Island Escape to La Digue: A Seychellois Homecoming

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of immersing ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Seychelles. Leaving the familiar shores of La Digue, Hans and I set off on an adventure to explore two of the archipelago's most precious jewels: Curieuse Island and the Vallée de Mai on Praslin. It was a day filled with incredible wildlife encounters, lush landscapes, and a deeper connection to the natural heritage of my homeland.

Our morning began with an early ferry ride to Curieuse Island. As the boat approached the shore, the dramatic landscape came into view – a blend of dense mangrove forests, towering granite peaks, and pristine beaches. Curieuse is a place where nature reigns supreme, and I was eager to experience it firsthand with Hans.


Explore Curieuse Island's natural beauty with unique wildlife, pristine beaches, and rich history in the heart of Seychelles.

The first residents we encountered were the famed Aldabra giant tortoises. These gentle giants roam freely on the island, a legacy of conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Seeing them up close was truly awe-inspiring. Some of these tortoises are over a hundred years old, their wrinkled skin and slow, deliberate movements telling silent stories of the island's history. Hans, ever the curious one, was fascinated by their size and the unique patterns on their shells. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride, knowing that Seychelles plays such a crucial role in preserving these magnificent creatures.

We spent a good part of the morning observing the tortoises, taking photos, and simply enjoying their peaceful presence. It was heartwarming to see them thriving in their natural habitat, a testament to the dedication of the conservationists who work tirelessly to protect them. I even managed to coax one particularly friendly tortoise into posing for a selfie with me!

Nature is painting for us, day after day, pictures of infinite beauty.

After our tortoise encounter, we ventured into the island's mangrove forests. A boardwalk meandered through the dense vegetation, offering a unique perspective on this vital ecosystem. The air was thick with the scent of saltwater and damp earth, and the sounds of birds echoed through the trees. I explained to Hans how mangroves serve as nurseries for countless marine species and protect the coastline from erosion. It's a delicate balance, and one that's crucial for the health of the Seychelles.

Curieuse Island has a fascinating history beyond its natural wonders. It once served as a leper colony, and remnants of this past remain in the form of the Doctor's House, a preserved Creole-style building that now serves as a museum. We explored the house, learning about the island's role in the treatment and isolation of leprosy patients. It was a somber reminder of the challenges faced by those affected by the disease and the efforts to provide them with care and dignity. According to what I read, the island was used as a leprosy settlement as far back as 1829. It's amazing to see how the island has transformed into a haven for biodiversity and a place of historical significance.

Leaving Curieuse, we hopped on another short ferry to Praslin, home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a primeval palm forest, a living testament to the Seychelles' unique biodiversity. As we entered the Vallée de Mai, I felt like I was stepping back in time. The towering coco de mer palms, with their enormous, suggestive nuts, created a cathedral-like atmosphere, sunlight filtering through the dense canopy.


Discover the unique Coco de Mer palms and vibrant wildlife at Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles.

The Vallée de Mai is home to six endemic palm species, each with its own distinct characteristics. But it's the coco de mer that steals the show. These palms produce the largest seeds in the plant kingdom, and their unique shape has fueled countless myths and legends over the centuries. Hans was particularly amused by the suggestive forms of the nuts, and we shared a few laughs as we tried to capture their essence in photos.

As we walked along the winding trails, I pointed out the various endemic birds that call the Vallée de Mai home, including the elusive Seychelles black parrot. While we didn't spot the parrot itself, we heard its distinctive call echoing through the forest. It's a reminder that the Vallée de Mai is not just a botanical wonder, but also a haven for unique and endangered wildlife. I remember as a child hearing stories about the black parrot, a creature shrouded in mystery and local folklore.

The Vallée de Mai is more than just a collection of trees; it's an ecosystem, a complex web of life where each species plays a vital role. I explained to Hans how the palms rely on specific insects for pollination and seed dispersal, and how the forest floor is home to a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. It's a delicate balance, and one that's constantly under threat from invasive species and habitat destruction.

Emerging from the Vallée de Mai, we were both struck by the sheer density and diversity of life within its boundaries. It's a place that inspires awe and humility, a reminder of the power and resilience of nature. I felt a renewed sense of commitment to protecting these precious ecosystems for future generations.

For lunch, we decided to try Spice on La Digue. It was so delicious! It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploring. The ambiance of Spice was cozy and welcoming, making it an ideal spot for both tourists and locals. The restaurant had a modern decor with a touch of local charm, which added to its inviting atmosphere.


Savor exquisite Western cuisine at Spice in Seychelles – where every meal is a delightful experience amid stunning tropical beauty.

After lunch, we did a bit of shopping at COCO, where I picked up a few souvenirs for my family back in Anse Boileau. I found some beautiful handcrafted jewelry and some vibrant textiles that I know my mother will adore. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when I'm back in the Seychelles. It's a way to give back to the community and help preserve traditional crafts.


Explore the vibrant artistry of Seychelles at COCO, your go-to clothing store and souvenir manufacturer in Providence Zone 18.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to La Digue, our hearts full of the day's experiences. We capped off the evening with dinner at Perry's Grillz. It was the perfect way to end our day of adventure. The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu, and it certainly didn't disappoint. I savored the grilled seafood, while Hans enjoyed some mouthwatering meats. The flavors were bold and fresh, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of the Seychelles.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Seychelles at Perry's Grillz – where culinary excellence meets island charm.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Anse Lazio and Cocos Island. I've heard so much about Anse Lazio's pristine beauty, and I can't wait to see it with my own eyes. Cocos Island, with its vibrant marine life, promises to be an unforgettable snorkeling experience. And to wind down, we'll be stopping by Robinson Crusoe Bar for a relaxing evening drink.

Today was a reminder of why I love the Seychelles so much. It's a place of unparalleled beauty, where nature and culture intertwine to create a truly unique experience. Sharing this with Hans, and reconnecting with my roots, makes this trip all the more special. As I drift off to sleep, I'm already dreaming of the adventures that tomorrow will bring.

I’m so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you all. Stay tuned for more tales from paradise!

Until next time,
Marie