I’ve been lucky enough to visit Praslin island multiple times over the past few years. I can confirm that island has a perfect mix of postcard-worthy beaches, lush greenery, cheeky nuts and peaceful vibes.
So, if you’re looking for the best things to do in Praslin, you will find my top recommendations below.
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!)
Praslin island is the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. It is also my second favorite island and absolutely worth visiting and should be included in your Seychelles itinerary.
It is a true Garden of Eden, home to UNESCO site Vallee de Mai and one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Anse Lazio.
Inside this Praslin travel guide, you will learn this is the quietest of all the three main islands, and therefore perfect for couples on their honeymoon, but can be easily reached from Mahé island with Air Seychelles or La Digue by ferry.
Keep reading to find the top attractions in Praslin, because you won’t want to miss any of them!
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.
Things to do in Praslin Island
KEY TAKEAWAYS
● The best way to get around Praslin is by renting a car or explore the island by bus for a relaxed, scenic ride.
● Discover top Praslin things to do and the best beaches on this tropical island.
● Find one of the best places to see the largest nut and endemic Seychelles Black Parrot.
● Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Curieuse, where you can see giant tortoises or a day trip to surrounding islands.
● Enjoy fresh Creole cuisine at local restaurants and beachside cafes, with plenty of seafood and tropical flavors on offer.
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List of the best things to do in Praslin island in the Seychelles
Explore Vallée de Mai – UNESCO World Heritage site
Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the natural habitat of the famous Coco de Mer palm tree and home to black parrot.
This prehistoric forest, located in the heart of Praslin Island, is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, and is absolutely worth visiting!
Besides Coco de Mer, here you’ll find five other species of native palms and possibly spot the rare black parrot, which is native to Praslin. The reserve also hosts a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals.
The name Vallee de Mai means “May Valley,”. The name was given by France Jumeau who bought the land in 1928 in the month of May (French: “Mai”). It was declared a nature reserve in 1966 and became a UNESCO site in 1983. Even before that, in 1881, British General Charles George Gordon once described it as the true ‘Garden of Eden’ for its rich biodiversity.
With only 19.5 ha (48.186 acre) it is one of the smallest UNESCO sites. Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours walking its trails, which range from 1.5 km (1 mi) to 4 km (2.5 mi) long.
I highly recommend visiting the park with a guide — Shaun is great, and you can reach him on WhatsApp +248 2 595 110. You’ll learn so much more and gain context about the incredible plants and history of the site.
This site is also one of the official sites where you can buy Coco de Mer nuts if you want to bring one home as a unique souvenir from this island archipelago!
Learn 5 interesting facts about Coco de Mer
Coco de Mer palm is one of the most fascinating and iconic symbols of the Seychelles, and learning about it is a must when visiting Praslin.
This palm tree, native to two islands of Seychelles, Praslin and Curieuse, is famous for its massive, uniquely shaped nuts and huge fronds. Funnily enough it grows nuts only on Praslin island.
You can learn many interesting facts about this cheeky shaped nut on your visit to Vallee de Mai or Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve. From the unique reproduction cycle, male and female trees, and the shape and weight of the largest seed of any plant in the world.
If you wish, you can also bring one back home, as one of the best souvenirs from Seychelles.
Spot Black Parrot or Kato Nwar
One of the unique things you can only do in Praslin is to spot the rare Black Parrot, also known as the Praslin parrot or locally as Kato Nwar (Coracopsis barklyi).
It is one of the 13 indigenous birds of Seychelles, found only on Praslin and Curieuse, just like the Coco de Mer.
The Black Parrot is a brown-grey colored, mid-sized parrot that can grow to around 40 cm (16 in) in length. It primarily eats fruits like mango and papaya, which has also contributed to its decline due to hunting by humans.
Today, the population is estimated to be around 500 to 1,000 individuals, making it extremely vulnerable due to habitat loss and predation by invasive species like rats and mynas. They are protected by law.
The easiest way of spotting a black parrot will be in Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve or Fond Ferdinand, where they nest in dead palm trees. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for ribbons tied around the trunks of palm trees; these mark the nesting sites of the Black Parrot. You can also identify them by their distinctive whistling call.
To increase your chances of seeing the national bird of Seychelles, consider taking a guided tour early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the parrots are most active.
Relax and spend a day at Anse Lazio
Visiting Anse Lazio Beach is one of the top two Praslin attractions, and it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to unwind in paradise.
It is my favorite beach in Seychelles and the most beautiful piece of coastline in Praslin. With its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and framed by lush greenery and granite boulders, it is also one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
You can get here by bus followed by a 1 km (0.6 mi) walk from the bus stop, taxi or with a rental car.
Spend your day relaxing under the sun, swimming, or snorkeling along the rocky edges. While a lifeguard is usually on duty, it’s best to avoid swimming at dawn or dusk.
If you are up for a small adventure, go on a short walk to a smaller version of the beach called Petite Anse Lazio, for a more secluded beach day. This beach is also a starting point for the hike to Anse Georgette, allowing you to explore even more of the island’s stunning scenery.
For dining, you’ll find a couple of excellent restaurants nearby, including Mabuya Restaurant and Le Chevalier Bar Restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and refreshing drinks with a view.
While there are no large resorts right on the beach, the Lazio Beach Residence offers self-catering apartments for those looking to stay close to this idyllic spot.
Stretch your legs on Anse Lazio to Anse Georgette hike
The Anse Lazio to Anse Georgette hike is one of the top hikes in Praslin and offers stunning coastal views along the way.
This moderate hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way.
While the path is marked with white arrows, it can be tricky to know where to go at times. You can complete the hike without a guide, but if you’re unsure, you can book a private guide.
This trail is more challenging than the Anse Major hike on Mahé or the Anse Cocos trail on La Digue.
Wear sturdy shoes, as it can get muddy or slippery, and don’t forget sun protection, water, and snacks, since there are no facilities along the trail.
From the beginning of the trail, you’ll pass through shaded forest areas with occasional ocean views.
If you prefer cooler temperatures, start early in the morning. I’ve hiked it at midday to enjoy morning at Anse Lazio, then hike to Anse Georgette and spend the afternoon there.
Anse Georgette is a small beach on Praslin and part of the Constance Lemuria Resort. While there are no facilities, you might find vendors selling fresh fruit.
FRIENDLY REMINDER
If you get to Anse Lazio by car, you’ll need to hike back the same trail (not recommended) or take a taxi/bus from Constance Lemuria Resort. After reaching Georgette, it’s a 15-20 minute walk to the resort to arrange transport. From there plan a one hour drive back.
Swim at Anse Georgette
Swimming at Anse Georgette is one of the more luxurious experiences on Praslin.
This secluded beach is a smaller and more intimate version of Anse Lazio. It is located within the grounds of the prestigious Constance Lemuria Resort, one of the best luxury hotels in Seychelles.
As expected for beaches in Seychelles, this piece of paradise has soft white sand, turquoise waters, and the iconic granite boulders that frame both sides of the beach.
The water at is perfect for swimming. Since the beach isn’t protected by a reef, and the water gets deep fast, it can have strong currents, especially during tide changes.
To visit it, you’ll need to arrange access with Constance resort if you’re not staying there. The beach is a 20-minute walk through the resort’s golf course.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can also hike from Anse Lazio, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours and offers stunning coastal views along the way.
Snorkel and admire the sunset at Petite Anse Kerlan
Snorkeling and admiring the sunset at Petite Anse Kerlan is an exclusive experience on Praslin.
This quiet beach is located within the grounds of Constance Lemuria Resort, so you’ll need to arrange permission from the resort in advance if you’re not staying there.
The calm, crystal-clear waters are a perfect spot for snorkeling, especially around the iconic granite boulders. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent snorkeling equipment from the shop on the beach.
In the afternoon, Petite Anse Kerlan becomes the perfect location to enjoy a breathtaking sunset. For a laid-back evening, grab a drink at one of the resort’s beachside bars or enjoy a meal at the exclusive restaurant, The Nest, offering stunning ocean views.
Visit Fond Ferdinand Natural Reserve
Fond Ferdinand, a lesser-known Natural reserve, is often a less crowded and cheaper alternative to UNESCO site Vallée de Mai on the south of Praslin.
Covering a vast area of 122 ha (301.5 acres), Fond Ferdinand is more than six times bigger than Vallée de Mai and is also home to an impressive array of flora and fauna, including the iconic Coco de Mer palm tree.
You’ll also find several other species endemic to the Seychelles, including palms, reptiles, and birds like black parrot.
A guided tour is included in the entrance fee. I recommend going on the morning tour, at 9:30, for two reasons. One, you will learn a lot about Coco de Mer and other plants/trees, like cinnamon, and two, the hike to the top is without shade so start early!
The highlight of Fond Ferdinand Natural Reserve is a scenic hike that leads you through green forests and up to a panoramic viewpoint. The trail is marked with signposts from 1 to 23 up the hill.
Hike can take up to 2 hours, so bring a lot of water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes for the hike. You should be in a reasonably good physical condition to do it as there are around 700 steps to climb to the top. At the top you will be able to see other Seychelles islands – from Curieuse, Sister Island, Coco Island, Felicité, Round Island, and La Digue, and Frégate, Mahé, and Silhouette on the other side.
PRASLIN VIEWPOINT
Zimbabwe viewpoint is another panoramic spot on the north-west side of the island. Starting point is Anse Boudin and from the top you can also spot nearby islands. It is best to go there at sunset (just make sure to bring a flashlight).
Sample Creole cuisine at Coco Rouge
Eating delicious creole cuisine at Coco Rouge is one of the best local experiences you can taste on your trip to Praslin.
I usually go there for dinner to enjoy their amazing grilled fish, but the lunch options are just as tasty. They even have homemade ice creams and cakes!
Coco Rouge is a family-run café and takeaway, serving a variety of authentic Creole dishes. From fresh seafood to curries and grilled meats, everything comes with traditional sides like rice, lentils, and plantains. Try the octopus curry, a Seychellois favorite, or my personal pick — the grilled fish, often caught the same day.
Located in Baie Sainte Anne, it’s close to the Cat Cocos ferry terminal, making it a convenient stop when getting to Praslin or before continuing your island adventures.
You can message the owner on WhatsApp +248 2 581 014 and arrange a BBQ dinner in advance.
Walk through the ruins of the old cinnamon distillery
Walking through the ruins of the old cinnamon distillery on Praslin is something that not many tourists do when visiting the island.
During the colonial era, Seychelles was a significant producer of cinnamon, which became one of its main exports. The cinnamon trees still cover much of Mahé, Silhuette, Praslin and La Digue.
The Heritage Cinnamon Distillery was one of 67 distilleries at the start of the 20th century, processing cinnamon leaves to extract oil. It’s also the only distillery located along Praslin’s coast.
Today, the site is mostly overgrown, with nature reclaiming the old buildings. Though there’s not much left to see beyond a few info boards, it’s a quiet, peaceful spot perfect for anyone who enjoys history and exploring islands hidden gems.
Hike to the abandoned hotel on Anse La Farine
The hike to the abandoned hotel New Emerald Cove on Anse La Farine is one of lesser known activities on the island.
It is perfect if you are seeking a mix of adventure and swimming on a secluded beach.
The hike starts at Anse la Blague and takes around 30 minutes. The path isn’t well marked, so I recommend asking for directions at the Villa Anse La Blague hotel front desk, before you set out to the trail and are familiar with how to get back from the beach.
Anse la Farine is one of the best snorkeling beaches in Praslin. Plan your visit during low tide, and don’t forget to bring snacks, water and snorkeling gear as there are no facilities.
If you don’t want to hike, you can also access it by a short boat ride from Anse la Blague.
Take a day trip to Curieuse and St. Pierre
Taking a trip to Curieuse and St. Pierre is one of the top day trips from Praslin and one of the top things to do in Seychelles.
Curieuse Island is a protected national park, just a short boat ride away from Praslin.
This boat trip is a great mix of wildlife, history, and snorkeling. It can be arranged with a local tour operator from Praslin or you can book a tour via GetYourGuide or Viator, before your arrival.
Time needed: 6 – 7 hours
Price: from 50€ ($55) per person
Today Curieuse is known for its large population of giant Aldabra tortoises that roam freely around the island. You can visit the tortoise sanctuary and walk along the boardwalk that winds through mangrove forests to Anse José.
It is less known that from the 1830s to 1965, the island was used as a leper colony, and you can still see the old ruins of the leprosarium. Another historic fun fact to add to your adventure.
After exploring Curieuse and the mangroves, you will then head to the tiny granite island of St. Pierre, a popular spot for watching the underwater world. Watch colorful fish or take some of the screensaver photos of the iconic palm trees and smooth granite boulders of St. Pierre.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, plenty of water and a waterproof phone case!
Go island hopping to Coco, Sister and Félicité
A snorkeling trip to Coco, Sister, and Félicité islands is another popular day trip from Praslin.
These islands are close to each other and are some of the best snorkeling spots in Seychelles. They are my favorite as well. This boat trip is perfect if you want to get a chance to see colorful fish, turtles, and other marine life up close.
It can be arranged with a local tour operator from Praslin or you can book a tour via GetYourGuide or Viator, before your arrival.
Time needed: 8 hours
Price: from 150€ ($162) per person*
Most boat trips will start at Coco Island or Île Cocos. This is one of the most beautiful spots to snorkel in Seychelles, with coral reefs, colorful fish, rays and sea turtles.
Then you’ll move to Sister island, which is privately owned. Depending on the tour, thisi is where you will have BBQ lunch.
There is another snorkeling option at privately owned Félicité islands. Half of the island is included in Ramos National Park. Félicité is more known for a luxurious 5-star resort Six Senses Zil Pasyon. It is considered one of the top hotels in the world, offering exceptional privacy. You can get to Six Senses Zil Pasyon by helicopter or speedboat. Staying here starts from 2000€ per night.
*This Praslin sister islands tour includes landing fee for Sister Island (500 SCR per person | 35€ | $37) and a landing fee at Coco National Park (SCR 200 | 13,5€ | $15). If booking with a local provider, ask if the tour includes landing fees.
You can have a look at the current List of landing and mooring fees of the Seychelles, which will also come in handy of you are sailing in Seychelles with a yacht or catamaran boat.
I would recommend bringing your own snorkeling gear (if you have one), waterproof bag, towel, and wearing sun protection clothes and (coral reef safe) sunscreen, some cash or credit card, and comfortable (water) shoes.
Visit island La Digue
One of the most popular activities is a day trip to La Digue. (Although I always say that you should stay there for at least one night, to get the true vibe of the island!)
La Digue is famous for its laid-back vibe and stunning beaches, with Anse Source d’Argent often described as one of the most photographed beaches in the world.
With many ferries running between the islands, a day trip is easy to organize. The ferry only takes 15 minutes, and booking the first one leaving Praslin at 7:00 (Cat Rose) and the last one leaving La Digue at 17:00 gives you around 10 hours to explore the island.
For a truly relaxed and carefree time, there is also a full day tour of La Digue from Praslin available.
Once you arrive, rent a bike – it’s the best way to explore the island. In a day, you can visit the iconic Anse Source d’Argent, wander through L’Union Estate to see the coconut plantation and vanilla farm, maybe take a Crystal Water Kayaks tour, or hike to Anse Cocos.
Here you will find a slower pace of life, so don’t rush your itinerary and try to see it all.
To fully appreciate it, try to stay for at least one night, to experience its peaceful evenings, La Digue beaches, and the island’s unhurried way of life.
Do something fun at Cote d’Or / Anse Volbert
Cote d’Or Beach or Anse Volbert is one of the most lively and popular beaches on Praslin.
This is a popular family-friendly beach on the East side of Praslin, with many accommodation options around it. Most photos from this beach feature an iconic bent palm tree, but this is far from what it offers.
Just like other beaches in Seychelles, it has a long stretch of soft white sand and clear turquoise waters. It is great for swimming, snorkeling and other water sports, like kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. You can rent the equipment from local shops right on the beach.
If you prefer relaxing, grab a spot under a palm tree and enjoy the view, or take a stroll along the shore. There are also plenty of beachside restaurants and bars where you can grab a bite or sip on a fresh coconut.
Praslin things to do on a MAP
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Final thoughts on the best things to do in Praslin
Praslin is the second largest island of Seychelles, one of the must-visit islands, offering a mix of stunning beaches, and unique experiences.
This island in Seychelles, has a relaxed pace and is perfect for those wanting a balance of adventure and relaxation.
You can spend your time hiking through Vallée de Mai nature reserve, Fond Ferdinand reserve or visit a less visited Zimbabwe viewpoint. You can relax on world-class beaches like Anse Lazio or Anse Georgette, or go on a day trip and snorkeling at some of the best spots like St. Pierre and Coco Island.
To taste the local flavors dine in Coco Rouge for an authentic Creole meal. For more options, you can visit Black pearl shop close to the airport or Praslin museum close to Anse Volbert. There are plenty of things to do on Praslin.
Spend your evenings spinning cocktails and admiring some of the most beautiful sunsets in the world.
Now that you know what to do in Praslin, check other Seychelles guides, including things to do in La Digue, and what to do in Mahé. You can also learn more about Praslin, how to get here, what are the best Praslin beaches, learn what to pack for Seychelles and other Seychelles info you might need.
➤ Read more Seychelles travel guides
• Where to stay in Praslin Island, Seychelles: 10 Best Praslin hotels
• 10 Best luxury hotels in Seychelles for an unforgettable stay
• Is Praslin worth visiting? To visit or skip this island in the Seychelles
• How to spend 10 days in Seychelles Itinerary
• Best souvenirs from Seychelles: What should you buy?
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