Praslin: Curieuse & St Pierre Island Day Trip with Barbecue

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in Seychelles natural beauty, this full-day tour from Praslin offers a well-rounded taste of island life. Guided by friendly experts, you’ll meet gentle Aldabra giant tortoises, explore mangrove-filled trails, enjoy a Creole BBQ on the beach, and snorkel among colorful coral reefs. It’s a trip that combines wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and marine magic in one accessible package.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the focus on authentic experiences—like seeing the tortoises roaming freely and tasting real Creole flavors—means you won’t just tick off tourist attractions but will genuinely connect with Seychelles’ laid-back island vibe. Plus, the guides are often praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the journey both educational and enjoyable.

However, a note of caution: the pay-on-site island entrance fee of $20 per person isn’t included in the price, and the snorkeling duration can sometimes be shorter than expected if sea conditions turn rough. This tour suits active travelers, wildlife lovers, and snorkelers eager to explore Seychelles beyond the beaches—though it’s good to keep a flexible attitude about the weather.

This experience made our article of 10 Top Tours & Things To Do In Praslin Island (With Reviews & Prices).

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with free-roaming giant tortoises and colorful marine life
• Guided walks provide rich insights into local flora, fauna, and history
• Scenic boat rides between islands offer stunning views and photo ops
• Delicious Creole BBQ served right on the beach, with drinks included
• Flexible snorkeling options, with equipment provided, even if sea conditions vary
• Comfortable group sizes ensure a personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Tour

This full-day trip on Praslin is designed to give you a broad snapshot of Seychelles’ natural and cultural riches. Starting early from your hotel, you’ll hop onto a van for a smooth transfer to Côte d’Or Beach, where the adventure begins with a quick boat ride to Curieuse Island. The boat trip itself is pleasant, offering views of turquoise waters and, depending on the season, maybe even spotting some passing whales or rays, according to some reviews.

Once on Curieuse, you’re welcomed into a landscape dotted with Coco de Mer palms and colonial history. The Doctors House Museum stands as a reminder of the island’s past as a leprosy settlement, giving visitors a chance to learn about Seychelles’ history beyond the usual. The museum is compact but filled with fascinating exhibits that set the tone for the day.

Walk Through the Mangroves

Next, you’ll join a guided nature walk through the island’s mangrove forests. This trail is more than a stroll—it’s a chance to spot native birds, crabs, and learn about the ecology that sustains island life. The guides are often praised for their explanations, making even the most basic flora interesting. Expect a few up-and-down sections, but nothing too strenuous, and plenty of opportunities for photos and birdwatching.

Meet the Tortoises and Enjoy a Beach Barbecue

The highlight for many is the Aldabra giant tortoise sanctuary. On the opposite side of the island, these ancient creatures roam freely, offering fantastic photo opportunities and a close-up look at wildlife. The tortoises tend to be very laid-back—some reviews mention seeing baby tortoises up close, which is a real treat.

After visiting the tortoise sanctuary, you’ll settle under palm trees for a Creole-style barbecue lunch. The meal includes grilled fish, chicken, sausages, Creole rice, salads, and fresh fruit, all served with water, soft drinks, and a local beer. Reviewers rave about the quality of the food, with many noting it as a highlight, especially the seafood and the relaxed beachside setting.

Snorkeling at St. Pierre

Post-lunch, the boat heads to St. Pierre Islet, a small granite formation surrounded by coral reefs. Here, you’ll get about an hour of snorkeling gear-encased exploration. The waters are usually calm and clear, with opportunities to see tropical fish, turtles, and even eagle rays—though sea conditions can sometimes limit the snorkeling length if currents pick up, especially from June to September.

Snorkeling gear is provided, and guides are on hand to assist, making it accessible even for beginners. Many reviews highlight the vibrant marine life and the ease of spotting marine creatures in the shallow reefs.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return and Relax

The last leg of the day is a leisurely cruise back to Praslin, offering one last chance to enjoy the stunning ocean views. The tour finishes with a comfortable van transfer back to your hotel, often around 3:30 pm, leaving plenty of time to unwind or explore on your own.

What Travelers Love About This Tour

Reviewers commonly praise the knowledgeable guides who provide lively commentary, share local stories, and ensure everyone has a good time. Many mention the delicious BBQ, with one stating, “The barbecue was very tasty and plenty of food for everyone,” and others appreciating the inclusion of drinks and soft drinks, making it a real relaxed feast.

Wildlife encounters consistently get high marks. One traveler noted, “It was wonderful to see the tortoises up close and they were very many,” while others appreciated the chance to see baby sharks, stingrays, and colorful fish during snorkeling.

The scenic boat rides are frequently highlighted as a favorite part, with reviewers mentioning the beautiful views across the waters and the chance to see marine life or whales if lucky.

Another detail travelers appreciate is the small group atmosphere, which enhances the feeling of an exclusive adventure, as one review pointed out: “We were with a small group, making this experience more intimate and special.”

Considerations and Practical Tips

While the tour offers notable value, there are a few points to think about. The island entrance fee of $20 per person isn’t included in the tour price and must be paid on-site, often via credit card. Some reviewers expressed mild concern over the lack of a receipt, so if you’re meticulous about tracking expenses, bring cash or prepare for a quick transaction.

Sea conditions can influence the snorkeling experience, especially from June to September when southeast monsoon winds may cause rougher waters. The tour company notes that in such cases, snorkeling might be moved to a calmer bay, which still offers good marine viewing but might differ from the reef environments expected.

Timing is generally well-organized, but with a full day packed into about six hours, travelers should be comfortable with a busy schedule involving walking, boat rides, and outdoor elements. The group size tends to be small, with friendly guides making the experience more personalized.

Deep Dive Into the Itinerary

Starting early at 8:00 am, the tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which means less waiting around and more time on the islands. The boat to Curieuse is quick—around 15 minutes—and sets the tone with scenic views that allow you to appreciate Seychelles’ beauty from the water.

The visit to Doctors House is brief but meaningful, offering a window into the island’s past. The guided nature walk through the mangroves is another highlight, where you’ll learn about the unique plant communities and watch for native fauna. Expect to see crabs scuttling across the boardwalk and various bird species overhead.

The tortoise sanctuary visit is pure fun, especially if you enjoy wildlife. The tortoises are so laid-back and curious, making them perfect photo subjects. Several reviews point out how many tortoises are present—some say “very many”—which enhances the sense of being in a true wildlife reserve.

Lunch on the beach is a relaxed affair, with the Creole BBQ serving up freshly grilled fish, chicken, and local sides. It’s a highlight for many, providing a genuine taste of Seychelles’ culinary culture amid stunning ocean views. The inclusion of a beer or soft drinks adds a convivial touch, encouraging guests to unwind.

The snorkeling stop at St. Pierre is an exciting finale. While the duration can vary depending on sea conditions, most find the coral reefs teeming with colorful fish and the chance to see turtles up close. Beginners find the reef easy to access, and guides are available to assist.

Returning to Praslin in the late afternoon, the cruise offers a chance to reflect on a day full of wildlife, scenery, and flavors—an experience that combines the best of Seychelles in just one trip.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour offers excellent value for its price of $117, considering the tailored guides, boat trips, wildlife encounters, and a hearty BBQ. It’s particularly suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, nature, marine life, and local culture without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

It’s ideal for those who enjoy active outdoor experiences—walking, snorkeling, and wildlife spotting—paired with moments of relaxation on a beautiful beach. The tour’s focus on small-group intimacy and knowledgeable guides ensures an engaging, informative adventure for everyone.

However, if you’re prone to seasickness or prefer a more leisurely, beach-only day, this might not be perfect. The full-day schedule means a lot of outdoor activity, but for most, that’s part of the charm.

The Sum Up

For anyone seeking an authentic Seychelles experience—full of wildlife, stunning vistas, and delicious local flavors—this trip on Praslin hits all the right notes. You’ll leave with vibrant photos, new knowledge, and a full belly. The combination of tortoise encounters, guided walks, snorkeling, and a beach BBQ makes this a memorable highlight for adventurous travelers.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate guided tours that inform and entertain, wildlife lovers eager to see the island’s gentle giants, and snorkelers wanting to explore marine life in calm, accessible waters. The tour’s value is bolstered by positive reviews praising the guides, food, and tailor-made experiences, making it a worthwhile addition to your Seychelles itinerary.

In short, if you want to see a genuine slice of island life while enjoying friendly company and stunning scenery, this tour offers an engaging and satisfying day out. Just remember to bring your waterproof camera, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour covers return van transfers on Praslin, boat trips to Curieuse and St. Pierre, guided walks through mangroves and the tortoise sanctuary, a Creole BBQ lunch with drinks, snorkeling gear, and the assistance of friendly guides.

How much does the island entrance fee cost?
There’s a $20 per person fee payable on-site for entry to Curieuse Island. Payment is typically accepted via Visa card, but no official ticket or receipt is provided, so keep that in mind.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, most snorkeling is at shallow reefs, and guides are available to help. The waters are generally calm, especially in the designated snorkeling spot, making it accessible for novices.

What should I bring?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, towel, camera, water shoes, insect repellent, snorkeling gear if you prefer your own, and a waterproof bag for valuables.

What if the sea is rough during snorkeling?
From June to September, southeast monsoon winds might make the seas rougher. In such cases, snorkeling could be moved to a calmer bay like Anse Petite Coursa, which still offers good marine life viewing.

How long is the boat ride to Curieuse?
The boat ride is approximately 15 minutes, providing a quick and scenic crossing to start your day.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially with gentle walks and snorkeling. However, children should be comfortable with outdoor activities and boat rides.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This full-day tour from Praslin seamlessly blends wildlife encounters, cultural insights, marine adventure, and local flavor—perfect for travelers eager to experience Seychelles authentically and joyfully.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby