The Ultimate Guide to the Praslin: Curieuse and St. Pierre Island Excursion in Praslin Island

If you’re looking for exquisite scenery, crystal clear waters and quaint island villages, Praslin: Curieuse and St. Pierre Island excursion is just the ticket! Located close to Praslin Island in the Seychelles archipelago, this tour offers an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With a mixture of cultural sites and scenic views, it is sure to capture your heart and spirit.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore this beautiful island excursion by providing you with all the necessary information you need to make the most of it, including transportation options, an overview of Curieuse Island, activities for St. Pierre island, and tips for creating a memorable day on the waters. Let’s get started!

Getting to Praslin Island: Transportation Options

Before you set out on your excursion, it’s important to explore your transportation options. The most popular option is to fly/ferry in from Mahé (the main island of the Seychelles). Flying takes just 10-15 minutes and costs around 560-3000 Seychellois rupees (Seychelles currency) for a return ticket. Ferry services usually cost about 200-300 rupees for a return ticket; however, these can take up to an hour and a half.

Once you arrive at Praslin Island, a tour guide will be waiting to take you around the island. The tour typically lasts half a day and will cost around 2700-3200 rupees.

The Fascinating History of Curieuse Island

Once you’ve decided on your transportation, your first stop is Curieuse Island – an intriguing place full of history and culture. This charming island was originally used as a leper colony during the 19th century, and today, it is a protected wildlife reserve used to conserve endangered species. It also serves as a turtle nesting beach as well as a host to various bird species.

As you explore the island, don’t miss out on seeing the giant tortoises and wandering through a nature trail on Anse St. José beach – an area filled with lush vegetation and mangroves. Other interesting locations include Le Villaret Prison, an old French garrison built sometime between 1795-1798 and Visitors Centre, which serves as an information centre focusing on the conservation of the Giant Tortoise Aldabra Species (the biggest tortoise in the world).

Exploring St. Pierre Island – Activities & Landmarks

Your next stop is St. Pierre – an exquisite island that’s teeming with scenic beauty and rich history. Here you’ll find an interesting mix of rugged terrain along with gorgeous sandy beaches that are ideal for swimming and relaxing in the sun. Anse La Farine beach is particularly romantic, while Anse Bonne Chêne is perfect for siding amidst nature and hiking up its hillsides.

Nearby attractions include Tortue Nek (tortoise neck) – a spot where lots of giant Aldabra Giant Tortoises can be found grazing near La Passe (a rock formation surrounded by crystal clear waters). You could even have a go-karting session at D’Ivroye, or simply explore the town’s local museum.

Tips for Creating a Memorable Day on the Waters

Whether it’s your first time exploring Curieuse and St. Pierre islands or your millionth return visit, here are a few tips to make your day even better:

• Do not litter – Curieuse Island is home to many endangered species and it is important to respect their habitat.
• Wear comfortable clothes – comfortable shoes are also essential for when exploring Anse La Farine.
• Be aware of local laws – there may be restrictions on activities such as fishing.
• Bring appropriate items – sunscreen (even if it’s cloudy), sunglasses, hats, water bottles and cameras are essential.
• Stay hydrated – remember to drink plenty of water throughout your trip.
• Swim safely – never swim alone or far away from your group.

Stop Dreaming & Start Planning

The Praslin: Curieuse and St. Pierre Island excursion is truly a unique experience that allows you to discover some of the Seychelles’ most beautiful islands in style. Explore fascinating wildlife, enjoy activities ranging from go-karting to feeding giant tortoises, and then relax at some of the most romantic beaches in the world.

Ready to book your tour? Then head over GetYourGuide now for VIP access to some of the best Curieuse and St Pierre has to offer!

The Insider’s Guide to Praslin Island, Seychelles

Praslin Island in Seychelles is an unspoiled paradise destination that attracts thousands of tourists every year. While there are plenty of popular attractions to see on the island, this insider’s guide will take you off the beaten path to discover the hidden gems that only locals know. From dining spots to cultural experiences and local histories, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Praslin Island.

Local Attractions: Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Of course, you must visit the famous Praslin attractions like Anse Lazio, Vallee de Mai, and Curieuse Island. But if you want to truly explore this incredible destination, you need to venture off the beaten track and visit some hidden gems that only locals know. One such place is Anse La Blague, a secluded beach located on the east coast of Praslin. You can have a picnic with your loved ones while enjoying the picturesque sunset. Another local favorite spot is Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, a paradise for nature lovers as it’s home to various rare species such as the Seychelles Black Parrot.

Dining Spots: Experience Local Cuisine and Culture

Seychelles is famous for its vibrant cuisine, which offers a blend of African and Asian flavors. One must-visit dining spot is Cafe des Arts in Baie St Anne, which offers a mix of French and Creole-inspired cuisine and stunning views of the yachts in the harbor. Another local favorite is Marie Antoinette in Victoria, which has been serving Seychellois Creole cuisine for over 40 years. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample fish dishes like Ladob, Rousette, and grilled octopus, which are unique to Seychelles.

Cultural Experiences: Explore Seychellois Traditions and Customs

To fully experience Seychellois traditions, you have to attend several local events. The Carnaval International de Victoria is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique culture of Seychelles. This three-day festival features street parades, music, food, and cultural events that showcase the island’s vibrant traditions. You could also visit the Bicentennial Monument, which marks the 200th anniversary of the famous French explorer Lazare Picault’s visit to Seychelles.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Stories from the Past

Praslin Island has a rich history that dates back centuries before the arrival of the French and British. One such fascinating story is the legend of the ‘Coco de Mer’ palm, which is exclusive to Seychelles. It is believed that these palms featured in the Bible and were considered to be the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge. Another historical site worth a visit is the Rum Distillery in Baie St Anne, where you can learn about the history of rum production in Seychelles.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Experiences to Try

To discover the true beauty of Praslin Island, you need to explore beyond the beaches and traditional landmarks. One such unique experience is a sunset sail on a traditional Seychellois boat. You can sail from Praslin to nearby islands like Curieuse and St Pierre and enjoy the stunning sunset views as you sip a glass of champagne. Another unforgettable experience is a night tour of the Vallee de Mai Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site that hosts a wide range of wildlife.

Conclusion

Praslin Island is an unspoiled paradise that offers some of the most breathtaking views, culture, cuisine, and experiences you can ever dream of. This insider’s guide provides an in-depth look into the hidden gems of Praslin that only locals know. So whether you’re a first-time visitor or on your hundredth trip, use this guide to discover the unexplored side of Praslin Island, Seychelles.