Suggested Itinerary
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Snorkel the thriving coral reefs and watch manta rays dart about the surf.
- Join an island naturalist on a sea turtle monitoring expedition around the island.
- Take a guided bike tour through the forests and along the coastline.
- Aid marine biologists in a biodiversity survey along the reef flats.
- Kayak the gentle surf around the stunning atoll.
- Explore the uninhabited island of Bijoutier on a private family excursion.
- Take a beginner scuba diving class especially geared towards kids.
Day 1: Arrive in Mahé
Alphonse Island
Welcome to the Seychelles! Upon arrival in Mahé you will be be met by a hotel representative and checked into your charter flight to Alphonse Island. Watch the striking blue waves and scattered atolls zip by from the window of the plane as you approach Alphonse Island. A remote corner of paradise, the island houses only one resort with secluded beach bungalows giving guests a wonderfully private luxury experience.
Each private suite provides bikes, kayaks, paddleboards, snorkeling gear, and numerous other amenities for guests to enjoy. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing, riding your bike around the island, taking a dip in your private pool, or simply unwinding on the beach. At dinnertime, the kitchen will bring around a spectacular feast to your bungalow which you may enjoy from the comfort of your private veranda.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 2: Reef Flats Expedition
Alphonse Island
Join a marine biologist on an exciting reef flats expedition this morning! Stroll along in the shallow water helping them record observations for the conservancy’s
biodiversity survey. This is a fantastic way to help researchers determine the health of the ecosystem and monitor migration patterns.
After lunch spend the afternoon at your leisure. Perhaps take your kayaks on a gentle paddle around the island, or hop onto a stand up paddle board for some fun
in the surf. Hop on your bikes and ride down to the main lodge for a delicious dinner.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 3: Snorkel the Reefs
Alphonse Island
Enjoy a free morning to explore the island or splash in the surf. We suggest using your complimentary snorkels and exploring the island reefs! Float atop the waves as you peer down into the colorful neighborhood below where creatures of all shapes and sizes dart amongst the coral.
After lunch, grab your bikes for a guided tour around Alphonse. Stop at major landmarks and seascapes to spy birds, fish, and tropical plants as you wind your way through the forest bike paths. Learn about the early settlers of Alphonse and the changes from indigenous forest to coconut plantation. Conclude the day back at the main lodge with a hearty meal and perhaps an exciting game of giant chess.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 4: Turtle Monitoring
Alphonse Island
Be sure to eat a big breakfast this morning as you will spend a few hours traversing the island with a naturalist in search of turtle nests. Each expedition is designed by the Island Conservation Center with the goal of involving guests in their many conservation projects. You may assist guides with sea turtle nest monitoring, giant tortoise observations, vegetation surveys, or a number of other projects.
After a hot morning in the sun, head down to the beach for the hotel’s signature “flats lunch.” This delicious buffet is set up in knee-deep water with a bar and reclining beach chairs. Enjoy a cool drink as you let the gentle ocean ripples wash over your legs. Kids can splash around in the shallow water and chase colorful minnows through the blue surf.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided snorkel excursion with one of the island’s expert guides. Learn about the unique reef ecosystem and search for colorful fish hiding amongst the coral. You may even see manta rays and sea turtles drifting with the current. Return to shore for dinner and evening relaxation.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 5: Bijoutier Island Experience
Bijoutier Island
Today you have a private island all to yourself! Take a boat ride to Bijoutier Island, an uninhabited paradise, where you’ll have the entire day to explore.
Stroll the deserted beaches and swim in crystal clear calm water on Bijoutier Island: a hotspot for turtle nesting. Guides will explain the life cycle of the beautiful turtles from hatching to laying their own eggs. You may even get lucky and see the nests of the Wedge-tailed Shearwater, or perhaps a mother and chick!
After a long day in the sun, return to your suite for a complimentary room service dinner.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 6: Leisure
Alphonse Island
You have no scheduled activities today, so spend the day however you wish! Take out your bikes or kayaks, splash in your private pool, play beach games in the sand, or simply grab a book and relax.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
Day 7: Scuba Class and a Sunset Cruise
Alphonse Island
Today, take your ocean exploration to a new level with a Bubble Makers scuba class! This class is designed specially for children and focuses on scuba basics. Begin class in the pool where a dive instructor will describe the equipment, safety measures, and diving techniques.
Once everyone feels comfortable in their abilities, head out to the reef to look for turtles, triggerfish, surgeonfish, and many more!
This evening you’ll climb aboard your private boat for a spectacular sunset cruise around the island. Enjoy delicious beverages and canapés as you slowly drift across the sparkling water. Disembark in time for another marvelous dinner.
Overnight Alphonse Island Beach Suite
All meals included
…
Day 8: Departure
Wave goodbye to the island today as you board your charter flight back to Mahé with wonderful memories of your time on Alphonse. Connect with your flight home in Mahé.
Meals: Breakfast
What’s Included
Included: All transfers, all meals, lodging, conservation excursions, domestic flights, kayaks, bikes, paddle boards, room service, snorkeling equipment, conservation fees, all activities mentioned.
Not Included: International flights, travel insurance, tips and gratuities, purchases of a personal nature, excursions not mentioned.
Interested in booking this itinerary or customizing a trip to the Seychelles? Get in touch with a private travel designer!
