A complete and up-to-date travel guide to the best things to do on Praslin Island in the Seychelles– the second-largest island in the archipelago.
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.
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Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.
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
2. Island hop to Curieuse & St Pierre Islet
By far, one of the best day trips that I took on Praslin Island was to Curieuse & St Pierre Islet. Actually, in my opinion, I’d rank it as the number one must-do activity on the island!
St Pierre Islet is one of the most post-card-worthy tropical islands I’ve ever laid my eyes on. It’s a small island with granite boulders and coconut trees surrounded by pristine, clear water. It’s a great stop for snorkeling too and the perfect place to explore the underwater world and meet sea turtles.
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.
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
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!
