Aldabra: Aldabra Atoll – Exploring Aldabra on Land
Unlike typical atolls, Aldabra is a raised coral atoll that sits above sea level due to geological uplift. This formation has created distinctive “champignon” or mushroom-shaped coral pinnacles along with rugged limestone terrain that has eroded over time. It’s very arid and dry with salt-tolerant plants and endemic grasses. We saw the endemic Aldabra lilies, although not blooming! Eventually, you can cross the land and get to the inner lagoon which offers a totally different environment of shallow white sandy areas and mangroves. The beach facing the ocean is equally beautiful, with stunning beaches and spectacular viewpoints. The ranger station on Aldabra is home to about half a dozen rangers and scientist who live here for extended periods of time, sometime years, working in protecting the atoll, getting rid of invasive species, and doing research. The village is right in the beach, fully self-sufficient with solar panels, etc. The resupply ships come here only once in 6 months. and you can see the Aldabra giant tortoises almost everywhere around the village – the hide under building during the day and move around during the sunset.
