While most people want to visit La Digue for the famous Anse Source d’Argent, they do ask, “Is Praslin worth visiting as well?” My answer: yes!
Inside this post, you will find my pros and cons, on why you should visit this Ile de Palme or Palm Island, home to my favorite beach in Seychelles, and one of the smallest UNESCO sites in the world.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SEYCHELLES:
• Hilltop Boutique Hotel (I stayed here in Victoria on Mahé)
• Sun Properties & Resort Hotel (I stayed here in Beau Vallon on Mahé)
• Marie Laure Suites (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Bambous River Lodge (I stayed here in Bel Ombre on Mahé)
• Palm Beach Hotel (I stayed here in Grand Anse on Praslin)
• Chez Bea (I stayed here in Cote’Or on Praslin)
• Cote D’Or Footprints (upscale stay in Cote D’Or on Praslin)
• La Digue Self Catering Apartments (I stayed here in La Passe on La Digue)
• Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel (perfect beachfront location on La Digue)
• Chalets d’Anse Reunion (perfect paradise stay on La Digue)
TOP EXPERIENCES and TOURS IN SEYCHELLES:
• Mahé: Anse Major hike (I did this fun hike!)
• Mahé: Private Tour on Mahé (I did this)
• Mahé: St. Anne Marine Park with Lunch (I did this!)
• Mahé: Rock pool hike (on my wishlist)
• Mahé: Day trip to Praslin and La Digue (great if you are short on time)
• Praslin: Vallé de Mai and Anse Lazio (I did this!)
• Praslin: cruise to Curieuse and St. Pierre Island (top-rated tour)
• La Digue: Anse Marron (hike to an isolated beach)
• La Digue: Crystal Water Kayaks tour (my favorite!)
As the second largest island in Seychelles, Praslin offers a unique mix of pristine beaches, unique wildlife, nature reserves, and, in my opinion, the most relaxed atmosphere. It is an ideal if you want to experience a true beauty of the Seychelles.
Have a look why Praslin should be on your Seychelles itinerary!
FRIENDLY REMINDER
Never leave for a trip without travel insurance. Unexpected issues can arise so I suggest using insurance that covers people from all over the world, while outside their home country. You can buy this travel insurance even if you are already abroad.
Visiting Praslin Seychelles
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● Find out why Praslin’s stunning beaches, unique wildlife, and relaxed atmosphere make it a top honeymoon tropical destination.
● Learn about the reasons why it should be on your Seychelles list.
● Discover which type of travelers might not enjoy visiting Praslin.
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Why visit Praslin
Praslin or palm island is the most laid back island, compared to Mahe and La Digue island. Here you can find unique wildlife, some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, lush landscape, great hiking trails and day trip options.
It’s the perfect wedding destination and loved by honeymooners, and those seeking relaxation away from the tourist crowds.
There are a lot of Praslin beaches and things to do in Praslin, but they never get crowded. And alongside, island offers luxury resorts and plenty of secluded areas, for a peaceful stay.
Below are some reasons why Praslin island in the Seychelles is must-visit when planning your Seychelles trip.
Unique flora and fauna
There is a reason why this island is believed to be home to the Biblical Garden of Eden or true paradise on Earth.
UNESCO World Heritage site Vallée de Mai is an ancient forest filled with six endemic palm trees, including the famous Coco de Mer. One of the interesting facts about Coco de Mer is that its known for their large, heart-shaped nuts, the largest and heaviest seeds in the world.
In the forest you can also find one of the rarest endemic bird species. Praslin parrot, black parrot (Coracopsis barklyi) or kato nwar in Creole. It builds its nests in old tree trunks of coco de mer palm tree.
Seeing these two unique species and other lush tropical vegetation is the ultimate reason to visit second largest grantic island, as you won’t find them anywhere else in Seychelles, or the world.
Breathtaking Beaches
On Praslin Island, you can find some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Anse Lazio, my favourite beach in Seychelles, and Anse Georgette are found on the top of list of the best beaches in the world. Right next to the ones in French Polynesia, Australia, Vanuatu, Greece, or Mauritius.
Praslin beaches are perfect for sunbathing and swimming. But for snorkelling rather visit one in the neighbourigng islands, Curieuse island, or Coco.
With soft white sand, turquoise waters, and dramatic granite formations, are perfect for postcard views, and wedding photos.
Despite the fact that previously mention Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, are among the most visited ones, they never felt crowded when I was there. and the rest of the beach feel even more secluded.
This makes Praslin an ideal spot for couples and families, and anyone looking to have a relaxed beach holiday without the crowds.
Tranquil vibes
I’ve been to Praslin at least once per year in the last couple of years, and I’m still amazed at how pristine, quiet, and uncrowded it is.
I would say it is the quietest island, compared to Mahe and La Digue.
Everywhere you go, you get a relaxed, peaceful vibe. No one is in a hurry. Everyone is slow-paced and laid-back.
Even in the most popular spots like Vallee de Mai and Anse Lazio, it never felt crowded. It has a quiet charm and is perfect for anyone looking to unwind and immerse in natural beauty.
Great for island hopping
While the island feels impossible to reach, it’s perfectly located for island hopping, making it ideal for travelers who want to explore more of the Seychelles.
You can easily get to Praslin from La Digue or Mahé by ferry, with regular Cat Cocos departures, or by plane and even a helicopter. The journey from La Digue takes about 15 minutes, and from Mahé, it’s around 1 hour by boat.
Praslin is close to enough to visit as a day trip, from Mahe, but it is also a great base to explore the surrounding islands.
Besides day trip to La Digue, the Curieuse -St. Pierre tour offers a fantastic chance to see giant tortoises and colorful marine life, while the Coco – Sister – Félicité tour takes you to stunning snorkeling spots and picturesque beaches.
Stays for all budgets
Praslin is popular with honeymooners but offers a range of accommodations to suit every type of traveler.
It mostly caters to couples on their honeymoon but here you will find luxury resorts and budget-friendly self-catering stays. You’ll find beachfront villas, boutique hotels, and guesthouses no matter where you stay on Praslin.
Here you will find Raffles, one of the best luxury resorts in Seychelles, with private pool villas, or you can also opt in for more affordable choices like Palm Beach Hotel, or book a self-catering Chez Bea Luxury Villa for a more budget-conscious stay.
Who is Praslin not for
Praslin is my second favorite island in Seychelles and I think it is worth visiting. I am aware, that tranquility, no crowds, nature, lack of shopping, and adventures might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
If you find yourself in one of the descriptions below, consider choosing different Seychelles island or destination in general.
Party travelers
There is no lively party nightlife on the island. It has a relaxed, laid-back, peaceful atmosphere. So if you search for bars or clubs, you won’t find them here.
Budget travelers
You will find affordable self-catering options and guesthouses on the island. However, Praslin is leaning more towards mid-range and luxury stays and there are no backpacker hostels. Transportation, as you will most probably want to rent a car, can also add up to your budget.
Solo travelers looking to meet people
As mentioned in the previous two paragraphs, there are no hostels or ‘socializing’ bars. So, meeting other solo travelers will be hard as the island is quiet.
Adventure seekers
Praslin offers stunning and unique nature and some hiking trails. But those looking for more or activities like snorkeling might find options limited. I would suggest going to La digue instead. This island is more suited for leisurely activities like swimming and sunbathing.
Verdict: Is Praslin worth it?
Yes, Praslin is definitely worth a visit for those seeking natural beauty and peacefulness.
With stunning beaches, like Anse Lazio and Anse Volbert, lush forests, and unique wildlife, the island offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. I’ve visited it multiple times and will definitely be back.
Praslin can easily be reached from Mahe, but it still feels serene and quiet. His charm was not yet destroyed with mass tourism and is therefore a popular honeymoon destination.
On the other hand, it may not cater to party-goers or those looking for a vibrant nightlife. If you are searching for party scenes, a destination where you can easily meet other travelers, go to Zanzibar. If you wish to have less nature more beaches and more snorkeling and marine life, go to Maldives.
For those of you who like tropical serenity, have a look at my other guides about Praslin, including where to stay, things to do, coco de mer facts and other additional Seychelles tips. You might also consider combining your visit to Praslin with Mahé and La Digue for a complete Seychelles itinerary.
➤ Read more Seychelles travel guides
• Perfect first-timers Seychelles Itinerary
• How to get to Praslin island in the Seychelles, from Mahé or La Digue
• Where to stay in Praslin Island, Seychelles: 10 Best Praslin hotels
• 15 Interesting facts about Coco de Mer you didn’t know
• 101+ Seychelles Captions for Instagram
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