The Complete Praslin Travel Guide

Welcome to Praslin

Praslin is the second-largest island in the Seychelles and one of the most beautiful tropical destinations in the world. Renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, lush tropical forests, rare wildlife, and crystal-clear waters, the island offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and authentic Creole culture.

Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, a diving trip, or a luxury island escape, Praslin has something for every traveller.

Quick Facts

Information	Details
Location	Inner Islands, Seychelles
Area	Approximately 38 km²
Population	Around 8,000
Time Zone	Seychelles Time (UTC+4)
Currency	Seychellois Rupee (SCR)
Languages	Creole, English, French
Driving	Left-hand side
Airport	Praslin Island Airport (IATA: PRI)

Why Visit Praslin?

Praslin is famous for:

• UNESCO World Heritage rainforest

• The legendary Coco de Mer palm

• World-famous beaches

• Giant Aldabra tortoises

• Crystal-clear snorkelling waters

• Luxury resorts

• Romantic honeymoon experiences

• Family-friendly attractions

• Excellent diving

• Island-hopping adventures

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How to Get to Praslin

By Air

A domestic flight from Mahé takes approximately 15 minutes, offering spectacular aerial views of the islands.

By Ferry

High-speed ferries connect Mahé and Praslin in approximately 60–75 minutes.

Private Boat

Luxury yacht charters and private boat transfers are also available.

Best Time to Visit

April – May ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The ideal season for:

• Calm ocean

• Excellent snorkelling

• Boat excursions

• Beach holidays

Average Temperature:27–30°C

October – November ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Perfect weather with:

• Crystal-clear visibility

• Warm sea

• Diving

• Photography

  
  

May – September ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cooler trade winds make this period excellent for:

• Hiking

• Sightseeing

• Wildlife

  
  

December – March ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tropical summer offers:

• Warm water

• Lush greenery

• Occasional short showers

  
  

Top Attractions

1. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

One of only two places on Earth where the Coco de Mer grows naturally.

Highlights:

• UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Ancient palm forest

• Seychelles Black Parrot

• Nature trails

  
  

2. Anse Lazio

Frequently ranked among the world's best beaches.

Activities:

• Swimming

• Snorkeling

• Photography

• Relaxing

  
  

3. Anse Georgette

A secluded beach surrounded by granite boulders and turquoise water.

Perfect for:

• Honeymooners

• Couples

• Nature lovers

  
  

4. Curieuse Island

Only a short boat ride away.

Highlights:

• Giant Aldabra tortoises

• Mangrove forest

• Nature trail

• Doctor's House

• Beautiful beaches

  
  

5. St. Pierre Island

A world-class snorkelling destination.

Expect to see:

• Coral reefs

• Tropical fish

• Sea turtles

• Rays

  
  

6. Fond Ferdinand

Known as the quieter alternative to Vallée de Mai.

Features:

• Coco de Mer

• Panoramic viewpoints

• Guided walks

  
  

The Best Beaches

Anse Lazio

Perfect for:

• Swimming

• Families

• Photography

  
  

Côte d'Or

Ideal for:

• Water sports

• Restaurants

• Sunset walks

  
  

Anse Georgette

Known for:

• Soft white sand

• Calm water

• Privacy

  
  

Grand Anse

Great for:

• Long walks

• Surf watching

• Photography

  
  

Anse Possession

Excellent for:

• Scenic drives

• Quiet afternoons

  
  

Anse Kerlan

Beautiful sunsets and luxury resorts.

Best Things to Do

Nature

• Visit Vallée de Mai

• Explore Fond Ferdinand

• Watch rare birds

• See Coco de Mer palms

  
  

Water Activities

• Snorkeling

• Diving

• Paddle boarding

• Kayaking

• Fishing

• Boat cruises

  
  

Island Hopping

Visit nearby islands, including:

• Curieuse

• St. Pierre

• La Digue

• Coco Island

• Félicité

• Sister Islands

• Cousin Island (bird reserve)

  
  

Hiking

Glacis Noir Trail

Difficulty:Moderate

Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Reward: Panoramic island views

Zimbabwe Viewpoint

A short hike offering one of the island's best viewpoints.

Wildlife

Praslin is home to:

• Seychelles Black Parrot

• Giant Fruit Bats

• Blue Pigeon

• Day Geckos

• Tree Frogs

• Hawksbill Turtles

• Green Turtles

• Giant Aldabra Tortoises (Curieuse Island)

  
  

Snorkeling

Top locations:

• St. Pierre Island

• Curieuse Marine Park

• Coco Island

• Anse Lazio

• Anse Georgette

Marine life:

• Sea turtles

• Butterflyfish

• Parrotfish

• Moorish idols

• Stingrays

• Reef sharks

• Coral gardens

  
  

Diving

Popular dive sites include:

• Ave Maria Rocks

• White Bank

• Aride Bank

• South Marianne

• Channel Rocks

Suitable for both beginners and experienced divers.

Fishing

Praslin offers excellent:

• Bottom fishing

• Deep-sea fishing

• Fly fishing

• Big game fishing

Target species include:

• Tuna

• Marlin

• Sailfish

• Wahoo

• Dorado

• Barracuda

  
  

Local Food

Traditional dishes include:

• Fish curry

• Octopus curry

• Grilled lobster

• Coconut bread

• Breadfruit chips

• Fresh tropical fruit

• Shark chutney

• Creole fish stew

  
  

Fresh seafood is served in many beachfront restaurants.

Shopping

Popular souvenirs:

• Coco de Mer (export restrictions apply)

• Local spices

• Vanilla

• Handmade jewellery

• Paintings

• Coconut crafts

• Local rum

  
  

Family Activities

• Giant tortoise encounters

• Glass-bottom boat tours

• Safe beaches

• Wildlife walks

• Snorkeling

• Kayaking

  
  

Honeymoon Ideas

• Sunset cruises

• Private beach picnic

• Couples spa

• Luxury villa stay

• Helicopter tour

• Private island excursion

  
  

Suggested Itineraries

3 Days

• Day 1: Vallée de Mai, Côte d'Or

• Day 2: Curieuse & St. Pierre Islands

• Day 3: Anse Lazio & Anse Georgette

  
  

5 Days

Add:

• Fond Ferdinand

• Deep-sea fishing

• Diving

• Sunset cruise

• Local markets

  
  

7 Days

Include:

• La Digue day trip

• Coco Island snorkelling

• Hiking trails

• Spa day

• Beach hopping

• Cultural experiences

  
  

Practical Travel Tips

• Rent a car for maximum flexibility.

• Book tours early during peak season.

• Carry reef-safe sunscreen and insect repellent.

• Stay hydrated in the tropical climate.

• Wear water shoes for rocky snorkelling areas.

• Bring cash for small vendors, although cards are accepted at many hotels and restaurants.

• Respect marine parks and avoid touching coral or wildlife.

  
  

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I stay on Praslin?

A stay of 4–7 days is ideal to explore the island thoroughly while enjoying time to relax.

Is Praslin safe?

Yes. Praslin is considered one of the safest islands in the Seychelles, though standard travel precautions are always recommended.

Do I need a rental car?

A rental car is highly recommended for exploring beaches, nature reserves, and viewpoints at your own pace.

Is Praslin expensive?

Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts, with dining and activity options to suit different budgets.

Can I visit nearby islands in one day?

Yes. Popular day trips include Curieuse Island, St. Pierre Island, La Digue, Coco Island, and Cousin Island.

Final Thoughts

Praslin is a destination where lush forests meet turquoise seas, offering unforgettable experiences both on land and underwater. From exploring the ancient palms of Vallée de Mai and relaxing on the iconic sands of Anse Lazio to snorkelling vibrant reefs around St. Pierre and meeting giant tortoises on Curieuse Island, every corner of the island showcases the natural beauty that makes the Seychelles one of the world's premier tropical destinations. Whether you're visiting for three days or a full week, Praslin promises an exceptional blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic island charm.