Desroches Island | Outer Islands

Desroches Island is a coral island located in the Outer Islands of Seychelles. It is part of the Amirante Islands group.

Visual Characteristics

The island is characterized by its long, narrow shape, measuring approximately 6 kilometers in length and 1.5 kilometers at its widest point. The coastline features white coral sand beaches. The interior is covered with dense coconut palm plantations and some indigenous vegetation. The surrounding waters are shallow and exhibit shades of turquoise and blue, with visible coral reefs.

Location & Access Logistics

Desroches Island is situated approximately 230 kilometers southwest of Mahé, the main island of Seychelles. Access is primarily via a small airstrip on the island, with regular domestic flights operated by Air Seychelles from Mahé International Airport (SEZ). The flight duration is approximately 35 minutes. There are no public ferry services to Desroches. Limited parking is available at the airstrip for those arriving via private charter.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Desroches Island is a coral atoll, formed by the accumulation of coral skeletons over geological time. It was named after the French governor of Seychelles, René Desroches, in 1771. Historically, the island was used for copra production.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include snorkeling and diving in the surrounding coral reefs, which are accessible from the shore and by boat. Fishing charters are available. Hiking trails traverse the island's interior and coastline. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also possible in the calm lagoon areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The island has a resort with accommodation, a restaurant, and a bar. Restrooms are available at the resort and public beach access points. Shade is provided by palm trees and resort structures. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available within the resort area and along parts of the coastline. There are no independent food vendors outside of the resort.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for weather is during the dry season, from April to October, with lower humidity and less rainfall. For underwater visibility, the period between April and May, and September and October, is optimal. High tide is generally preferred for accessing certain reef areas for snorkeling.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of Desroches is its 10-kilometer-long, single-lane paved road, which is one of the longest of its kind on any Seychelles island, primarily used by golf carts and bicycles.

Nearby Landmarks

• Poivre Islands (25km Northeast)
• D'Arros Island (30km Southwest)
• St. Joseph Atoll (40km Southeast)