Ringed by palm-fringed beaches dotted with granite boulders, Praslin is an idyllic island in Seychelles. It’s home to large tracts of tropical forest where endemic plant and animal species thrive, including one that was believed by some to be the Biblical “Garden of Eden”.
Things to do in Praslin
Spend a day relaxing on Anse Lazio, an idyllic stretch of sand considered one of the most beautiful in Seychelles. Large granite boulders border the crystal clear bay, which is ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Also not to miss is Cote D'Or Beach, a popular place to charter boats for island-hopping excursions. You can cruise through the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to nearby La Digue or visit Ramos National Park on the island of Felicite.
Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed nature reserve offering a taste of what the island would have looked like when it was part of Gondwana. In addition to preserving a tract of endemic palms, the reserve provides habitat for a diversity of wildlife, such as Seychelles black parrots, tiger chameleons and tree frogs.
Less well known is the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, a 122-hectare area rich in endemic plant and animal life. It’s particularly renowned for its Coco de Mer, a palm that boasts the largest seeds in the plant kingdom. Guided tours follow the trail that meanders through Fond Ferdinand’s valley before reaching a spectacular viewpoint overlooking Praslin and its neighbouring islands.
Getting around Praslin
Praslin Island Airport is the main aviation gateway to Praslin and has regular flights to Mahe, which is also connected to Praslin by ferry. Local buses travel around Praslin while having your own vehicle gives you greater freedom to explore.