Seychelles Nature and Wildlife

Nature

The islands of Seychelles include two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Aldabra Atoll and Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. The Aldara Atoll was listed in 1982 and is an atoll made up of four large coral islands that are surrounded by a coral reef. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, it has been greatly protected from humans and therefore has remained largely untouched.

Globally important breeding programmes exist there for endangered green and hawksbill turtles. Also, approximately 152,000 giant tortoises call the atoll home. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve was listed in 1983 and is located on Praslin Island. The 19.5 ha palm forest on the island has been preserved in its almost original state. These palms have remained largely unchanged since prehistoric times.

Along with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites are two terrestrial national parks and six marine national parks. More than 40% of the overall landmass of the Seychelles Islands has been designated as protected national parks and the conservation efforts put forward by the country have helped to preserve a great deal of the natural wildlife found on this island paradise.

Wildlife

Seychelles remained relatively untouched until the 1700s which meant that at the time of discovery, there were many unique and diverse wildlife species. However, with the arrival of humans, much of this wildlife began to disappear as a result of hunting and deforestation. Thanks to the dedication of conservation groups beginning as early as a British settlement, as well as the work of famed oceanographer Jacques Cousteau, the wildlife of Seychelles is making a remarkable recovery.

There are approximately 250 identified bird species found on the islands of Seychelles. Twelve of these birds are endemic to the island nation. Bird conservation is very important to the people of Seychelles, and the islands are known worldwide as excellent birdwatching destinations.

Species like the magpie robin and the Seychelles warbler were nearing extinction, however, after the work of bird lovers, their numbers have increased. They are still some of the rarest birds in the world, but they are no longer considered to be in immediate threat of extinction. Aride Island hosts the most notable bird population in Seychelles and has more birds than the other islands combined.

More than 1000 fish live in the waters around Seychelles. Parrotfish, angelfish, pufferfish and moray eels are among some of the very diverse species that divers can spot. The whale fish, the largest fish in the world, is also common. There are many other creatures found along the coasts including 31 different crab species.

The Aldabra tortoise is a giant tortoise that can live for over a century and weighs upwards of 500 pounds. The population found in Seychelles is the largest concentration in the world. Cousin Island also hosts the largest nesting area for the endangered hawksbill sea turtle in the western Indian Ocean.

Seychelles Travel Information

At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Seychelles.

Learn about the history and culture of Seychelles, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Seychelles's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Seychelles for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Seychelles vacations today!

Extend Your Trip

After your Seychelles tour, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours.

Book your Seychelles vacation with Goway! 

AfricaExperts and Idyllic Islands are the exclusive divisions of Goway that specializes in planning and organizing Seychelles vacations and experiences. Choose from a romantic island stay, a stay of distinction, a beach holiday and much more. We want to be your first choice when next you go globetrotting to Seychelles.