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Coconut Plantation D'Arros

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Agriculture
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Coconut Plantation D'Arros (Seychelles)

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D'Arros Island is part of the Amirantes group and has a long history as a coconut plantation, dating back to the 19th century. During the peak of the plantation era, large quantities of copra were produced here annually for export, which permanently shaped the landscape through the systematic planting of coconut palms. Today, the island is privately owned and has transformed into a significant center for nature conservation, supported by the Save Our Seas Foundation. The island's ecosystem includes dense palm groves as well as valuable coral reefs in the adjacent St. Joseph Atoll. The waters around D'Arros are globally renowned for their populations of manta rays and various shark species living in a protected environment. Despite its private status, extensive programs to restore native vegetation have been initiated to provide new habitats for endemic bird species. The plantation's former infrastructure, including the kilns used for drying copra, is still partially present, testifying to the island's economic past. D'Arros currently serves as a model for the synergy between private land ownership and state-of-the-art scientific marine conservation.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C272828292827262626272727
Rain mm2061101181059757473257111122146

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
The D'Arros Coconut Plantation on the namesake atoll of the Seychelles was once a commercial copra production site and is now part of a conservation area. It demonstrates the economic use of the islands before the shift towards tourism and sustainable development.
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Visiting
The atoll is part of a private nature reserve and is not open to the public except under special research or education programs. From boats, the plantation can be seen from a distance, as the rows of palms are still clearly recognizable.
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Where to view it
The best publicly accessible viewpoint is on the water: from a tour boat you can see the rows of palms along the coast. A flyover in a small plane or helicopter also has a spectacular view of the geometric plantations.
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Local products
On the markets of the Seychelles, coconuts and derived products are ubiquitous, from fresh coconut milk to copra. The plantation itself no longer produces commercially, but local cuisine and markets use coconuts from other growing areas on the islands.
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Active season
Coconuts are harvested year-round in the Seychelles, with a slight peak during the drier months from May to September. However, the plantation is no longer actively managed, so there is no harvest season in the traditional sense.
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Nearby
D'Arros Atoll is located near the islands of Desroches and Poivre, both offering beautiful beaches and diving opportunities. A visit to the region can be combined with a boat trip to the snorkeling spots of the Amirante Archipelago.

Geography

Coordinates
-5.41000, 53.29500

Facts

  • Part of the Amirantes group of the Seychelles
  • Formerly a significant copra production site
  • Officially recognized as a nature reserve since 2012
  • Home to the Save Our Seas research station
  • Renowned for large populations of manta rays
  • Was previously owned by the Bettencourt family

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Sights in the town Coconut Plantation D'Arros (2)

St. Joseph Atoll📍 landmark

St. Joseph Atoll is listed as a 📍 landmark in the context of Coconut Plantation D'Arros and is named that way in this context.

D'Arros Island📍 landmark

D'Arros Island is listed as a 📍 landmark in the context of Coconut Plantation D'Arros and is named that way in this context.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is the plantation accessible to visitors?
D'Arros is a private island; visits require prior approval.
What is primarily produced on the plantation?
Historical production focuses on coconuts for copra.
How to get to D'Arros?
Only by charter plane or private boat, with prior booking.
Is there accommodation there?
There are very exclusive, private accommodation options on the island.
Is the island family-friendly?
Due to its exclusive nature, it's more for those seeking peace.
Coconut Plantation D'Arros: where is it located?
Coconut Plantation D'Arros is located in Seychelles.
Coconut Plantation D'Arros: what is there to see?
Highlights include St. Joseph Atoll, D'Arros Island.
Coconut Plantation D'Arros: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Coconut Plantation D'Arros: why is it worth visiting?
D'Arros Island is part of the Amirantes group and has a long history as a coconut plantation, dating back to the 19th century.
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History & landmarks

Denis Island Lighthouse — Coconut Plantation D'Arros (Seychelles)
Denis Island Lighthouse
A historic lighthouse dating back to 1910, serving as a guide for ships at the northern edge of the Seychelles Bank.

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