Taking my first steps onto the shores of Praslin Island Seychelles took me to a different world. This lovely tropical gem, the second largest in the Seychelles chain, won me over with its mix of clean beaches, clear blue waters, and green hills. What I loved most about this sunny spot was how it blends pure nature with just enough comforts to keep you happy without spoiling its calm feel.
Let me share my detailed tour of Praslin Island Seychelles with you. From day one until I sadly left, I found secret coves, swam in blue seas, and walked through ancient woods. As someone who travels often, I can say that Praslin has some of the best beaches I’ve seen, along with special sights not found anywhere else. Because of this, I’ve made this guide to help you plan your own amazing trip to this ocean gem.
Getting to Praslin Seychelles
Reaching this paradise is fairly easy despite being far in the Indian Ocean. You have two main ways to get there from Mahé, the main island of Seychelles. The Cat Cocos ferry runs daily with many trips and takes about 60 minutes across the lovely waters. On the other hand, the flight with Air Seychelles gets you there in just 15 minutes, with amazing views that hint at what’s to come.
During my trip, I chose the flight to save time on Praslin Island Seychelles. Flying over the green islands with deep blue sea all around was truly amazing. This view alone, I must say, was worth the extra cost over the ferry.
Travel Planning Essentials
Plan your transportation early, mainly if going during busy times (June to September). I almost missed my spot due to high demand. Ferries book up fast, and planes have few seats. Also note: watch the luggage limits as they are strict. I had to pay a little more for my heavy bag!
Travel Insurance Considerations
Always secure travel insurance before your trip to Praslin Island. Given the remote nature of the island and the high cost of medical care, good coverage is vital. Look for plans that cover water sports if you plan to snorkel or dive. In my case, I was glad to have coverage when a minor injury needed medical attention.# Praslin Island Seychelles: Ultimate Guide to Paradise Beaches and Natural Wonders
Best Seasons to Visit Praslin Island
Praslin Island enjoys warm weather all year, with temps from 24°C to 32°C. Of course, some times are better for certain trips. April to October brings the best weather, with calm seas and clear skies—ideal if you want to snorkel in clear waters or sunbathe on Praslin beaches.
I visited in late April, and the timing couldn’t have been better. The northwest monsoon had passed, leaving behind lush vegetation, and the southeast trade winds hadn’t yet picked up strength. In essence, this timing provided the perfect balance of sunshine with occasional brief refreshing showers that never lasted long enough to disrupt any plans.
Weather on Praslin Island Seychelles
Avoiding the heavy rainfall period from November to February might be wise if water activities top your list. January typically receives the most precipitation on Praslin Island Seychelles. Even so, rain often comes in short periods instead of all-day showers. On the other hand, the shoulder seasons of March-April and October-November often present excellent value with reduced accommodation rates and fewer tourists while still offering pleasant weather conditions.
Getting Around Praslin Island Seychelles
Navigating around Praslin is delightfully simple due to its compact size—approximately 12 kilometres long and 5 kilometres wide. The island’s manageable dimensions make it ideal for exploration, with several transportation options available to suit different preferences and budgets. I tried various methods during my stay and found each had its unique advantages.
The public bus system covers most popular destinations on Praslin Island with reasonable frequency until early evening. Though not luxurious, these buses provide an economical way to travel and offer genuine local experiences. At the same time, taxis are readily available but come at premium rates, with government-set fares that eliminate haggling but might surprise visitors from countries with lower transportation costs.
Exploring Praslin Island Seychelles
Renting a small car gave me the freedom to explore at my own pace, which proved invaluable for discovering hidden beaches on Praslin Island Seychelles. The driving is on the left side, and roads are generally in good condition despite being narrow in places. Alternatively, bicycle rental offers an eco-friendly and immersive way to experience the island’s beauty, with the moderate terrain making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Perhaps my favourite discovery was hired scooters, which struck the perfect balance between the flexibility of a car and the open-air experience of cycling. The warm breeze against my skin as I zipped along coastal roads created memories I’ll cherish forever. Just remember to carry your driving licence if you plan to rent motorised transport.
Breathtaking Beaches of Praslin Seychelles
Anse Lazio consistently ranks among the world’s most beautiful beaches, and after spending a day there, I completely understand why. This Praslin Seychelles beach features picture-perfect white sand framed by smooth granite boulders and lapped by waters in every imaginable shade of blue. The beach slopes gently into the sea, creating ideal swimming conditions for all ages. Unlike some famous beaches elsewhere, Anse Lazio never felt overcrowded during my visit, allowing for that coveted sensation of having discovered your own slice of paradise.
Anse Volbert (also known as Côte d’Or) stretches along the northeast coast of Praslin Island beaches, offering a long expanse of powdery sand and shallow, calm waters. This area serves as the main tourism hub, with several restaurants and accommodations nearby, making it convenient yet never feeling overly developed or commercial.
Hidden Beaches of Praslin Island Seychelles
Anse Georgette stands among the most stunning Praslin beaches Seychelles has to offer, though reaching it requires some effort. Access is through the Constance Lemuria resort property (requiring advance permission) or via boat tour. The journey, however, rewards visitors with an almost untouched beach of extraordinary beauty—impossibly white sand meeting turquoise waters with barely any development in sight.
I also discovered the charming Anse La Blague on the eastern coast, a crescent of golden sand with fewer visitors. Due to its location away from major resorts, this beach provides a more authentic experience of Praslin Island Seychelles. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for families, while the lack of crowds creates a peaceful atmosphere that’s increasingly rare on popular tropical islands.
Natural Wonders of Praslin Island Seychelles
Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as the crowning natural jewel of Praslin Island Seychelles. This prehistoric palm forest transports visitors back in time, with ancient pathways winding through towering palms that filter sunlight into ethereal beams. The reserve is home to the legendary Coco de Mer palm, which produces the world’s largest seed with its distinctive suggestive shape that has inspired numerous local legends.
Walking through this ancient forest, I felt a profound connection to the primeval world that once covered our planet. The hushed atmosphere, broken only by birdsong and rustling leaves, creates an almost mystical experience. At certain points, the dense canopy blocks out most sunlight, creating a cool, shadowy realm that feels worlds away from the sun-drenched beaches just a short distance away.
Local Wildlife Spotting
Fond Ferdinand offers a less-visited alternative to Vallée de Mai yet boasts equally impressive scenery at a lower entrance fee. This larger nature reserve provides more extensive hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints overlooking Praslin Island and neighbouring islands. My morning exploration here revealed not only magnificent Coco de Mer palms but also tremendous bird-watching opportunities.
The rare Seychelles Black Parrot makes its home in these forests. Along with several other endemic bird species found nowhere else on Earth. During my hike, I was fortunate enough to spot this endangered bird—an experience that thrilled me as a nature enthusiast. The island’s unique ecosystem also supports fascinating reptiles like the Seychelles Chameleon and various skink species that you might glimpse during your explorations.
Culinary Delights on Praslin Seychelles
Fresh seafood dominates the culinary landscape of Praslin Island Seychelles. With red snapper, job fish, and octopus featuring prominently on most menus. Creole cooking techniques infuse these catches with flavours influenced by African, Indian, and European traditions. Creating distinctive dishes unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. The signature dish to try is undoubtedly fish curry with coconut milk. Typically served with fragrant rice and chutneys that range from mild to fiery.
Tropical fruits grow abundantly across Praslin Island, adding vibrant flavours to every meal. The mangoes, papayas, and passion fruits taste remarkably different when freshly picked at peak ripeness. I found myself addicted to the small, sweet bananas available at roadside stalls. Nothing like the varieties exported to supermarkets around the world.
Memorable Dining Experiences
Café des Arts on Côte d’Or beach offers sophisticated Creole-international fusion in a stunning beachfront setting. Their seafood platters showcase the incredible variety of fresh catches available around Praslin Seychelles. For a more local experience, Coco Rouge in Baie Ste Anne serves authentic Creole dishes at reasonable prices in a casual setting where you’ll dine alongside island residents.
Perhaps my most unforgettable meal was at Bonbon Plume, a rustic restaurant directly on Anse Lazio beach. Dining with my feet in the sand while watching the sunset paint the sky in vivid hues, I savoured their grilled job fish with Creole sauce. The combination of incredible setting and beautifully prepared local ingredients perfectly captured the essence of Praslin Island dining.
Unforgettable Activities on Praslin Island Seychelles
Island hopping tops the list of must-do activities when staying on Praslin Island Seychelles. A quick 15-minute ferry ride takes you to La Digue. Home to the famous Anse Source d’Argent beach with its dramatic granite boulders. Boat trips to Curieuse Island let you see big Aldabra tortoises moving freely in their natural home. Cousin Island, a special nature reserve, provides exceptional bird watching opportunities for enthusiasts.
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy on Praslin beaches. Snorkelling directly from the shore reveals vibrant coral formations and tropical fish, particularly at Anse Lazio and St Pierre islet. Kayaking allows exploration of hidden coves inaccessible by land. While stand-up paddleboarding offers a peaceful way to glide across the clear waters while spotting marine life below.
Cultural Experiences
Visiting local craft shops showcases traditional Seychellois skills passed through generations. The intricate weaving of palm leaves into baskets, hats, and decorative items represents an important cultural heritage on Praslin Island. During my stay, I visited a small workshop where an elderly artisan demonstrated techniques unchanged for centuries—a fascinating glimpse into island traditions.
The small community market near Grande Anse comes alive with colours and scents every weekend. Here, I discovered homemade jams using tropical fruits, locally produced honey, and various spice mixes that made perfect souvenirs. Beyond the products themselves, the market provided valuable opportunities to chat with residents and gain insights into daily life on Praslin Seychelles.
Where to Stay on Praslin Island Seychelles
Accommodation options on Praslin Island Seychelles range from luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses, catering to different budgets and preferences. The north and northeast coasts host most lodging choices, positioning visitors near popular beaches and activities. Consequently, properties in these areas command higher prices but offer convenient access to restaurants and transport options.
Constance Lemuria stands as the premier luxury option, with an 18-hole championship golf course and private access to Anse Georgette. Paradise Sun Hotel on Côte d’Or, for midrange travellers, gives good value with its beach spot and nice extras. I opted for the family-run Villa Anse La Blague, which provided authentic Seychellois hospitality in a peaceful setting away from the more developed areas.
Accommodation Tips
Budget-conscious travellers should consider the charming guesthouses and self-catering apartments scattered across Praslin Island. These smaller establishments often include homemade breakfasts featuring tropical fruits and local delicacies, offering both savings and cultural immersion. Les Lauriers Eco Hotel impressed me with its commitment to sustainability without sacrificing comfort, while Treasure Island Retreat provided exceptional value with spacious rooms and helpful hosts who shared insider tips about exploring the island.
Booking well in advance is essential regardless of your accommodation choice, particularly during high season from June to August and the December holiday period. Many smaller properties have limited rooms that fill quickly, while even the larger resorts can reach capacity during peak times. As a rule of thumb, securing your stay at least six months ahead ensures the best selection and rates.
Final Thoughts on Praslin Seychelles
Praslin Island Seychelles delivers an experience that exceeds expectations on every level. The perfect balance of natural beauty, comfortable amenities, and authentic culture creates a destination that lingers in your memory long after departure. What makes Praslin truly special is how it maintains its pristine character despite being accessible to travellers—a delicate balance that few destinations manage to achieve.
My journey across Praslin Island beaches and forests reinforced my belief that some places in our world remain magical despite growing tourism. The memories of azure waters, powdery beaches, and lush landscapes continue to bring me joy months after returning home. For travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure in a truly spectacular setting, this gem of the Seychelles archipelago delivers consistently rewarding experiences.
The genuine warmth of the Seychellois people adds another dimension to the Praslin Island Seychelles experience. Their pride in their home and willingness to share their cultural heritage enriches any visit beyond the obvious natural attractions. I left with not just photographs but meaningful connections and a deep appreciation for this incredible corner of our planet—a place I’m already planning to revisit to discover even more of its treasures.
