Curieuse Guided Tour, St Pierre, BBQ & 2 Snorkel Stops

If you’re considering a day trip to Seychelles, the Curieuse Guided Tour from Praslin Island is a standout choice. It promises a full-day experience packed with marine adventures, wildlife encounters, and local flavor. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the enthusiastic reviews and detailed itinerary paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What really appeals to us is the combination of stunning snorkeling stops and the chance to get up close with the famous giant land tortoises roaming freely on Curieuse Island. Plus, the guided nature walk sounds like a perfect way to learn about the local flora and fauna. That said, a key consideration is the marine park entry fee of SR300 (about $20), which is not included in the base price.

For travelers who love nature, easy access to wildlife, and a laid-back, well-organized day out, this tour seems tailored for you.

However, if you’re sensitive to longer boat rides or are traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues, it’s worth noting that the tour involves some walking on uneven trails and snorkeling at multiple locations. Still, the overall experience appears to deliver excellent value for the price, especially given the positive feedback regarding guides, food, and the variety of activities.

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

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: Get close to friendly giant tortoises and watch them roam freely.
• Snorkeling: Two stops at different reefs provide a chance to see colorful marine life.
• Guided Nature Walk: Learn about Seychelles’ flora, fauna, and natural history on a scenic trail.
• Authentic Local Food: Enjoy a Creole BBQ lunch with fish, chicken, and fresh salads.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides make the experience fun, informative, and safe.
• Value for Money: At $112, the tour includes hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, and lunch, making it a good deal for a full-day adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a huge plus—no need to worry about finding the boat launch or dealing with public transport. You’ll be transferred to the boat, where a crew awaits to get you started. This smooth start sets the tone for a well-organized day.

Once aboard, your first activity is a snorkeling stop lasting about 45 minutes to an hour. The exact location depends on weather conditions, but the reviews reveal that these spots are often described as beautiful, with abundant marine life. Some reviewers mention swimming in waters so clear they felt like being inside an aquarium, spotting colorful fish and vibrant corals.

After snorkeling, you’ll visit a beach on Curieuse Island to relax and enjoy the scenery. The highlight here is the chance to stroll among the largest land tortoises on earth, which are surprisingly friendly and accustomed to human interaction. Several reviews describe the tortoises as gentle and cute, and many mention feeding and petting them as a memorable part of the trip.

Next, a guided walk along a natural trail offers insights into the island’s ecosystems. The guides are praised for their knowledge and patience, making the hike informative yet not too strenuous. Expect to see interesting flora, maybe some birdlife, and to learn about the island’s natural environment.

The tour then moves to the other side of Curieuse Island, where you can sit down to a typical Creole BBQ lunch. The food is often described as delicious, with fresh fish, chicken, and flavorful salads—the perfect fuel for the afternoon.

In the latter part of the day, the boat heads toward St. Pierre or nearby reefs for a second snorkeling session. Due to environmental concerns, the actual snorkeling site sometimes shifts to other reefs, but the reviews consistently mention fantastic underwater scenes with abundant fish and impressive visibility.

Finally, the day concludes with a final snorkeling stop at Anse La Farine (or alternatively, Anse Georgette & Lazio Beach if sea conditions are not suitable). The tour wraps up with a Takamaka rum cocktail, enjoyed as you cruise back to Praslin—what better way to toast a day well spent?

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is seamless—hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which is especially helpful if you’re staying outside the main resorts. The boat experience itself is often described as comfortable and well-equipped, with some reviews mentioning small group sizes that make the day feel intimate rather than crowded.

Guides and Staff

The guides are consistently praised in reviews for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor. One review mentions a guide named Benjamin, who was approachable, well-informed, and made the experience both fun and educational. Several reviewers highlighted that guides go the extra mile, explaining island ecology in multiple languages and helping non-swimmers snorkel safely.

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Food and Drinks

The BBQ lunch is a real highlight for many, with multiple reviewers calling it “delicious” and praising the fresh fish, chicken, and salads. Drinks, including local beer and rum, are available throughout the day, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Cost and Value

At $112 per person, the tour includes hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, a guided walk, and a hearty BBQ meal. While the marine park entry fee of SR300 is not included, many feel the overall package offers good value, given the range of activities and the quality of guides. Several reviews express that the trip offers more than enough to justify the price, with one reviewer even rating it as “11/10.”

Who Should Do This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and snorkelers. If you’re keen to see Seychelles’ famous tortoises up close and enjoy underwater life in crystal-clear waters, this trip checks all the boxes.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who value organized excursions with good guides and appreciate a mix of active and relaxing moments. The tour isn’t ideal for very young children (under 4), pregnant women, or those with mobility issues due to some walking and snorkeling in uneven terrain and water. But for most active travelers, it offers a balanced, memorable day out.

The Sum Up

The Curieuse Guided Tour from Praslin offers an authentic, well-rounded taste of Seychelles’ natural beauty. From the friendly giant tortoises to the vibrant reefs and flavorful Creole BBQ, it captures the essence of what makes Seychelles special—accessible wildlife, pristine waters, and warm local hospitality.

The tour’s excellent guides, seamless organization, and the variety of activities make it a fantastic value, especially for those wanting a full day of adventure without the hassle of planning every detail. The mix of snorkeling, wildlife, walking, and relaxing on beautiful beaches ensures there’s something for all, whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or simply looking to soak in the environment.

This trip is best for adventurous couples, families with older children, and solo travelers who want to explore Seychelles’ most iconic natural sights in a single, enjoyable day. It’s a trip that leaves many saying they’d do it again—and you might find yourself among them.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere on Praslin Island, making it very convenient for travelers staying in various locations.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, beachwear, and a credit card for optional purchases. It’s also helpful to have water shoes for walking on uneven trails.

Are drinks included?
Yes, drinks are provided throughout the day, including soft drinks, local beer, and rum, making refreshment easy during snorkeling and meals.

How much is the marine park entry fee?
The entry fee is SR300 (about $20) per person aged 12 or older, payable online or on-site with a credit card. It’s not included in the tour price.

Is snorkeling suitable for non-swimmers?
Guides are attentive and helpful, and some reviews mention assistance for non-swimmers. However, snorkeling involves being in open water, so a basic comfort level is recommended.

How long is the boat ride?
Exact duration varies with weather and sea conditions, but the first snorkeling stop alone lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, and the overall day is well-paced.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

This full-day tour from Praslin to Curieuse Island offers a compelling blend of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation—making it a highlight for anyone seeking to experience Seychelles’ natural wonders firsthand.

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