A small island two km west of Praslin and the first internationally owned reserve, Cousin Island has been declared as an Important Bird Area and has been attracting ornithologists and bird enthusiasts from around the globe. The Seychelles magpie robin, the Seychelles warbler and the Seychelles fody, mapou, Indian mulberry are birds that can be easily sighted in this island. Dragonflies, moorhens and terrapins thrive in the fresh water wetlands while the wedge tailed shearwaters and bridled terns nest in the hills. 

This island is also the nesting site for hawksbill turtles and giant Aldabra tortoises. In all this island is a treat for nature lovers. Visitors are taken to the island on special boats that do not anchor to the dock. The visitors are then ferried to the island. This is done to avoid the entry of rats and other insects that can harm the natural ecology of the island. It is safe to swim or snorkel in these waters but visitors are advised to wear aquatic footgear to avoid sharp corals.

Location: 2 km west of Praslin Island

Known for:  Natural reserve and snorkeling

How to reach:  by boat

Type:  Natural reserve