Full Day Excursion of Cousin, Curieuse and St Pierre Islands from Praslin Island

Exploring Seychelles’ Islands: A Full Day Tour from Praslin

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the Seychelles’ natural beauty in one day, this guided tour covering Cousin, Curieuse, and St. Pierre Islands might catch your eye. It’s a popular option for travelers looking to maximize their island time without the hassle of arranging multiple boat trips or guides on your own.

What’s appealing here? First, the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off means you skip the logistics and get straight to the fun. Second, the chance to see diverse wildlife, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy a beach barbecue makes this an attractive package.

However, a key consideration is that, based on reviews, the experience might not always meet expectations regarding transparency and the quality of some activities. Still, for those seeking a balanced, guided day on some of Seychelles’ most famed islands, this tour offers a good starting point.

This tour suits travelers who are eager to see multiple islands in one day, appreciate guided insights into local flora and fauna, and enjoy snorkel adventures and beach meals. If you value a straightforward schedule and don’t mind the group size or potential variability in experience, it can be a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• All-in-one convenience: Visit three islands with transportation arranged in advance.
• Wildlife and nature: Expect chances to see giant turtles, rare birds, and lush landscapes.
• Snorkeling and beach time: Gear is provided, and you’ll get to snorkel on St. Pierre’s clear waters.
• Local cuisine: A barbecue lunch on Curieuse Island offers a relaxed, scenic meal.
• Group experience: Limited to 15 travelers, offering a more personal feel.
• Cost considerations: The tour price includes most activities but not the entrance fees and optional extras.

A comprehensive look at the day

This full-day excursion starts early, with hotel pickup around 8:30 am, and typically lasts about 8 hours. It’s designed to give travelers a taste of Seychelles’ most iconic islands — all arranged so you don’t have to worry about boat bookings or transport logistics.

First Stop: Cousin Island Nature Reserve

The day begins at Cote d’Or Beach, where you’ll visit the Cousin Island Reserve. This is one of the highlights for bird lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The island is famous for its bird life and giant tortoises, and the tour touts the opportunity to get close to these creatures in their natural habitat. Based on reviews, visitors are quite pleased with the chance to see rare birds and large turtles, with some describing it as a “wonderful day out.”

One traveler mentions, “Very supportive tour guides” and notes that the island offers “magnificent birdlife,” which is a big plus for those interested in Seychelles’ endemic species. But beware, mosquitoes seem to be a common nuisance, so packing insect repellent is smart.

Second Stop: Curieuse Island and Lunch

After exploring Cousin Island, you’ll hop on a 30-minute boat ride to Curieuse Island, known for its giant tortoises and mangroves. Here, a barbecue lunch is served right on the beach, giving you a chance to relax amid stunning coastal scenery.

Many reviews praise the lunch, calling it “copious and tasty,” and appreciate the laid-back experience of dining right on the sand. However, a few mention that organization could be improved — some had to chase down information about pickup or wonder about the timing of the meal.

Curieuse also offers the chance to see large tortoises wandering freely, which many find a highlight. One traveler remarked, “We saw amazing giant turtles,” emphasizing how close and engaging this experience can be.

Final Stop: St. Pierre for Snorkeling

The tour wraps up with an hour of snorkeling around St. Pierre Island. Provided gear allows you to enjoy the underwater world of Seychelles, with numerous colorful fish and clear waters. Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the snorkeling as a “fantastic” part of the day.

One reviewer describes seeing “beautiful fish in crystal waters,” while others note that remaining safety procedures, like wearing life jackets and staying seated, are important for a comfortable experience.

The transportation and logistics

All island transfers are arranged as part of the tour, minimizing hassle. The speedboat ride offers quick access between islands but can be uncomfortable if sea conditions are rough, as some reviews suggest. One guest mentioned the boat “jumped in the air,” so packing a water-proof bag and being prepared for a bumpy ride could improve your experience.

Group size maxes out at 15, making interactions more personal than large tour groups, and guides are often praised for their knowledge. Still, some reviews point to inconsistent communication, especially regarding pickup timings and entrance fees, so arriving prepared and asking questions upfront is wise.

Pricing and value

At $176.18 per person, this tour offers a lot of activity packed into a day. The price covers most aspects — transportation, the barbecue lunch, and snorkeling gear — but not the entrance fees for Cousin and Curieuse islands, which are paid on-site (SCR 600/- and SCR 300/- respectively). When you add those, the total cost increases, so budget accordingly.

Many travelers find the experience to be good value for money, especially considering the convenience of the guided tour and the opportunity to see multiple islands without arranging each component separately. But some reviews mention that the experience might not fully justify the cost if you’re looking for a more exclusive or less crowded experience.

What the reviews say

The mixed reviews highlight a few consistent themes. Some travelers were thrilled, describing their day as “fantastic,” especially noting the wildlife sightings and snorkeling. One said, “A value for money experience,” appreciating the effort guides put into making the day enjoyable.

Conversely, others felt misled or disappointed. A reviewer claimed, “One big scam,” because they were told Cousin Island was inaccessible, which was not true. Others cited poor communication and logistical issues, such as sudden cancellations or long waits, which dampened their experience.

Practical tips

• Bring insect repellent for Cousin Island, where mosquitoes can be a nuisance.
• Prepare waterproof bags for your belongings, especially if you plan to snorkel.
• Budget for the entrance fees — SCR 600/- for Cousin and SCR 300/- for Curieuse — paid on-site.
• Arrive early and confirm pickup details ahead of time to avoid confusion.
• Wear comfortable clothing and sunscreen, as most activities are outdoors.
• Listen to the guide’s safety instructions during boat rides and snorkeling for a safer experience.

Who will enjoy this tour?

This full-day island hopping experience is best suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to see some of Seychelles’ most notable spots in one go. It’s perfect if you’re eager to experience local wildlife, such as giant tortoises and rare birds, and enjoy some snorkeling in beautiful waters.

If you prefer quiet, exclusive experiences or have specific interests in detailed history or culture, this tour might feel a bit hurried or superficial. However, if you value value for money, informative guides, and scenic views, you’ll likely find this trip a worthwhile addition to your Seychelles itinerary.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a practical way to explore multiple Seychelles islands in a single day, focusing on wildlife, stunning scenery, and relaxed beachside meals. The guided aspect means less planning and more time enjoying pristine landscapes and ocean life.

While it’s not without flaws — some logistical hiccups and mixed reviews about honesty and organization — the overall experience aligns with what many travelers seek: a good balance of adventure, wildlife viewing, and snorkeling. The price reflects this value, especially when you consider the convenience of having everything arranged for you.

It’s a great choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a snapshot of Seychelles’ natural beauty, provided you’re comfortable with some unpredictability and are prepared for a group setting.

FAQs

What islands are included in this tour?
The tour covers Cousin Island Reserve, Curieuse Island, and the St. Pierre Islands.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel on Praslin Island.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts around 8 hours, starting at approximately 8:30 am.

Are meals included?
Yes, a barbecue lunch is served on Curieuse Island, right on the beach.

What activities are included?
You’ll explore nature reserves, see wildlife like giant turtles and birds, snorkel at St. Pierre, and enjoy a beach barbecue.

Are snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, making it easy to enjoy the underwater sights.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the fees for Cousin and Curieuse islands (SCR 600/- and SCR 300/-) are paid separately on the spot.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the group size is small, but always check with the operator for specific age restrictions.

How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

What should I bring?
Bring insect repellent, waterproof bags, sunscreen, and a towel if you plan to snorkel or relax on the beach.

This full-day Seychelles tour packs a lot into one trip — wildlife, water activities, and scenic views — making it potentially a highlight of your island adventures, especially if you’re after a well-organized, guided experience with good value.