Kélonia
The Sea Turtle Observatory
Five minutes from the residence, past the Saint-Leu waterfront, Kélonia is located on the site of a former turtle farm that has been converted into an observatory.
The place is unique: 1,500 m³ of tanks fed directly by seawater, a largely open-air trail winding around an old lime kiln, and a panoramic view of the bay. First, you descend to the lower level, where large windows open onto the main tank, with turtles swimming just a few centimeters away.
The tour then traces 100 million years of evolution, migration routes across the Indian Ocean, and the long and troubled history of tortoiseshell, which was worked until the 20th century.
The heart of the site is the rehabilitation center, visible from the outdoor trail: turtles injured by nets, fishing hooks, or collisions are treated there and then released back into the sea—about thirty each year, some of which return to lay their eggs on the island’s beaches. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit.
Guided tours are offered at set times, led by the caretakers: these are by far the best.