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Just off the north coast of Praslin, Curieuse is a small island seeped in wildlife and culture. The red coloured soils here led it to first be named “Ile Rouge” before the French took possession in 1768 and renamed it after their schooner, “La Curieuse”.
Curieuse and its surrounding waters were declared as a marine national park in 1979, and these days almost 300 giant tortoises can be found roaming freely around the island, tending to congregate around the ranger's station where baby tortoises are protected from thieves and wild predators. The rangers are always happy to chat to visitors about the tortoises and the history of the island.
Curieuse is also home to the iconic coco de mer tree, which has become a symbol of the Seychelles and can only be found here on this island and on Praslin.
From 1833 until as recently as 1965 the island was used as a leper colony, housing those with the disease in purpose built buildings. The crumbling ruins and former physician's house have been made into a museum and educational centre telling the fascinating story of the lepers and the rich history of the island.
Tourists are welcome to visit the island during the day, and we can organise a day excursion which incorporates Cousin, Curieuse and St Pierre Islands.
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| Just off the coast of Praslin, Curieuse homes almost 300 giant tortoises who roam freely across the island. These are protected under the marine national park law, along with the endemic coco de mer tree. The ruins of the former leper colony and former doctor's house have been made into an intriguing museum telling the rich history of the island. Visitors are welcome to make day trips to the island. | |
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