Visiting Praslin Island in the Seychelles

After telling you about my last trip to Mahé, I’m back to share my idyllic vacation in the Seychelles, this time on Praslin, the archipelago’s second-largest island (38 km²). Praslin is about much more than heavenly white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, coconut palms, and tropical scenery, even though I love all of that! The island also has lush, distinctive vegetation, a rich culture, and, like the rest of the Seychelles, wonderfully welcoming people. Of course, my trip to tropical Praslin was a few years ago, when I visited for my honeymoon. The fact that I remember it as if it were yesterday shows just how much the experience stayed with me, so I still have plenty to share. Come aboard—I’m taking you to a corner of paradise in the Indian Ocean that still feels largely untouched by mass tourism. That’s also what we like, isn’t it?

Since the trip took place a while ago, I’ve updated all the useful information you’ll need to plan your stay under the best possible conditions. In any case, I hope this article inspires you to discover this picture-perfect island for yourself!

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

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

A stay on Praslin would not be complete without visiting the Vallée de Mai. Nicknamed the “Garden of Eden”, it is one of the wildest places in the Seychelles. Located at the heart of the island, this UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve is simply breathtaking thanks to the rich flora and fauna found within it. In this ancient palm forest, you’ll discover the coco de mer, or sea coconut, a species found only on Praslin and Curieuse. The oldest specimen of this species is over 300 years old and measures no less than 27 m! In short, it is a paradise for nature lovers—but not only for them!

If you’ve never seen one before, you may be amused by the shape of its seed (the largest in the world), nicknamed the “coconut butt” because of its resemblance to that part of the human body. 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, no trip to the Seychelles—and especially to Praslin—would be complete without spending time on its white-sand beaches. From relaxing on the sand to enjoying water activities, there is something for everyone.

Anse Lazio, at the northernmost point of the island, is ideal for fans of big waves and surfing. It is one of the few beaches with lifeguards. 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’ll be rewarded with a beautiful view over the white-sand beach and granite rocks—a true postcard scene! It ranks as one of Seychelles’ top 10 beaches, and deservedly so.

Côte d’Or lives up to its name. Its fine-sand beach runs alongside the 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 there is something especially pleasant about sipping a cocktail with this beautiful scenery in front of you…

Anse Georgette is located not far from Anse Lazio (further east). To get there, you need permission from the Constance Lemuria Resort. After a 20-minute walk across the hotel’s golf course, you’ll reach this beautiful beach, where the number of visitors is limited to hotel guests and a small number of outside visitors. A small corner of paradise…

My favorite: Anse La Farine. The sand is so fine and white that it almost feels as though you’re walking on flour. Unfortunately, I can’t tell you exactly how to get there, because I was staying at the New Emerald Cove Resort, which was located directly on this secluded 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 trail is not very clearly marked… But believe me, if you manage to reach the beach of Anse la Farine, you will thank me! You may have the beach almost to yourself, and it is a wonderful spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. You can discover the marine life, coral reefs, maybe sharks and swim with sea turtles and other colorful fish. This is an unforgettable memory for me! In my opinion, it’s one of the best things to do on Praslin, in the Seychelles.

If you only have time for one excursion during your vacation in the Seychelles, I recommend the combined Cousin, Curieuse, and Île Saint-Pierre tour!

In the morning, you’ll head to Cousin Island. This island is protected because it is home to numerous species endemic to the Seychelles. You will have the opportunity to see, among other species, the Seychelles warbler, the “toc toc”, and the “hawksbill turtle”. Protecting the ecosystem is a priority, so visitors must follow several rules:

• Do not leave the marked trails (in some places, boardwalks have been built to protect the vegetation and avoid disturbing the animals);
• It is forbidden to swim, picnic and smoke on the island;
• and of course, you must not disturb the animals or remove anything from the island.

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 explore the island and observe giant land tortoises, coco de mer palms, 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 housed 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 round off this wonderful excursion, 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 Île Saint-Pierre to discover the underwater world. Snorkeling enthusiasts, grab your fins, mask, and snorkel—you’re in for a treat! This spot is beautiful and accessible to most visitors, with clear water and plenty of marine life to discover.

I still have wonderful memories of this excursion and would definitely recommend it. Moreover, part of the excursion price covers island entrance fees, helping to support the preservation of these ecosystems. Prices vary according to the day trip you will undertake. You can look at this site to choose your excursion.

To be honest, I only heard about this museum after my trip, so I did not have the opportunity to visit it. The feedback I received was not particularly enthusiastic. In fact, The visit takes place in two rooms of a Seychellois man’s home, where he explains the culture and history of the archipelago. He gives information about local plants and their traditional uses. You can also see two giant tortoises and enter a cage with bats for a souvenir photo. I’m not sure if this “museum” is worth the detour if you are not in the area. If you’ve visited it, though, I’d be curious to hear what you thought! I hope that at this stage of the article, I’ve already inspired you to plan a vacation in the 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 ways to travel to get to this dream island.

• by plane: domestic flights are operated several times a day by Air Seychelles. If this option fits your plans, I highly recommend it. Have you ever flown in a small older aircraft? Sitting behind the pilot and the co-pilot, with the roar of the engines filling the cabin, is quite an experience! Flying over the lagoons with their infinite shades of blue is just breathtaking. For about 20 minutes, the views will keep you captivated!
• The Cat Cocos (2 hours 30 minutes By cargo ferry or 1 hour by fast catamaran): traveling by ferry is cheaper, but also a bit longer…

I spent 10 days in the Seychelles, combining Praslin and La Digue, with five nights on Praslin and three nights on La Digue. In my opinion, five nights on Praslin is the minimum I would recommend if you want enough time to enjoy the island and its highlights.

If your schedule allows, I think 15 days is a good length of 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 main form of local public transportation. For a few rupees, you will be able to travel alongside local residents and hear Seychellois Creole spoken around you.
• By taxi: you will find them everywhere on the island. Agree on the fare 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 guesthouse, 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 (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 book an excursion, 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’ve selected several places to stay on Praslin that have a good reputation and have been recommended by friends or acquaintances.

Vacation rentals and private rooms:

• Coin d’Or

Located in Anse Possession, opposite Curieuse Island, this 65 m² beach house is entirely yours during your stay. You have direct access to the lagoon and to the small white-sand 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, relax beneath the covered outdoor shelter and admire the breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. You are in paradise. It is a wonderful place to stay on Praslin.

• 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 one to five guests. The facilities are simple but functional. Note that there is a dining area in the bungalows and/or a terrace as well as a common kitchen. It is also a good option for meeting other travelers!

Hotels:

• Coco de Mer Hôtel and Black Parrot Suites

This four-star resort has plenty to offer. First of all, there is the setting, 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, the rooms are beautifully decorated, spacious, and comfortable. As for the restaurants, in addition to a variety of dishes that will introduce you to new flavors, you can enjoy your meal with turquoise water as the backdrop. Everything is designed to help you relax in a beautiful setting. It is easy to see why this hotel is so highly rated.

• Colibri Hôtel

This three-star hotel offers very good value for money, with friendly service at an affordable price. In addition, the owners offer many services: bike and car rental, fishing trips, boat rides and more. From a practical standpoint, 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’m not exactly unbiased when I talk about the 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 vacation on the island paradise of Praslin in the Seychelles! I’m sure you won’t regret it!