Fregate is a private granitic island run as an exclusive resort, famous for its huge free-roaming population of Aldabra giant tortoises, its seven beaches including the often-praised Anse Victorin, and a celebrated bird-conservation success with the Seychelles magpie robin. You reach it by helicopter or small plane from Mahe. It is a top-end honeymoon and special-occasion island, booked directly with the resort.
Fregate Island is the private island where the wildlife is as much the headline as the luxury. A granite island east of Mahe, it is run as a single high-end resort, but it doubles as one of the great conservation stories in the Seychelles, and guests share the place with hundreds of giant tortoises that wander freely across it.
Where it is and getting there
Fregate lies east of Mahe, the most outlying of the inner granite islands. Access is by helicopter or small plane from Mahe, a short scenic hop. There is no public access, so you arrive as a staying guest.
The giant tortoises
Fregate carries one of the largest free-roaming populations of Aldabra giant tortoises in the country, many hundreds of them, grazing the lawns and tracks and resting in the shade. Encountering them is not a fenced exhibit but everyday life on the island, which is part of what makes a stay here memorable.
The beaches
The island is known for having seven beaches, the most celebrated being Anse Victorin, which has appeared on lists of the world’s best. Because the island is private, those beaches are effectively reserved for the small number of guests, so the sense of having a perfect beach to yourself is real here.
A conservation success
Fregate played a central role in saving the Seychelles magpie robin, once one of the rarest birds in the world, by protecting habitat and removing introduced predators. The island also supports other native birds and a careful replanting of native forest. Staying here means staying somewhere that helped pull a species back from the edge.
Where to stay and what it costs
Accommodation is a single luxury resort of private villas with pools, in a polished but nature-led style. Like the other private islands, it sits at the top of the market, and rates vary by season and villa, so request current pricing directly from the resort rather than relying on a fixed figure. Booking is handled by the property.
Who it suits and how to plan
Fregate is a honeymoon, anniversary and special-occasion island for travellers who want privacy, beaches and wildlife together at the highest level. Many couples combine a few nights here with stays on the main islands. For those, browse verified places in our directory, and if a wedding or honeymoon is the reason for the trip, our team can help build it around the island.
Frequently asked questions
What is Fregate Island known for?
Its huge free-roaming population of Aldabra giant tortoises, its seven beaches including the world-renowned Anse Victorin, and a famous conservation success that helped save the Seychelles magpie robin.
How do you get to Fregate Island?
By helicopter or small plane from Mahe, a short scenic flight. There is no public access, so you arrive as a staying guest of the resort.
How much does Fregate Island cost?
It is a top-end private-island resort, with rates that vary by season and villa. Request current pricing directly from the property and treat it as a special-occasion stay.
Can you see giant tortoises on Fregate?
Yes. The island has one of the largest free-roaming populations of Aldabra giant tortoises in the country, many hundreds of them, grazing the lawns and tracks rather than kept in a pen.
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