Praslin Island stands at the forefront of Seychelles’ tourism industry with a strong tradition of hospitality and a wide range of accommodation facilities. It also provides a base for excursions to neighboring islands; some of which are important sanctuaries nurturing rare species of endemic flora and fauna.
Praslin Island, with a population of approximately 7 500 people; is Seychelles’ second largest island. It lies 45km to the northeast of Mahé and measures 10km by 3.7km. A leisurely tour around the island by car will only take approximately 2 hours.
A 15-minute flight or 45-minute catamaran trip will get you to this island paradise.
What to do on Praslin Island
Praslin Island is the site of the fabulous Vallée de Mai, one of Seychelles’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The reserve is in the middle of Praslin Island. This is where the legendary Coco-de-Mer, the world’s heaviest nut, grows high on ancient palms in a primeval forest. The Vallée is host to six species of palm; found only in Seychelles.
It’s also a birding hot spot; watch for the endemic Seychelles bulbul, the lovely blue pigeon, the Seychelles warbler, and the endangered black parrot; of which there are between 500 and 900 left in the wild. It’s a real slice of Eden.
The island features truly exquisite beaches such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette. Both of these beaches are on the top-10 list of the world’s best beaches in recent years.
Praslin Island is the only Seychelles Island where you can play golf; the only 18-hole course is at the Constance Lemuria Resort on Praslin. The views from the course are stunning so probably one of the best courses to play in the world.
Praslin is the ideal base to explore some of the other islands and tours are offered by boat. There is a bus service on the island so you can explore as much or as little as you want.
