Praslin Island is the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, which is located in the Indian Ocean off Africa’s east coast. With its beautiful beaches, lush woods, and crystal-clear waters, the island is a naturalist’s dream. It is home to numerous national parks and reserves, including the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its distinctive Coco de Mer almonds and palm palms. Scuba diving, snorkelling, and other water activities are extremely popular on Praslin Island, Seychelles.

How to get to Praslin Island

There are several ways to get to Praslin Island from the main island of Mahé. The most convenient option is to take a 30-minute flight from Mahé to Praslin Island. There are several flights per day, and the airport on Praslin Island is located just a few minutes away from the main town of Baie Sainte Anne. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Mahé to Praslin Island. The ferry ride takes about 45 minutes and departs from the port of Victoria.

Things to do on Praslin Island Seychelles

There is no shortage of things to do on Praslin Island. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

  1. Visit the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve:
    Visit the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for being the home of the legendary Coco de Mer palm trees, which yield the biggest and heaviest nuts in the world. The reserve is home to a number of other rare plant and animal species, including the black parrot of the Seychelles, among others. You may choose to go on a guided tour if you would want assistance exploring the reserve and gaining a deeper understanding of the reserve’s one-of-a-kind flora and animals.
  2. Relax on the island’s beautiful beaches:
    Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, and Anse Volbert are just a few of the breathtaking beaches that can be found on Praslin Island, which is home to a number of other lovely beaches as well. These beaches are well-known for the white sand, clean seas, and palm palms that can be seen on them. On Praslin Island’s beaches, you’ll discover a wealth of possibilities to swim, sunbathe, or just unwind, depending on which of those activities most appeals to you.
  3. Go scuba diving or snorkeling:
    You may do scuba diving or snorkelling around Praslin Island since the seas around the island are very clean and are home to a diverse population of marine life. Around the island are a number of different reefs and drop-offs that are suitable for scuba diving, with depths ranging from shallow to deep. You may also go snorkelling in the seas surrounding the island, which are often shallower, to observe the vibrant fish, coral reefs, and other forms of marine life.
  4. Explore the island’s national parks and reserves:
    Explore the national parks and reserves located on the island: Praslin Island is home to a number of other national parks and nature reserves in addition to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. These national parks include Praslin National Park and Baie Ste Anne Marine National Park. These parks are home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, some of which are quite uncommon, such as enormous tortoises, unusual birds, and unique flora. You may learn more about the natural history of the island by travelling around these parks on your own or by participating in a guided tour.
  5. Go on a boat tour:
    Take a boat trip: Because Praslin Island is surrounded by very clear seas, it is the ideal location for a boat excursion. You have the option of going on a tour of the island and the seas around it for either a half day or a full day, during which you will stop at different areas to swim, snorkel, or simply rest. You will get the opportunity to see the island from a fresh vantage point and enjoy the natural splendour of the Seychelles while you are out on the ocean.
  6. Take a guided hike through the island’s interior:
    Take part in a guided trek to discover the interior of the island: If you are interested in discovering the island’s interior, you may consider participating in a guided hike. You will get the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the island, in addition to the woods and mountains that are located on the island. Because there are many different hiking paths on the island, ranging from simple to difficult, you will be able to choose a path that is appropriate for your level of skill.
  7. Go on a fishing trip:
    Fish of many kinds, such as tuna, marlin, and sailfish, may be found around Praslin Island. If you like to fish, you may want to go fishing while you’re here. An island fishing business will provide you all the equipment and knowledge you need to capture some of the island’s delectable seafood if you arrange a half-day or full-day excursion with them.
  8. Visit the island’s museums and cultural sites:
    There are a number of museums and cultural attractions in Praslin Island that you may visit if you’re interested in the history and culture of the place. As it has displays on the island’s history and culture, the Seychelles National Museum in Baie Sainte Anne is a wonderful location to start. The Mission Lodge Lookout, which includes a small museum about the history of the island and has sweeping views of the landscape, is another place you may go.
  9. Plan your accommodations:
    On Praslin Island, lodging choices are many and range from high-end resorts to low-cost guesthouses. Consider staying at a beachfront hotel or villa if you want to be near the beach. There are also a number of eco-lodges on the island that provide a more rural setting and a deeper connection to nature if you want that. There are several lodging alternatives available on Praslin Island, regardless of your tastes or budget.
Praslin Island Seychelles

Exploring the island’s national parks and reserves

A journey to Praslin Island is guaranteed to be made memorable by seeing the several national parks and reserves that are there. A wide variety of plant and animal species, many of which are unique to these protected areas, may be found there. Many of these species are endemic, which means that they are unique to particular areas. You will have the chance to visit many national parks and reserves while you are on Praslin Island, some of which are mentioned below:

  1. Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve:
    Among the national parks on Praslin Island, this one, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is perhaps the most well-known. The Coco de Mer palm trees that produce the largest and heaviest nuts in the world are found in the reserve, which is located in the island’s geographic centre. Other endangered plant and animal species, such the Seychelles black parrot, may be found in the reserve. If you would want help exploring the reserve and would like to learn more about the reserve’s unique creatures and plants, you may decide to take a guided tour.
  2. Praslin National Park:
    This island’s eastern shore is home to this national park, which has a total area of around 2,500 hectares. It is home to a variety of threatened plant and animal species, such as the Seychelles vanilla orchid, as well as several species of birds and reptiles. Wonderful activities that may be done at a park include bird watching, hiking, and shooting pictures of the outdoors.
  3. Baie Ste Anne Marine National Park:
    The north-eastern portion of the island is where you can find this national park, which spans over 2,300 hectares of territory. Sea turtles, fish, and coral reefs are a few of the aquatic animals that reside here. A park is a great place to snorkel and dive, and most parks provide a variety of guided tours that may help you learn more about the world under the waters.
Praslin Island Seychelles

Relaxing on the island’s beautiful beaches

Praslin’s beaches are among its greatest attractions. With its white sands, clear seas, and palm palms, these beaches are ideal for relaxing and soaking up the sun. The best Praslin beaches are:

  1. Anse Lazio:
    This beach can be found on the island’s northwestern shore, and it is famous for having sand that is pure white and water that is completely transparent. It is a well-known location for activities like as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling, and there are a number of restaurants and pubs in the neighbourhood where one may have refreshments.
  2. Anse Georgette:
    This beach is located on the northeast coast of the island and is known for its secluded location and beautiful surroundings. It is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and there are several luxury hotels and villas nearby for accommodations.
  3. Anse Volbert:
    This beach is located on the central east coast of the island and is known for its wide expanse of white sands and crystal clear waters. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and there are several restaurants and bars nearby for refreshments.
Praslin Island Seychelles

Dining on local seafood and Creole cuisine

One of the highlights of a visit to Praslin Island is the opportunity to try the local seafood and Creole cuisine. Seychelles is known for its delicious seafood, and Praslin Island is no exception. Here are a few of the local dishes you should try during your stay on the island:

Fish that has been grilled
Fresh fish is a mainstay of the Seychelles cuisine and is often prepared this way. Most eateries on the island offer grilled fish, which is often accompanied with rice and veggies.

the coconut curry
Coconut is a key component of Seychelles cuisine and is often utilised to create hearty and tasty dishes.

curry recipes
On Praslin Island, coconut curry meals are frequently prepared with fish or shellfish and eaten with rice or breadfruit.

Chicken creole
Another well-liked cuisine on Praslin Island is creole chicken, which is often prepared using chicken that has been marinated in a hot mixture of herbs and spices. Regular accompaniments include rice and veggies.

Roussette
Using fresh fruits like papaya, mango, or pineapple that have been steeped in a sweet syrup prepared with rum and sugar, this dish is a favourite dessert on Praslin Island.

SeyBrew
This Seychelles indigenous beer is a well-liked option for a cool beverage on a hot day. SeyBrew has a fresh, clear flavour and is created using ingredients that are cultivated nearby.
On Praslin Island, in addition to these regional specialties, you can also discover a wide range of foreign cuisine, such as French, Italian, and Indian. You may find something to suit your taste at one of the island’s many eateries, which provide a variety of eating alternatives.

taking a boat trip across the island’s pristine seas

A boat excursion is one of the greatest ways to appreciate Praslin Island’s beauty. A number of businesses provide half-day or full-day excursions of the island and the waterways around, and these trips are a fantastic opportunity to explore the island from a new angle. You will get the ability to stop at a number of areas on the island during a boat trip, including secret coves, coral reefs, and other interesting sites. On a boat trip to Praslin Island, you may accomplish the following things:

Swim and scuba dive
Swimming and snorkelling are ideal in the seas around Praslin Island due to their clarity and abundance of marine life. The majority of boat cruises include multiple stops where you may swim and snorkel in the shallower waters; the operators will provide all the necessary equipment.

Sunbathe and unwind
On a boat trip of Praslin Island, there are several chances to just unwind and enjoy the sunshine. The majority of boats offer enough of room for sunbathing, and you can lie back and unwind while taking in the breathtaking island views.

Observe the island’s coastline.
The chance to explore the island’s shore and observe it from a new angle is one of the attractions of a boat trip. The guides will provide information about the island’s history and culture while giving you the opportunity to see the island’s hidden coves, coral reefs, and other sites of interest from the ocean.

observe wildlife
Dolphins, whales, and sea turtles are just a few of the many aquatic animals that call the seas around Praslin Island home. During your boat trip, if you’re fortunate, you may be able to see some of these species.

Praslin Island Seychelles

Taking a trip to the renowned Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve

One of Praslin Island’s most visited sites is the Vallee de Mai Wildlife Reserve, which is a must-see for nature enthusiasts. The Coco de Mer palm trees, known for producing the biggest and heaviest nuts in the world, are found in the reserve, which is situated in the island’s middle and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Seychelles black parrot and other rare plant and animal species may be found in the reserve. When you go to the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, you may do the following things:

Participate on a tour.
A guided trip is the ideal way to discover the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. These trips take you to some of the reserve’s most fascinating areas while being conducted by professional guides who will discuss the reserve’s history and ecology.

View the palm trees of Coco de Mer.
The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve’s main draw, the Coco de Mer palm palms, are definitely worth a visit. Nowhere else in the world can you find these enormous palm trees, which are the biggest in the world and have the heaviest nuts.

Locate unusual wildlife
Several endangered plant and animal species, including as the Seychelles black parrot and the Seychelles bulbul, may be found at the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. If you’re fortunate, you could see some of these species while you’re there.

Explore the reserve on foot.
Consider going on a walk in the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve if you want to learn more about it. The reserve has a number of routes that range in difficulty, giving you the opportunity to observe the island’s woods, mountains, and distinctive flora and animals.

A guided trip into the interior of the island

Take a guided trek if you wish to see the interior of the island. On Praslin Island, there are several hiking paths that range from simple to difficult. These treks are a terrific opportunity to observe the island’s woods, mountains, and distinctive flora and animals. When organising a trek on Praslin Island, bear the following in mind:

Select a path based on your level of experience.
On Praslin Island, there are a variety of hiking routes that range in difficulty from simple to difficult, so you may choose one that matches your skill level. If you’re a newbie, think about beginning on a less difficult path and progressing to harder ones.

Put on the proper attire and shoes.
It’s necessary to dress comfortably, light-weight clothes, and solid footwear for trekking on Praslin Island. It’s crucial to have strong grip and support since the terrain may be treacherous and unlevel.

Keep hydrated.
Staying hydrated is essential when trekking on Praslin Island since it may become hot and muggy there. To avoid being dehydrated, bring lots of water and constantly consume it.

Observe the Leave No Trace guidelines.
The Leave No Trace principles are a collection of recommendations for reducing your environmental footprint when in the outdoors. Follow these guidelines while trekking on Praslin Island by keeping on the paths, not leaving any trash behind, and showing respect for the local fauna and flora.

Planning your accommodations on Praslin Island Seychelles

When planning your trip to Praslin Island, you’ll need to decide where to stay. There are several options for accommodations on the island, ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Here are a few things to consider when planning your accommodations:

Budget: Your budget is likely to be a major factor in deciding where to stay on Praslin Island. If you’re on a tight budget, consider staying at a guesthouse or self-catering apartment, which will typically be less expensive than a hotel or resort. If you have a larger budget, there are several luxury resorts on the island that offer a wide range of amenities and services.

Location: Another important factor to consider when choosing your accommodations is location. If you want to be close to the beach, consider staying at a beachfront hotel or villa. If you prefer a more rustic experience, there are several eco-lodges on the island that offer a more immersive nature experience.

Amenities: When choosing your accommodations, think about what amenities and services are important to you. If you’re traveling with children, for example, you may want to choose a hotel or resort that has a pool and children’s activities. If you’re on a romantic getaway, you may want to choose a hotel or villa that offers more privacy and seclusion.

Activities: Praslin Island is home to a wide variety of activities, from scuba diving and snorkeling to hiking and birdwatching. When choosing your accommodations, consider whether the hotel or resort offers any activities or excursions that interest you. Many hotels and resorts on the island offer activities such as boat tours, snorkeling trips, and guided hikes, so you can make the most of your time on the island.

Where is Praslin Island located?

Praslin Island is located in the Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the western Indian Ocean. It is the second largest island in the Seychelles, after Mahé.

What is the climate like on Praslin Island?

The climate on Praslin Island is tropical, with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature ranges from 28°C (82°F) in the summer to 26°C (79°F) in the winter. The rainy season is from November to April, with the driest months being May to October.

What is there to do on Praslin Island?

There are a variety of activities and attractions to enjoy on Praslin Island. These include exploring the island’s beautiful beaches, visiting the Vallée de Mai nature reserve, which is a World Heritage Site and home to the famous Coco de Mer palm tree, going snorkelling or diving to see the island’s abundant marine life, and participating in water sports such as kayaking or windsurfing.

How do I get to Praslin Island?

To get to Praslin Island, you can either fly into Seychelles International Airport on Mahé and take a ferry or fly directly to Praslin Island via a domestic flight. There are regular ferries and flights from Mahé to Praslin Island.

Are there any accommodation options on Praslin Island?

Yes, there are a range of accommodation options on Praslin Island, including hotels, guest houses, villas, and self-catering apartments. Many of the accommodations offer stunning views of the ocean and are located in beautiful tropical gardens.

Is it safe to visit Praslin Island?

Praslin Island is generally a safe place to visit, with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is always advisable to take basic precautions such as keeping your belongings safe and being aware of your surroundings.

Is the water safe to drink on Praslin Island?

The water on Praslin Island is generally safe to drink, as it is treated and supplied by the government. However, it is always advisable to check with your accommodation provider to ensure the water is safe to drink. Bottled water is also widely available.

Is there a hospital or medical facility on Praslin Island?

Yes, there is a hospital on Praslin Island, located in the town of Baie Ste. Anne. There are also several medical clinics and pharmacies located throughout the island.

Are there any cultural customs or traditions I should be aware of while visiting Praslin Island?

The Seychelles has a diverse cultural heritage, with a mix of African, Asian, and European influences. Visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages. It is also customary to greet people with a handshake and to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home. Overall, it is important to respect local customs and traditions while visiting Praslin Island.

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