The Seychelles archipelago stuns with its tropical beauty and an abundance of rare wildlife. From rare birds and exotic plants to diverse marine life and unique land animals, these idyllic islands are a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts.
Explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a network of national and marine parks, making your Seychelles adventure an unforgettable step into a biodiversity haven.
With our five proposed wildlife holiday adventures in the Seychelles, discover a side of the archipelago that will leave you breathless.
1. Seychelles National Botanical Gardens
An ideal place to see some of the rare species of flora and fauna of the Seychelles is the Botanical Gardens in Victoria, Mahé. Come and discover the beautiful collection of exotic and endemic plants, some of which are found nowhere else on Earth.
Encounter the gentle giants of the gardens – a population of giant tortoises, some exceeding 150 years old!
Keep an eye out for the fascinating colony of fruit bats flitting through the trees, adding another layer of wonder to your exploration.
2. Get to know the birds of paradise in Mahé
The beautiful blue Pemba Sunbird
Bird lovers flock to the Seychelles to see the nearly 250 different species, including 12 endemic to the islands. Many can be found on Mahé but for keen ornithologists an exhilarating boat trip to Aride or Cousin island is a must.
Some notable birds to watch out for:
- Seychelles magpie robin and Seychelles warbler, both brought back from the edge of extinction by local conservationists
- Sunbird
- Blue pigeon
- Scops owl
- Frigatebirds
- Terns, sandpipers and herons are particularly prevalent with more than 60 different species
3. Discover the ocean with the whole family
Exploring the ‘Pristine Seas’ of the Seychelles
The whole family can enjoy the wonders of discovering over 1,000 species of fish that are found in the six national marine parks and crystal waters around the archipelago.
Whether you decide to try scuba diving at Constance for adults and children over 8 years, or you prefer snorkelling there is plenty to discover.
The vibrant coral reefs around our shores are home to a wide variety of marine life including the rare hawksbill turtle, yellow snappers, clown fish, humphead parrot fish and manta rays.
4. Explore unique UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Seychelles
Vallée de Mai Waterfalls
For those who fancy travelling a bit further afield an excursion to the World Heritage Sites are a real treat. The Atoll of Aldabra is the largest raised coral atoll in the world and home to the Aldabra giant tortoise.
The Vallée de Mai on Praslin, rumoured to be the original ‘Garden of Eden’, is home to the famous Coco de Mare the largest seed in the world. Wandering into the Vallée is like discovering an ancient world of giant palms with leaves measuring 6 meters across and an abundance of rare flora and fauna. Keep your eyes peeled for the national bird, the Seychelles Black Parrot, which is only found here.
5. Constance turtle conservation
Protecting wildlife in the Seychelles
Budding conservationists and naturalists won’t want to miss a visit to Constance Lemuria!
Here, you can meet our dedicated turtle manager, a passionate advocate for the endangered hawksbill and green turtles that call our shores home.
These magnificent creatures return to our beaches year after year to nest, and our turtle manager plays a vital role in protecting them. He’ll be happy to share his extensive knowledge about these rare and beautiful animals, offering you the chance to witness nesting or hatching turtles in their natural habitat (depending on the season).
It’s an unforgettable experience that will deepen your appreciation for these gentle giants and the importance of conservation efforts.
Conservation in the Seychelles
Conservation is a top priority across the Seychelles archipelago, with local and government groups working tirelessly to protect its delicate ecosystems. This commitment to ecotourism ensures minimal environmental impact while allowing visitors to experience the islands’ wonders.
As a result, access to ecologically significant areas has been significantly improved over the past four decades. With well-maintained trails, informative signage, and a range of guided tours, exploring the Seychelles’ diverse habitats is now easier and more enjoyable than ever for visitors of all ages and abilities.
Find out more
- Read more about the Top 5 natural wonders of the Seychelles
- Learn about festivals, food and fun in the Seychelles
- Visit our website to find out more about Constance Lémuria, Praslin and Constance Ephelia on Mahé