Curieuse Marine National Park

Granite hills and lush mangroves shape the landscape of this protected island, located off the northern coast of Praslin in Seychelles. Once a leper colony, its history lingers in the ruins of the former hospital, now a visitor centre detailing the island’s past. Trails weave through dense takamaka forests and giant coco de mer palms, leading to white-sand beaches where hawksbill turtles nest. The surrounding waters, part of a marine park, shelter vibrant coral reefs teeming with angelfish, parrotfish, and reef sharks. Visitors can kayak through the shallow lagoon, snorkel along the coral gardens, or observe Aldabra giant tortoises roaming freely. Rangers provide guided tours, while picnic areas near Anse St. José offer a place to relax.