Unrestricted Exploration: Alphonse Island Awaits Your Discovery

Alphonse Island: Where Boundaries Fade And Adventure Begins

Experience the ultimate tropical paradise at Alphonse Island, an idyllic retreat for those who appreciate the great outdoors and have a deep admiration for nature. Immerse yourself in the serenity of endless, secluded beaches, vibrant forests teeming with colorful flora, and pristine coral reefs just waiting to be discovered. As you venture through this untouched sanctuary, you may even befriend the ancient, freely roaming Giant Aldabra Tortoises. Keep a keen eye out, and you might witness the mesmerizing spectacle of tiny turtles embarking on their journey to the ocean, hatching along the unspoiled coastlines of Alphonse Island. With no limitations, boundaries, or the presence of dangerous animals or traffic, the island offers you complete freedom to explore as you please.

Turtle Tracking and Discovery

Alphonse Atoll serves as a prominent nesting site for both Green Turtles and Hawksbill Turtles, making it a hotbed of activity for these exquisite and distinctive creatures. Led by our dedicated activities team, you will have the opportunity to delve into the captivating life cycle of these magnificent animals, from the moment they hatch to the awe-inspiring journey of laying their own eggs on the very beach where they themselves were born.

It is crucial to note that both the Green Turtle and the Hawksbill Turtle have been under legal protection in Seychelles waters since 1994, underscoring the significance of their conservation efforts. By joining our esteemed Island Conservation Team, you will actively participate in their daily routine, which involves diligently searching for and documenting turtle tracks, identifying and marking newly discovered nests, and potentially tagging nesting turtles should they be encountered during the process. Additionally, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the discovery of hatched nests and occasionally guide the hatchlings as they make their way to the vast ocean.

The Hawksbill Turtles typically choose the daytime hours for their nesting activities, predominantly between September and March, while the Green Turtles, on the other hand, favor the cover of darkness and typically nest during the nighttime, primarily from January to September. The incubation period for the eggs spans approximately two months, during which time the turtles’ diligent efforts result in the deposition of approximately 150 to 200 eggs per nest. Remarkably, these nesting rituals are repeated 4 to 5 times throughout the nesting season.

Immersing yourself in this extraordinary experience will not only deepen your understanding of these gentle, endangered creatures but will undoubtedly foster a profound respect for their natural habitat. As you bid farewell to our shores, you will carry with you a newfound appreciation for the delicate balance of their existence and the critical importance of safeguarding their future.

Island Hopping

Embark on an extraordinary nature hike unlike any other, as you venture into the unspoiled island of St. François. With an experienced guide leading the way, you will meander through enchanting mangroves, where a symphony of birdlife finds solace high in the lush treetops. Witness the captivating sight of various species gracefully wading across the expansive white sand flats. Prepare to be amazed by the abundant wildlife that inhabits this untouched paradise, as your eyes feast upon fascinating creatures such as Mangrove Crabs and the endearing presence of nursing baby Sicklefin Lemon Sharks. Keep a keen lookout during the 40-minute journey from Alphonse Island, as you may also catch glimpses of majestic Manta Rays, pelagic fish, and even cetaceans gracefully gliding through the azure waters.

Bijoutier, aptly named after the French word for “jewel,” lives up to its exquisite reputation, as its beauty captivates visitors in every way. Spend a day immersed in exploration as you traverse this picturesque island, meandering along deserted beaches and plunging into the crystalline waters that beckon you for a refreshing swim. To make your excursion even more unforgettable, consider arranging a private picnic or a secluded barbeque, allowing you to indulge in the tranquility and beauty that surrounds you on Bijoutier. This island holds special significance as a cherished spot for turtle nesting, and our dedicated activities team will enlighten you on the fascinating life cycle of these remarkable and unique creatures, from the moment they hatch to the time they lay their own precious eggs. As you wander through the verdant depths of the forest, be sure to peer into the mysterious depths, for there you may chance upon the nests of the enchanting Wedge-tailed Shearwater, adding yet another enchanting element to your extraordinary journey.

Bird Watching

Alphonse Atoll presents remarkable opportunities for bird enthusiasts, offering captivating sightings of a diverse array of species throughout its expanse. The prime period for bird watching spans from October to April, as numerous migratory species return from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to seek refuge in the tropical paradise.

Alphonse Island, with its expansive land area, acts as a magnet for vagrant bird species during these months, making it a sanctuary for avian diversity. Among the Outer islands of Seychelles, Alphonse proudly holds the distinction of being the second-highest recorded bird species count, with the Seychelles Bird Records Committee documenting over 100 different species.

One of the most awe-inspiring avian spectacles on Alphonse Island occurs at sunset, when several thousand Red-Footed Boobies gracefully return to their roosts, accompanied by hundreds of Frigatebirds, creating a scene reminiscent of a thrilling Top Gun dogfight. The Frigatebirds engage in aerial pursuits, harassing the boobies in an attempt to coerce them into relinquishing their hard-earned food collected throughout the day.

The expansive sand flats and picturesque mangrove areas surrounding St. François island serve as idyllic habitats for a wide range of bird species, particularly waders. Visitors to Alphonse Island have the opportunity to partake in bird watching excursions to St. François, accompanied by knowledgeable guides. Optimal timing is during high tide when the exposed sand diminishes, leading the birds to congregate in dense flocks. Of particular significance is the presence of the Crab Plover population, adding an extraordinary element to the avian tapestry that unfolds before your eyes.