Cousine Island, Seychelles :-
Cousine Island is an exclusive, luxury private island and nature reserve located in the Seychelles archipelago. Known for its intimate and eco-conscious approach, the island offers high-end accommodations and conservation-based activities to a limited number of guests.
Location and geography:-
Location: Cousine Island is a small granitic island situated in the inner islands of the Seychelles, about 6 km (4 mi) west of Praslin Island.
Size: The island is roughly 30 hectares (74 acres), or 1 km long and 400 meters wide.
Accommodations and experience:-
Villas: The island features a very limited number of luxurious, handcrafted villas, including four luxury beach villas and one presidential villa. This ensures a high level of privacy and personalized service.
Exclusivity: With a maximum capacity of only 12 adults and 6 children, the island can be booked for exclusive use, making it ideal for romantic getaways, family vacations, or intimate weddings.
Arrival: Guests typically arrive via helicopter or catamaran after flying into the Seychelles International Airport on Mahé Island.
Conservation and wildlife:-
Nature Reserve: Since 1992, Cousine Island has been run as a nature preserve, with all revenue from tourism reinvested into its long-term conservation.
Wildlife: The island is a sanctuary for rare and endemic species that have been restored through a dedicated conservation program. This includes:
Birds: Several breeding seabirds, including fairy terns and lesser noddies, and endemic species like the critically endangered Seychelles magpie robin.
Tortoises: A growing population of Aldabra giant tortoises.
Turtles: A significant nesting site for hawksbill and green sea turtles. Hawksbill nesting season runs from September to April, during which guests can witness the turtles and their hatchlings.
Activities: Guests are encouraged to participate in conservation efforts, such as planting indigenous trees and assisting ecologists with monitoring nesting turtles.
Activities and amenities:-
Eco-tourism focus: Many activities are centered around experiencing the island's natural beauty, including guided nature walks, birdwatching, and turtle tracking.
Recreational activities: Other offerings include kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkeling, diving, spa treatments, and Creole cooking classes.
Dining: The dining experience is highly personalized, with a dedicated chef creating custom meals for guests using fresh, often locally sourced, ingredients.