Aldabra Atoll

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Aldabra Atoll: A Unique Coral Atoll in the Indian Ocean

The Aldabra Atoll, located approximately 1,120 kilometers (700 miles) southwest of the capital city of Victoria on Mahé Island, is a remarkable natural wonder situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean. This coral atoll, which forms part of the Aldabra Group of islands within the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to its exceptional biodiversity and pristine condition, largely untouched by human influence.

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UNESCO Description of the World Heritage Site

The atoll is comprised of four large coral islands which enclose a shallow lagoon; the group of islands is itself surrounded by a coral reef. Due to difficulties of access and the atoll's isolation, Aldabra has been protected from human influence and thus retains some 152,000 giant tortoises, the world's largest population of this reptile.

Encyclopedia Record: Aldabra

Aldabra, the world's second-largest coral atoll, is located east of the continent of Africa. It is part of the Aldabra Group of islands in the Indian Ocean that are part of the Outer Islands of the Seychelles, with a distance of 1,120 km (700 mi) southwest of the capital, Victoria on Mahé Island. Initially named by Arab seafarers for its harsh environment, Aldabra became a French colony dependency in the 18th century, leading to the exploitation of its natural resources, particularly giant tortoises. After passing through British hands, Aldabra faced potential military use in the 1960s, but international protests resulted in its protection. The atoll boasts unique geography, featuring the world's largest raised coral reef and a large shallow lagoon. Aldabra's history involves human impact, including failed agricultural ventures.

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