Cousin Island, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Cousin Island in Seychelles: A sanctuary of unspoiled beauty, rare wildlife, and pristine beaches—a perfect retreat for nature lovers and eco-tourists.

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Cousin Island

Cousin Island is a jewel in the Indian Ocean, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity. As a nature reserve, it offers a unique experience for eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts. The island is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species of birds, giant tortoises, and pristine coral reefs. The island's sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters are perfect for relaxation and exploration. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to learn about the island's conservation efforts and its history. The guided tours are conducted by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the island's ecosystem and the species that inhabit it. Snorkeling around Cousin Island is a must-do activity, offering a chance to witness vibrant marine life up close. The island's protected status ensures that its natural beauty remains unspoiled, making it a true sanctuary for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cousin Island.

Book guided tours in advance as they are limited to protect the island's ecosystem.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the island's nature trails.
Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant coral reefs.
Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and wildlife.
Respect the island's rules and regulations to help preserve its natural beauty.

Explore Cousin Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Cousin Island

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Grand Anse Cascade (waterfall)

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Grand Anse Cascade, a hidden gem in N.Y.S. Village perfect for hiking and relaxation.

4.5

Mare Aux Cochons Trail (Dan Bernard Junction)

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Mare Aux Cochons Trail, a national reserve in the stunning Bel Ombre region of Seychelles.

3.5

Best landmarks in Cousin Island

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Jardin du Roi Spice Garden

Explore the lush beauty of Jardin du Roi Spice Garden, a botanical paradise in Seychelles that delights the senses and tantalizes the taste buds.

4.2

Eden Plaza

Discover Eden Plaza, a vibrant shopping mall in Seychelles, blending local charm with international brands, dining, and entertainment options.

4.1

Saint-Anne Marine National Park

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Saint-Anne Marine National Park, a paradise for snorkeling, diving, and exploring diverse marine life in Seychelles.

4.7

Copolia Trail

Discover breathtaking views and lush biodiversity on the Copolia Trail, a top hiking destination in Seychelles, perfect for nature lovers.

4.8

Best restaurants in Cousin Island

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Del Place Restaurant

Experience exquisite Seychellois cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Del Place Restaurant in Seychelles.

4.5

La Gaulette Restaurant

Experience authentic Seychellois cuisine at La Gaulette Restaurant with breathtaking ocean views on Mahé Island.

4.4

Perry's Grillz

Experience exquisite Seychellois cuisine at Perry's Grillz, where every bite tells a story of local flavors.

4.9

Maria's Rock Cafeteria

Experience authentic Seychellois flavors at Maria's Rock Cafeteria with breathtaking views and warm hospitality.

4.6

Best bars in Cousin Island

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The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill in Eden Island, where every moment is a celebration of island life.

4.3

Summer Bar

Experience the laid-back charm of Summer Bar, a tropical oasis in Anse Intendance, perfect for unwinding with refreshing drinks and stunning views.

4.9

ＲＯＹＡＬＢＡＹＢＥＡＣＨＣＬＵＢ

Discover the ultimate beachside retreat at Royal Bay Beach Club, offering exquisite dining, thrilling water sports, and breathtaking ocean views.

4.9

Kabana

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Kabana, a top bar in N.Y.S. Village, known for its breathtaking views and delicious drinks.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Cousin Island

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Barrel Night Club

Dive into the electrifying nightlife at Barrel Night Club in Victoria, Seychelles - where unforgettable memories and great music await!

4.1

Bourgeois Bar & Lounge at Eden Bleu Hotel

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bourgeois Bar & Lounge, offering exquisite cocktails and stunning views in the heart of Seychelles.

4.1

Katiolo

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Victoria at Katiolo, Seychelles' premier disco club where music and culture come alive.

4.0

TAKAMAKA BAR & BOUTIQUE

Experience local flavors and vibrant cocktails at Takamaka Bar & Boutique, a tropical retreat at Seychelles International Airport.

4.6

Best shops in Cousin Island

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STC Hypermarket

Experience local flavors and international goods at STC Hypermarket, the heart of shopping in Victoria, Seychelles.

4.0

Craft Village

Explore the vibrant Craft Village in Seychelles, showcasing local artistry, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural heritage in a stunning tropical setting.

4.3

Kumar & Kumar Supermarket

Discover the authentic flavors of Seychelles at Kumar & Kumar Supermarket, your one-stop grocery destination in Pointe Au Sel.

4.4

Roots Seychelles

Discover the artistic soul of Seychelles at Roots Seychelles, a vibrant gallery showcasing local talent in the stunning Mare Anglaise.

4.9

Explore Cousin Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cousin Island, mapped for you.

Cousin Island Essentials

Cousin Island is a granitic island in the Seychelles archipelago, situated approximately 2 kilometers west of Praslin Island. To get there, you need to first fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé Island. From Mahé, take a domestic flight or ferry to Praslin Island. Once on Praslin, you can arrange for a guided tour or private boat transfer to Cousin Island. Note that access to Cousin Island is strictly regulated, and visits are typically only available through organized tours to protect the island's ecosystem.
Cousin Island is a nature reserve with no roads or motorized vehicles. The only way to explore the island is on foot. A guided tour will take you through designated trails, allowing you to experience the island's unique flora and fauna up close. Since the island is small, walking is the most efficient and environmentally friendly way to get around.
The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). However, most tours to Cousin Island are pre-paid, so you may not need much cash on the island itself. It is advisable to carry some cash for tips or small purchases. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops on Praslin Island, where you will likely stay before and after your visit to Cousin Island. ATMs are available on Praslin Island to withdraw local currency.
Cousin Island is generally a very safe destination, thanks to its status as a protected nature reserve. However, it is important to follow all guidelines set by the tour operators and reserve authorities to ensure your safety and the preservation of the island's ecosystem. There are no high-crime areas targeting tourists on Cousin Island. While on Praslin Island, standard safety precautions apply: avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings.
In case of an emergency on Cousin Island, inform your tour guide immediately. They are trained to handle most situations and can contact the necessary authorities on Praslin Island if needed. For medical emergencies, the nearest facilities are on Praslin Island. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. On Praslin Island, emergency services can be reached by dialing 999.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable, lightweight clothing suitable for walking and exploring nature. Avoid wearing high heels or restrictive clothing. Religion: There are no religious sites on Cousin Island, but respectful behavior is always appreciated. Public Transport: There is no public transport on Cousin Island. All movement is on foot. Greetings: Do greet your guides and fellow tourists with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour'. Eating & Drinking: Do carry your own water and snacks, as there are no shops or restaurants on the island. Don't litter; always take your trash with you.
To experience Cousin Island like a local, respect the environment and follow the guidelines provided by your tour guide. Engage with the guides and ask questions about the island's history, wildlife, and conservation efforts. They are passionate about the island and can provide insights that you won't find in any guidebook. Make sure to visit during the bird nesting season from May to September for a unique experience. Also, bring binoculars for bird watching and a good camera to capture the island's natural beauty.

When is the best time to visit Cousin Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cousin Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cousin Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonzour
  [bawn-zoor]
- GoodbyeAurevoir
  [or-eh-vwahr]
- YesWi
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [non]
- Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît
  [seel voo pleh]
- Thank youMersi
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [pahr-dohn]
- How are you?Koman ou ete?
  [koh-mahn oo eh-teh]
- Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byan. eh oo?]
- Do you speak English?Ou parlez Anglais?
  [oo pahr-lay ahn-glay]
- I don't understandMwen pa konpran
  [mwen pah kohn-prahn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwen ti a kontan vwar menu, sil vous plaît
  [mwen tee ah kohn-tahn vwar meh-nu, seel voo pleh]
- I don't eat meatMwen pa manze lasoy
  [mwen pah mahn-zay lah-soy]
- Cheers!Santé!
  [sahn-tay]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMwen ti a kontan peye, sil vous plaît
  [mwen tee ah kohn-tahn pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- Help!Seki!
  [seh-kee]
- Go away!Ale!
  [ah-lay]
- Call the Police!Appel Police!
  [ah-pel poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Appel en doktor!
  [ah-pel ahn dok-tor]
- I'm lostMwen perdi
  [mwen pair-dee]
- I'm illMwen malad
  [mwen mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Mwen ti a kontan achte...
  [mwen tee ah kohn-tahn ah-shtay]
- I'm just lookingMwen zis pe vwar
  [mwen zees pe vwar]
- How much is it?Ki kantite sa?
  [kee kohn-tay sah]
- That's too expensiveSa tro cher
  [sah tro shair]
- Can you lower the price?Eski ou kapab redwir pri?
  [es-kee oo kah-pahb red-wir pree]
- What time is it?Ki letan li?
  [kee leh-tahn lee]
- It's one o'clockLi enn zhe
  [lee en zhay]
- Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [duh-mee (10)]
- MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
- AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
- EveningSwar
  [swahr]
- YesterdayYer
  [yehr]
- TodayAste
  [ahs-tay]
- TomorrowDemain
  [duh-mahn]
- 1En
  [en]
- 2De
  [duh]
- 3Trois
  [trwah]
- 4Katre
  [kah-tray]
- 5Senk
  [sank]
- 6Sis
  [sees]
- 7Set
  [set]
- 8Huit
  [weet]
- 9Nef
  [nef]
- 10Dis
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Kot i ete en...?
  [kot ee eh-teh ahn]
- What's the address?Ki adres?
  [kee ah-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Eski ou kapab montre mwen (lo kat)?
  [es-kee oo kah-pahb mohn-tray mwen (loh kaht)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kan prosen (buss)?
  [kan proh-sen (boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)En tiké (pou ....)
  [en tee-kay (poo)]

History of Cousin Island

Cousin Island, located in the Seychelles archipelago, was initially discovered by European explorers in the 18th century. The island was uninhabited at the time of its discovery due to its isolated location and lack of freshwater sources, making it unsuitable for permanent settlement.
During the 19th century, Cousin Island was transformed into a coconut plantation under British colonial rule. The plantation era saw the introduction of non-native plants and animals, which significantly altered the island's natural ecosystem.
In 1968, Cousin Island was purchased by the International Council for Bird Preservation (now BirdLife International) to protect the Seychelles warbler, a bird species threatened with extinction. This marked the beginning of significant conservation efforts, and the island was designated as a nature reserve.
In 1975, Cousin Island was declared a Special Reserve by the Seychelles government, reinforcing its status as a protected area. The island's management was handed over to Nature Seychelles, a non-governmental organization dedicated to conservation and sustainable development.
Cousin Island is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, including endemic species like the Seychelles magpie-robin and hawksbill turtles. The island has become a model for ecotourism, attracting visitors from around the world to experience its pristine natural environment and learn about conservation.