Complete Travel Guide to Praslin, Seychelles

7 days ago
4 min read

Praslin is the second-largest island in Seychelles and one of the most beautiful destinations in the Indian Ocean. Famous for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, rare wildlife, and nearby islands, Praslin offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and nature. Whether you're planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or an island-hopping adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Visit Praslin?

Praslin is known for:

White-sand beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters
The UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
The rare Coco de Mer palm
Giant tortoises on nearby Curieuse Island
Excellent snorkelling and diving
Scenic hiking trails
Easy access to La Digue and other nearby islands

Where Is Praslin?

Praslin lies approximately 44 km (27 miles) northeast of Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles.

You can reach Praslin by:

Domestic flight: Around 15 minutes from Mahé.
High-speed ferry: Around 60–75 minutes from Mahé.
Private yacht or charter boat.

Best Time to Visit Praslin

April to May ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The best overall season.

Calm seas
Sunny weather
Excellent snorkelling
Ideal for island hopping

October to November ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Another perfect travel period.

Crystal-clear water
Warm temperatures
Great diving conditions

May to September ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Cooler temperatures
Excellent hiking
Windier on southeast-facing beaches

December to March ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tropical weather
Warm ocean
Occasional short rain showers

Average temperature year-round:

24°C–31°C (75°F–88°F)

Top Attractions

1. Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for:

Coco de Mer palms
Seychelles Black Parrot
Ancient tropical forest

2. Anse Lazio

Frequently listed among the world's best beaches.

Perfect for:

Swimming
Snorkeling
Sunbathing
Photography

3. Anse Georgette

A secluded beach with powder-soft sand and turquoise waters.

Ideal for:

Relaxation
Scenic walks
Swimming

4. Curieuse Island

One of Seychelles' most popular day trips.

Highlights:

Giant Aldabra tortoises
Mangrove boardwalk
Nature trails
Beautiful beaches

5. St. Pierre Island

A snorkelling paradise featuring:

Coral reefs
Tropical fish
Sea turtles
Crystal-clear water

6. Côte d'Or Beach

A lively beach with restaurants and water sports.

Activities include:

Paddleboarding
Kayaking
Swimming
Sunset walks

7. Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve

A quieter alternative to Vallée de Mai with scenic viewpoints and Coco de Mer palms.

Best Beaches

Anse Lazio
Anse Georgette
Côte d'Or (Anse Volbert)
Anse Possession
Anse Takamaka
Grand Anse
Anse Kerlan

Best Things to Do

Explore Vallée de Mai
Visit Curieuse Island
Snorkel at St. Pierre Island
Island-hop to La Digue
Go scuba diving
Deep-sea fishing
Hiking
Sunset cruises
Kayaking
Paddleboarding
Wildlife photography
Creole food tasting

Snorkeling & Diving

Top snorkeling spots:

St. Pierre Island
Curieuse Marine Park
Anse Lazio
Coco Island

Marine life includes:

Sea turtles
Parrotfish
Butterflyfish
Rays
Reef sharks
Octopus
Colorful coral reefs

Hiking Trails

Glacis Noir Trail

Duration:

Around 2 hours

Highlights:

Panoramic island views
Tropical forest

Zimbabwe Viewpoint

A short hike offering spectacular views across Praslin and neighbouring islands.

Food & Local Cuisine

Don't miss:

Grilled red snapper
Octopus curry
Coconut fish curry
Fresh lobster
Breadfruit chips
Tropical fruits
Coconut desserts

Family-Friendly Activities

Giant tortoise encounters
Beach picnics
Glass-bottom boat trips
Snorkeling
Nature walks
Wildlife spotting

Romantic Experiences

Perfect for honeymooners:

Private beach picnic
Sunset cruise
Couples spa
Private island excursion
Candlelit beachfront dinner

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Vallée de Mai
Côte d'Or Beach
Sunset dinner by the sea

Day 2

Curieuse Island
St. Pierre Island snorkeling
BBQ lunch on the island

Day 3

Anse Lazio
Anse Georgette
Sunset cruise or island dining

Travel Tips

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace.
Book popular tours in advance, especially during peak season.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to help protect marine life.
Carry cash for small shops and local markets.
Stay hydrated and wear lightweight clothing.
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking and nature trails.
Respect protected wildlife and avoid touching coral reefs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days should I spend on Praslin?

3–5 days is ideal for exploring the island's beaches, nature reserves, and nearby islands without rushing.

Is Praslin good for families?

Yes. Calm beaches, wildlife encounters, and easy outdoor activities make it an excellent destination for families.

Do I need a car on Praslin?

A rental car is recommended if you want the freedom to visit multiple beaches, viewpoints, and attractions on your own schedule.

Is Praslin expensive?

Praslin offers options for a range of budgets, from guesthouses and self-catering apartments to luxury beachfront resorts. Dining, tours, and transport can also be tailored to different spending levels.

Why Praslin Should Be on Your Bucket List

Praslin combines breathtaking beaches, lush tropical forests, unique wildlife, and unforgettable island adventures in one destination. From relaxing on the world-famous sands of Anse Lazio to spotting giant tortoises on Curieuse Island or snorkelling vibrant coral reefs around St. Pierre Island, every day on Praslin offers a memorable experience for nature lovers, couples, families, and adventure seekers alike. Praslin is the second-largest island in the Seychelles and one of the most beautiful destinations in the Indian Ocean. Famous for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, rare wildlife, and nearby islands, Praslin offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and nature. Whether you're planning a romantic honeymoon, a family vacation, or an island-hopping adventure, this guide covers everything you need to know.