For some people, the thought of visiting an island filled with venomous snakes is their worst nightmare. But for those who are brave (or perhaps foolhardy) enough, Snake Island in New Caledonia is the ultimate destination.
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, just off the coast of the main island of New Caledonia, Snake Island (also known as Amadi) is home to some of the world's most venomous snakes. While not for the faint of heart, the island is also known for its stunningly clear water and amazing snorkeling opportunities.
But before you start packing your bags, be warned: this is not a trip for those with a severe snake phobia. In this video, you'll see venomous snakes and, if you're particularly sensitive to these slithering creatures, it might be best to look away.
If you're still interested in visiting Snake Island, you should know that New Caledonia is a bit more off the beaten path than some of the other South Pacific islands. The country sees about 130,000 tourists each year and is known for its large lagoon, which spans a staggering 24,000 kilometers (or 9,000 square miles). This lagoon is home to a wide variety of marine life, including some species that can't be found anywhere else in the world.
But back to the snakes: contrary to popular belief, sea snakes are not harmless creatures that can't bite or won't release venom when they do. In fact, the sea snakes of New Caledonia are extremely venomous and should be treated with caution. To be clear, venomous animals are those that can bite and potentially kill you, while poisonous animals are those that can make you sick if ingested. As a general rule, it's best not to put poisonous animals in your mouth.
So, did the speaker in the video pet a venomous snake on Snake Island? They don't say for sure, but it's definitely possible. And while we don't recommend following in their footsteps, it's clear that this island is not for the faint of heart. But for those willing to brave the snakes, Snake Island offers the chance to see some of the world's most beautiful marine life and experience the thrill of being in the presence of deadly creatures. Just be careful, and remember to respect the power of these venomous animals.
