Aldabra was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1982 as a prime example of a raised coral atoll and is significantly less disturbed than most other atolls in the Indian Ocean and elsewhere in the world.
Vallée de Mai was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1983 as an outstanding example of low- and intermediate-altitude palm forest characteristic of the Seychelles.
Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) manages and protects the World Heritage Sites of Aldabra and Vallee de Mai. The foundation was established as a public trust in 1979, with the President of Seychelles as patron. The Board of trustees, appointed by the President, has 14 members, including not less than five representing organizations concerned with the conservation of wildlife and natural history or national academics of science.
Aldabra and Vallee de Mai are both unique, and represent the rich natural heritage of Seychelles. At these sites SIF conserves:
The world's largest raised coral atoll.
The world's largest giant tortoise population.
Some of the world's most spectacular seabird colonies.
The largest intact coco-de-mer forest and many other endemic trees, plants and animals.
Unique birds, including the last surviving flightless bird of the Indian Ocean, the Aldabra Rail, and the endangered Seychelles Black Parrot.
Princess Royal visits both of Seychelles’ World Heritage Sites and praises nature conservation work. On 30th November and 1st December 2010, the Seychelles Islands Foundation was delighted to welcome and host Her Royal Highness, Anne, the Princess Royal with her husband Admiral Timothy Laurence
