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Praslin Island, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning beaches, nature reserves, and unique wildlife. Located in the Indian Ocean, it boasts the world-famous Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the rare Coco de Mer palm. Its clean Anse Lazio beach is frequently ranked among the best in the world. With its mix of luxury resorts, local culture, and adventure activities, Praslin Island is an idyllic getaway for honeymooners, nature lovers, and beach enthusiasts seeking an escape in the heart of Seychelles.
Location
Photo: Prabhupuducherry / Wikimedia Commons
Praslin is in the heart of the Seychelles archipelago, lies approximately 44 km northeast of Mahé, the main island. Surrounded by blue waters and fringed with white sandy beaches, the island is a haven for nature lovers. Its strategic location makes it a gateway to other nearby islands, such as La Digue and Curieuse. Praslin map and geography consists of rolling hills covered in tropical forests, providing breathtaking views.
How To Reach
Photo: Apcs78 / Wikimedia Commons
Getting to Praslin Island is convenient, with multiple travel options available:
By Air: Praslin Island has a domestic airport, Ile des Palmes Airport, with frequent flights from Mahé. Flights take about 15 minutes, operated by Air Seychelles.
By Sea: Regular ferry services operate between Mahé and Praslin, taking about an hour. Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry are the main operators.
By Road: No direct road access; rental cars, taxis, and public buses available for local travel.
Things To Do In Praslin Island
Praslin Island offers a variety of activities, from exploring nature reserves to relaxing on world-class beaches.
1. Snorkelling And Diving
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Praslin Island is a prime destination for both snorkeling and diving, boasting clear waters and vibrant marine life. Divers of all levels can explore around 17 dive sites, with depths between 8 – 20 meters. Popular spots include Cocos Island and Felicity Island, offering unforgettable underwater experiences. For diving, the best times are March to May and September to November, when water temperatures are optimal. Notable dive sites include Chimney Rock, Shark Rock, and Whale Rock. Snorkelers can enjoy spots like Anse Boudin, Anse Kerlan, and St. Pierre, each offering unique marine ecosystems.
2. Beach Hopping
Photo: Daria / Wikimedia Commons
Praslin Island, one of the most traveled islands in the Seychelles archipelago, is known for its stunning beaches, emerald waters, and jungles. With 45 km of coastline, Praslin Island makes beach hopping easy and offers a variety of beaches, from sandy shores with shallow waters to snorkeling spots with coral reefs. Anse Lazio is a must see for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming. Other beaches include Anse Georgette, a quieter beach on the northwest side of the island, and Cote D’Or Beach, a long beach with clear water that is the main tourist area of Praslin Island.
3. Island Hopping
Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen / Wikimedia Commons
Praslin Island serves as an ideal base for island hopping in the Seychelles due to its central location and transport links. Located approximately 45 km northeast of Mahé, Praslin is the second-largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. From Praslin Island, you can easily access neighboring islands such as Curieuse and St. Pierre for snorkeling and wildlife viewing. Cousin Island, a nature reserve for seabirds, and Curieuse Island, home to Aldabra Giant Tortoises, are also easily accessible.
4. Hiking To Anse Georgette
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Anse Georgette, a secluded beach on Praslin Island’s northwest coast, is accessible via a hike or through the Constance Lemuria Resort. A popular hiking route connects Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, offering captivating views of the ocean and surrounding nature. The trail meanders through palm tree forests, with the final descent providing a stunning view of Anse Georgette. Though some parts of the trail may seem unsuitable, the path is navigable with offline maps, proper shoes, and sufficient water.
Places To Visit Near Praslin Island
Explore nearby attractions that enhance the Praslin Island experience.
1. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin Island, is a unique natural haven famous for its prehistoric palm forest. The reserve spans 19.5 hectares and is the Seychelles’ largest intact forest of the endemic coco de mer palm. This palm species bears the largest seed in the plant kingdom and is a flagship species of global significance. Vallée de Mai is the only place in the world where all six of the Seychelles’ endemic palm species can be found together.
Location: Baie Ste Anne, Seychelles
Timings: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
2. The Praslin Museum
Photo: Anonymous / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Praslin Museum is the first museum on the island and offers traditional exhibits and cultural insights into the Seychelles. It features a garden showing endemic and medicinal plants, where visitors can view fruit bats and enjoy Citronelle tea. Tourists are encouraged to participate in traditional activities such as coconut dehusking and breadfruit grilling. The museum provides a unique opportunity to learn about Praslin’s traditions and culture, with exhibits on fruit bats and opportunities to taste local cuisine.
Location: MPHX+QQG, Cap Samy, Seychelles
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM.
3. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve
Photo: Gugerell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, opened in 2013, is a gem on Praslin Island, offering a less crowded alternative to Vallée de Mai. This expansive reserve, six times larger than its famous counterpart, boasts a rich diversity of endemic flora and fauna, including the iconic Coco de Mer palms. Hike the trails for breathtaking views of Praslin and neighboring islands. Guided walks are available, leading you through a jungle landscape decorated with native coconut palms and towering hills.
Location: Southeast of Praslin Island
Timings: 9:30 AM – 3 PM
4. L’Union Estate Farm
Photo: Marek Gehrmann / Wikimedia Commons
L’Union Estate Farm offers a glimpse into the Seychelles’ colonial past with its coconut and vanilla plantation, complete with a traditional wood house and antique farming tools. See giant tortoises endemic to the region. The Plantation House, with its French colonial architecture, transports you to another era. The estate showcases the island’s agricultural heritage and traditional farming practices. L’Union Estate actively produces fruits and vegetables.
Location: JRPG+F86, All. Kersley, La Réunion, Seychelles
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Where To Stay
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Praslin Island features a range of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. For luxurious stays, Raffles Seychelles is a 5-star resort offering private villas with ocean views. Coco de Mer Hotel & Black Parrot Suites provides a charming beachfront experience with great amenities. For a more intimate experience, Le Domaine de La Réserve is a boutique hotel ideal for romantic getaways. A budget-friendly option is Berjaya Praslin Resort, which offers beach access and comfortable rooms. Raffles Seychelles has 86 villas with private pools. It also has the largest swimming pool in the Indian Ocean.
Where To Eat
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Praslin Island offers diverse dining experiences with a focus on Creole cuisine and fresh seafood. Les Lauriers Restaurant provides a typical Creole buffet with grilled fish and meat. Les Rochers Restaurant & Boutique offers a modern, cozy atmosphere right on the ocean’s edge, serving fish and local seafood with a view of Anse St. Sauveur. Pirogue Restaurant, located in the Cote d’Or beach area, specializes in Creole cuisine and seafood dishes, using fresh local ingredients. For a more casual experience, Coco Rouge Take Away & Cafeteria offers delicious local cuisine at a low price.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Svein-Magne Tunli – tunliweb.no / Wikimedia Commons
Praslin’s weather is sunny and has consistent temperatures between 25-35°C. The best time to visit depends on individual preferences. April to May and October to November offer calm seas and clear waters, making them ideal for snorkeling and diving. June to September is best for dry weather and beach activities, although winds can be stronger during these months. December to March is warm and humid with occasional rain showers, but remains a great time to explore the island. The dry season, which runs from May to September, experiences less rainfall and more sunshine.
Tips For Travellers
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- Seychellois Rupee / SCR, but Euros and USD are widely accepted.
- English, French, and Creole are commonly spoken.
- Rental cars, buses, and taxis are available for getting around.
- Tap water is safe to drink, and basic medical facilities are available.
- Follow sustainable tourism practices to protect marine life and natural reserves.
Praslin Island, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is a dazzling escape known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and serene ambiance. It features tropical forests, including the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, home to the rare coco de mer palm and the Seychelles black parrot. For an effortless and luxurious trip to this Seychellois gem, check out TripXL’s exclusive travel packages.
Cover Photo: dronepicr / Wikimedia Commons
