Chagos Marine Protected Area, Seychelles

Chagos Marine Protected Area Travel Guide

Trek Zone

National park

Facts and practical information

Located in the stunning Seychelles archipelago, the Chagos Marine Protected Area is a true gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its pristine turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, this protected area offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those who venture here.

The Chagos Marine Protected Area is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, making it a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover a world of colorful coral gardens, where you can swim alongside magnificent sea turtles, playful dolphins, and an array of exotic fish species. The underwater landscape is simply breathtaking, with dramatic drop-offs, underwater caves, and vibrant coral pinnacles waiting to be explored.

Beyond its underwater wonders, the Chagos Marine Protected Area also boasts pristine white sandy beaches, surrounded by lush green vegetation. Relax on the soft sand, soak up the warm sun, and let the gentle sounds of the waves wash away your worries. With its secluded and untouched nature, this area offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

For nature enthusiasts, the Chagos Marine Protected Area is a haven for birdwatching. With over 80 species of migratory birds, including the rare and endangered Chagos petrel, birdwatchers will be captivated by the sight of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Take a leisurely stroll along the designated birdwatching trails and marvel at the beauty of nature unfolding before your eyes.

To truly immerse yourself in the local culture, explore the nearby islands and discover the charming Creole villages. Engage with the friendly locals, sample delicious Creole cuisine, and learn about the rich history and traditions of this vibrant community. From traditional music and dance performances to local handicrafts, the cultural experiences in the Chagos Marine Protected Area are endless.

Elevation: 0 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 6°34'60"S, 71°56'59"E

LocationAdd

ContactAdd

Social media

Add

Chagos Marine Protected Area Top Attractions

Chagos Marine Protected Area Attractions - What to See and Explore

Chagos Marine Protected Area offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Great Chagos Bank, Eagle Islands, Sea Cow Island, Peros Banhos. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Nature • Natural attraction • Protected area
Great Chagos Bank
The Great Chagos Bank, in the Chagos Archipelago, about 500 km south of Maldives, is the largest atoll structure in the world, with a total area of 12,642 km². The atoll is administered by the United Kingdom through the British Indian Ocean Territory.
Island • Nature • Natural attraction
Eagle Islands
Eagle Islands is a group of two islands in the Chagos Archipelago. They are located on the central-western rim of the Great Chagos Bank, which is the world's largest coral atoll structure.
Island • Natural attraction • Protected area
Sea Cow Island
Sea Cow Island, also known as Île Vache Marine, is a round 18 ha island on the Great Chagos Bank atoll of the Chagos Archipelago in the British Indian Ocean Territory.

Natural attraction • Protected area
Peros Banhos
Peros Banhos, Pedro dos Banhos or Baixos de Pêro dos Banhos in old maps, is a formerly inhabited atoll in the Chagos Archipelago of the British Indian Ocean Territory, also claimed by Mauritius.
Island • Natural attraction • Protected area
Three Brothers
The Three Brothers are a group of three small coral islands 20 kilometres east of Eagle Islands along the central western rim of the Great Chagos Bank, which is the world's largest coral atoll structure, located in the Chagos Archipelago.
Island • Natural attraction • Protected area
Nelsons Island
Nelsons Island or Nelson Island or Isle Legour is a small uninhabited island in the Great Chagos Bank, of the Chagos Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. As a protected nature reserve, access to the island is strictly restricted.
6°0'0"S • 71°19'60"E
Chagos–Laccadive Ridge
The Chagos–Laccadive Ridge, also known as the Chagos–Laccadive Plateau, is a prominent volcanic ridge and oceanic plateau extending between the Northern and the Central Indian Ocean. Extending from c. 10°S to 15°N, the CLR includes the Laccadive, Maldives, and Chagos...
4°54'0"S • 72°37'0"E
Colvocoresses Reef
Colvocoresses Reef is a wholly submerged atoll in the Indian Ocean. It is located in the northeastern part of the Chagos Archipelago, near Speakers Bank and Blenheim Reef. The reef is 8 km long, and measures 1 to 2 km across. Breakers are visible only during heavy seas.
Neighbourhood
Blenheim Reef
Blenheim Reef is a partly submerged atoll structure in the Chagos Archipelago, Indian Ocean. It includes the coral reef of Baxio Predassa in its southeastern rim, plus another completely submerged part.
Island
Egmont Islands
Egmont Islands is an uninhabited atoll administered by the United Kingdom. They are one of the few emerged coral atolls that make up the Chagos Archipelago, British Indian Ocean Territory.
Island
Benares Shoals
Benares Shoals, or Benares Shoal, is a submerged coral reef, an isolated patch located at 5°15′S 071°40′E, just 6 kilometres west-northwest of Île Pierre, the closest island of Peros Banhos atoll in the northern Chagos Archipelago.