco de mer palm grows naturally. Designated as a National Marine Park, Curieuse is strictly protected, with only a few families residing there. The island is home to a thriving population of approximately 250 wild Giant Tortoises, which were introduced from Aldabra in the 1980s and are part of an ongoing breeding program. Visitors can also explore the ruins of a former leper colony and the restored Doctor's House, a colonial villa where the island's doctor lived in the 1870s. Nature trails wind through diverse landscapes, including extensive mangrove swamps featuring eight different species. It's important to note that there are no commercial buildings or refreshments sold on the island; the only structures belong to the National Marine Parks Board.

Getting Around from the Port

Once tendered ashore on Curieuse Island, the primary method of exploring is on foot. There are no commercial transport options available. A well-marked nature trail allows visitors to walk around the island, taking approximately 45 minutes to complete. This walk provides access to all the main attractions. Given the island's protected status and lack of amenities, comparing cruise line organized tours for your visit is often advisable.

Attractions and Activities

Curieuse Island offers a unique natural and historical experience, best explored via its walking trails:

  • Giant Tortoise Sanctuary: Encounter the island's wild population of around 250 Giant Tortoises, brought from Aldabra. Observe them in their natural habitat and learn about the breeding program.
  • Nature Trails and Mangrove Swamps: Follow the designated nature trails that crisscross the island. These trails lead through diverse ecosystems, including extensive mangrove swamps home to eight different species, providing a fascinating insight into the island's biodiversity. The main walk around the island takes about 45 minutes.
  • Coco de Mer Palms: Witness the rare and iconic coco de mer palm, native to Curieuse and only one other island globally. These impressive trees are a highlight of the island's protected flora.
  • Doctor's House and Leper Colony Ruins: Explore the restored colonial Doctor's House, which served as the island doctor's residence in the 1870s. Nearby, you can find the historical ruins of the former leper colony, offering a glimpse into the island's past.
  • Marine Park Exploration: As part of a National Marine Park, the surrounding waters offer opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying the pristine marine environment, often included in organized cruise excursions.

Dining & Shopping

Curieuse Island has no commercial facilities for dining or shopping. The only buildings on the island are those belonging to the National Marine Parks Board. Visitors should be aware that there are no refreshments sold on the island, so it is recommended to bring your own water and snacks if needed.

Weather

Curieuse island in the Seychelles has a tropical oceanic climate year-round with temperatures between 77–88°F (25–31°C). The drier season from May to October offers calmer seas and more comfortable humidity for exploring; the wetter season from December to March brings heavier rainfall. Light summer clothing, sunscreen, and a light rain jacket are recommended — the famous giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely and the remarkable mangrove ecosystem make Curieuse a uniquely extraordinary Seychelles anchorage.

Average Temperature (°F)
8278Jan8380Feb8480Mar8480Apr8480May8279Jun7977Jul8077Aug8178Sep8279Oct8379Nov8278Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
13.71Jan6.19Feb7.48Mar11.85Apr6.84May5.17Jun2.43Jul4.94Aug11.1Sep5.37Oct5.74Nov17.94Dec

Currency and Language

The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee (SCR). The exchange rate is approximately 1 Euro = 8 rupees. For the best conversion rates, ATM machines are usually recommended, though airports and banks also offer currency exchange services. The official language is Creole, but English and French are also widely spoken throughout the Seychelles.

Top Attractions

Show map
Giant Tortoise Sanctuary
Home to hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises that roam freely, offering visitors a unique opportunity to interact with and learn about these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat.
Curieuse Marine National Park
A protected marine area encompassing Curieuse Island and its surrounding waters, offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and observing diverse marine life and the island's unique terrestrial ecosystem.
Mangrove Boardwalk
A scenic wooden boardwalk winding through a dense mangrove forest, offering an immersive experience into this unique ecosystem and connecting the island's main landing points.
Doctor's House Museum
A historic colonial building that once served as a leprosarium and now houses a small museum, providing insights into the island's past and its role in treating leprosy.
Baie Laraie
A beautiful bay on the northern side of Curieuse Island, serving as a primary landing point for visitors and offering access to the giant tortoise sanctuary and the mangrove boardwalk.
Anse Josee
A picturesque white sand beach on the southern coast of Curieuse Island, known for its calm waters, ideal for swimming and relaxing after exploring the island's interior.