The island of Praslin in the Seychelles is an amazing tropical paradise complete with abundant wildlife, beautiful beaches, majestic takamaka trees, and and wild nature trails.

Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing vacation or to explore the wonders like the coco de mer palm tree forests, you’ll quickly discover that there is so many things to do in Praslin Island that suits every travel-style.

In this Praslin Island travel guide, I’m offering you a run-down of the absolute best things to do including the best natural attractions and must-see highlights. Furthermore, below you’ll also find a detailed section with loads of useful information and tips for your visit including how to get there and where to stay.

More: 10 Best Accommodations, Resorts & Hotels on Praslin.

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About Praslin Island in the Seychelles

Praslin Island is one of the inner islands and is the second-largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. Praslin (pronounced prah-luhn), is also known as Île de Palme, or Island of Palms due to its abundant endemic palm species found nowhere else on earth.

White Praslin is a much quieter and more relaxed island to visit compared to Mahé Island, there is still very solid tourism infrastructure including restaurants, resorts, hotels and transport services.

It’s considered as one of the top three islands to visit in the Seychelles, along with Mahe and La Digue. If you’re traveling to the Seychelles for vacation, you’ll find that there are many things to do on Praslin from beach-hopping to nature trail hiking, making it one of the best inner-islands to visit in the archipelago.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

How to Get to Praslin Island?

There are three main options for getting to Praslin Island from Mahe. I’ve written this detailed guide which goes into the details but here’s a quick summary.

Mahe to Praslin Ferry
Taking the Cat Cocos ferry is the most cost-effective and popular way to get to Praslin. It departs from Mahe and takes roughly 1 hour to arrive at Baie Sainte Anne and it costs €50. You can book this online in advance to secure a spot.

Mahe to Praslin Flight
Yes, there’s also a flight and this is what I did. Regular flights are run by Air Seychelles and depart from the Mahe Domestic Terminal (same as the international airport). The plane is tiny, accommodating about 12 people. What’s great about this option is you’ll get to see the islands from the air on a scenic flight that lasts about 10-15 minutes.

Tip: Compare flight fares on Skyscanner and CheapOAir to get the best deals.

Praslin Island Day Trip
If you’re short on time and want to see the attractions and experience the best things to do on Praslin AND La Digue in a single day, then you can book a private 1-day tour online with Creole Travel Services.

15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island

Without further ado, let’s dive into this rich list of the best things to do on Praslin Island in the Seychelles! I haven’t ranked these attractions in order so it’ll be up to you to choose your favorites!

1. Explore the Fine White Sands and Turquoise Water of the Praslin Beaches

The palm tree lined, amazing beaches of the Seychelles are world-famous for their impressive granite boulders, fine white sands, and dream-like clear blue waters.

The beaches of Praslin are by no means an exception to this, and in fact has some of the most beautiful in the archipelago! There’s also a great variety, from sandy beaches with shallow waters to high tide snorkeling spots housing healthy coral reefs.

I’ve written a complete guide below which will be useful when trying to find the best beaches and planning your itinerary for things to do on Praslin. However, here’s a summary:

• Anse Lazio
• Anse St Jose
• Petite Anse Lazio
• Anse Georgette
• Anse Kerlan
• Cote D’Or Beach (Anse Volbert)
• Cocos Island Beach
• Anse Boudin
• Anse Kerlan Beach
• Grand Anse

Read more: Best Beaches on the Island

Curieuse Island is a former leper colony but now serves as the best place toto meet the giant tortoises. That’s because the island has been turned into a Aldebra Giant Tortoise refuge, with an effective breeding program that allows the tortoises to roam free.

Book in advance: Curieuse & St Pierre Day-Trip

3. Visit The Vallée de Mai – Unesco World Heritage Site

The best thing to do on Praslin for nature and wildlife lovers is to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve. This incredibly diverse site within the Praslin National Park is the best place to experience a forest of endemic coco de mer palm trees in a natural state.

The rare coco de mer palm is endemic to the Seychelles and is best known for producing the largest seeds of any plant. While you can spot the occasional coco de mer palm on the surrounding islands including Curieuse, the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers one of the best experiences.

That’s because you’ll get to walk among the densest coco de mer forest in the world and learn all about the unique Praslin endemic species.

Book in advance: Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio Guided Day-Trip

4. Spot a Black Parrot

Among the several rare species only found on Praslin Island is the elusive Black Parrot. This parrot uses the unique forests and nests almost exclusively in decaying coco de mer palm trees.

It’s a very beautiful bird and quite cool to be able to spot something that’s found nowhere else on earth.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to photograph the black parrot on my visit to Praslin. However, I did spot some flying around the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve early in the morning.

5. Visit Anse Lazio

Are you looking to add the best beach on Praslin Island to your list of things to do? Look no further than Anse Lazio on the northwest coast.

The stunning Anse Lazio Beach is one of the most pristine beaches you’ll find anywhere. It’s often rated as one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles and sometimes even in the whole world!

You’ll find plenty of shade amongst tropical takamaka trees and hanging palms. The water is a sometimes unbelievable shade of clear, turquoise blue and the fine white sands make a perfect bed for chilling. There’s even a private beach right next to it called Petite Anse Lazio.

Book in advance: Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio Guided Day-Trip

6. Go on A Snorkeling Trip to Cocos Island

For those looking to add snorkeling to their list of what to do on Praslin, I’d recommend booking a small-group tour to Cocos & Felicity Island.

While you can certainly spot some healthy coral reefs and the occasional turtle in the Praslin Marine Park, you’ll find the most abundant sea life around these islands.

Book: Cocos, Felicity, La Digue Snorkeling Trip

7. Treat Yourself to A Beach-side Resort

The Seychelles are very much a luxury tropical travel destination. While Praslin isn’t a private island, you’ll find some of the best luxury hotels and resorts right here!

Of course, travelers will be confronted with an abundance of choice when picking a place to stay. To narrow it down, I’ve compiled a quick list of some of the best luxurious hotels and resorts below.

• Acajou Beach Resort – Where I stayed
• Berjaya Praslin Resort
• Le Château de Feuilles
• Constance Lemuria

8. Unwind at Côte d’Or Beach

Cote D’Or Beach, also sometimes referred to as Anse Volbert is the most popular beach on Praslin. This is due to its close proximity to a number of luxurious resorts, guesthouses and hotels.

This is a long stretch of pristine, soft white sand and shallow, clear blue waters. Even if you’re not staying at one of the beachside resorts, this beach is one of the best places to enjoy a long, relaxing walk.

If you’re not in the mood to wind down, you’ll find water sports and other activities like jet-ski and speedboat trips departing from this beach.

9. Visit the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve – Best Thing to do on Praslin For Nature Lovers

The Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve is a 122 hectare area of dense jungle and enchanting tropical forests. This nature preserve is a was once a palm plantation but its biodiversity is recovering rapidly.

There are several nature trails through the Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, making it one of the best places on the island for hiking and wildlife-spotting.

10. Dine at Pirogue Restaurant & Bar

While you’re in the main tourist strip at Anse Volbert Village (Cote D’Or), make sure to stop by the Pirogue Restaurant & Bar for good food and rich history.

I’m by no means a food blogger, but I had to include this restaurant in this list of things to do on Praslin Island after my visit.

Pirogue offers a wide-range of authentic and traditional Seychellois Creole foods including delicious curries and seafood. This is a great restaurant if you are looking to surprise your significant other with a memorable meal.

11. Hike to Anse Georgette

If you’re up for a rewarding hike to one of Praslin’s best private beaches, add Anse Georgette to your list of what to do on the island.

Anse Georgette is located just to the west of Anse Lazio and rivals its beauty and esteem. You’ll find the 1-hour nature trail on the west side of Anse Lazio.

If you’d prefer not to hike, you can always stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort. This is the closest resort to Anse Georgette and provides a shorter access trail directly from the resort.

12. Take Photos at the Famous Bent Palm Tree

While many tourists choose to pick up a coco de mer as a souvenir from their visit to Praslin Island, I’m a firm believer that photos serve as better keepsakes.

While you’re strolling Cote D’Or Beach, there’s a spot with two hanging palm trees that make for the perfect photo location. You’ll find the palms directly in front of “Galerie Passerose”.

13. Visit La Digue Island

While many tourists tend to pick a spot and stay there for their entire Seychelles vacation, a much better option would be to island hop! This way, you’ll get to see so much more of what the Seychelles Islands have to offer.

If you’re planning your trip, then I highly recommend dedicated at least a day or two to visiting La Digue Island.

Getting to La Digue is very easy, quick, and affordable from Praslin Island. Simply book the Cat Rose Ferry from the Baie Sainte Anne ferry port on the east side of Praslin.

La Digue has several must-see highlights including amazing beaches like Anse Source d’Argent, several great hiking trails, and of course, the historic L’Union Estate.

Book a Day Trip From Praslin: La Digue, Coco, Felicity Islands

14. Sip a Cold Seybrew

While you’re in the Seychelles, you have to try a locally-brewed Seybrew Lager. You’ll find Seybrew in almost every resort and restaurant on Praslin Island.

Seychellois are very proud of their local lager and almost everyone will tell you that you have to try at least one during your time on the islands!

15. Enjoy the Famous Indian Ocean Sunsets

This final item on this list of things to do on Praslin Island in the Seychelles is to take a breath and really soak in those dramatic Indian Ocean Sunsets.

Praslin is a great destination for sunset chasers and the island where I witnessed some of the best in the Seychelles!

Great sunset spots include Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, Grand Anse Beach and Petite Anse Kerlan.

Praslin Island Travel Guide

That wraps up the list of things to do on Praslin Island.

Before you shoot off ticking off those bucket-list goals, check out this detailed Praslin travel guide below for more tips and information you’ll want to know!

Where to Stay on Praslin Island

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Time to Visit Praslin Island

Since the Seychelles archipelago is within the subequatorial climatic zone, you’ll find stable, sunny weather year-round. This means you won’t find cyclones but seasonal rainfall periods with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C. 

The best time to visit Praslin to see is between April and May and October and November.

In saying that, I visited in December and the weather was absolutely perfect as you can see from the photos.

How to Get Around on Praslin

Praslin Island is much bigger than neighboring La Digue but it’s still much sleepier than the main island of Mahe.

Two parallel roads running the length of the island serve as the main transportation routes. Additionally, there is one access road crossing the south-central mountains, passing Vallée de Mai.

Your best bet to get around on the island is to take a taxi or book organized tours.

A Brief History of Praslin Island

Originally named Isle de Palmes by Lazare Picault in 1744, Praslin was for a long time, a secure hideaway for pirates and Arab merchants using the trade winds to cross the Indian Ocean.

Praslin has a long history of cultivation, with palm products and vanilla pods dominating their historical exports.

Praslin, just like the rest of the Seychelles Islands, experienced varying colonial rule including French and British until they gained independence in 1976.

Travel Guide: Praslin Island FAQ’s for Visitors

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about travel on Praslin Island.

Q. What is the Population of Praslin?

The small white island of Praslin has an equally tiny population of just 7 500 people. You’ll find the Seychellois of Praslin often say that they know almost everyone, which is apparently both a blessing and a curse!

Q. Where To Go in the Seychelles, Mahe or Praslin?

So, which is better, Mahe or Praslin?

As a general comparison, there are more things to do on Mahe but being a main island, it is much busier. Conversely, Praslin still has lots of activities and beautiful beaches to explore, just with a quieter ambience and lack of traffic.

Q. How Big is Praslin Island?

Praslin Island is the second largest island of Seychelles but is still a small island with an overall size of just 14.87 square miles (3850 hectares).

Q. How Far is Praslin from Mahe?

Praslin is just under 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Mahe as the crow flies. It’s a 10 minute flight or a 1 hour ferry ride to Praslin from Mahe.

Q. WHat is Unique About Praslin?

As you’ve found in this Praslin travel guide with plenty of things to do, the island is quite unique! However, perhaps one of the most unique aspects of Praslin is that it is granitic. This means that Praslin Island is made up of granite stone.

This is a geological feature that has only ever been discovered in the Seychelles islands.

Q. WHERE IS PRASLIN LOCATED?

Praslin Island is one of the inner islands in the independent republic of the Seychelles. The island is close to neighboring Cousin Island, La Digue, and Curieuse.

More Things to do in the Seychelles

I sincerely hope that this in-depth travel guide to the best things to do on Praslin Island has helped you plan your vacation in the Seychelles.

Before you leave, make sure to check out some of my other articles. I’ve written extensively about awesome adventure and travel ideas for the region. And, I guarantee that you’ll find something new!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island – Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles – 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles – 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin – Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• La Digue Hikes – 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles – Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island – Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE appeared first on We Seek Travel.

While many people visit the Seychelles for the white-sand beaches and luxury resorts, the truth is that this archipelago has so much more to offer.

That’s why I hope to fill the gap and let you in on all the epic adventure opportunities available in the Seychelles.

After spending a lot of time hiking some of the best trails on La Digue, Praslin, and Mahé, I’ve formulated this run-down of 15 awesome hikes in the Seychelles. I hope it inspires you to get out and explore more of this incredible destination.

15 Awesome Hikes in the Seychelles

1. Anse Marron Hike, La Digue

La Digue comes to the top of my list of favorite islands to go hiking on in the Seychelles.

And, one of the best hikes on the island is the nature trail to Anse Marron. This secluded hidden-gem has long been an island secret but has recently blown up on an international scale. This is largely due to a few guides opening up guided walks to Anse Marron.

Once you lay eyes on this beach, you'll soon discover why. This sheltered, private beach is one of the most breathtaking beaches in the Seychelles. It features incredibly blue water and a sheltered cove with amazing granite rock formations.

However, before you head out, it’s best to know that tourists are highly discouraged from commencing this Seychelles hike independently. Apparently, I was told that a lot of tourists get lost on this trail and require rescue and I was told I shouldn’t post directions for this reason. 

Luckily, there are small-group, guided trips that are going to be your best bet. In fact, this particular trip to Anse Marron is one of the most-booked and highest-rated tours on La Digue Island. It has 5-stars on Viator– one of the world’s best booking websites, with a Badge of Excellence on Tripadvisor. Best of all, it only costs around €40 for a whole day!

2. Morne Blanc Nature Trail, Mahe

Mahé is another incredible Seychelles island for hiking. One of my favorite hikes here is the Morne Blanc Nature Trail. This track is located within the beautiful Morne Seychellois National Park (Morne Seychelles National Park).

This is one of the best hikes for amazing views over the west coast of the island. The trail begins on Sans Soucis Road, the scenic, cross-island road connecting Victoria to Port Glaud.

The Morne Blanc trail is a steep but short climb through amazing jungle to reach the viewpoint. It's only 1.8 kilometers return, but you'll need to hike up around 230 meters of elevation to the summit (667 m above sea-level).

From the top, you’ll get a vantage point of Therese and Conception Island, running all the way down the coast to Petite Anse on the south cape.

3. Anse Cocos Hikes, La Digue

It's no secret that La Digue has some of the best beaches in the world. Besides Anse Source D'Argent, one of the absolute best is Anse Cocos.

There are two options to get to Anse Cocos on La Digue and both of them require nature trail hikes.

The easy option is to take the short coastal trail from Grand Anse. This is a very scenic, easy, and beautiful trail. It offers plenty of opportunity for wildlife spotting, including the Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher, the Bulbul, Giant Day Gecko, and the Seychelles Bronze Gecko.

If you're up for more of a challenge, you could hike to Anse Cocos from Belle Vue Road, passing the Romeo & Juliette viewpoint (below).

4. Anse Georgette Hike, Praslin

Everybody knows about the amazing Anse Lazio on Praslin.

However, what many visitors don't know is that its neighbor, Anse Georgette, is equally as beautiful. Best of all, it's much quieter too!

To get to Anse Georgette, you'll need to either stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort, or take the jungle trail over the hill from Anse Lazio.

This trail takes about an hour but is easy to follow for the duration. Start the hike from the west end of Anse Lazio beach.

5. Le Glacis Noir Trail, PRaslin

The Le Glacis Noir Trail is one of the best hiking trails on Praslin Island. You can begin this hike from the nearby Vallée de Mai.

The trail leads through the dense, tropical forests and climbs to a viewpoint tower offering an amazing vantage point of the coast. The roughly 2.8-kilometre trail is mostly shaded throughout and should take about an hour for most people to complete.

This is one of the best hiking trails in the Seychelles for wildlife spotting. Most people see multiple black parrots here!

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles

6. Anse Major Nature Trail, Mahe

My favorite beach on Mahé is the remote and mind-blowingly epic Anse Major.

To get here, hikers will need to take a relatively short and easy hike starting near the western end of Beau Vallon.

The hike to this remote beach on the isolated northwest end of Mahe offers both jungle and coastal views. However, it's the view at the end that really takes the cake for the most stunning scenery.

Anse Major beach has crystal clear water, perfect white sand and an unbelievable mountain backdrop. Check out some of the images I captured of this beach from my drone.

7. Nid D'Aigle (Eagle's Nest), La Digue

Fancy hiking to the highest point of La Digue Island?

This point is known as Nid D'Airlge or the Eagle's Nest. The summit is roughly 333 meters. However, chances are you won't be beginning this trail from sea level.

The best way to hike Nid D'Aigle in the Seychelles is to begin at Belle Vue Restaurant. There's a steep but short trail leading from this restaurant all the way to the summit in less than 20 minutes.

8. Copolia Trail, Mahe

If Morne Blanc offers the best views of Mahé's west coast, then the Copolia has the best views of the east.

This trail begins on the same cross-island road, but this time closer to Victoria. The trail is also similar, being short, but steep. In total, expect just 1.9 kilometers return.

Book: Copolia Trail Guided hike

At the end, you'll be greeted with incredible views of the east coast beaches, the village of Takamaka, Victoria, and Eden Island.

Rental Cars on Mahé

If you're looking to explore the main island of Mahé, it's a good idea to rent your own vehicle. However, I recommend booking this well in advance if you want to secure a good rate as rentals are every limited during the peak season.

That's why I recommend using DiscoverCars to compare prices across different companies on Mahé.

Compare Rental Deals

9. Salazie & Pasquière Track, Praslin

This next trail is one of the longest hikes on the Seychelles island of Praslin. This is a loop trail combining the Salazie Track with the Pasquière Trail.

The path is quite level, with little incline throughout. It features several great coastal viewpoints and an opportunity to walk through some of the island's less visited areas. On this loop, you'll see:

• Anse Volbert
• Anse Petite Cour
• Grand Anse
• Anse Possession

It's best to start this one at Grand Anse and continue into the interior from there.

10. Romeo & Juliet Viewpoint Hike (Unique Viewpoints), La Digue

This next trail is a remote hike through La Digue's dense interior. This one follows several random logging trails from Belle Vue Road and therefore, I recommend contacting Henry (above) to show you the way.

The Romeo & Juliet viewpoint is an epic rock vantage point over La Digue's mostly untouched east coast.

The view stretches over the green, tropical jungle and all the way down to the Anse Cocos, Petite Anse, and Grand Anse. It’s by far my favorite view on the island.

After soaking up the views you can continue down to Anse Cocos. From here, it's best to walk back via Grand Anse to avoid the steep climb back to the road.

Related:

Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Accommodation Guide)

11. Mare Aux cochons Trail, Mahe

One of the lesser-known hikes in the Seychelles is the cross-island Mare aux Cochons trail.

While this one doesn’t offer as many spectacular views as some of the other hikes on this list, it instead allows you to experience the island's interior. That's because the Mare aux Cochons trail has some of the best plant and wildlife viewing in the archipelago.

Again, this trail is a little remote and difficult to follow. Therefore, I recommend booking a guide. My great friend Roddey (above) took me on this trail. He knows absolutely everything about the history and nature of the Seychelles and will point out all the highlights. 

12. Anse Songe Nature Trail, La Digue

Starting from Grand Anse, Anse Songe is another great short coastal nature trail on La Digue Island.

This trail begins just a few hundred meters before the access to Grand Anse beach on the southeastern end of La Digue. The track begins by winding through flat, sandy jungle before climbing over a short hill. In total, this Seychelles hiking trail should only take about 20 minutes and you could even ride your bicycle to the short hill, cutting down some time.

Anse Songe is a rocky beach that you’ll often have all to yourself. This beach is a little shallow and there is a small stretch of sand below a large granite boulder that is great for swimming (confident swimmers only) and cooling off after the walk.

13. Sauzier Waterfall Trail, Mahe

The Seychelles doesn't just have great hikes– it's even got waterfalls!

One of my favorites is Sauzier Waterfall, located just a short walk from Port Glaud, on the western side of Mahé.

The trail starts just a few hundred meters into the village from the church. There's an entry fee for this one, which is just 50 SCR per person. The hike follows a scenic track for just five minutes before finishing up at a majestic jungle waterfall complete with a deep swimming hole.

Travel tip: This waterfall is included on the 6-hour adventure tour on Mahé.

14. Ros Sodyer Rock Pool Hike, Mahe

Another unique hiking opportunity on Mahe is the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool near Anse Takamaka beach. This is quite a distance from popular tourist hubs like Beau Vallon Beach and Eden Island. So, if you're not too keen on organizing transport, then I'd recommend just booking an organized day trip to the pools instead.

The hike is roughly 45-60 minutes return at about 2.2 kilometers in total. It's a relatively easy track following jungle trails before popping out onto the granite rock features on the coast.

Book: Guided tour to Ros Sodyer on Mahe

The rock pool is very deep and is perfect for swimming in good weather. I suggest trying to line up your hike to arrive at low hide for the best experience.

15. Vallée de Mai, Praslin

The last trail on this list of the best hikes in the Seychelles is the one-and-only Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.

Vallée de Mai is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best place in the Seychelles to see the endemic coco de mer palms. There is a variety of loop trail options you can take, each with amazing opportunities to see the Seychelles endemic palms.

At the entrance, there are dried examples of the coco de mer (male and female), as well as a few other Seychelles endemic palm seeds. 

There is an entrance fee of 350 SCR to enter Vallée de Mai. However, this money goes to maintaining the reserve, as well as the Aldabra Atoll.

Praslin highlights tour: Vallée de Mai & Anse Lazio

Where to Stay in the Seychelles

No doubt, picking the right accommodation for your trip is important. There's nothing like relaxing in iconic Seychelles beachside hotels after a long day of hiking.

Below you'll find great recommendations and resources when planning your visit to the Seychelles.

If you want island-specific breakdowns with more options, then also check out the guides below:

• La Digue Accommodation Guide
• Praslin Accommodation Guide
• Mahe Accommodation Guide

Best Accommodation Picks For La Digue

La Digue is quite a small island and you can get anywhere on a bicycle within 20-30 minutes. You'll find a lot of hotels on the west side of the island near the jetty but only a few along the narrow stretch of coastal road on the mostly inhabited eastern side.

On La Digue, there are a wide variety of hotel and resort offerings ranging from relatively "budget friendly" self-catering lodges to incredible luxury resorts.

Below is a quick summary of the best picks.

• Amazing Chateau: Hotel Chateau St Cloud (Mid-Range) - This is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island. This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.
• Waterfront Hotel: Le Nautique (High-end) - Rated as one of the best waterfront accommodations on La Digue, Le Nautique is a luxurious offering combining traditional Creole architecture with modern comforts including king-sized beds and rain-showers. Here, you'll also discover an amazing outdoor restaurant and beautiful garden surrounds.
• Self Catering: Dream Holiday (Budget) -located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. Offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you're visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.
• ...9+ more top hotel picks on La Digue

View Top-Rated La Digue Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Praslin

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Best Accommodation Picks for Mahe

Mahé is the main island and home to Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles. It's the largest of the inner islands and has several great places to stay. Here is a quick area guide with the top 4 accommodation recommendations below.

• Victoria and Eden Island for nightlife
• Beau Vallon for beaches and restaurants
• Private islands for the ultimate island experience

Top Accommodation Picks

• Top pick on Mahé: Eden Bleu Hotel (Eden Island) - The Eden Bleu Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you're looking to be close to the Victoria and on Eden Island. It's an amazing contemporary hotel on the foreshore of Eden Island's prestigious marina.
• Mid-range resort: Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort - This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offers elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you'll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, PADI diving center, and a tennis court.
• Budget self-catering Studio: Precious Residence - If you want to explore Mahé on a budget, then self-catering accommodation is your best bet. Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).
• Ultimate getaway: JA Enchanted Island Resort - Looking for the ultimate Indian Ocean getaway? JA Enchanted Island Resort is an impeccably beautiful resort located on a tiny private island on the footsteps of the St Anne Marine Park.
• ...10+ More Top Recommendations in this guide to where to stay on Mahé

See the Top-Rated Mahé Hotels

Things to Know About Hiking in the Seychelles

Here are some quick things to know about hiking in the Seychelles.

• Hiring a local guide is the best way to experience the awesome hiking trails in the Seychelles. This way, you’ll not only get to enjoy the nature, but you’ll learn so much about the endemic plants and animals of the Seychelles. The guys and girls below are my great friends and awesome guides:
  - Praslin: Medina
  - La Digue: Henry
  - Mahé: Roddey
• Internet & LTE connectivity is not great once you get out on the trails. If you plan to walk some of the more remote nature trails in the Seychelles, it’s best to know this in advance. You can pick up a sim card with Airtel at the Mahe airport or at Cable & Wireless Kiosks on the main islands.
• Hiking in the Seychelles is one of the best activities to do on your vacation. Most islands are mountainous with lots of untouched, jungle interior that is rich in biodiversity and has several maintained nature trails.
• The Granitic Islands of the Seychelles are very unique. This is the only place on earth where granite islands exist mid-ocean.
• Getting between islands is very easy. Read how to get to La Digue and how to get to Praslin. The most popular is to take the Cat Cocos ferry from Mahe Island to Praslin first.
• Endemic species are abundant in the Seychelles. La Digue in particular is one of the only islands where you can spot the illusive Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher.
• Individual hiking guides can be found throughout this post. These links go to detailed guides with a rundown of the specific nature trail with more photos.

Best time to Visit the Seychelles for Hiking

The Seychelles sits near the equator within the subequatorial climatic zone. What this means is that the islands enjoy a tropical and mostly-stable climate with a constant temperature between 25-35°C.

As a result, the Seychelles has great weather for hiking. However, just remember to pack plenty of water on hot days.

Furthermore, there are periods of seasonal rainfall which tend to begin in December and finish in March.

Many sources say that the best time to visit the Seychelles is during the months of April and May and October and November. However, don't be too worried about visiting in the wetter months. My recent trip was in December and I had great hiking weather almost every day!

Beyond the Trails: More Seychelles Travel Guides & Inspiration

That's a wrap for this rundown of the best Seychelles hikes and nature trail walks. Before you go, stick around for more detailed guides and inspiration for planning your trip.

Below are three island-specific guides that cover everything you need to know on Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue.

• Mahé Island Travel Guide
• Praslin Island Travel Guide
• La Digue Island Travel Guide

Alternatively, check out some of the below guides for more inspiration!

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to the Rock Pool on Mahe (Ros Sodyer) - The Seychelles
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, family vacation, couples getaway or a business trip, I think it’s safe to agree that the Seychelles is one of the best tropical destinations to consider in the Indian Ocean. From exploring beautiful white sand beaches to relaxing in private plunge pools, to hiking and water sports, the Seychelles has it going on!

However, with a total of 115 islands, it can be a little daunting to when trying to choose where to stay in the Seychelles. When I was planning my first trip, one of the most difficult parts was narrowing down the best islands to visit, let alone trying to find the best areas and places to stay!

After a lot of research, I’ve finally narrowed down the absolute must-visit islands, as well as the top Seychelles hotels, resorts, and accommodations based on my personal experience, guest reviews, and price.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles - The Best Areas

Before I get into the Seychelles hotel and resort recommendations, below is a quick run-down of the best areas to stay.

The truth is, while there are 115 islands in the Seychelles, most people tend to visit the main three in the inner islands group, which has a total of 43 islands.

These three main islands are Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. If you're visiting the Seychelles, I recommend breaking up your trip to stay on at least, these three islands.

Don't worry, getting to each is very easy by either boat or scenic flight, and doesn't take long since they are very close together. In saying that, I'm actually going to recommend five islands in total to give you a bit of variety.

• Mahe
• Praslin
• La Dique
• Silouhette Island
• Cousine Island

Below I'll go into more detail about why you should stay on these Seychelles islands. But you can skip straight to the hotel section for a personalized and hand-picked hotel, resort, and accommodation recommendations for where to stay on each.

Mahe - Best Place To Stay in the Seychelles For Families

From white-sand beaches complete with tropical, turquoise water and beautiful granitic rock formations, to amazing hiking and adventure opportunities with spectacular jungle views, Mahe Island is the ideal place to spend a Seychelles vacation.

Chances are, if you're flying into the Seychelles, you'll land on Mahe, the largest island in the inner island group. That's because this is where you'll find the Seychelles International Airport.

More: Mahe Accommodation Guide

Furthermore, the capital of the Seychelles, Victoria, if found here. But don't let that worry you. Victoria is very laid back and is actually one of the smallest capital cities in the world!

There are loads of beach hotels, luxury resorts, and private guest houses on Mahe, making it a great place to stay for families. You can also book loads of trips or hire a local guide to show you and the family around the island.

But, Mahe is not just for families. Many people choose to stay here either when they land or the days before they fly out. The best areas to stay in Mahe are:

• Victoria & Eden Island
• Beau Vallon
• West Coast
• Takamaka
• Sainte Anne Marine Park

Best Mahé Hotels

Praslin - Where to Stay in the Seychelles for Relaxing Holidays

Praslin Island is another great place to stay in the Seychelles, especially for relaxing and unwinding.

The island of Praslin is located just a short ferry or scenic flight away. It's really easy to get here from Mahe, and I'd say it's definitely worth a visit.

Praslin is much more laid back than the main island of Mahe. And, you'll find the same amazing turquoise waters, relaxing beaches and snorkeling opportunities here.

More: Praslin Accommodation Guide

One of the main reasons why people chose to stay on this Seychelles island is to see the one and only Anse Lazio, and to take a day-trip to Curieuse Island, where you can meet several giant Aldabra tortoises roaming freely.

As you might expect, there are plenty of excellent honeymoon lodgings, family resorts, and romantic beach hotels on Praslin. The best areas to stay are:

• Anse Takamaka
• Grand Anse
• Anse Kerlan
• Chauve Souris Island
• Baie Ste Anne (near the ferry terminal)

Best Praslin Hotels

La Digue - Best Place to Stay in the Seychelles for Adventure

The funnest place to stay in the Seychelles is the tiny, granitic island of La Digue.

Chances are, you'll have already seen plenty of photos from this amazing Indian Ocean island, especially shots of the world-renowned Anse Source D'Argent. This beach is commonly featured in travel magazines and ads, showcasing its amazing tranquil waters and beautiful granite boulders.

More: La Digue Accommodation Guide

However, the truth is that this island has so much more to offer. From amazing hiking to more beautiful beaches, this tiny little island is an adventurer's playground.

Best of all, there aren't many cars on the island, meaning you can ride a bicycle almost anywhere!

Visiting La Digue and wondering where to stay on this amazing Seychelles island? The main areas are L’Union and La Passe. This is close to the ferry terminal, which is where you will arrive from Praslin. In this area, there are lots of boutique hotels and luxury beach resorts right on the palm tree-lined beach.

Best La Dique Hotels

Silhouette Island - Where to Stay in the Seychelles for Honeymoon

With the main islands out of the way, let's look at two more amazing islands you can stay on in the Seychelles.

The first is Silhouette Island. This incredible destination is best known for its outstanding mountain landscape. Life here is quiet, laid back, and traditional. In fact, only about 200 people live here, and their traditional methods of agriculture have remained unchanged for several hundred years.

The main place to stay on this Seychelles island is the Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa. This amazing 5-star resort features private plunge pools, and private tropical gardens, located right on the beach. The mountain backdrops here are absolutely stunning.

And, due to the relaxed and isolated location, makes it one of the best places to stay in the Seychelles for your honeymoon!

Silhouette Island Hotels

Cousine - Best Seychelles Private Resort Island

The last island I'm going to recommend staying on is Cousine Island.

This green, tropical private island resort is easily one of the most beautiful in the Seychelles. In fact, Cousine received the best island destination award in recent luxury travel competitions.

This incredible little island features French colonial-style, luxury private villas amongst lush island greenery. The best part about staying here is that no matter where you go, you're always a 1 minute's walk from the beach!

Cousine is located just off the coast of Mahe and a private transfer to the island is included if you book your accommodation here.

View on Booking.com

Seychelles Accommodation Summary

Okay, now that you have a good idea about the best areas and islands to stay on in the Seychelles, let's get into the detailed accommodation recommendations!

I've personally selected the below best 6 luxury resorts, 5 mid-range hotels, and 4 "cheap" self-catering and guest houses. These Seychelles accommodations are spread out in the list of recommended islands and places to stay above.

My selections are based on my personal experience staying at the hotels, as well as hours of comparative research.

Below is a summary table, but I've also given detailed descriptions for each accommodation recommendation below.

Best Luxury Hotels & Resorts in the Seychelles

	Option	Island	Price
	Cousine Island	Cousine	$$$$$
	Four Seasons Resort	Mahe	$$$$
	Anantara Maia Villas	Mahe	$$$$
	Constance Lemuria	Praslin	$$$
	Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa	Silhouette	$$$
	Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie	La Digue	$$$

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Alternative Private Island Experience: North Island Resort

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Best Seychelles Mid-Range Hotels

	Option	Island	Price
	Le Domaine de la Reserve	Praslin	$$$
	Acajou Beach Resort	Praslin	$$
	Eden Bleu	Mahe	$$
	Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay	Mahe	$$
	Chateau St Cloud	La Digue	$$

Best Cheap Seychelles Accommodation

	Option	Island	Price
	Treasure Island Retreat	Praslin	$$
	Dream Holiday	La Digue	$
	East View Self Catering	Mahe	$
	Precious Residence	Mahe	$

Best Seychelles Hotels, Luxury Resorts, And Cheap Accommodation

By now, you'll probably have a good idea about where you'll want to stay in the Seychelles based on your budget and your style of travel.

Below, I'll go into a bit more detail on why I've selected these Seychelles accommodation options as the best places to stay. Note I've split these up into varying budgets, so it should cover everyone from luxury honeymooners to budget family getaways.

Best Luxury Hotels

Looking for ultimate luxury?

These six 5-star resorts are commonly recommended as the best luxury accommodation in the Seychelles. From private island resorts to prime, beachfront hotels with tennis courts, spacious villas, and spa treatments, you won't need to look beyond this list when choosing where to stay in luxury!

1. Cousine Island

• Island: Cousine
• Best for: Ultimate private island getaway

One of the most premium luxury offerings in the Seychelles is a stay at the Cousine Island private villas.

These incredible villas are expensive, but that's because they tailor to those looking for a once-in-a-lifetime tropical vacation or honeymoon. Cousine Island is privately owned and is immaculately maintained to preserve the lush endemic vegetation and wildlife, while simultaneously offering a truly luxury villa.

There are plenty of pool villa options to choose from. Several feature amazing private plunge pools, tropical gardens, and spectacular views of the jungle interior or the Indian Ocean.

If you really want to spoil your significant other, check out the presidential suite, one of the most amazing luxury accommodations in the Seychelles.

View on Booking.com

2. Four Seasons Seychelles Resort

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or families wanting quiet luxury on a beautiful private beach

Nestled on the hills overlooking one of Mahe's best beaches is a high-end, luxury Seychelles resort ran by the Four Seasons Seychelles.

Four Seasons is one of the best hotel brands that is world-famous for its high-end, luxury accommodations and amazing service. And, the Four Seasons in the Seychelles is no exception, being one of the premiere luxury resort offerings in the country.

This hotel offers spectacular villas and features several world-class, elegant restaurants on site. If you're bringing your family, you'll also love the kid's programs and the activities you can book directly from the hotel.

This great location is quite unique, being situated on the secluded Petite Anse on Mahe's west coast. This region is quiet but features some of the most amazing turquoise water beaches and most spectacular granite rock formations on the island.

View on Booking.com

3. Anantara Maia Seychelles

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or families wanting to immerse themselves in 5 star luxury

One of the best, 5 stay luxury resorts in the Seychelles is found on Anse Louis Beach in Sainte Anne Marine Park, just off the coast of Mahe.

Anantara Maia is one of the Seychelles best luxury island resorts and features a gourmet restaurant, wellness center and mini spa.

The private suites at this resort have to be seen to be believed. Although pricey, this is one of the top-reviewed 5-star beach resorts on the island and is loved by honeymooners and couples seeking ultimate perfection with amazing service.

The unique location also makes it one of the best places to stay on the island for activities and adventures. Picture yourself paddle boarding, kayaking, or snorkeling right on the doorstep of the National Marine Park!

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4. Constance Lemuria

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Couples who want to immerse themselves in the Seychelles culture

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. The Constance Lemuria is an amazing and feature-rich Seychelles accommodation option on the quiet side of Praslin.

Attached is a luxury spa center complete with a hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest. There’s even an 18-hole golf course on this property!

What’s great about Constance Lemuria is it provides access to Anse Georgette, one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on Praslin!

View on Booking.com

5. Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa - Where to Stay on Silhouette Island, the Seychelles

• Island: Silhouette Island
• Best for: A truly unique honeymoon getaway

It's no secret that Silhouette Island is one of the most amazing islands in the Seychelles. If you're going to visit, you'll want to stay at the one and only Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa.

The spectacular backdrops of soaring mountains and the sound of a gentle breeze rolling in over the Indian Ocean. That's what I call true tropical tranquility. Silhouette Island offers one of the most unique Seychelles accommodation experiences, with a chance to stay on an island with only 200 inhabitants!

This beach resort features a stunning pool, private garden, and direct access to a spectacular, palm tree-lined, white sand beach.

View on Booking.com

6. Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Young families or honeymooners wanting a luxury island escape on La Digue

Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie is a beautiful beachside resort located on the north end of La Digue Island (La Passe).

This amazing luxury resort features an island-famous pool with views overlooking the tranquil Indian Ocean. Furthermore, at Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie, you’ll also find two large restaurants, a full wellness spa with massage and body treatments, a spa, sauna, gym, and babysitting/child-minding services.

This high-end accommodation offering on La Digue is great for families or honeymooners looking for a tropical getaway with all the bells and whistles.

View on Booking.com

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Another must-see luxury hotel: Senses Zil Pasyon

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Best Mid-Range Hotels

Looking for a touch of luxury without the price tag? The below recommendations are among the best places to stay in the Seychelles for mid-range budgets.

1. Le Domaine de la Reserve

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Couples wanting to escape to paradise with incredible snorkeling.

One of the best mid-range Seychelles beach hotels is found on the shores of Anse Petite Cour on Praslin Island. The Domaine de la Reserve is a stunning hotel accommodation overlooking the beautiful Curieuse Island National Park and features a huge swimming pool with beach-front water access. 

There are two bars and two restaurants at this amazing hotel and the complex is designed so that every single room as views over the ocean. This is an excellent choice for where to stay for couples wanting to unwind and relax in a secluded area of Praslin Island.

Right on the edge of the private beach, you'll have amazing views of the iconic Seychelles granite rock formations.

View on Booking.com

2. Acajou Beach Resort

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Amazing beach-side luxury resort with excellent restaurant without the price tag

Acajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sands of Cote D’Or beach, one of the best on Praslin.

I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I’ve ever stayed at. Acajou offers Indian Ocean view rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.

If you're wondering about where to stay the Seychelles, particularly on Praslin, make sure you consider this amazing beachside hotel on the white sandy shores of Cote D'Or Beach.

View on Booking.com

3. Eden Bleu (Eden Island)

• Island: Eden Island (Mahe)
• Best for: Business travelers wondering where to stay near the Seychelles capital

For business travelers, or guests wanting an unrivaled luxury hotel experience close to Victoria, the Seychelles capital, consider checking out Eden Bleu. This is located on the amazing artificial island of Eden. Here, you'll find excellent facilities including a supreme shopping complex, an amazing luxury yacht harbor, and an array of high-class restaurants.

The restaurant at Eden Bleu serves one of the best breakfasts and set-menu dinners at any hotel I’ve stayed at on Mahe. Furthermore, Eden Bleu sits adjacent and overlooking the incredible Eden Island luxury yacht marina, which makes for some pretty spectacular views.

The luxurious, spacious rooms are also beautifully designed, with a unique glass centerpiece shower layout. The master bedroom also features a balcony which is the perfect place to watch the sunset over the marina.

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4. Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Families or couples wanting the choice of exploring gorgeous beaches & hanging by the swimming pool.

For a mid-range beach hotel on Mahe, Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay offers some of the best value!

This beautiful, beachfront resort and casino combo offer elegantly furnished rooms with all the facilities you could ever want. Here, you’ll find a large pool, three restaurants, a pizzeria, a fitness center, amazing tropical gardens, a PADI scuba diving center, and a tennis court. To add to that, you'll even find a casino at this amazing Seychelles hotel on the beach!

The location is great as it’s away from the hustle and bustle of Victoria with plenty of beautiful beaches and restaurants around. In fact, Beau Vallon Beach is probably the best place to stay on Mahe!

View on Booking.com

4. Chateau St Cloud

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Quiet location on La Digue, close to Grand Anse.

Chateau St Cloud is where I stayed on La Digue and I can personally recommend it as one of the best accommodation options on the island.

This three-star hotel is perfect as a mid-range option as the location is excellent– just a little out from the main area on a quiet street that is close enough to both the incredible southwest beaches and the port.

The staff is all very accommodating and the buffet breakfast is. The rooms are very spacious and the hotel even has a beautiful pool and fully-stocked bar.

This historic chateau is one of the first buildings on the island. It was first constructed as the plantation house of a large vanilla farm during the Napoleonic Wars. These days, it’s been reinvigorated and expanded to serve as one of the best accommodations available on the island.

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Best Cheap Seychelles Accommodation

Okay, to be fair, there isn't really such a thing as cheap accommodation in the Seychelles. At least not in a traditional backpacker sense.

That's because the islands mostly cater to luxury travelers and vacationers.

However, if you are looking for Seychelles accommodation on a budget, you can save money by choosing a self-catering option. This means you get all of the facilities you need to cook and prepare your own fresh meals.

What's great about this is that fresh produce is usually quite cheap in the Seychelles, meaning you can enjoy a luxury, private experience without the huge bills!

1. Treasure Island Retreat

• Island: Praslin
• Best for: Those wanting to enjoy nature and explore the island without breaking the bank

What’s great about this island is that independent travelers and those who are budget conscious can also find great places to stay on the Seychelles Island of Praslin.

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 Praslin self-catering hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds, a living room, and a fully-equipped kitchen with a furnished terrace or balcony. Treasure Island Retreat is the answer to accommodation on a budget!

View on Booking.com

2. Dream Holiday

• Island: La Digue
• Best for: Budget-conscious travelers wanting to explore the best parts of La Digue

Dream Holiday Self Catering is located on the northern end of the island very close to the ferry terminal. This is a self-catered apartment surrounded by beautiful palm trees and tropical gardens.

This location is great as you’ll be close to bike rental shops, snack stores, and even supermarkets on the main strip on La Digue.

Additionally, Dream Holiday offers queen rooms with air-conditioning, TV, private bathrooms, and even a balcony. This is a great option if you’re visiting La Digue on a budget while comfort and location are still a priority for you.

View on Booking.com

3. East View Self Catering

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Couples or singles wanting a private self-catering experience overlooking incredible mountains

Jungle surrounds, a private pool on a beautiful wooden deck patio, your own BBQ, and a quiet, private location? That’s exactly what you’ll discover at East View Self Catering.

You might not have heard of Au Cap, but that’s exactly why those wanting a private escape come here. This self-catering option is located in the jungle, just 15 minutes walk to the main road. Nearby, you’ll also find the famous Seychelles Golf Club, and the must-visit historic Takamaka Bay Rum Distillery.

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4. Precious Residence - Cheapest Accommodation in the Seychelles

• Island: Mahe
• Best for: Families or those wanting to explore the beautiful island of Mahe without breaking the bank

An excellent family-run self-catering accommodation on Mahe is the Precious Residence.

Precious Residence is an apartment with excellent reviews (9.5/10), offering budget apartments equipped with free WiFi, air conditioning, and a kitchenette on Grand Anse (west coast).

For one of the cheapest places to stay in the Seychelles, this apartment certainly doesn’t feel like it. The location of Grand Anse is also an excellent choice that is close to fun natural attractions like the Ros Sodyer Rock Pool and the Sauzier Waterfall.

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More Travel & Adventure Guides

And that's a wrap for this Seychelles accommodation guide.

I hope it has helped you plan your next vacation and answered your questions about where to stay in the Seychelles! Since you're in a planning mood, stick around and check out some of my other articles.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

I've written extensively about my adventures and experiences traveling in the amazing Seychelles Islands. Below you'll find some of my favorites! Enjoy.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 10 Best Seychelles Islands You Need to Visit in 2023
• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Epic Mahe Snorkeling Boat Excursion to Sainte Anne Marine National Park (2023)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Morne Blanc Nature Trail Hike on Mahe Island, Seychelles
• Vallée de Mai, Praslin - Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles)

The post Where to Stay in the Seychelles – Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023 appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Planning a trip to the relaxing Seychelles island of Praslin and wondering where to stay? Here’s an up-to-date travel guide featuring the best Praslin hotels, lodges, luxury resorts, and self catering, semi-budget options.

I’ve formulated this Praslin accommodation guide to provide you with the most reliable and comprehensive resource to Praslin Island hotels and resorts you’ll find online. Here, you’ll find 10 recommendations including the 4 best luxury picks, 3 best mid-range hotels and 3 self-catering accommodations.

I’ve also included a run-down on the island including the best places to stay, tips on booking, and a comparison for hotels for every budget.

The Quick Answer: The Best Places to Stay on Praslin

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 near the famous 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.

More Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

The Best Area to Stay on Praslin Island

While significantly larger than its quieter neighbor La Digue, Praslin Island is still a very laid-back, relaxed island without the traffic and party scenes you'll find on Mahé. However, there is still very solid tourism infrastructure including restaurants, resorts, hotels and transport services.

The most popular area to stay on Praslin is along Cote D'Or Beach (Anse Volbert). This is a resort and hotel strip with many luxury beachfront accommodation options and excellent restaurants. However, the truth is that there are many places to stay on Praslin beyond Cot D'Or.

If you'd prefer to stay near the famous Anse Lazio, there are a couple of great accommodation choices on the northern tip.

Since Praslin has an island airport, many people choose to fly here from Mahe. Consequently, there are a few great Praslin hotels and resorts near the airport on the east coast on Grand Anse.

Below are a few more great areas to stay on Praslin.

• Anse Takamaka
• Grand Anse
• Anse Kerlan
• Chauve Souris Island
• Baie Ste Anne (near the ferry terminal)

Summary of the Best Hotels & Resorts On Praslin

Below is a summary of all the best Praslin hotels & resorts listed in this article. I've included three categories based on various budgets in order to ensure this is a great resource for everybody.

If you’re in a rush to choose the best Praslin hotel for your Seychelles vacation, you can go straight to the booking page by clicking the link in the table.

Prices below are listed in USD per night but on Booking.com you can book using your local currency without conversion costs.

Praslin Luxury Resorts

	Option	Area	Price
	Raffles Seychelles	Anse Takamaka	$1135
	Constance Lemuria	Petite Anse Kerlan	$944
	Chauve Souris Relais	Chauve Souris Island	$388
	Acajou Beach Resort	Cote D'Or	$385

Best Praslin Beach Hotels

	Option	Area	Price
	Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles	Cote D'Or	$817
	Le Domaine de La Reserve	Anse Petite Cour	$550
	Castello Beach Hotel	Anse Kerlan	$436

Praslin Guest Houses or Self catering

	Option	Area	Price
	Le Duc Hillview Villas	Cot D'Or	$965
	Treasure Island Retreat	Anse Kerlan	$360
	Les Villas D'or	Baie Sainte Anne	$355

Where to Stay: Best Praslin Hotels & Resorts

Let's dive straight into this detailed comparison of the best hotels on Praslin Island.

These recommendations include 10 places to stay on Praslin, which is made up of the 4 best luxury resorts, 3 best mid-range beach hotels, and 3 best Praslin guest houses and self-catering picks.

Keep in mind, in the Seychelles, most hotels and resorts have specific terms that refer to their meal offerings. This includes: 

• Free breakfast: breakfast only (buffet or al a carte)
• Half board: breakfast and dinner included
• Full board: breakfast, lunch and dinner included
• All-inclusive: All meals and drinks included

4 Best Praslin Luxury Resorts

Raffles Seychelles

• Area: Anse Takamaka
• Best for: Couples and young families wanting to close access to beautiful beaches

Raffles Seychelles is an incredible beachside resort on Praslin located on the scenic Anse Takamaka. This amazing resort hotel features suites with a private plunge pool, six restaurants, and its very own salon and kids club. This is a great place to stay on Praslin for moms who want to get their hair done while the kids play!

The views on offer at this amazing Praslin hotel are unbeatable! It also has some of the best reviews on the internet for luxury places to stay on Praslin

View on Booking.com

Constance Lemuria

• Area: Petite Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Perfect for couples who want to immerse themselves in the Seychelles culture

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 centre complete with hot tub and sauna set in a palm and bamboo forest. There’s even a 18-hole golf course on this property!

What's great about Constance Lemuria is it provides access to Anse Georgette, one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on Praslin!

View on Booking.com

Chauve Souris Relais

• Area: Chauve Souris Island 
• Best for: For adults only who want to experience a private island resort

This next resort isn't technically on Praslin, but just off its shores opposite Anse Volbert Village (Cot D'Or beach) on the private Chauve Souris Island. This is an adults-only resort featuring amazing rooms with complete privacy overlooking the Indian Ocean.

If you're planning your honeymoon and wondering where to stay on Praslin Island, Chauve Souris Relais is going to be one of the most amazing options. Imagine jumping into the beautiful turquoise water and snorkeling right off your hotel doorstep! Black Parrots are even known to fly over this island on occasion!

View on Booking.com

Acajou Beach Resort

• Area: Cot D'Or beach
• Best for: Amazing beach-side luxury resort with excellent restaurant without the price tag

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 Indian Ocean view rooms, a swimming pool, and some of the best fine dining on the island.

View on Booking.com

3 Best Praslin Beach Hotels

Paradise Sun Hotel Seychelles

• Area: Cot D'Or (Anse Volbert)
• Best for: Excellent for couples wanting to participate in activities or spa together

Looking for an amazing 4-star Praslin beach hotel on Dot'Dor? Make sure to check out Paradise Sun Hotel. This resort hotel features a daily buffet with live music and dance and has an amazing spa running massage, yoga, and facials.

Paradise Sun Hotel has one of the largest swimming pools on Praslin, which sits below beautiful coconut palm trees on the edge of the ocean.

The team at this Praslin hotel can also arrange a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including cooking classes and even volleyball!

View on Booking.com

Le Domaine de La Reserve

• Area: Anse Petite Cour
• Best for: Couples wanting to escape to paradise with incredible snorkelling

Another excellent Praslin beach hotel is the Le Domaine de la Reserve situated on the incredible Anse Petite Cour. This stunning accommodation overlooks the beautiful Curieuse Island National Park and features a huge swimming pool with beach-front water access.

There are two bars and two restaurants at this Praslin hotel, and the complex is designed so that every single room as views over the ocean. This is an excellent choice for where to stay on Praslin for couples wanting to unwind and relax in a secluded area of the island.

View on Booking.com

Castello Beach Hotel

• Area: Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Perfect for families wanting a tropical getaway experience

Catello Beach Hotel is known for its excellent location on Anse Kerlan. There's a large pool at this hotel, with rooms overlooking the ocean. Furthermore, parents will love the children's playhouse where staff arranges activities daily. If you're looking to relax, there are great facilities including a massage pavilion and beach seating with hammocks reserved for patrons and guests of this Praslin beach hotel.

For those looking to explore the island, there are also bike rentals included. Additionally, there are a bunch of great restaurants and bars located close by.

View on Booking.com

3 Best Praslin Guest Houses and Self-catering Accommodation

Le Duc Hillview Villas

• Area: Cot D'Or Beach (Anse Volbert Village)
• Best for: Couples or singles wanting a private villa with self-catering experience overlooking the ocean with incredible views and access to a private beach.

For those interested in complete privacy in their very own self-catered villa, Le Duc Hillview Villas is going to be your best bet on the island. This is an amazing villa situated on the hill overlooking the ocean. There's a private beach just below, with a gym facility and a private pool. Additionally, villa has a kitchen and even a hot tub to enjoy the view from and sip cocktails.

This villa provides excellent means and a buffet breakfast. Guests especially loved that upon entry they were treated with a welcome cocktail!

View on Booking.com

Treasure Island Retreat

• Area: Anse Kerlan
• Best for: Those wanting to enjoy nature and explore the island without breaking the bank

What's great about this island is that independent travelers and those who are budget conscious can also find great places to stay on Praslin.

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 Praslin self catering hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, each complete with king-sized beds and a fully-equipped kitchen and a furnished terrace or balcony.

Treasure Island Retreat is the answer for where to stay on Praslin on a budget!

View on Booking.com

Les Villas D'or

• Area: Baie Sainte Anne
• Best for: Self catering experience for families and couples with direct beach access

Les Villas D'Or is located on the south end of Cot D'or beach close to the beautiful Baie Sainte Anne, which is where you'l find the ferry terminal. This is a great location if you want to explore the nearby islands of the Seychelles or the interior of Praslin with a direct road to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Vallée de Mai.

Les Villas D'Or offers bungalow-style, self catering rooms with a pool. This is a very popular self catering Praslin beach hotel for families with kids and is serviced daily with breakfast!

View on Booking.com

More Islands to Visit After Praslin

I hope that you've enjoyed this comprehensive where to stay guide to the best Praslin beach hotels, resorts, and self-catering villas.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

While you're here on my blog, make sure to check out some of my other guides to the Seychelles. I've written comprehensive accommodation guides to La Digue and Mahé, as well as many great resources for things to do from visiting Source D'Argent Beach to hiking to Anse Major!

• 11 Best Resorts & Beach Hotels On Mahe Island, the Seychelles (2023)
• 15 Awesome Seychelles Hikes and Nature Trails
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles to Visit in 2023
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles - 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Major Beach on Mahe Island, the Seychelles (Nature Trail)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Praslin is one of the premiere inner islands that many visitors choose to stay at during their Seychelles vacation. It’s a great island that is a good mix between Mahe and La Digue. Here, you’ll still find a laid-back, sleepy vibe similar to La Digue, only the island is much bigger!

Of course, if you’ve made it to the Seychelles you’ll want to check out the beach. In this guide, I’ve rounded up the 8 best Praslin beaches with the aims to inspire you to find your next favorite vacation spot. Furthermore, at the bottom of this post, I’ve also included a short travel guide with tips to help you make the most of your visit to the island.

Featured in: Praslin Island Travel Guide – 15 Best Things to do

Praslin Beaches Map

Before we get into the list, here is a map which shows all of the best Praslin beaches mentioned in this article. This will prove useful for planning your beach-hopping adventures on Praslin.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

8 Best Beaches on Praslin Island

1. Anse Lazio – MoSt Beautiful beach on Praslin

Nestled on a cove on Praslin’s northwest coast is one of the most breathtaking beaches you’ll ever find. Anse Lazio is Praslin’s most famous beach and is an immeasurably beautiful tropical paradise.

At Anse Lazio you’ll likely find the bluest water you’ll ever have seen. There isn’t any fringing reef on this section of the coastline. So, instead visitors can enjoy a swim in the deep water right off the shore. The shore is lined with sparkling white sand and scattered granite boulders dot the edge of the sand.

Getting to Anse Lazio is quite easy but usually involves some kind of transport. If you’re short on time and want to experience two of the best highlights on Praslin Island, then a good idea is to book the Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio Day Trip. This is one of the top-rated tours on the island and definitely a great bet for those looking to get more from their visit.

Check price & availability: Anse Lazio & Vallée de Mai Day Trip

2. Petite Anse Lazio

Okay, I bet you’ve heard of Anse Lazio already but did you that there is a petite version, which is basically a tiny deserted beach, right next door?

Petite Anse Lazio is one of the best beaches on Praslin if you’re looking to soak in the tropical vibes without the crowds.

You can walk to Petite Anse by following unmarked trails through the jungle on the north part of the island. Otherwise, if you book an island-hopping tour around Praslin, you’ll likely stop at this amazing beach via boat.

3. Anse St Jose

This next beach isn’t technically on Praslin Island but just across a narrow strait on neighboring Curieuse Island. However, the great thing is that this unique place is easily accessible from Praslin on a day trip.

St Jose Beach is a long stretch of white sand dropping into shallow water with a long stretch of fringing reef. This is one of the best beaches near Praslin for snorkeling and you can often spot cruising turtles and even some friendly little reef sharks here.

Even if you don’t come for the beach, a visit to Curieuse Island should be on everybody’s list of things to do on Praslin. This island is the largest sanctuary in the inner Seychelles islands for the giant Aldabra Tortoise. You’ll see them walking around freely on the island, where they are protected and a successful breeding program is in place.

Book in advance for your dates: Curieuse & St Pierre Island Hopping Trip

4. ANSE GEORGETTE

Anse Georgette is another impeccably gorgeous Praslin beach located on the north-west side of the island. This is a much more quiet and laid-back beach than Anse Lazio but is often considered equally as beautiful.

However, to get to Anse Georgette you’ll either need to stay at the Constance Lemuria Resort, or take a scenic 1-hour trial through the jungle. This trail picks up from the west end of Anse Lazio beach and climbs a hill before dropping back down to Anse Georgette.

5. Anse Kerlan

Hopping across the island and you’ll find another great Praslin Beach to visit called Anse Kerlan. This beach is quite long and behind it you’ll find plenty of hotels. That’s because it’s one of the closest beaches to Praslin airport. So, chances are if you’re flying into the island, you’ll pass it.

While Anse Kerlan might not be as breathtaking as Anse Lazio or Anse Georgette, it certainly has its charm. It’s a laid-back Praslin beach and it certainly is scenic. You’ll find the famous white sand typical of the Seychelles islands, as well as plenty of coconut trees to catch some shade under.

6. Cote D’Or Beach (Anse Volbert)

The main tourist beat of Praslin Island is found right on the edge of Cote D’Or Beach. Cote D’Or, also called Anse Volbert, is a long stretch of beach backing onto a vibrant resort strip. It’s also one of the best beaches on Praslin for swimming and has some very clear water.

Since this beach is very long, you can enjoy those memorable sunrise or sunset walks. There are also a famous set of bent palm trees found right in front of “Galerie Passerose” which is a great spot if you want to take some tropical vacation photos.

7. Cocos Island Beach

On Cocos Island, visitors will find another beach accessible from Praslin on a short boat trip. This beach is the best beach near Praslin for snorkeling and is abundant with schooling fish and a few turtles. The beach itself is a narrow string of white sand connected by large granite boulders.

Cocos Island is very small but neighbors Felicity Island, which is usually included if you book a boat trip out here. If you’re looking for unique things to do on Praslin, check out Cocos Island Beach. The link to the one below also visits La Digue as part of an awesome full-day island hopping adventure.

Check price: Cocos, La Digue, & Felicity Island Hopping

8. Anse Boudin

Coming into number eight, and the final item on this list of the best Praslin beaches is Anse Boudin. This is a nice beach on the northern end of Praslin. You’ll find white, fine sand, huge granite rocks, plenty of shade under the palm trees and best of all, not many people!

Anse Boudin is great for swimming but keep in mind that on a very high tide, the beach could almost disappear into the ocean.

How to Get to Praslin

Of course, for those still in the planning stages of their Seychelles trip, you’ll first need to get to Praslin Island before you can enjoy the amazing beaches on offer.

If you want more information, I’ve gone into a lot more detail on the options for how to get to Praslin here.

However, in general, you have 2 options. Firstly, you could take the Cat Cocos (fast ferry) directly to Praslin Island from Mahe. This arrives at the eastern side where the main boat ferry terminal is.

The second option is to take the Air Seychelles scenic flight to Praslin. These run multiple times a day and the trip is only 20 minutes. Best of all, you’ll get an unforgettable view over the islands as you fly in! If you’re looking to fly, I recommend comparing prices on CheapOAir and SkyScanner to get a good deal in advance.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR Visiting THE BEST BEACHES ON PRaslin

• Getting around – Praslin is much bigger than neighboring La Digue but it’s still much sleepier than Mahe. Your best bet to get across the island is to take a taxi or book organized tours.
• Beach bars – at most of the popular beaches on Praslin, you’ll find palm leaf-roofed bamboo huts serving fresh fruit and drinks. There’s nothing better than a fresh tropical fruit platter on a hot day in paradise!
• Travel insurance – if you’re planning on exploring some of the hiking trails on Praslin then, it’s a good idea to get travel insurance. The best options at the moment are SafetyWing and World Nomads.
• Costs – visiting all the beaches on the island is free, there are currently none that require an entrance fee.

Where to STay on Praslin Island Near the Beach

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

Beyond Praslin: More Must-See Seychelles Beaches

Looking to explore some of the other must-see islands of the Seychelles? Below are links to more clear water beach guides for some of the beaches on both Mahe and La Digue that you definitely should not miss.

La Digue: Beach Guide

• Anse Source D’Argent
• Anse Cocos
• Grand Anse
• Anse Marron

Mahe: Beach Guide

• Anse Major
• Beau Vallon
• Grand Anse

After the Praslin Beaches – More Seychelles Travel Inspiration

That’s a wrap for this guide to the best Praslin beaches. If you’re looking for more Seychelles travel inspiration or tips, make sure to check out some of my other articles below.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island – Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island – Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles – 2023 Guide
• 50 Best Things to do in the Seychelles – 2023 Travel Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin – Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• La Digue Hikes – 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Mahé Beaches: 12 Best Beaches on Mahé Island, the Seychelles
• Vallée de Mai, Praslin – Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles – Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Are you considering a trip to Praslin Island and in the Seychelles? Let me convince you with this travel guide showcasing Praslin Island’s amazing island hopping and snorkeling adventure to Crurieuse Island and St Pierre Islet. Get close and personal with the world’s largest living land tortoises, snorkel amongst abundant marine life, spot turtles and small sharks, and witness the most post-card perfect island in the world (St Pierre).

In this guide, you’ll find detailed and up-to-date information about Curieuse Island (Marine National Park) including how to get here, information about the tortoise sanctuary, and of course, photos from my day trip that I hope will inspire your visit.

Tip: Curieuse Island is the best place in the Seychelles to visit if you want to see giant tortoises. That’s because they are abundant, healthy, and roam freely on the island. As a result, you’ll be able to enjoy this wildlife experience sustainably and more naturally.

Featured in: Praslin Island Travel Guide – 15 Best Things to do

Seychelles Island Hopping: How to Get to Curieuse Island From Praslin

The best way to get to Curieuse Island from Praslin is to jump on board one of the many island hopping and snorkeling trips departing Praslin daily. Most of these trips will also stop at neighboring St Pierre Islet (which is a must-see when visiting the Seychelles).

I recommend picking a "small group" trip which is a much more personalized experience and overall much more enjoyable.

Below I've linked to the top-rated Praslin Island hopping day trip which you can book online and includes hotel pick-up and drop-off. This boat is a glass-bottom boat option which means you'll be able to spot the incredible marine life from the comfort of the boat.

Book a Curieuse Island Hopping Trip

Where is Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island is located just over a kilometer (0.6 miles) from the northwest tip of Praslin Island. ,

Below is a map showing the locations of the islands including the highlights on the famous Praslin island hopping trip to Curieuse Island and St Pierre Islet.

What to Expect: Seychelles Island Hopping Day Trip from Praslin

Below is a run-down of exactly what to expect on an amazing Praslin island-hopping and snorkeling adventure featuring Curieuse Island and St Pierre Islet.

However, keep in mind that weather conditions can alter the locations for snorkeling. Luckily, since Praslin is quite a small island, there's usually a cove with great snorkeling that is protected.

Cruising Past Some of Praslin's Best Beaches

One of the best parts about this Praslin island hopping adventure is that it allows you to witness the island's incredible beaches from the sea. Furthermore, many of these beaches are actually only accessible via boat.

On our trip, we were taken past some of Praslin's most iconic beaches, including

• Anse Lazio
• Bois de Rose
• Anse Georgette
• Petite Anse Lazio

First Stop: Snorkeling at Praslin Marine Park

Our first stop before heading to Curieuse Island was a quick 1 hour snorkeling stop. This was in the Praslin Marine Park, just off Anse Pasqueire. Here, we snorkeled in roughly 2-5 meters of crystal clear waters.

There are healthy corals to be found here, as well as many fish species. I was hoping to spot a cruising turtle. But, unfortunately, I didn't have any luck.

St Pierre Island: Seychelles' Most Beautiful Postcard Islet

The next stop of the day was a visit to St Pierre Islet. Along with many other tropical wonders like Anse Source D'Argent and Vallée de Mai, St Pierre is a poster boy for Seychelles tourism. After traveling full-time for over 4 years to many of the world's 'best' tropical islands, St Pierre Islet stole my heart and I'd consider it the most beautiful and perfect island I've ever seen.

This unbelievably beautiful little granite island is very small. St Pierre Islet is not much more than a stack of weathered granite boulders with strings of coconut palms leading out from its centre. But, it is its minimalistic charm that really makes it so unbelievably photogenic. Around its shore is some of the clearest water on earth. This radiates a vibrant turquoise before dropping off into a deep blue.

As soon as I saw it, I knew I had to fly my drone to really capture a unique perspective. Below are some of the shots I captured of St Pierre Island with my Mavic Pro 2 drone.

After an enjoyable drone flight, we had enough time to do some snorkeling. Overall, the snorkeling is better at St Pierre Island than at other parts of Praslin. We spotted a Green Turtle and many fish in 25-30 meters of visibility!

Last Stop: Curieuse Island

For the main event of this Praslin island hopping day trip, we of course visited the one and only Curieuse Island. Our arrival was at Laraie Baie. Immediately upon disembarking the boat we spotted our first Aldabra Giant Tortoise chilling on the sand. For me, seeing these guys is really awesome. It really blew my mind just how relaxed and free they are on Curieuse Island.

By now, it was time for lunch. We were treated to a BBQ-style meal. This consisted of fresh fish, Creole chicken curry, fresh papaya salad and tropical fruits.

After lunch, it was time to explore Curieuse Island!

About Curieuse Island - What to Expect

Like many of the Seychelles Islands in the archipelago, Curieuse Island is a small granitic island that is roughly 2.9 km² in size. What makes this island stand out is its unique red earth and populations of endangered coco de Mer palms. Of course, Curieuse Island is also the largest and most successful giant tortoise sanctuary in the inner islands.

This hilly island is surrounded by a fringing reef that drops off into a deep channel between Curieuse Island and Praslin. Below is a bit more information on what to expect at this amazing place on an island-hopping trip from Praslin.

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.

Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

Tortoise Sanctuary

The main attraction and reason why most people want to make the trip to Curieuse Island is its giant tortoise sanctuary.

These tortoises are endemic to the Seychelles, and were originally elusively found on Aldabra Atoll. However, they have since been introduced to many of the inner islands of the Seychelles to aid in breeding programs such as the one on Curieuse Island.

Once they are at an appropriate age, the tortoises roam freely on Curieuse Island. This is great as it's an opportunity to see and photograph the tortoises in their natural environment. Below are some interesting facts that I learned about the Seychelles' giant tortoises. If you take a day trip to the island, your guide will be able to explain much more.

• The Seychelles giant tortoise can live up to 200 years
• They can weigh up to 200 kilograms (440 lb)
• Tortoises eat almost everything, from grass and fresh fruits to fish

I spent about 45 minutes just watching them do their thing on the beach and on the grass field. The tortoises are usually very hungry and spend most of their time eating or sleeping. We were told that it is safe to feed them banana peels and they absolutely loved them!

Mangrove Forest Hike to Anse St Jose

After spending some time hanging out with the giant tortoises of Curieuse Island, it was time to explore. Our guide took us through the mangrove forest trail leading to Anse St Jose, the most beautiful beach on the island. This trail is roughly 1.7 kilometers long and took us about 30 minutes with stops to admire the view and learn about the native flora and fauna.

There is only one uphill section that involves climbing over a small hill to a viewpoint. However, this short nature trail is overall very easy and doable by anybody with a general level of fitness.

Once we arrived at Anse St Jose, we had some free time to swim in the warm, Seychellois tropical waters. Luckily, we didn't have to walk back as our boat captain picked us up from Anse St Jose. From here, we enjoyed a late afternoon return journey back to our accommodation on Praslin Island.

A Brief History of Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island is curious indeed. In fact, it was first named Ile Rouge due to its uniquely red soil.

The island's name was then changed to Curieuse Island in 1768 when the French claimed possession. The name stems from the schooner ship La Curieuse, which was in command by Mar-Joseph Marion du Frense, a notable French explorer.

What makes this island very unique is that it was used as a leper colony for over a decade between 1829 to 1965. There are many remnants of this dark past, including the leprosarium ruins and the physician's residence at Anse St. Joseph.

Due to Curieuse Island functioning in this capacity for so long, its nature and unique ecosystem was largely undisturbed by major development.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

Tip: Where to Stay on Praslin Island

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

More Photos

Below are a few more photos that I captured on my island hopping day trip from Praslin to St Pierre Islet and Curieuse Island.

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

After Curieuse Island - More on Praslin and the Seychelles

I hope that this travel guide to visiting Curieuse Island and St Pierre Island from Praslin, the Seychelles has inspired you to check out this truly amazing destination. If you have any feedback for this article or any questions, please let me know in the comments below.

Otherwise, while you're here, check out some of my other articles below. Here, you'll find many more inspiring travel pieces for the Seychelles with more photography to get you excited for your trip.

• 10 Best Praslin Hotels and Beach Resorts In 2023 (Seychelles)
• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• How to Get to Praslin Island from Mahe, The Seychelles (2023)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Vallée de Mai, Praslin - Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin – Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Nestled on a cove on Praslin’s northwest coast is one of the most breathtaking beaches you’ll ever find. Anse Lazio, Praslin Island’s most famous beach, is an epic tropical paradise complete with a row coconut-filled palms above pristine white sand and turquoise water.

In this guide, I’ll detail everything you need to know about visiting Anse Lazio beach, including how to get here and what to expect. I’ve also included photos from my recent trip that I hope will inspire you to visit this gem!

Featured in: 8 Best Beaches on Praslin

About Praslin's Most Beautiful Beach

Anse Lazio is often referred to as Praslin's most beautiful beach. While slightly different, it's the island's answer to Anse Source d'Argent on the amazing La Digue Island. Since Praslin is also a granitic island, you'll also find beautiful granite rock formations that are unique to the Seychelles.

However, unlike many of the beaches on La Digue, Anse Lazio is not protected by a row of coral reef. Instead, you'll find a deep drop-off into clear water with a sandy bottom.

How to Get to Anse Lazio

You are free to visit Anse Lazio beach any time and visiting is completely free. Getting here is quite easy as it's connected via the main coastal road which is sealed and quite well maintained. You can take a taxi or ride a bike or motorbike. However, just know that the hills leading up to Anse Lazio get super steep towards the end.

Additionally, there's a long descent down to the beach just before you arrive, so make sure you're prepared for the trip back up on the return!

If you're visiting Praslin and want to make the most of your time on the island, then one of the best option is to visit Anse Lazio as part of a combined day-trip to Vallée de Mai. This will save you money on transport and is honestly one of the best ways to spend a day on Praslin.

Book online in advance: Combined ticket on Get Your Guide

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

Featured in: Praslin Island Travel Guide – 15 Best Things to do

Where is Anse Lazio?

Anse Lazio is located on the northwest coast of Praslin Island, the Seychelles. Of course, if you're planning a visit to this incredible beach, you'll first have to get to Praslin Island from the main island of Mahe.

You'll find Anse Lazio roughly 11 kilometers (7 miles) from the Baie Sainte Anne where Praslin's ferry port is. If you're staying on the popular Cote D'Or Beach, it's a shorter 8 kilometer distance (5 miles).

Below I've pinned the exact location of the beach to help you find it.

What to Expect at Anse Lazio

As soon as you arrive at Anse Lazio, you'll find a large car parking area in a semi-shaded area beside the restaurant. If you continue onto the beach, you'll find a long stretch of white sand and of course, some of that incredibly rich light-blue water you've undoubtedly seen on postcards already.

And that's because Anse Lazio on Praslin truly is a postcard scene. With sky-reaching palms, takamaka trees and gentle forested hills as a backdrop, it's difficult not to take a good photo of this incredible beach!

Continuing from the car park, there's plenty of beach on your right. However, I suggest taking the short trail down on your left which leads to some beautiful secluded beach sections hugged between jungle flora and large granite boulders.

There's also a small beach-bar hut on the way serving delicious fruits and drinks.

Tip: If you're planning to spend some time at Anse Lazio, I suggest either coming early or coming in the afternoon. That's because if you arrive at midday, chances are there won't be much space for you to find a secluded spot. Being rated one of the best beaches in the world, you can expect Anse Lazio to be very popular!

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.

Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

Can you snorkel at Anse Lazio?

The water at Anse Lazio is quite clear, making it a good beach to snorkel at. However, don't expect to spot many corals as the bottom is mostly sand. If you're visiting Praslin and want to do some snorkeling, a good alternative is a snorkeling day trip out to St Pierre Islet and Curieuse Island. These are the two best snorkeling sites on Praslin.

Anse Lazio Restaurant

There's a big restaurant next to the parking area at Anse Lazio. However, when I visited it seemed to have closed. I'm not sure if this was due to the pandemic or if they were planning to reopen.

Additionally, there is a large construction project going on right on the beach. I spoke to a local Seychellois from Praslin and they told me that it is a new resort. He also wasn't too impressed with the fact that they got rights to build it right on the beach. I tend to agree with him and it seems that it has spoiled the untouched nature a little.

If you visit this beach and you find that the restaurant has opened, please let me know in the comments.

anse lazio to anse georgette trail

While Anse Lazio is officially Praslin's most beautiful and consequently, most popular beach, there is another amazing beach accessible via a nature trail from Anse Lazio. This trail begins at the west end of Anse Lazio and climbs a hill before dropping back down to Anse Georgette.

This hike is nothing dramatic but make sure to come prepared. I'd say it'd take most people roughly an hour to reach Anse Georgette from Anse Lazio at a leisurely pace. Just remember that it gets hot in the tropics and to bring some water with you for rehydration.

Once you arrive, the perfect backdrop more than makes up for the lost sweat. And, the crystal clear waters are the perfect reward to cool off!

Petite Anse Lazio

Yes, that's right. There's a tiny little secluded beach on the northern end of Anse Lazio. This is called Petite Anse Lazio. Getting here is a little difficult requiring a traverse through the jungle on unmarked trails.

Instead, I visited this beach as part of a quick stop on an island hopping trip to Curieuse Island (a must do!).

More Things to Know About Anse Lazio Beach

Below are some more things to know about visiting Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin Island, the Seychelles.

1. You can't fly a drone at Anse Lazio - the beach is within the no-fly airport zone. My DJI drone didn't even let me take off. It's a real shame because those rock formations would look amazing from the air. I've seen a few drone shots at Anse Lazio and I'm assuming they flew their drone illegally– probably not a good idea.
2. The stretch of beach is roughly 400 meters long. However, many tourists make their way here daily and it can still get very busy.
3. At high tide, the water can get quite close to the shore.
4. The currents and deep waters in the bay at Anse Lazio can make this a dangerous place to swim. It goes without saying but don't go in the water if you don't know how to swim and monitor the conditions even if you do.

When is the Best Time to Visit?

Since the Seychelles archipelago is within the subequatorial climatic zone, you'll find stable, sunny weather year-round. This means no cyclones but seasonal rainfall periods with a constant temperature range between 25-35°C.

The best time to visit the Seychelles to see world-class highlights like the beautiful Anse Lazio Beach is between April and May and October and November. In saying that, I visited in December and the weather was absolutely perfect as you can see from the photos.

Anse Lazio Hotel - Can You Stay in a Resort Near the Beach?

Besides the new construction project, there are a few places you can stay that are really close to the beach. This is a good choice if you're looking for a relaxing hotel option in one of Praslin's most scenic locations.

Below are the three Anse Lazio Hotel options to choose from:

• Anse Lazio Lodge (4-star, 9.4/10 reviews)
• Le Chevalier Bay Guesthouse (3 star, 8.7/10 reviews)
• Villa Manoir (3 star, 8.5/10 reviews)

More Recommended Places to Stay on Praslin

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

More Photos from Anse Lazio

Before I sign off, here are some more photos that I hope you'll enjoy!

More Seychelles Travel Inspiration

I hope that you've enjoyed this travel guide to Anse Lazio on Praslin Island, the Seychelles and it has inspired you to visit this world-class tropical beach. For more travel guides and inspiration for your Seychelles trip, check out one or two of the guides below!

• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 26 Best Things to do on Mahé Island, the Seychelles - 2023 Guide
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• Anse Source D'Argent - Is this the Best Beach on La Digue? (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• How to Get to La Digue Island from Praslin or Mahe in 2023 (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Praslin Island from Mahe, The Seychelles (2023)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Vallée de Mai, Praslin - Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023

The post How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

Vallée de Mai is an incredible palm forest located in Praslin, Seychelles. Its beauty and biodiversity has attracted international renown for centuries and was once described as the true ‘Garden of Eden’ by General Charles Gordon. Today, it serves as the best example of Seychelles islands endemic palm forests and is a sanctuary for the endangered coco de mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the world.

In this guide, I’ll give you an up-to-date rundown of how to visit the one and only Vallée de Mai on Praslin Island. I’ll also include photography from my trip that I hope will inspire you to visit this amazing place.

Vallée de Mai - A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Vallée de Mai is one of two UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Sites of the Seychelles (the other is Aldabra Atoll). It holds world-acclaim for being the best preservation forest for the endangered Coco de mer palm (Lodoicea), as well as five other palms endemic to the Seychelles. It was given its world heritage status in 1983.

The site is roughly 19.5 ha in size and is much as it was since prehistoric times. It's natural beauty and opportunity to walk amongst some of the rarest fauna species on the planet make a visit to Vallée de Mai on Praslin one of the must-do things on the island.

Vallée de Mai, translates to May Valley in French and is often written as Vallee de Mai in English.

Up-to-date Visitor Information:

• Vallée de Mai Entrance Fee: 350 SCR
• Timings & Opening Hours: 9 AM - 5:30 PM - visits are limited to one hour.

The reserve is open 7 days a week between 9 AM and 5:30 PM. However, visits are limited to one hour. There are a few trails leading through the Nature Reserve including:

• Circular Path (North and South)
• Central Path
• Cedar Path

Additionally, below I've included a Vallée de Mai map that shows the paths and attractions.

Tip: Book a top-rated guided tour of Vallée de Mai which also includes a trip to Anse Lazio.

Ticket purchases help support the Seychelles' UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including 20% for the Seychelles Islands Foundation Management, 30% for Vallée de Mai and coco de mer management, and the remainder 50% goes towards the Aldabra Atoll.

Vallée de Mai Map

Where is Vallée de Mai on Praslin?

Vallée de Mai is located right in the heart of Praslin Island in the Seychelles, within the Praslin National Park. Additionally, the entrance is very accessible as it is right off the main road that connects Grand Anse beach to the eastern side (ferry side).

How to Get Here

Of course, if you're not already on the island, you'll first need to get to Praslin.

Since the Vallée de Mai is located in centre of the island, getting here will require some public or private transport if you don't have your own car. Of course, if you book a whole day tour that includes a guided visit to Vallée de Mai and the famous Anse Lazio, then transport, including hotel pickup and drop off, is included.

Alternatively, you could arrange a taxi to the Nature Reserve from your hotel. There is a parking space on the opposite side of the road from the entrance, where you can occasionally find taxis heading back. Taxis are metered in the Seychelles, so the price will depend on the distance from your hotel.

Is there a bus to Vallée de Mai?
While I didn't take the bus, after some research it seems that there is a bus route that you can take. The bus you'll want is this one:

Route 61:  Mont Plaisir - Anse Boudin via Vallée de Mai

The cost is 14 SCR for a bus to Vallee de Mai. Just wait at any bus stop on the route above. Here's a map showing the bus routes between Mont Plaisir and Anse Boudin (via Vallée de Mai).

Related: La Digue Island Travel Guide

Vallée de Mai Tour

Before we get into what to expect at this incredible ecological wonder, I wanted to give you one more logistical consideration.

If you want a professionally guided tour of the Nature Reserve, including information about its history and the diverse range of endemic plant and animal species, then I highly recommend contacting my friend Medina from Laboudolloniana Tours.

She was my private guide during my visit and she is very skilled and knowledgeable. In fact, her father, Victorin Laboudallon is a highly celebrated Seychellouis naturalist, credited for discovering new plant species and who is also the founder of TRASS, a volunteer initiative aimed at repopulating over 15 000 plants across Praslin every year. Medina definitely takes after her father and I highly recommend you giving her a message for a great experience.

Related: Best Praslin Beaches

What to Expect at Vallée de Mai

Once you arrive, you'll need to pay the entrance fee of 350 SCR. Afterwards, staff will grant you access to the site. At the entrance, you'll find a gift shop, small restaurant, and restrooms.

If you continue on to your left, you'll find the trail heading into Vallee de Mai Praslin.

Almost immediately you'll be immersed in a magical tropical palm forest with a dense canopy. At the entrance, there are dried examples of the coco de mer (male and female), as well as a few other Seychelles endemic palm seeds.

If you didn't opt for taking a guided tour, then I suggest taking the central path and following the circular path north back to the entrance.

Plan Where to Stay in the Seychelles in 2023

Wondering where to stay in the Seychelles? Don't miss these up-to-date accommodation guides.

• Praslin Hotel Guide
• Where to Stay on Mahé
• Best Places to Stay on La Digue

Top Seychelles Accommodation Picks

The Endemic Coco De Mer at Vallée de Mai

Of course, the main attraction and reason for the Vallée de Mai's protected status is that it is the best and most abundant reserve for the endemic coco de mer palm.

The coco de mer, or "nut of the sea" in English, is an endangered palm endemic to Praslin that produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. It has a unique shape and plays an important role in the island's unique ecosystem.

Its scientific name Lodoicea maldivica, is named so due to a bit of a historic scientific fallacy. The coco de mer was first discovered on the islands of the Maldives, over 2000 kilometres away. However, the palm has never grown in the Maldives, but instead, the coco de mer seed had floated across the ocean! The interesting thing is that the coco de mer actually sinks, and rests on the bottom of the ocean for several years until the inside withers away and sends the coco de mer floats back up to the surface.

Since there was no evidence on the Maldives of the seed's plant origin, it was first suspected that it originated from a new species of plant underwater. There is currently an effort in the local naturalist community to have the scientific name changed to reflect the plant's endemic origin in the Seychelles.

As mentioned, Vallée de Mai is the best place to see a natural coco de mer forests. The coco de mer holds considerable cultural and historic value to the Seychellois people and they are very proud of it.

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.

Get SafetyWing Travel Insurance

More Endemic Species of Vallée de Mai Praslin

There are actually 5 more endemic plant species found within Vallée de Mai. These include:

• palmiste
• thief palm
• Seychelles stilt palm
• lattanyen milpat
• lattanyen oban

Additionally, you'll also find several fruit trees and unique tropical plants among the palms. Below are some photos that I captured of the diverse plant life of this beautiful palm forest.

Wildlife Species

Of course, you'll also find a wide range of wildlife here. Some of these are only found on Praslin including the Seychelles black parrot, which almost exclusively nests in the dead standing trunks of the coco de mer palm.

Unfortunately, I didn't get an opportunity to spot the black parrot. However, I've been told that they frequently fly through the nature reserve earlier in the morning.

Other endemic birds, mammals, snails and reptiles include:

• Seychelles blue pigeon
• Seychelles bulbul (look for the loud bird with the funk haircut)
• The Seychelles green gecko
• Seychelles bronze geckos (3 different types)
• Seychelles tree frog

I'm sure you'll have a blast looking for all of the rare animals who call Vallée de Mai home. I sure did. However, some, especially the frogs and bronze geckos are very difficult to spot. I certainly wouldn't have spotted so many without the help of my guide Medina.

Next up: Curieuse Island - Island Hopping from Praslin

Where to Stay on Praslin Island

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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

More Seychelles Travel Inspiration

I sincerely hope that my photography and this travel guide to Vallée de Mai Praslin Island, the Seychelles, has inspired you to visit this incredible UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While you're check out some of my other articles. Below you'll find more ideas and travel inspiration for Praslin and the Seychelles islands.

• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 8 Best Praslin Beaches You Need to Visit in 2022 (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles - Best Areas, Hotels & Resorts in 2023
• Why You Need to Visit L'Union Estate on La Digue, The Seychelles

The post Vallée de Mai, Praslin – Complete 2023 Visitor Guide (Seychelles) appeared first on We Seek Travel.

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!

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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 Top-Rated Praslin Hotels

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.

The Ultimate Seychelles Travel Resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

• 50 Things to do in the Seychelles
• Where to Stay in the Seychelles (Best Deals)
• 18 Best Beaches in the Seychelles
• 10 Best Islands in the Seychelles
• 15 Best Hikes in the Seychelles

While you're here on my blog, you'll find loads more inspiration for the islands. Check out some of the latest articles below.

• 15 Best Things to do on Praslin Island - Complete PRASLIN TRAVEL GUIDE
• 20 Amazing Things to do on La Digue Island - Seychelles Guide (2023)
• 8 Best Beaches on La Digue Island, the Seychelles
• 9 Best La Digue Hotels & Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in 2023 (Seychelles)
• Anse Cocos on La Digue Island - How to Get Here & What to Expect
• Anse Source D'Argent - Is this the Best Beach on La Digue? (Seychelles)
• Curieuse Island & St Pierre From Praslin - Snorkeling & Tortoise Sanctuary (Seychelles)
• Grand Anse, La Digue Island Seychelles - Why You Need to Visit
• How to Get to Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin, Seychelles (& Why You Should Visit)
• How to Get to Anse Marron, La Digue Island, The Seychelles in 2023
• How to Get to La Digue Island from Praslin or Mahe in 2023 (Seychelles)
• La Digue Hikes - 6 Best Hiking & Nature Trails on La Digue Island (Seychelles)
• Why You Need to Visit L'Union Estate on La Digue, The Seychelles

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