World Heritage Sites on the Indian Ocean Islands

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There’s more to travel than just your daily commute or your summer holiday. Travelling can evoke strong emotions and associations, whether that be through immersing yourself in a new culture and finding out how other people live or through discovering an unexpected gem of the natural world.

Travel can help you better understand yourself as well as the world around you!

Just a small selection of the wonderful sites recognised by UNESCO!
Credit: UNESCO

Have you visited any sites on UNESCO’s World Heritage list? There are over 1000 of them throughout the world, each of particular cultural or natural significance. There are numerous sites in the Indian Ocean – will they make it onto your bucket list?

1. Vallée de Mai – The Seychelles’ very own Garden of Eden

The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Credit: Vincent Ko Hon Chi

In the heart of the small island of Praslin, the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve is a palm forest that’s barely changed since prehistoric times – home to six endemic palms and many other unique species. Visiting the reserve is like stepping back in time.

The unique coco de mer, endemic to the Seychelles

The largest seed on earth, coco de mer, is found here. It was once believed to grow in the depths of the sea as sailors and pirates would find them floating in the Indian Ocean. The trees can grow up to 30 metres high, with leaves as large as 4.5 metres long!

Discover an untouched world
Credit: Gerard Larose

The area is uniquely beautiful – it’s commonly referred to as the Garden of Eden! Vallée de Mai was officially recognised as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983 – don’t miss out on visiting this incredible slice of paradise on your visit to the Seychelles.

Where to stay:
Constance Lemuria Seychelles is located on Praslin Island, within easy reach of Vallée de Mai. Get the best of both worlds with elegant accommodation, an 18-hole championship golf course, Constance Kids Club facilities as well as world-famous beaches and other natural wonders.

2. Le Morne in Mauritius – A symbol of freedom

View of Le Morne from the sky
Credit: Charles de Zordo

The rugged mountain of Le Morne Cultural Landscape in the southwest of Mauritius was used in the 18^th and 19^th centuries as a shelter by runaway slaves and maroons. It was a haven, protected by almost inaccessible cliffs. Groups of people created little settlements in the caves and on the summit, forming their own sanctuary.

Would you trek up to those heights?
Credit: Vincent Ko Hon Chiu

Le Morne became a symbol of the fight for freedom, and of the slaves’ suffering and sacrifice. Its relevance and significance goes beyond just the island of Mauritius itself, but is important throughout the world and in particular to the many countries where the slaves originated.

Le Morne can’t be missed!
Credit: Atlas & Boots

You can’t help but be moved by a trip to Le Morne. Not only is the hike incredibly beautiful, with a reward of jaw dropping views at the top, but its poignant past lives on. Visiting sites of such historical significance can really encourage you to view the world from a different perspective.

Where to stay:
Constance Prince Maurice or Constance Belle Mare Plage Mauritius – from both hotels you can explore all that the beautiful island of Mauritius has to offer, from white sand beaches to historically and culturally significant sites.

3. Rainforests of the Atsinanana – Incredible biodiversity in Madagascar

Rainbow over the Rainforests of the Atsinanana
Credit: Our Place 

The Rainforests of the Atsinanana are comprised of six national parks, the remaining areas of the lush rainforests that once covered the majority of the eastern half of Madagascar.

Famous Lemurs of Madagascar
Credit: Our Place

Madagascar has phenomenal biodiversity – its flora and fauna have evolved in isolation since its separation from other land masses over 60 million years ago. This means that 97% of the species found in Madagascar’s rainforests are found nowhere else! The conservation of the rainforests is critically important for the survival of these unique species

Where to stay:
Constance Tsarabanjina Madagascar – an all-inclusive barefoot island paradise where castaway meets luxury. From here you can discover all the natural wonders of this incredible corner of the world.

UNESCO World Heritage aims to preserve and promote important sites to be enjoyed for generations to come. Add more intrigue, excitement and emotion to your travels by visiting places rich in culture and history. The world never ceases to amaze, what are you waiting for?!

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Have you visited any of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites? Let us know in the comments!

Featured image credit: Dreamstime