Discover Praslin Island

praslin

Introduction

Praslin is the second largest island (38.5 km2) of the Inner Seychelles, lying 44 km (27 mi) northeast of Mahé in the Somali Sea. Praslin has a population of around 7,533 people and comprises two administrative districts: Baie Sainte Anne and Grand’ Anse. The main settlements are the Baie Ste Anne, Anse Volbert and Grand’ Anse.

It was named Isle de Palmes by explorer Lazare Picault in 1744. During that time it was used as a hideaway by pirates and Arab merchants. In 1768 it was renamed Praslin in honor of French diplomat César Gabriel de Choiseul, duc de Praslin.

Praslin is known as a tourist destination with several hotels and resorts, as well as a number of beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette.

It has substantial tracts of tropical forests with birds such as the endemic Seychelles bulbul and the Seychelles black parrot. The Vallée de Mai Nature Preserve, established in 1979, is known for the unique coco de mer and vanilla orchids. It has been reported that General Charles George Gordon of Khartoum (1833-1885) was convinced that Vallée de Mai was the Biblical “Garden of Eden”.

Half day tour

On the Half day, we offer two highlights ONLY, Vallee de Mai and Anse Lazio, which are very exciting spots to visit.

Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve

The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an essential habitat for the critically endangered Seychelles magpie robin. The reserve is also home to many endemic plants, including the giant cane palm and the Coco de Mer tree.

The reserve has several hiking trails, some of which are pretty challenging. There’s also a visitor centre and gift shop that sells snacks and souvenirs.

Anse Lazio

If you’re looking for a secluded beach with great snorkelling, Anse Lazio is the place for you. This beach is located north of Praslin, about 1km from the main road that connects North and South Praslin. The small bay on which this beach sits is formed by two rocky headlands which prevent large waves from crashing onto its shore.

The waters are calm here (most times), making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing, but if you’re into snorkelling, then this spot has plenty to offer as well. The sheer number of fish that swim around these reefs makes them one of Seychelles’ best-kept secrets!

We’ll be sure to give you the best tips for the tour whilst exploring with you. But if you would like to spend some more time, the next tour is your:

Full day tour

In addition to the previously mentioned spot in the half-day tour, we also get a chance to visit even more places ALL around the island; you can recommend your spots or let us take the wheel and guide you around, from exciting viewpoints, pearl farm and so much more we’ve compiled some of the most sorts after spots below.

Anse Georgette

Anse Georgette is a great place to snorkel. The bay is shallow, so you can wade out and explore the coral reef without getting too deep. This was a nice break from our long boat rides and hikes in the rainforest. We saw some pretty fish here and even got some excellent pictures for social media! I would recommend this spot if you’re looking for something easy-going but still enjoyable.

Anse Volbert

Anse Volbert is a beautiful beach on Praslin Island that’s near the town of Cote d’Or. The beach has white sand and clear water, and there’s a bar and restaurant there for food and drinks. This is an excellent place to swim or snorkel because the coral reef next to it is full of colourful fish, sea turtles, rays, octopi…the list goes on!

Cote d’Or

Cote d’Or is a beautiful beach just a short drive from the airport. It’s also an excellent place to spend the day swimming and snorkelling. There are some good restaurants nearby if you want to grab lunch after your swim, and the prices there are reasonable for Seychellois standards.

Conclusion

Seychelles is a beautiful and unique place with some of the best beaches and nature you will find anywhere in the world. Praslin Island offers many great options for exploring these natural wonders, including hiking through rainforests filled with exotic flowers or swimming at one of its many pristine beaches. There is no doubt that this island has something special waiting for everyone who visits!

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