October on Cousine: Hawksbill Turtles and the Magic of New Life
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter in Paradise
Each October, Cousine Island transforms into a sanctuary of life and renewal. On this exclusive private island, where only a handful of guests stay at a time, the beaches become a stage for one of nature’s most breathtaking performances: the nesting of the critically endangered Hawksbill turtle.
Far from crowds and cameras, you’ll walk alongside our dedicated conservation team as they guide you through an intimate, first-hand encounter with these ancient mariners. Last year alone, over 16,000 turtle hatchlings made their courageous journey from Cousine’s pristine sands to the ocean, many of which were witnessed by guests in awe-struck silence under the moonlit sky.
Over 30 Years of Turtle Conservation
Cousine Island has been dedicated to turtle conservation since the early 1990s, with a program that has actively protected and monitored sea turtle populations for over three decades. The data collected over the years (2002-2024 shown below) highlights the positive impact of these efforts, demonstrating a steady increase in nesting activity and hatchling success rates.
This long-term commitment has established Cousine Island as a crucial sanctuary for endangered sea turtles, contributing valuable research and fostering a sustainable environment for these vital marine species.
The Ultimate in Personal Conservation Experiences
At Cousine, luxury meets purpose. Guests can join our trained rangers on guided patrols — a rare opportunity to witness a nesting turtle or help release hatchlings as they make their way to the sea. Each moment is deeply personal, allowing you to experience conservation not as a bystander but as a participant.
The Hawksbill turtle returns to Cousine’s shores year after year, instinctively drawn to the very beach where she once hatched. Watching her carve out a nest in the soft sand, lay her eggs, and cover them before disappearing into the waves is a moment that lingers long after your stay.
You’ll also learn how every nest is carefully monitored and protected — from data collection and temperature tracking to safeguarding against predators and poachers. This dedication ensures each hatchling has the best possible chance of survival, and every guest contributes directly to this vital mission.
Learn more about our Turtle Nesting Conservation Experience →
The Season of Life: Why October is Special
According to our Eco Calendar, October marks the start of peak nesting season. The winds calm, ocean visibility improves, and the beaches come alive with movement. Between September and February, nesting females arrive nightly, while hatchlings emerge from December through April, a seamless cycle of renewal that defines the rhythm of island life.
Where Luxury & Nature Coexist
From the shaded veranda of your private villa, you may glimpse the soft flicker of turtle tracks at dawn, a reminder that even amidst opulence, Cousine’s greatest treasures lie in its wild heart. Each villa, surrounded by tropical greenery and ocean views, offers unmatched seclusion and comfort, paired with the privilege of proximity to nature’s wonders.
Complete your experience with one of our Packages & Special Offers that pair conservation immersion with bespoke luxury: from private beach dinners under the stars to guided eco-excursions led by our conservationists.
A Legacy of Protection
Every guest who sets foot on Cousine contributes to more than just a holiday; they become part of a story of preservation. By choosing an eco-luxury destination where conservation is woven into every detail, you help safeguard one of the Seychelles’ most important nesting sites for generations to come.
This October, step into a world where exclusivity meets purpose, and where every footprint on the sand tells a story of hope.
