The near-mythical World Heritage Site of Aldabra is the largest raised coral atoll on the planet, covering around 50 square miles.
Although extremely remote from Mahe, Aldabra accounts for one third of the Seychelles’ landmass but is uninhabited apart from the warden and staff of the research station.
Aldabra contains the largest number of giant tortoises to be found anywhere, as well as a profuse variety of land and seabirds (some extremely rare), and its gigantic lagoon is a haven for a fascinating array of marine life. Access is restricted to a few landing places and lagoons.
Although Aldabra is a tightly restricted atoll, nearby Cosmoledo and Astove atolls are fully open to visitors, and most cruises to Aldabra would include visits to those atolls too.
