Praslin, Seychelles Travel Guide

Discover Praslin, where pristine beaches, lush jungles, and unique flora create an idyllic paradise in the heart of Seychelles.

Praslin, the second largest island in Seychelles, is a stunning destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, pristine beaches, and rich biodiversity. Often referred to as the 'Garden of Eden', Praslin is home to the UNESCO World Heritage site Vallée de Mai, where the famous Coco de Mer palm grows. This island paradise is a haven for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. The beaches in Praslin are some of the most beautiful in the world, with Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette being particularly notable. Their powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and simply relaxing. The island's laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In addition to its natural attractions, Praslin offers a variety of activities and experiences for visitors. From exploring the island's lush jungles and hiking trails to enjoying fresh seafood at local restaurants, there is something for everyone. The friendly locals and vibrant culture add to the island's charm, making Praslin a must-visit destination in Seychelles.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Praslin.

Visit Vallée de Mai early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serenity.
Rent a car or bike to explore the island at your own pace.
Try the local Creole cuisine, especially the seafood dishes.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.
Book your visit to Anse Georgette in advance as it requires a permit.

Explore Praslin: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Praslin

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Soufrière Drive In Volcano

Explore the breathtaking Soufrière Drive In Volcano, a unique geothermal attraction in St. Lucia, featuring bubbling mud pots and stunning natural landscapes.

4.6

Rodney Bay Marina

Discover the charm of Rodney Bay Marina, St. Lucia's premier destination for sailing, dining, and relaxation with stunning Caribbean views.

4.5

Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa

Experience the ultimate Caribbean getaway at Coconut Bay Beach Resort & Spa in St. Lucia, where luxury meets adventure in a tropical paradise.

4.3

Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

Experience the stunning beauty of Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths, where nature's vibrant colors and relaxing mineral baths await you.

4.6

Best landmarks in Praslin

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Victoria Botanical Gardens

Discover the exotic flora of Seychelles at Victoria Botanical Gardens, a serene escape filled with lush landscapes and unique plant species.

4.2

Takamaka Rum Distillery

Explore the authentic flavors of Seychelles at Takamaka Rum Distillery, where tradition meets tropical paradise in every sip.

4.6

Copolia Trail

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Copolia Trail in Seychelles, a scenic hiking area offering stunning vistas and rich biodiversity.

4.8

Sauzier Waterfall

Discover the enchanting beauty of Sauzier Waterfall in N.Y.S. Village, a must-visit hiking area surrounded by lush landscapes and serene natural wonders.

4.1

Best restaurants in Praslin

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Baobab Pizzeria

Experience mouthwatering pizzas at Baobab Pizzeria in Mare Anglaise—where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

4.0

La Perle Noire Restaurant

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Perle Noire Restaurant in Beau Vallon – where every meal is crafted with passion and freshness.

4.6

La Gaulette Restaurant

Experience authentic Creole cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at La Gaulette Restaurant in Mahé, Seychelles.

4.4

Perry's Grillz

Discover culinary excellence at Perry's Grillz in Mahe – where fresh flavors meet friendly service amidst stunning island scenery.

4.9

Best bars in Praslin

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The Boardwalk Bar & Grill

Experience the lively atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and vibrant nightlife at The Boardwalk Bar & Grill on Eden Island, Seychelles.

4.3

Coco Bar

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Coco Bar on La Digue, where refreshing drinks meet breathtaking views in a tropical paradise.

4.6

Summer Bar

Discover the laid-back charm of Summer Bar in Quatre Bornes, where ocean views and refreshing drinks create unforgettable moments.

4.9

Beach bar Four Seasons

Discover the vibrant Beach Bar Four Seasons, a beachfront paradise in Anse Royale offering refreshing cocktails and breathtaking views.

3.7

Best nightclubs in Praslin

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Del Place Restaurant

Experience the essence of Seychelles at Del Place Restaurant, where fresh local ingredients meet breathtaking views in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4.5

Beach Shak Seychelles

Experience the vibrant essence of Seychelles at Beach Shak, where grilled delights meet refreshing cocktails in a stunning beachfront setting.

4.5

The Coffee Club

Experience the essence of coffee culture at The Coffee Club in Victoria, where every sip is a taste of local charm and hospitality.

3.6

Amusement Centre

Experience the vibrant nightlife and thrilling entertainment at Amusement Centre in Victoria, Seychelles – a captivating destination for all.

4.7

Best shops in Praslin

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Castries Market

Explore the authentic flavors and vibrant culture of St. Lucia at the bustling Castries Market, where fresh produce and local crafts await.

4.1

Baywalk Shopping Mall

Experience the best of shopping, dining, and local culture at Baywalk Shopping Mall in Rodney Bay, St. Lucia.

4.2

La Place Carénage

Discover La Place Carénage in Castries: A dynamic shopping mall blending local charm with modern retail, dining, and entertainment experiences.

4.2

Duty Free Pointe Seraphine Shopping Complex

Explore Duty Free Pointe Seraphine in St. Lucia for an unmatched shopping experience with stunning views and exquisite duty-free deals.

4.2

Explore Praslin on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Praslin, mapped for you.

Praslin Essentials

Praslin, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is accessible primarily by air and sea. The island has its own airport, Praslin Island Airport (Ile de Praslin Airport), where daily flights from Mahé, the main island, are operated by Air Seychelles. The flight duration is approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed ferry from Mahé to Praslin, which takes about an hour and is operated by companies like Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry.
Getting around Praslin is convenient, with various transportation options available. Taxis are readily accessible and can be hailed or booked in advance. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to explore the island at their own pace. Additionally, there is a reliable bus service that operates regularly and covers most parts of the island. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore Praslin.
The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available on the island, and currency exchange services can be found at banks and major hotels.
Praslin is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night in secluded areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. Praslin has a hospital, Baie Ste Anne Hospital, which provides medical care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available on the island where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour.' A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Praslin like a local, visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its coco de mer palms. Spend time at the local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and traditions. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, two of the most beautiful beaches on the island.

When is the best time to visit Praslin?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Praslin

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Praslin. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBonzour
  [bon-zoh]
- GoodbyeOrevwar
  [oh-rev-wah]
- YesWi
  [wee]
- NoNon
  [nohn]
- Please/You're welcomeSilvouple
  [seel-voo-play]
- Thank youMersi
  [mehr-see]
- Excuse me/SorryEskize mwa
  [es-kee-zay mwah]
- How are you?Ki manyer?
  [kee man-yeh]
- Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [bee-en. eh oo?]
- Do you speak English?Ou pale Angle?
  [oo pah-lay ahn-glay]
- I don't understandMwan pa konpran
  [mwahn pah kohn-prahn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMontr mwa meni, silvouple
  [mohn-truh mwah meh-nee, seel-voo-play]
- I don't eat meatMwan manze karn
  [mwahn mahn-zeh kahrn]
- Cheers!Sente
  [sen-teh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMonn peye, silvouple
  [mohn pay-yeh, seel-voo-play]
- Help!Aid
  [ayd]
- Go away!Al lew
  [ahl loo]
- Call the Police!Sey lapolis!
  [say lah-poh-leece]
- Call a doctor!Sey dokter!
  [say dohk-tehr]
- I'm lostMwan perdi
  [mwahn peh-dee]
- I'm illMwan malad
  [mwahn mah-lahd]
- I'd like to buy...Monn anvi achte...
  [mohn ahn-vee ahkt]
- I'm just lookingMwan pe sime
  [mwahn pay see-meh]
- How much is it?Konbyen li koute?
  [kohn-byen lee koot]
- That's too expensiveSa tro dispendye
  [sah troh dees-pen-dyeh]
- Can you lower the price?Ou kapab redwi pri?
  [oo kah-pahb reh-dwee pree]
- What time is it?Ki ler li ye?
  [kee lair lee yeh]
- It's one o'clockLi enn ler
  [lee enn lair]
- Half past (10)Demi-diz
  [deh-mee deez]
- MorningMaten
  [mah-tehn]
- AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
- EveningAswar
  [ah-swah]
- YesterdayZouryerdizour
  [zoo-ree-yehr-dee-zoor]
- TodayZordi
  [zor-dee]
- TomorrowDemenn
  [deh-mehn]
- 1Enn
  [enn]
- 2De
  [day]
- 3Troa
  [twa]
- 4Kat
  [kaht]
- 5Sank
  [sahnk]
- 6Sis
  [sees]
- 7Set
  [seht]
- 8Uit
  [weet]
- 9Nef
  [nef]
- 10Dis
  [dees]
- Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-teh]
- What's the address?Ki adres?
  [kee ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwa (sou lap)
  [oo kah-pahb mohn-truh mwah (soo lah-puh)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kan prochen (bis)?
  [kahn proh-shen (bees)]
- A ticket (to ....)En billet (vers ....)
  [enn bee-yay (vehr)]

History of Praslin

The island of Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, was first sighted by Europeans in 1744. It was named 'Isle de Palmes' by the French explorer Lazare Picault due to its lush palm trees. Despite its early discovery, the island remained largely uninhabited and unexplored until the late 18th century.
In 1768, Praslin was officially claimed by the French, who began to develop the island's agricultural potential. The French established plantations of coconut, vanilla, and other crops. After the Treaty of Paris in 1814, control of the Seychelles, including Praslin, was ceded to the British, who continued to develop the agricultural sector while introducing new administrative structures.
One of Praslin's most significant historical events was the discovery of the Vallée de Mai in the mid-19th century. This ancient forest, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the rare Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. The unique biodiversity of Vallée de Mai has made it a focal point of conservation efforts and a key tourist attraction.
During World War II, Praslin, like the other islands in Seychelles, played a strategic role due to its location in the Indian Ocean. The British used the island as a base to monitor and protect maritime routes against Axis powers. The presence of military installations and personnel left a lasting impact on the island's infrastructure and local economy.
Seychelles gained independence from British colonial rule on June 29, 1976. Since independence, Praslin has seen significant development, particularly in the tourism sector. The island has become renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, and its luxury resorts, which have contributed to its status as a world-class travel destination.
Praslin's culture is a vibrant blend of African, European, and Asian influences. The Creole language, cuisine, and festivals reflect this rich cultural heritage. Today, Praslin is celebrated for its harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique charm and history.