Top things to do and see in Curieuse Island
If you’ve never seen a mangrove tree, you’ll soon fix that with a visit to Curieuse. The mangrove swamp on the southern part of the island has a visitor walkway running through it for incredible views. In addition to mangroves, you’ll see the famous coco de mer palms that the island chain is famous for.
Visit the giant tortoise farm to see how the locals are working to raise baby tortoise and get a chance to see some up close. There is a nature walk that lasts around 40 minutes to truly show off these ancient beasts in their environment. Keep an eye out for the rare Seychelles Black Parrot in your travels.
Kayaking, Snorkeling, and Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) is available to enjoy on Curieuse to extend your wildlife encounters from land to sea. It’s common to encounter butterfly fish, eagle rays, and moray eels. You might even catch sight of one of the blacktip reef sharks or whale sharks that swim off the coast of Curieuse.
Top Tips for visiting Curieuse Island
- A trip to Curieuse Island in the Seychelles Archipelago is one for the bucket list, so be sure to prepare to get the most out of it. We recommend you bring the following items for your comfort and protection:
- Fight off the sun with sunscreen, hats, and long sleeves when you need a break.
- You’ll need good hiking shoes for the trek through the mangroves and water shoes for snorkeling and swimming.
- Your cell phone or a camera to catch a prize winning shot of the sea turtles or giant tortoises in the farm.
- Protect those electronics with a dry bag and a protective, waterproof sleeve for your mobile device.
- Have your own snorkeling mask? Bring it along! If you don’t, we have you covered with some on board.
- Bring a bag to use as a daypack for your trip off the boat to Curieuse and toss in a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Best time to cruise Curieuse Island
Plan ahead for the best time to visit Curieuse Island which will vary depending on what you want to see and do. The best news is, The temperature is always between 24-32°C, and no distinct dry season. The weather is tropical and there is some humidity year round.
May to October is relatively dry on Curieuse Island. This time of year is great for hiking, exploring the turtle farm and mangroves, and enjoying the beach.
If you come to Curieuse Island in November during the pre-Northwest Monsoon things will start to get progressively wetter. Don’t worry about cyclones, Curieuse is outside of the cyclone belt. The hiking and sightseeing is good in spite of the rain, since the climate shows off the incredible island vegetation.
April is prime time swimming and snorkeling weather because the sea is calm and so is the wind. This improves visibility in the water. That being said, you’ll see plenty of wildlife in Curieuse and enjoy the water any time of year.
Where do Curieuse Island cruises depart from?
Fly into the Seychelles International Airport on Mahé which is near the capital city of Victoria. Consult your cruise itinerary to find your departing port which will help you figure out your next move. You will depart on your Seychelles small ship cruise to Curieuse from Inter Island Quay, Mahe, or Anse Possession, Praslin, and may need to take a domestic flight from Seychelles International. There are also ferries available.
Once you’ve landed, members of the crew will meet you to escort you to the boat for the beginning of your island adventure in Curieuse, Seychelles.
Our reservations team can help you book your next cruise to Curieuse Island in the Seychelles. Contact us today.
Curieuse Island cruises are the perfect way to experience sailing Seychelles and island hopping in the Indian Ocean. Curieuse is known for the red-colored soil. Historically, it was once a leper colony, which helped keep the island free from much outside influence.
