Oct 17, 2024 By Christin Shatzman
Praslin Island, the second-largest island in the Seychelles, has long been hailed as one of the most stunning tropical paradises on earth. About 45 km northeast of Mah, the island is famous for its beautiful sandy beaches, green forests, and relaxed environment. Such attractions as the Valle de Mai Nature Reserve and beautiful beaches can be found only on the island of Praslin, which is why tourists who are eager to enjoy natural beauty, incredible nature, and interesting adrenalinic activities have to visit it. Being endowed with natural endowments, biodiversity, and cultural features, the island provides a unique experience of the Indian Ocean. The following are step-by-step guides of the main tourist sites, things to do, and useful information to help you have a wonderful time in Praslin Island, Seychelles. If you are in need of a relaxing holiday, some adventure, or a little of both, Prague has something unique to offer you.
This place is UNESCO-listed and one of the attractions that make Praslin famous. This is an ancient palm forest that is best known for the cocoa de mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the world. There is content that refers to the reserve as a Garden of Eden. This is so because the region is full of natural green vegetation cover and there are many unexplained plant and animal life forms found in the area. There are many hiking trails with sign posts to point the way through the forest that is home to the specially protected Seychelles black parrot. Due to the otherworldly feel of Valle de Mai, it is a recommended destination for people visiting Praslin.
Topping the list of some of the worlds best beaches is Anse Lazio, featuring soft white sand and a mountain of massive granite boulders and sapphire sea. The beaches contain clear water and are good for swimming and snorkeling, and the nearby coral gardens give marine life. Like other beaches in the area, Anse Lazio may be reached by car or bus, and the seclusion makes it ideal for sunbathing.
The other beach that is worth a visit in Praslin Island is Anse Georgette, which is extremely isolated and has the best sand that is powdery white. Located on the island of Komodo, the hike to the beach can be done through the Constance Lemuria Resort, or for those that wish to trek, it takes approximately 45 minutes. Its water is calm for snorkeling and swimming, and the background is also natural to offer the tourists recreational space and beautiful views.
Pristine and exceptional Praslin Island is a dream of every underwater freak, as it is equipped with the best snorkeling and diving points in the Seychelles. St. Pierre Islet and White Bank with their rich coral gardens and tropical fish, sea turtles, rays, etc. For the most thrilling adventure, you should consider going diving at the close by Sisters or Coco Island to experience the caves or search for the big fish.
Natural attractions in Praslin are best viewed on foot, and there are several trails for hiking on the island. The Glacis Noire Trail, for instance, ends at a vantage viewpoint that gives the opportunity to view Praslin and the neighboring islands. Other trails of Valle de Mai offer a chance to come closer to the endemic plants and animals of the island.
Being an island Praslin is well situated to act as a hub for island hopping. One can go for day excursions to surrounding islands, including the highly attractive La Digue, which boasts of beautiful villages and attractive beaches, including Anse Source dArgent. Visits to Curieuse Island, where giant tortoises are found in their natural habitat, or to Cousin Island, which is a bird-watching enthusiast's dream, are other ways of touring the Seychelles island chain.
For those travelers who prefer to be spoiled for choice and spend their vacation in luxury, Praslin Island has several hotels for the elite and private villas. Two of the best are the Raffles Seychelles and Constance Lemuria, both featuring fantastic facilities, their own beaches, and spectacular sea views. The above-mentioned hotels and resorts are known to offer perfect comfort and sophisticated ambiance.
Praslin also has a good number of cheap and reasonable guest houses and self-catering apartments to suit the low-budget tourists. There are various economical accommodations that are available in the region, including Villa Anse La Blagogue and the Le Chevalier Bay Guest House. These types of hotels afford opportunities to enjoy the attractions on the island without spending too much and with a comfortable environment when returning after a long day of sightseeing.
It is recommended that one visit Praslin Island during the dry season, which is from May to October, because the weather is cool and dry. It is the right time to engage in beach activities and hiking as well as snorkeling. The weather is warm and humid; there can be rain from November to April, but at the same time, bird watching is more possible, and there are fewer tourists. Praslin can be reached by ferry from Mah or a 30-minute domestic flight. Public means of transport such as buses and taxis and private cars for self-driving are obtainable on the island. It is advisable to hire a car to enable one to move around Praslin freely although there are also bicycles for short distances. Always ensure that, especially during rush hour, you have planned for the mode of transport well ahead.
Staying on Praslin Island, guests will have a chance to see the beautiful nature of this island, have an adrenaline rush while exploring the island itself, and just relax on the beautiful Seychelles beaches. From beautiful sandy beaches to rain forests and from fun attractions to adventurous activitieseverything can be found on this island. Whether you are a nature lover hiking through Valle de Mai or alternatively sea loving snorkeling in clear water or simply touring around the beautiful islands, Praslin is worth your visit. This guide will help you plan your vacation and find out why this tropical island is so popular among tourists. Discover why a trip to Praslin Island in the Seychelles is an experience you would never want to be without.