Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, is a haven of natural wonders, from its unique palm forests to its crystal-clear waters. For those contemplating things to do in Praslin, exploring the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to the rare coco de mer palm and black parrots, and basking on the shores of Anse Lazio, often ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches, are top recommendations.
The island’s Anse Volbert, with its soft white sands and calm waters, is perfect for snorkeling and witnessing the vibrant marine life of the Seychelles. Nearby, the Curieuse Island, a short boat ride away, offers a sanctuary for giant Aldabra tortoises and showcases the region’s commitment to conservation.
Beyond its iconic beaches and unique ecosystems, Praslin serves as a gateway to smaller islands like La Digue, with its traditional ox-carts and granite boulders. For those seeking the best places to visit in Seychelles, Praslin’s blend of natural beauty, biodiversity, and tranquil island atmosphere makes it a captivating destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Praslin, Seychelles
1. Anse Lazio
Anse Lazio is often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with its soft white sand, clear turquoise waters, and lush green surroundings. It is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
Location: Situated on the northwest coast of Praslin. Accessible by car or taxi, with a short walk from the parking area.
Scenic Spot: White sand beach, clear turquoise waters, and lush greenery make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, with shallow waters ideal for swimming, though caution is needed due to occasional strong currents.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot as it can get crowded during the day.
2. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the famous Coco de Mer palm trees and is a must-visit for nature lovers. The reserve offers well-maintained trails through a prehistoric forest that is home to a variety of unique flora and fauna.
Location: Centrally located on Praslin Island. Easily reachable by car, taxi, or guided tours.
Scenic Spot: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a prehistoric palm forest, home to the rare Coco de Mer and black parrots.
Best Time to Visit: Morning, to enjoy cooler temperatures and a quieter atmosphere.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, but some trails may be challenging for the elderly or very young children.
Price: Approximately €20 ($22) per person.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and insect repellent.
3. Anse Georgette
Anse Georgette is another stunning beach on Praslin, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters. It is less crowded than Anse Lazio and offers a more secluded and peaceful experience.
Location: Located on the northwestern part of Praslin. Accessible through the Constance Lemuria Resort, requiring prior permission or a boat tour.
Scenic Spot: A secluded beach with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush nature.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon to fully enjoy the sun and water activities.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for adults and older children; strong waves can make swimming challenging for small kids.
Price: Free, but access must be arranged in advance if entering via the resort.
Travel Tip: The beach is accessible through the Constance Lemuria Resort, so it is advisable to call ahead and ask for permission to visit.
4. Cote d’Or Beach
Cote d’Or Beach is a long stretch of white sand beach lined with palm trees and hotels. It is a popular spot for water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Location: Located on the northeast coast of Praslin. Easily reachable by car, taxi, or walking from nearby hotels.
Scenic Spot: Long white sand beach lined with palm trees, hotels, and restaurants, offering stunning ocean views.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon, when the sun is less intense and the atmosphere is more relaxed.
Suitable for All Ages: Perfect for all ages, especially families, due to calm waters and nearby amenities.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: The beach has plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a convenient spot for a day at the beach.
5. Curieuse Island
Curieuse Island is a small granite island located off the north coast of Praslin. It is home to a population of giant Aldabra tortoises and offers beautiful hiking trails and snorkeling spots.
Location: A small granite island off the northern coast of Praslin, accessible only by boat. Boat tours depart from Cote d’Or Beach or Anse Volbert.
Scenic Spot: Home to giant Aldabra tortoises, mangrove forests, and scenic beaches, making it a unique nature reserve.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for the best chance to see tortoises and enjoy cooler temperatures.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for all ages, but requires walking on trails, which might be difficult for those with mobility issues.
Price: Boat tours cost approximately €25-€50 ($27-$55) per person, including conservation fees.
Travel Tip: Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s history and conservation efforts.
6. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve
Fond Ferdinand is another nature reserve on Praslin, offering stunning views of the surrounding islands and home to a variety of unique plant species, including the Coco de Mer palm.
Location: Located in the southeast of Praslin. Accessible by car or guided tour.
Scenic Spot: A less crowded alternative to Vallée de Mai, offering incredible viewpoints and rare flora, including Coco de Mer palms.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for guided tours with cooler temperatures.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and older children; some uphill hiking is required, which may be difficult for the elderly.
Price: Approximately €10 ($11) per person.
Travel Tip: The reserve is less crowded than Vallée de Mai, making it a good option for those seeking a more peaceful experience.
7. Anse Volbert
Anse Volbert is a popular beach on Praslin, known for its calm waters and water sports activities. It is a great spot for families with children.
Location: Located on the northeast coast of Praslin. Easily accessible by car, taxi, or walking from nearby accommodations.
Scenic Spot: A lively beach with calm, shallow waters, making it great for water sports and family activities.
Best Time to Visit: Midday or late afternoon for water sports and a relaxing beach experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Ideal for families with children due to safe swimming conditions.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: There are plenty of restaurants and shops nearby, making it a convenient spot for a day at the beach.
8. Cousin Island
Cousin Island is a small granitic island located 2 km west of Praslin. It is a nature reserve and an important breeding site for seabirds and hawksbill turtles.
Location: A small granite island located 2 km west of Praslin. Accessible only by guided boat tours.
Scenic Spot: A nature reserve protecting seabirds, hawksbill turtles, and rare wildlife.
Best Time to Visit: Morning, when wildlife activity is at its peak.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for nature enthusiasts of all ages, but requires walking on uneven trails.
Price: Guided tours cost approximately €50-€80 ($55-$88) per person.
Travel Tip: Visits to the island are by guided tour only, and numbers are limited to protect the wildlife.
9. Anse La Farine
Anse La Farine is a secluded beach on Praslin, accessible only by boat. It is a great spot for snorkeling and swimming, and offers a peaceful and secluded experience.
Location: Located on the southeastern coast of Praslin. Only accessible by boat.
Scenic Spot: A peaceful and secluded beach, perfect for relaxation and snorkeling.
Best Time to Visit: Morning to enjoy quiet surroundings before other visitors arrive.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for adults and older children; limited facilities make it less ideal for very young kids.
Price: Free to visit, but boat transportation costs around €20-€40 ($22-$44) per person.
Travel Tip: Bring your own food and water as there are no facilities on the beach.
10. Black Pearl Farm
The Black Pearl Farm is the only pearl farm in the Seychelles and offers guided tours explaining the process of pearl farming. It is a unique and interesting experience for those interested in jewelry and pearls.
Location: Situated near Grand Anse on Praslin Island. Accessible by car or taxi.
Scenic Spot: The only pearl farm in Seychelles, offering insight into pearl cultivation and jewelry making.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or early afternoon for guided tours.
Suitable for All Ages: Suitable for all, especially those interested in jewelry and local craftsmanship.
Price: Approximately €10 ($11) per person for a guided tour.
Travel Tip: The farm has a shop where you can buy pearl jewelry and other souvenirs.
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Praslin, Seychelles: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Praslin: 7/10 – Praslin offers several attractions for families with children, such as the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, Anse Lazio beach, and the Praslin Museum. The island’s beautiful beaches are ideal for safe swimming and snorkeling. However, the range of specific kid-oriented activities is somewhat limited compared to larger destinations.
Nightlife in Praslin: 4/10 – Nightlife in Praslin is very relaxed, focusing primarily on beachside bars and resort-based entertainment. There are a few local bars and restaurants that offer live music and a laid-back atmosphere, but the island does not have a vibrant nightlife scene.
Sport in Praslin: 7/10 – Praslin provides a range of sports activities, especially water sports like snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. The island’s natural environment offers great opportunities for hiking and bird-watching, particularly in the Vallée de Mai. The sports scene is largely centered around outdoor and nature-based activities.
Culture and Attractions in Praslin: 8/10 – Praslin is known for its natural beauty and cultural sites. The Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to the unique Coco de Mer palm. The island’s beautiful beaches, such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, are major attractions. Cultural experiences include visiting local art galleries and the Praslin Museum.
Gastronomy in Praslin: 7/10 – The food scene in Praslin features a mix of Creole cuisine and international options. Fresh seafood is a highlight, with dishes like grilled fish and octopus curry being popular. While dining options are somewhat limited compared to larger islands, the quality and freshness of the food are generally excellent.
Shopping in Praslin: 5/10 – Shopping in Praslin is limited, with a few local markets, souvenir shops, and boutiques. Visitors can purchase local crafts, jewelry, and products made from Coco de Mer. The island does not offer extensive shopping opportunities but has unique items reflective of its culture.
Prices in Praslin: 5/10 – Praslin is relatively expensive, with high prices for accommodation, dining, and activities, particularly at upscale resorts. Budget options are available but limited, reflecting the island’s remote location and premium on imported goods.
Average price for a hotel night: $250
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: $20
Price of a beer: $7
Price of a coffee: $4
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Praslin, Seychelles
For those looking to explore beyond the shores, top day trips near Praslin invite visitors to delve into the Seychelles’ natural wonders. The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the neighboring islands like La Digue, are easily accessible, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness endemic flora and fauna and picturesque beaches.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Praslin accommodations provide a harmonious blend of luxury and nature, from exclusive beachfront villas to charming eco-lodges nestled in the forest, ensuring a peaceful retreat in harmony with the island’s stunning natural beauty.
FAQ About Things to Do in Praslin, Seychelles
What are the top attractions in Praslin?
Some of the top attractions in Praslin include the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, and Cote D’Or Beach.
Is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve a must-visit?
Absolutely! Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its endemic Coco de Mer palms. It’s a primeval forest that offers unique flora and fauna.
Are there opportunities for snorkeling or diving?
Yes, Praslin offers some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Seychelles, especially around Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette where the marine life is vibrant.
Can I take a boat tour from Praslin?
Certainly! There are numerous boat tours available from Praslin to nearby islands such as La Digue, Curieuse, and Cousin Island, offering unique experiences.
What wildlife can I expect to see on Praslin?
Praslin is home to various endemic species. In Vallée de Mai, you might spot the Seychelles black parrot, while the surrounding waters teem with colorful fish, turtles, and rays.
Are there any hiking opportunities on the island?
Yes, there are trails in Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve and the Glacis Noire Nature Trail, offering stunning views of the coastline and lush interiors of the island.
Where can I experience local Seychellois cuisine?
Praslin boasts several local restaurants and eateries where you can try traditional dishes like grilled fish, octopus curry, and lentil dishes.
Are there any cultural or local events on Praslin?
While Praslin is quieter compared to the main island of Mahé, it does have local festivities, especially during Seychelles’ national celebrations. It’s best to check with local tourism offices during your visit.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Praslin
https://www.getyourguide.com/praslin-island-l108962
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