Alison M
Google
I was lucky enough to visit this beautiful remote and protected island last month on an expedition cruise with Zegrahm. There are only about 1000 individuals who are approved by special permit to visit this Atoll annually.
There is a small, dedicated research staff assigned to this Atoll, the world's second largest.
There are countless things you can do here, we spent two full days snorkeling the pristine and healthy coral reefs, cruising around the champignons (mushrooms) for bird watching, and coming ashore at the research center to meet the giant coconut crabs (super rare) and the Aldabra Giant Tortoise (only two giant tortoise remain, here and Galapagos).
It's stunning with crystal blue waters, white sand beaches, and friendly researchers happy to answer questions and lead you on a nature walk.
They take protecting this UNESCO World Heritage site very seriously so we had to submit to a bio security inspection of the items and our shoes we planned to bring on the island before we were able to make land to ensure we didn't bring outside seeds, soil and other contamination to the protected eco system here.
A real pleasure to have seen such a wonderful thing so few ever will. I'm glad it's protected.