Aride Island is a gem in the crown of Seychelles and is a granitic island located 10 km ahead of the popular Praslin Island. This island is home to some of the most stunning seabird species in the Indian Ocean with more varieties than any other island in Seychelles. Seychelles law declared the island to be known as Aride Island Nature Reserve and handed over management to the Island Conservation Society of Seychelles in 2004.
If you find yourself slightly intrigued about the history of Seychelles some 250 years ago before human beings made it their own, you should head to the reserve to view nature in all its untouched glory. Interestingly, the number of people who stay on this island is a countable few and includes rangers, conservation officers and two volunteers. Book an Aride Island tour from Praslin or a nearby island and have the time of your life!
Aride Island Facts
Location: Northernmost part of Seychelles
Area: 68 ha
Established in: 2004
Opening timings: Sunday to Thursday – 9:30 AM – 10 AM (Via appointment on Friday & Saturday)
Excursion timings: Monday to Thursday – 10 AM – 3 PM
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Aride Island Nature Reserve Ticket Price
Here’s a complete price guide to give you a better picture of the fee structure of the park so that you can plan your trip accordingly.
Adults: 2600 INR per person
Professional photographer fees: 8000 INR per day
Filming fees: 32000 INR per day
Children of ages : 5-14: 1300 INR
Children under the age of 5: Free
Note: The Basic Landing Fee is inclusive of Guided Walk.
How To Get To Aride Island
Aride Island Nature Reserve in Seychelles has gained immense popularity over the last few years and many are wondering how to reach the finest seabird island residing in the western Indian Ocean. Since only official vessels of the reserves can land on the island, tourists have to leave these vessels and take small boats to reach the island which becomes a wet and wild ride many times! These voyages to Aride Island can be booked through the staff in hotels on other islands or through boat owners who take a few tourists with them on their boats. Since the island is sometimes closed because of bad weather, try planning your day trip to Aride early on in your vacation and maybe even book an alternative date.
Must Read: Curieuse Marine National Park: A Tiny Granitic Island In The Seychelles
Best Time To Visit Aride Island Nature Reserve
We would recommend you to a plan a visit to Aride Island Nature Reserve in Seychelles sometime between November and February since this is the time when one can spot a maximum number of migratory birds. Reach there by 10:00 a.m. irrespective of the day or month you plan your visit in and remember to stay silent when going back on the boat since this is the time when birds start to roost!
Attractions In Aride Island
Not enough has been said about the flora and fauna of Aride Island, and we believe words could never capture the dynamic beauty of this island! As you look around, you will notice lush vegetation covering every bit of the island; from coconut and broadleaf trees to guava and orange plants. One of the most popular sightings here is the lovely-smelling Wright’s gardenia, which is an endemic plant species that reached 6 meters in height and is adorned with red and white calyx. They have dainty looking fruits that are small and lemon-shaped because of which locals call this plant “bwa sitron”. Aride Island tour lures in people from distinct parts of the world to visit Seychelles and experience nature here. The tour lasts for 2 kilometers and the commencing point is the residence of the erstwhile owner of the island, British chocolate maker Christopher Cadbury.
It takes approximately two hours to finish this tour and it is the experience of a lifetime. At the beginning of the journey, you will notice a stunning banana plantation on the left and a few tropical birds nesting under rocks on the rights. All along, you will spot some unique trees, the fruits of which are used for the nourishment of the inhabitants on the island.
Another interesting element that you will notice is a freshwater pool full of fish, the questions surrounding which are still looming in thin air. Apart from the above, you are likely to greet an abundant number of lizards here. If you’re lucky enough, you will hear the sounds of the cardinal birds singing at the junction. Other creatures here include mudskippers who stay alongside crabs and take in oxygen from air and water to sustain themselves.
Suggested Read: 25 Places To Visit In Seychelles: Islands, Beaches, & Tourist Attractions
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Why To Visit Gros La Tete In Aride
After walking uphill for almost 135 meters, you will be greeted with a delightful view of everything: the sea, the North, the neighboring islands of Mahe, Praslin, Cousine, La Digue, Marianne, etc. With varying species of Aride Island birds circling the mountain peaks, this might just be the highlight of your time in Seychelles! It is also a great place to be at for the lovebirds who are celebrating their anniversary on the island!
While walking on the beautifully laid out circular path, you have the chance to experience the true beauty that lies in the diverse lifeforms at Aride. Keep walking up the road towards the left till you reach a white sandy beach where one can spot the pretty kakatoi fish swimming in the calm still waters. Although these fish look very delicate and tiny, you will be surprised to know that they tear coral skeletons into pieces with their hard mouths and further grind them with their jaws.
This will remind you of the stunning and soft white beaches that Seychelles offers and are often visited by sea turtles for nesting and hence, should not be missed. If you keep walking up north, you will sight the trees of Mapou, Takamaka and Lafourche that are supposed to be the first living organisms to grace the island with their presence.
Suggested Read: 4 Zoos In Seychelles: Satiate The Wildlife Enthusiast In You With These Places
Places To Stay In Aride Island Nature Reserve
There are no accommodation options on Aride Island Nature Reserve but we have listed the top three choices for a stay in nearby Praslin Island for your convenience:
1. Dhevatara Beach Hotel
Not just the best hotel in Praslin, it is considered one of the best hotels in Seychelles and is a signature property offering luxurious world-class amenities and services. With a freshwater swimming pool, a lounge bar and the most stunning suites ever; you will fall in love at first sight with this exquisite property.
Suggested Read: 5 Water Sports In Seychelles That’ll Let You Dive In The Azure Ocean!
2. Paradise Sun Hotel
If you want an unforgettable time (at an unforgettable cost), you should definitely consider staying in the uber-stylish Paradise Sun Hotel with ocean-view suites, a diving center and endless facilities to ensure a great time!
Suggested Read: Destination Of The Month: Why A Trip To Seychelles In December Is A Fab Idea To End The Year
3. Hotel Cote D’Or
This one is definitely one of the most known hotels in Seychelles, which boats of luxury from every angle. It is surrounded by a stunning white sandy beach and towering palm trees where you can engage in activities such as kayaking, volleyball, golf etc.
Further Read: Casinos In Seychelles: 8 Best Places To Try Your Luck In This Picturesque Land!
Intrigued? We bet you are! And now, after knowing everything that there is about Aride Island Nature Reserve, all that is left is to book a trip to Seychelles with TravelTriangle and set off on your paradisiacal vacation! And once you’re back from your exhilarating vacation, don’t forget to tell us about your experience in the comments section below.
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