Cousin Island Special Reserve

Cousin Island Special Reserve is a protected nature reserve in Seychelles, renowned for its rich biodiversity, pristine beaches, and thriving wildlife. Located 2 km off the coast of Praslin, this island is a haven for nature lovers, bird watchers, and conservation enthusiasts. Managed by Nature Seychelles, Cousin Island is one of the most important sanctuaries for seabirds, endemic land birds, and nesting sea turtles in the Indian Ocean.

Why Visit Cousin Island?

• Exclusive Nature Reserve: Cousin Island is a protected area, meaning only guided tours are permitted to ensure minimal human impact. Visitors experience an untouched paradise where wildlife thrives without interference.
• Thriving Birdlife: Home to over 300,000 seabirds, including the endangered Seychelles Magpie Robin, Seychelles Warbler, and White-tailed Tropicbird. It is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world.
• Sea Turtle Nesting Site: The island’s beaches are a major nesting ground for the Hawksbill Turtle, with some of the highest recorded nesting densities globally.
• Giant Aldabra Tortoises: Roaming freely across the island, these gentle giants offer an up-close encounter with one of Seychelles’ most iconic species.
• Conservation Success Story: Once a coconut plantation, Cousin Island has been restored to its natural state, making it a leading example of successful conservation efforts.
• Popular Among Visitors and Educational Groups: The island attracts thousands of visitors each year and also caters to educational groups and local visitors interested in learning about conservation.

What to Expect on a Visit

• Guided Nature Walks: A trained conservation officer leads small groups through the island’s trails, sharing insights into its unique ecosystem and wildlife.
• Close Encounters with Wildlife: Unlike other locations, birds and animals on Cousin Island show little fear of humans, making it perfect for photography and observation.
• Pristine Beaches: The island boasts unspoiled white-sand beaches surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offering breathtaking coastal scenery.

How to Get There

• Boat Transfers Only:
  • Tour operators are responsible for ferrying visitors to Cousin Island, where they are then transferred to the island using the Reserve’s boats—a measure implemented to prevent the accidental introduction of pests onto the reserve.
  • The island has no jetty, so visitors experience a thrilling beach landing as part of their adventure.
• Strict Visiting Hours: The reserve is open five days a week (Monday to Friday), from 9:45 AM to 12:30 PM, ensuring minimal disturbance to wildlife.

Entry Fees

• SCR 600 for non-residents
• SCR 300 for residents
• Free entry for children under 12 (both residents and non-residents)

Responsible Tourism

• No Accommodation or Shops: Cousin Island is a dedicated nature reserve, meaning no overnight stays, restaurants, or souvenir shops—just pure nature.
• Eco-Friendly Regulations: Visitors must follow strict environmental guidelines, including no littering, no feeding wildlife, and no touching animals.

Why Choose Cousin Island?

• An Unparalleled Wildlife Experience: One of the best places in Seychelles to witness rare birds, sea turtles, and giant tortoises in their natural habitat.
• A Conservation Haven: Visiting supports ongoing conservation projects, helping to protect Seychelles’ fragile ecosystems.
• A Unique Adventure: With its beach landing, close wildlife encounters, and exclusive access, Cousin Island offers an unforgettable eco-tourism experience.

A visit to Cousin Island Special Reserve is a must-do for anyone passionate about nature and wildlife, making it one of the top conservation-focused excursions in Seychelles.