Aldabra Atoll

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique giant tortoises.

Overview

Located in the Indian Ocean, Aldabra Atoll is one of the largest coral atolls in the world, stretching over 22 miles long and 8 miles wide. The atoll comprises four main islands and numerous smaller islets, all surrounded by a shallow lagoon that teems with marine life. Its unique geology and isolation from the rest of the world have allowed for the evolution of a distinct ecosystem, with over 400 endemic species found nowhere else on Earth. The history of Aldabra dates back to the 9th century when Arab traders first discovered the atoll. Portuguese explorers later visited the atoll in the 16th century and named it after the Portuguese viceroy in India, Almeida. The atoll was later used by pirates and was even a stopover for British ships during the colonial era. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected as a nature reserve, ensuring that its unique ecosystem remains intact for future generations to enjoy. Aldabra’s tropical climate is characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from November to March. The atoll’s plant species include mangroves, coconut palms, and over 200 species of grasses. The atoll’s wildlife is equally diverse, with giant tortoises being the most iconic species found on the islands. These gentle giants can weigh up to 550 pounds and can live for over 100 years. Green turtles are also common in the waters surrounding the atoll, and visitors can often spot them as they snorkel or dive in the lagoon.

Things to Do

Aldabra Atoll offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from exploring its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to discovering its unique flora and fauna. Here are some of the top things to do on Aldabra Atoll:

Snorkeling: With its shallow lagoon and diverse marine life, Aldabra Atoll is a snorkeler’s paradise. Visitors can explore the waters surrounding the atoll and discover a variety of colorful fish, coral reefs, and even green turtles.

Diving: For more experienced divers, Aldabra Atoll offers some of the best diving sites in the world. The atoll’s clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal destination for underwater exploration.

Wildlife watching: Aldabra Atoll is known for its diverse wildlife, including the iconic giant tortoise. Visitors can take a guided tour of the atoll and observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Beachcombing: Aldabra Atoll is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Visitors can spend a day lounging on the sand, soaking up the sun, and searching for seashells and other treasures.

Hiking: The atoll’s dense forests and unique landscapes make it an ideal destination for hiking. Visitors can explore the island’s trails and discover its diverse flora and fauna.

Cultural tours: For history buffs, Aldabra Atoll offers a unique glimpse into its past. Visitors can take a guided tour of the atoll and learn about its history, from its discovery by Arab traders to its use by pirates and British ships during the colonial era.

Stargazing: With little light pollution and clear skies, Aldabra Atoll offers some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world. Visitors can marvel at the beauty of the night sky and discover constellations that are not visible from other parts of the world.

What to See

Giant tortoises: Aldabra Atoll is home to over 100,000 giant tortoises, making it one of the largest populations in the world. Visitors can observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat and even interact with them up close.

Green turtles: The waters surrounding Aldabra Atoll are home to a variety of marine life, including green turtles. Visitors can see these graceful creatures as they swim in the lagoon or bask in the sun on the beaches.

Coconut crabs: Aldabra Atoll is home to the world’s largest land crab, the coconut crab. Visitors can observe these impressive creatures as they scuttle through the forests and along the beaches.

Bird species: The atoll is home to over 100 species of birds, including the Aldabra drongo and the Aldabra rail. Visitors can observe these unique species in their natural habitat and marvel at their beauty and diversity.

Coral reefs: The waters surrounding Aldabra Atoll are home to some of the most vibrant and diverse coral reefs in the world. Visitors can explore these underwater ecosystems and discover a variety of colorful fish and other marine life.

Mangrove forests: The atoll’s mangrove forests are a unique ecosystem that supports a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore these dense forests and discover their rich biodiversity.

Beaches: Aldabra Atoll is home to some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Visitors can relax on the sand, soak up the sun, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Aldabra Atoll for wildlife enthusiasts is during the cooler and drier months of May to September, when the giant tortoises are most active and the green turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. For beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, the best time to visit Aldabra Atoll is during the warmer and wetter months of November to April, when the waters of the lagoon are calm and clear, and the beaches are warm and sunny.

Getting there

By air: The most convenient way to reach Aldabra Atoll is by taking a chartered flight from Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles. The flight takes approximately 2 hours and lands on a small airstrip on the atoll.

By road and boat: Visitors can also reach Aldabra Atoll by taking a combination of road and boat. From Mahé, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the port of Victoria and then take a ferry to the nearby island of Praslin. From Praslin, visitors can then take a boat to Aldabra Atoll, which takes approximately 3 days.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Amitie Chalets on Praslin Island

Located on nearby Praslin Island, Amitie Chalets offers comfortable self-catering chalets with easy access to Aldabra Atoll. The chalets are surrounded by lush tropical gardens and offer a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring the atoll.

Luxury Accommodation:

Cousine Island Resort

Cousine Island, located near Aldabra Atoll, offers luxury accommodation in an exclusive island setting. The resort features private villas with stunning ocean views, a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine using locally sourced ingredients, and a range of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and nature walks.

Bird Island Lodge

Bird Island, also located near Aldabra Atoll, offers rustic yet comfortable accommodation in beachfront chalets. The lodge is known for its eco-friendly practices and offers a range of activities including bird watching, turtle watching, and snorkeling.