Although relatively small, the granitic Inner Island of Curieuse protects many of Seychelles’ rare endemic species within a wide range of habitats.
It is the only island in the world, apart from nearby Praslin, where the coco de mer palm grows naturally.
There are nature trails, some winding through a forest of six mangrove species, and birdwatchers will delight in spotting many species of land and sea birds.
Curieuse is also home to hundreds of Aldabra giant tortoises, introduced between 1978 and 1982. Turtles come ashore to nest and the surrounding reefs are full of colourful fish and corals.
The island was once a leper colony and the old doctor’s house, now converted into a small museum, can still be seen.
