Description
Bird Island is not only one of the world's top eco-holiday destinations, but as its name suggests, it is also a successful wildlife reserve. Situated in the Indian Ocean in the most northerly archipelago of the Seychelles, it has over five kilometers of the finest white sandy beaches. It is, in short, a paradise island, where visitors can appreciate the conservation of wildlife in the most beautiful and tranquil setting.
Bird Island is a privately owned coral island in the far north of the Seychelles, it is 70 hectares surrounded by 5km of beach and situated 100 kilometers north of Mahé. The island boasts over 20 species of birds, including almost one million sooty terns that breed from May to October. Two species of sea turtle also breed on the island and today there are 18 Giant Land Tortoises living there.
Bird Island Lodge has 24 simple but comfortable bungalows nestled in amongst the palm trees, each with a king-size four-poster bed and a patio overlooking the gardens, with the sea only a few steps away.
Bird Island Lodge is proud to be an environmentally and socially responsible tourism operation. As a closed island environment, the lodge alone is responsible for the protection, preservation and enhancement of Bird Island and its surrounding reef and waters through sustainable management practices.
Accommodation
24 individual Bungalows (not air-conditioned). Each bungalow has a king-size bed, shower room and separate toilet, sitting area within the bedroom and a patio overlooking the gardens to the sea beyond. Rooms are cooled by natural ventilation and ceiling fans each chalet will accommodate a third adult and child or two extra children if required.
Childcare
Although there are no specific child care facilities at Bird Island Lodge, children are most welcome and babysitting and children's early dinner are available on request.
Facilities
Boutique - there are a range of hand printed t-shirts, shorts and sarongs for both adults and children. Including essentials such as films, shampoo, sun cream, postcards and stamps.
The buffet style restaurant serves local cuisine in an informal setting using mostly fresh produce including fresh fish and vegetables from the island. They also offer a special menu for vegetarians.
The main hotel building with the Reception, Lounge, Restaurant and Bar is situated a couple of minutes walk from the airstrip where guests arrive on the flight each day.
Activities
It's not hard to find the resident pod of dolphins or, if you are lucky, the spectacular giant manta rays, which also swim in nearby waters. Nature tours, snorkelling and sea kayaks are other activities on offer from Bird Island Lodge. During the calmer months of October to November, whales migrate past Bird Island and during this time the lucky few may be privileged enough to see Southern Right whales, Humpbacks and Short-finned Pilot whales. Also game fishing and fly fishing can be organised.
Services
Baggage restriction on inter-island to Bird is maximum 10kg per person. No televisions, telephones, air-conditioning or swimming pool.
Although the atmosphere is informal gentlemen are requested to wear trousers in the bar, restaurant & lounge after 7pm.
When to travel
Situated just south of the equator, the Seychelles have a warm tropical climate. The consistently warm tropical weather makes the Seychelles a good year round destination.
There is little fluctuation in warmth, with temperatures ranging from 24C to 31C all year round. From May to October a southeast trade wind can bring marginally cooler weather and fresh breezes. From November to March the northwest monsoon wind blows, typically raising temperature and humidity. December and January are the wettest months, but the rain falls in short sharp bursts before the sun comes out again.
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Best time to visit
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Average time to visit
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Location and directions
Bird Island, Seychelles
Bird Island is a privately owned coral island situated in the Indian Ocean in the most northerly archipelago of the Seychelles. It is 70 hectares surrounded by 5km of the finest white sandy beaches, and situated 100 kilometers north of Mahé.
How to get there
10 hour international flight (direct or one stop) to Mahe International airport. It is easily accessed on a 35-minute flight from Mahé to Bird Island, aboard a scheduled, daily Air Seychelles plane. Note that luggage limits for this flight are 10kg per person; excess can be left on Mahe Island.
