Visiting Praslin Island in Seychelles

After describing my last trip to Mahé, I’m back to tell you about my idyllic vacations in Les Seychelles, on the Praslin island, the second largest island of the Seychelles archipelago (38 km²). Praslin goes beyond heavenly white sand beaches, turquoise and crystal-clear waters, coconut and palm trees (even though I love them!), it also offers a unique and lush vegetation, a unique cultural richness and, as for all the other Seychelles islands, is populated by lovely people. Of course, my trip to the tropical island of Praslin is a bit old since I went there a few years ago for my honeymoon. But proof that this stay really touched me is that I remember it like it was yesterday. Therefore, I can easily tell you about it. Come aboard, I’ll take you to the Indian Ocean, to a paradise corner of the world still preserved from mass tourism. That’s also what we like, isn’t it?

Obviously, since the trip is a little bit dated, I updated all the interesting information worth noting for you to be able to plan your trip in the best conditions. In any case, I hope to inspire you to go and discover this beautiful postcard!

Before you finalise your travel plans, don’t hesitate to check out our recommendations for the best time of year to visit Seychelles.

Our article on what to do in the Seychelles will help if you’re looking for a more general overview of your trip!

It is impossible to stay in Praslin without visiting the Vallée de Mai. Nicknamed the “Garden of Eden”, it is Seychelles’ wildest site. Located at the heart of the island, this UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve is simply breathtaking thanks to the lush flora and fauna it shelters. In this jungle, you will come across a primary palm tree, and more to the point, the Coco de Mer (or sea coconut), a species endemic to the islands of Praslin and Curieuse. The oldest specimen of this species is over 300 years old and measures no less than 27 m! Put simply, It is nature lovers’ heaven, but not only!

Should you never have seen one, you will have the amusing surprise to discover its seed (the largest in the world), called the “coconut-butt” because of its resemblance to this part of the anatomy. Inside the park, you can take the Black Glacis trail, perfect for admiring all these natural wonders, including the black parrot (Vaza), a rare bird.

Of course, when you visit Seychelles, and more precisely the island of Praslin, the white sand beaches are a must. From lazing on the golden sand to water activities, there is something for everyone.

Lazio Cove, at the northernmost point of the island, is ideal for big wave and surf fans. It is one of the only beaches to be guarded. However, you have to walk to get there… and it’s a steep climb! But it’s worth it, since once you have arrived at the top of the hill, you will have a superb overview of the white sandy beach and the granite rocks, a true postcard picture! It ranks as one of Seychelles’ top 10 beaches, and deservedly so.

The Golden Coast lives up to its name. The fine sandy beach borders the azure blue sea for several kilometers. A stretch of sand as far as the eye can see! All along the beach, you will find many bars, restaurants, and accommodations. Although the beach is a little less wild than the others, it’s worth a look. And it is so nice to sip a good cocktail with this breathtaking landscape in front of your eyes…

Georgette Cove is located not far from Lazio Cove (further east). To get there, you need permission from the Constance Lemuria Resort. After a 20-minute walk across the hotel’s golf course, welcome to this heavenly beach, where you won’t be bothered by the crowd since there are only hotel residents and a few tourists. A small corner of paradise…

My favorite : Anse la Farine. The sand is so fine and white that you have the feeling to walk on flour. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly how to get there, because I was staying at the New Emerald Cove Resort, which is directly located on this isolated beach (with its coconut and palm trees), accessible by boat from the jetty of Baie Sainte-Anne. From what I understand, you can still get there by boat, but as part of organized excursions. Or you have to walk through the forest from Anse La Blague. The downside is that the path is not really clearly indicated… But believe me, if you manage to reach the beach of Anse la Farine, you will thank me! You will be alone and if you like snorkeling and scuba diving, you will enjoy it. You can discover the marine life, coral reefs, maybe sharks and swim with sea turtles and other colorful fishes. This is an unforgettable memory for me! In my opinion, it’s a must-do in Praslin island, in the Seychelles.

If you only have one excursion to do during your dream vacation in Seychelles, I advise you to do the combined Cousin-Curieuse-island St-Pierre tour!

In the morning, off to Cousin. This island is protected because it shelters numerous species endemic to Seychelles’. You will have the opportunity to see, amongst other species, the Seychelles warbler, the “toc toc”, and the “hawksbill turtle”. Ecotourism is a must, and some rules must be followed, such as

• Do not leave the marked trails (in some places, pontoons have been built to walk on the vegetation and leave the animals alone);
• It is forbidden to swim, picnic and smoke on the island;
• and of course, you must not disturb the animals, nor bring anything back from this small piece of land.

Then, you will head to Curieuse island, which is also a protected site. It is part of a national park that extends to Praslin. There, you will be able to walk around the paradise island and observe giant land tortoises, sea coconuts, but also many other animal and plant species. You will see the remains of the leper colony, built shortly after the discovery of the island, which welcomed patients from 1883 to 1965. You will also be able to visit the doctor’s house, a French colonial house transformed into a museum. Then, you will enjoy a barbecue at the beach, with grilled fish and spicy chicken on the menu as well as other Seychellois specialties. To provide a fitting ending to this beautiful trip, I recommend a swim at Anse Saint-José, in translucent and turquoise waters.

After the island of Curieuse, you will stop at the marine reserve of Saint-Pierre islet to discover the underwater world. Snorkeling enthusiasts, get your fins, mask, and snorkel out, you will enjoy it! This spot is beautiful and accessible to all to enjoy the clear waters and the marine fauna.

Lastly, I keep a memorable souvenir of this trip. Do not hesitate to try it! Moreover, part of what you pay for this excursion is an entrance fee to the islands which allows you to participate in the preservation of the ecosystem. Prices vary according to the day trip you will undertake. You can look at this site to choose your excursion.

To be honest, I have just heard about it since didn’t have the opportunity to visit it, but I didn’t get particularly good feedbacks on it. In fact, it consists in a tour of two transformed rooms of the house of a Seychellois man while he explains the culture and history of his archipelago. He gives information about plants and their virtues. You can also see two giant turtles and enter a cage with bats to take a souvenir picture. I’m not sure if this “museum” is worth the detour if you are not in the area. But should you have visited it, I’d be curious to hear your opinions! I hope that at this stage of the article, I’ve already inspired you to go for vacations to Seychelles.

Of course, you will have to go to the island of Mahé first, where the international airport is located. From the main cities in France, you will be able to find flights between 550€ and 600€ if you are flexible. Find the best prices

For all other travelers, you can look for the cheapest flights here: Switzerland, Canada or the United States.

Once on the island of Mahé, there are two main travel means to get to this dream island.

• by plane: domestic flights are operated several times a day by Air Seychelles. If you can take this means of transportation, I highly recommend it. Have you ever flown in an old plane? Sitting behind the pilot and the co-pilot, with a thundering noise in the cabin, is an experience to be had at least once in your life! Flying over the lagoons with their infinite shades of blue is just breathtaking. For about 20 minutes, you will be amazed!
• The Cat Cocos (2h30 cargo ship or 1h fast catamaran): travelling by ferry is cheaper, but also a bit longer…

I stayed 10 days in Seychelles, with a Praslin-La Digue combined trip (5 nights-3 nights). In my opinion, staying 5 nights in Praslin is a minimum stay if you want to fully enjoy the island and its beauties.

Should you be able to, , I think 15 days there is a good stay, with a combination of 3 islands: Mahé-Praslin-La Digue. My advice:

• 5 nights on Mahé – 5 nights on Praslin and 3 nights on La Digue;
• or 4 nights on Mahé – 5 nights on Praslin – 3 nights on La Digue and 1 night on Mahé (to be on the spot – on Mahé – for your return flight).

There are several ways to get around Praslin:

• by bus (the “Tata”): this is the local means of transportation. For a few rupees, you will be able to mingle with the local population and hear them speak Creole, what a treat!
• by cab: you will find them everywhere on the island. Do negotiate the fair before starting the ride;
• by car: you can rent one in a rental agency or directly at your hotel. If you are staying in a guest house, some owners offer this service or have a partnership with local agencies. Be careful, in Praslin as in all of Seychelles, you drive on the left side of the road (these are the vestiges of the British colonization!);
• by bike: it is a nice way to travel, which allows you to take your time and stop wherever you want.

Tip: If you are going on a trip, you will often be picked up directly at the hotel or at a meeting point not far from your accommodation. Don’t hesitate to ask.

As I told you above, I stayed at the New Emerald Cove, which is now unfortunately closed. I selected Praslin accommodations which have a good reputation and for which I have had very good feedback from friends or acquaintances.

House for rent/room in a private home:

• Coin d’Or

Located in Anse Possession, in front of Curieuse Island, this 65 m² beach house is entirely at your disposal. You have a direct access to the lagoon and to the small white sandy beach, with its granite rocks. Here you can be completely self-reliant since the kitchen is fully equipped. It is the ideal place for a romantic trip. You will feel alone in the world! In the evening, rest under the carbet and admire the breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. You are in paradise. It’s a perfect Praslin acommodation.

• Sunset Cove Villa

You will be located on the other side of Praslin island, on the northwest coast, at Kerlan Cove. This location allows you to enjoy beautiful sunsets. There are several accommodations (rooms or cottages), which can accommodate from 1 to 5 people. The equipment is simple but functional. Note that there is a dining area in the bungalows and/or a terrace as well as a common kitchen. Ideal formula to meet other travelers!

Hotel :

• Coco de Mer Hôtel and Black Parrot Suites

Everything is beautiful in this 4-star resort. First of all, there is the environment with its 80-hectare tropical garden, but also its infinity pool offering a view of the ocean and access to the private beach of Anse Bois de Rose. Then, there is the beautifully decorated, spacious, and comfortable rooms. As for the restaurants, in addition to a variety of dishes that will introduce you to new flavors, you will enjoy a wonderful show, with turquoise waters in the background. Everything is done so that you can bask in a heavenly setting. A flawless performance by this highly rated hotel!

• Colibri Hôtel

This 3-star hotel offers very good value for money. It offers great service for an affordable price. In addition, the owners offer many services: bike and car rental, fishing trips, boat rides and more. On the practical side, the location of this family hotel (on Saint-Anne’s Bay, close to the pier) is ideal, particularly if you want to go on sea excursions.

I’ve taken over from Aurélie and done a lot of research to bring you a comprehensive guide to places to stay on Praslin Island. You’ll find luxury accommodation, good quality hotels and budget options!

As you can see, I am not really unbiased when I talk about Seychelles, since I love this archipelago and its residents. Even after two trips, I still have a lot of things to see. This island no longer holds any secrets for you, so you now know the things to do in Praslin. So, if you are still hesitating, I have only one piece of advice to give to you: go for it! Book your next vacations on the paradise island of Praslin in Seychelles! I assure you: you won’t regret it!