An updated travel guide outlining the options for how to get to Praslin Island in the Seychelles– from Mahe and from Praslin.
Praslin Island is one of the most popular places to visit for those on a trip to the Seychelles. It’s the home of the famous Vallée de Mai as well as some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, including the one and only Anse Lazio.
For those in the planning stages of their vacation to the beautiful Seychelles, I’ve created this useful, up-to-date travel guide for how to get to Praslin Island. I’ve included three of the best options so you know exactly how to get here yourself.
Featured in: Praslin Island Travel Guide – 15 Best Things to do
Where is Praslin Island
Praslin is one of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles. It’s considered one of the 43 inner islands, and along with Mahe and La Digue, one of the three main islands for tourism.
Praslin is located roughly 49 kilometers northeast from the main island; Mahe, but only about 10 kilometers from nearby La Digue. Being the largest island in the vicinity, it's also got the most tourism infrastructure.
Below is a map that you can navigate to orient yourself when planning how to get to Praslin Island. Read on for the best options.
How to get to Praslin Island From Mahe
Below I'll give you the run-down of the three up-to-date options for getting to Praslin Island from Mahe.
Update: Creole Adventures now run a day-trip tour to Praslin Island and La Digue Island. This is a great option if you're short on time but want to see many highlights like Praslin's famous beaches and the famous Vallée de Mai.
Option 1: Fast Ferry From Mahe to Praslin
The most popular way to get to Praslin from Mahe is to take the Cat Cocos fast ferry. This boat departs daily and only takes about 1 hour to reach Praslin from Mahe. This is a popular route so it's best to book online in advance to secure a spot.
Ferry price: €72 for lower deck, €78 for Upper Deck, and €96 for Business Class
The journey departs from the Cat Cocos berth in Victoria, opposite the Orion Mall, approximately 9.5 kilometres north of the Mahe international airport. Traffic can get notoriously bad in Mahe heading north, especially in the morning, so give yourself adequate time to reach the ferry terminal. The website says you should aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Arriving on Praslin you'll disembark at Baie Sainte Anne on the eastern end of the island.
Check price & availability: Cat Cocos Ferry Booking
Option 2: Air Seychelles Scenic Flight From Mahe to Praslin
The second most popular option, and in my opinion, the best is to take the Air Seychelles scenic flight from Mahe to Praslin airport. This option is great bang for buck and can definitely be considered an experience. The quick 10-minute flight to Praslin is very scenic and you'll get a great view over both islands on the way in.
The plane departs from the Mahe Domestic Terminal, which is very tiny– just one small room! The plane is a small propeller plane accommodating roughly 12 people.
You’ll definitely need to book this flight if you choose this option to get to Praslin from Mahe. I always check Skyscanner and CheapOAir for discounted rates and special deals before booking.
Option 3: Private Boat Transfer to Praslin
If you're short on time or looking for how to get to Praslin from Mahe in style, then you can also book a private boat online.
This trip is quite expensive, especially compared to the public transport options. However, I've added it in as I understand some people prefer a luxurious private trip, especially in the Seychelles!
Best Travel Insurance for Seychelles
Important: All visitors to Seychelles must show proof of travel insurance covering expenses related to COVID-19. One of the best offerings with COVID inclusion is from Safetywing, which has cover starting at under $50.
Where to Stay on Praslin Once You Arrive
Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and flaunts some incredible hotels and resorts. Being a little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin caters to the more relaxed crowd.
The main area to stay in Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach. This is the main tourist strip with plenty of hotels and beachside resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options all over Praslin, including Anse Lazio.
- Amazing Beachside Resort on Cote D'Or: Acajou Beach Resort - Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D'Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I've ever stayed at. Acajou offers ocean views rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.
- Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria - Tucked away between 3 of the best beaches on Praslin, this luxury, 5-star resort is ranked as one of the best honeymoon resorts in the Seychelles. Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest.
- Budget Self Catering: Treasure Island Retreat - Those looking to enjoy nature and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good bet. The best one you'll find on the island is Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen, and a furnished terrace or balcony.
- ...7+ More Top Picks in this Praslin Accommodation Guide
More Seychelles Travel Inspiration
I hope that this updated and current guide to how to get to Praslin Island from Mahe, the Seychelles has been a useful tool for planning your vacation.
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