We begin our journey on the granitic formation of the Seychelles, which are often thought of as the most beautiful islands in the world. Here we will explore several of the isles to observe some of the planet’s rarest birds, as well as some of the world’s greatest tropical seabird colonies. The fabulous coal-black Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher, Seychelles Scops Owl, Seychelles Magpie-Robin and Seychelles Blue Pigeon are included in this bounty. Nesting seabird colonies showcase hundreds of thousands of Sooty Terns, lesser numbers of Bridled and White Terns, Wedge-tailed and Tropical Shearwaters, Great and Lesser Frigatebirds, Brown and Lesser Noddies and more than 20,000 White-tailed Tropicbirds!

Island wildlife is generally susceptible to extinction and the islands of this area are no exception, with birds like the proverbial and rather unfortunate Dodo serving as stark reminders of humankind’s heavy hand in these sensitive environments. During the opening days of our explorations in Mauritius, we target Mauritius Kestrel, Pink Pigeon and Echo Parakeet, all recently snatched back from the jaws of extinction. Highlights include a visit to the dramatic Black River Gorges National Park, and an overnight visit to the far-flung Rodrigues Island for its two endemic landbirds: a warbler and a unique yellow fody.

After the splendours of Mauritius, we visit the French-governed Réunion, a rugged volcanic island, rich in land endemics and well-endowed with a range of special seabirds. We will search the tropical waters here for Barau’s Petrel and, whilst ambling forest trails in the footprints of pirates, search for Réunion Cuckooshrike, two endemic white-eyes and Réunion Bulbul.

Our exploration of these tropical islands is a fantastic birding getaway and serves as a perfect companion to our Comoros or Madagascar tours. We welcome you to join us as we island-hop with binoculars in hand in our quest to find the birds of these heavenly Indian Ocean isles.