Cousin Island

Seychelles

Wade through pristine waters to encounter giant tortoises and exotic seabirds on this protected nature reserve island.

Currency Seychellois Rupee (SCR)

Language Seychellois Creole, English, French

Time Zone SCT (UTC+4)

Best Time to Visit Dec–Mar

Typical Duration 7-14 nights

Price Range $4,080-$5,140 per person

Port Type Port of Call

Tender Port Yes

A pristine nature reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site offering exceptional wildlife viewing, including giant Aldabra tortoises and endemic bird species in the Indian Ocean.

Cruises that visit Cousin Island

cruises to Cousin Island

Build Your Day in Cousin Island

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 4:00 PM

Usually about 8 hours ashore

My ship arrives around: Getting around:

Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market Good variety of fruit and fish, nice souvenir shops on the first floor. Market · ★ 4 · 2k Temporarily closed

Vallée de Mai, Praslin, Seychelles Praslin’s iconic Coco de Mer sanctuary is a must-see. National park · ★ 4.4 · 2k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM

Les Rochers Restaurant It was by far the best food that we have had in the Seychelles. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 2 PM

Giant Tortoise Farm Animals · ★ 4.7 · 0k

Honesty Bar Super cold beer in a unique setting at amazing prices - highly recommended! Bar · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Anse St. Jose This can see anywhere in Seychelles. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Sanctuaire des tortues One of the highlights of our Seychelles trip. Park · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Curieuse Island Excursions A must-visit if you’re in Seychelles! Boat tour agency · ★ 4.9 · 0k Opens soon · 8 AM

The Nest Restaurant Best place to eat in the Seychelles Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 12 PM

Petit Cabanes Best restaurant experience on Seychelles hands down. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Soley Kouse The best food we've had during our two week stay in Seychelles. Grill · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 5:30 PM

Virgin Coconut Oil Factory Amazing products and reasonable prices. Cosmetics store · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM

KOKOLOKO BEACH BAR The cocktails were top notch and the grilled food was simply delicious. Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 11 AM

Beach House We had the best food in Seychelles here. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Opens soon · 8 AM

CURIEUSE RESTAURANT Definitely the best dining experience in Praslin. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 7 PM

Cousin Very beautiful island,like big natural zoo garden Island · ★ 4.5 · 0k

Curieuse Marine National Park Nice trip from Praslin. National park · ★ 4.9 · 0k

DIVA Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM

Cousin Island Special Reserve of Nature Seychelles The island is very interesting and like a different world. National park · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:45 AM

LAZIO BEACH BAR, Anse Lazio, Praslin, Seychelles Great and friendly service, perfect cocktails with an authentic island vibe. Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 1 PM

Cousin Island Nature preserve · ★ 4.3 · 0k

Cousine Island Seychelles Resort Very groomed jungle , lots of birds and wild life , huge tortoises. Hotel · ★ 4.2 · 0k

Coco de Mer trees Tourist attraction · ★ 4 · 0k

Leo’s Bar Best bar in town. Bar · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 11:30 AM

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Cousin Island

About Cousin Island

Cousin Island stands as one of Africa's most enchanting cruise destinations, offering visitors an intimate glimpse into pristine island life and remarkable natural wonders. This small yet extraordinary island has earned its reputation as a premier port of call for discerning travelers seeking authentic experiences in the Indian Ocean. With 25 upcoming cruises calling at this destination, primarily through Emerald Cruises and PONANT EXPLORATIONS, you'll find excellent opportunities to explore this corner of paradise aboard thoughtfully curated itineraries.

As a port of call rather than a homeport, Cousin Island serves as a gateway to exploring the broader Seychelles archipelago. Most cruises visiting here feature seven-night itineraries that weave together the region's most captivating islands, including nearby Mahé, Praslin Island, La Digue, and the lesser-known gems of Curieuse and Aride Islands. This positioning allows you to experience multiple destinations while enjoying the comfort of your ship, making it an ideal choice for those wanting variety without constant packing and unpacking.

Visitors can expect to encounter world-class natural attractions and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Cousin Island itself is a protected nature reserve teeming with endemic bird species and pristine beaches, while the surrounding islands offer everything from water sports to cultural exploration. The peak season runs from December through March, when favorable weather conditions and calm seas create ideal conditions for island hopping and water-based adventures throughout this magical region.

Pristine Seabird Sanctuary Experience

Cousin Island is a protected nature reserve home to thousands of seabirds, including the rare Seychelles magpie-robin and sooty terns. Guided walks through this UNESCO World Heritage site offer unparalleled birdwatching opportunities and stunning views of untouched tropical ecosystems. This intimate encounter with Seychelles' unique wildlife is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature enthusiasts.

Snorkel Vibrant Coral Reefs

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Cousin Island reveal spectacular coral gardens and tropical fish species in their natural habitat. Snorkeling directly from the island provides intimate access to pristine marine biodiversity without lengthy boat transfers. The shallow reefs near shore make this an accessible yet extraordinary underwater adventure for all skill levels.

Authentic Creole Island Culture

Experience genuine Seychellois hospitality and traditions on this intimate island setting. Local guides share fascinating stories about island life, traditional fishing practices, and the unique Creole heritage that defines Seychelles. This authentic cultural immersion offers meaningful connections with island residents and deep insights into local customs.

Pristine Beach Relaxation

Cousin Island's secluded white-sand beaches offer peaceful respite with powdery sand and turquoise waters. Unlike crowded tourist beaches, this protected island provides an exclusive, tranquil escape where you can swim, sunbathe, and absorb the serene tropical atmosphere. The unspoiled natural beauty creates the perfect backdrop for memorable moments.

Local Artisan Crafts & Souvenirs

Browse handcrafted souvenirs created by local artisans, including traditional woven goods, coconut-shell jewelry, and Creole artwork. Supporting these craftspeople directly helps preserve island traditions and provides authentic mementos of your Seychelles experience. Each piece tells a story of the island's cultural heritage and artistic traditions.