General
Praslin lies around 37 kilometres north-east of Mahé and can be easily reached by ferry (around 1 hour) or by propeller plane (around 15 minutes). Even during the journey, the second-largest island of the Seychelles reveals its beauty: gently rising hills, lush green forests, and stunning coastlines glowing in the sunlight. The French explorer Lazare Picault named Praslin “Île des Palmes” in 1744, without realising that he had discovered the home of the famous Coco de Mer – one of the rarest palm species in the world.
Praslin Island, Seychelles – Island Tour & Travel Tips
The Island at a Glance
With around 8,000 inhabitants, Praslin is the most populated island in the Seychelles after Mahé. Politically, it is divided into the districts of Grand Anse and Baie Sainte Anne. The modern port of Baie Sainte Anne welcomes daily ferries from Mahé and La Digue. Just two kilometres further on lies the main town, home to a school, church, hospital, banks, a post office, petrol station, small supermarkets, and car hire services.
Large resorts are rare here – instead, charming guesthouses and smaller, sometimes luxurious hotels invite you to relax. The two main tourist hubs, Anse Volbert (Côte d’Or) and Grand Anse, offer a good selection of accommodation, restaurants, and shops while still retaining their laid-back charm.
Nature & Attractions on Praslin
In contrast to Mahé, Praslin features gentle hills rather than towering mountains. The highest point, Fond Azore, reaches 367 metres. The climate is drier, and the vegetation is diverse: dense forests, takamaka and palm groves, waterfalls, and picturesque bays.
The Vallée de Mai is the island’s most famous natural highlight and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, the legendary Coco de Mer grows in the midst of a pristine palm forest, which can be explored along shaded walking trails. In addition to the iconic palm, rare bird species such as the black parrot also inhabit this unique reserve.
Beaches & Excursions on Praslin
Praslin is renowned for its dream beaches. Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette regularly rank among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Expansive coral reefs protect many stretches of coastline, creating perfect conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and diving.
The island measures 12 km in length and 5 km in width, and is surrounded by charming neighbouring islands – including Cousin, Curieuse and St. Pierre – all ideal for day trips. Whether on a guided tour, a boat excursion, or exploring on your own, the combination of soft sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical vegetation makes Praslin an unforgettable travel destination.
