Overview
This remarkable 3 Days Bird Island Seychelles Tour offers an extraordinary ornithological adventure to one of the Indian Ocean’s most pristine wildlife sanctuaries, situated 100 kilometers north of Mahé Island. Specifically, this exclusive tour transports you to the coral atoll known locally as “Île aux Vaches,” where over one million sooty terns nest annually alongside diverse seabird species. Crucially.
Your experience expertly combines exceptional birdwatching opportunities with world-class marine activities in the crystal-clear waters surrounding this protected UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This intimate island experience includes memorable encounters with giant Aldabra tortoises, exploration of pristine coral reefs, and views of some of the most spectacular avian displays in the western Indian Ocean.
Your tour begins with a scenic flight from Mahé, offering breathtaking aerial views of the turquoise waters and isolated atolls of the outer Seychelles archipelago. The carefully crafted itinerary maximizes wildlife viewing opportunities during peak nesting seasons while actively incorporating snorkeling, kayaking, and nature walks across this 70 hectare coral paradise. This journey promises unforgettable memories of one of the world’s most important seabird colonies, where conservation and luxury harmonize perfectly.
Throughout your tour, expert naturalists will guide you, sharing their deep knowledge of the island’s unique ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts. Furthermore, the island’s eco-friendly lodge enhances your experience, as sustainable tourism practices ensure minimal impact on the fragile environment. Ultimately, your adventure culminates with spectacular sunset viewing sessions and stargazing opportunities in one of the most remote and unspoiled destinations in the Seychelles archipelago.
Day 1: Pickup from Mahe & Transfer to Bird Island
Your exciting Bird Island Seychelles Tour begins with an early morning pickup from your Mahé accommodation at 7:00 AM, followed by a swift 30-minute transfer to Mahé International Airport for your 30-minute scenic flight to Bird Island.
Upon arrival at the coral atoll’s small airstrip, lodge staff will welcome you and transfer you directly to Bird Island Lodge, the sole accommodation on this pristine 70 hectare sanctuary. Subsequently, your afternoon tour includes an introductory nature walk with expert guides, actively exploring the island’s diverse habitats. Specifically, you will visit the coastal vegetation, mangrove areas, and the famous nesting grounds of sooty terns, fairy terns, and other seabird species that make this destination truly extraordinary.
Day 2: Bird watching & Snorkeling At coral garden
Dawn breaks on your Bird Island Seychelles Tour with the stunning symphony of over one million sooty terns, preparing for their daily fishing expeditions just 200 { meters from your lodge. This natural event creates one of nature’s most spectacular displays.
Today’s full day features guided birdwatching sessions at optimal locations around the island, including the main colony areas where you will actively observe the breeding behaviors of species like the lesser noddy, brown noddy, and red-footed booby. Furthermore, your tour continues with world-class snorkeling at the pristine coral gardens surrounding the atoll. These crystal-clear waters, with visibility exceeding 30 and an average temperature of 26 year-round, reveal vibrant coral formations, countless tropical fish species, and occasional visits from hawksbill turtles and reef sharks.
Day 3: Proceed to Giant Tortoise Sanctuary & Nature Walk
Your final Bird Island Seychelles Tour Day begins with a visit to the island’s giant tortoise sanctuary, home to majestic Aldabra tortoises, including the famous “Esmeralda,” recognized as one of the world’s largest free-roaming tortoises, weighing over 300 kilograms. Subsequently, this concluding experience includes exciting kayaking adventures in the calm lagoon waters on the island’s leeward side.
Actively offering unique perspectives of the coral formations and opportunities to spot juvenile black-tip reef sharks in the shallows. Finally, your Bird Island Seychelles Tour ends with a farewell nature walk across the island’s interior trails and final bird photography opportunities before departing via the 30-minute scenic flight back to Mahé, arriving at the international airport by 4:00 PM with unforgettable memories of this pristine Indian Ocean paradise.
