Praslin travel guide
SC

Praslin

The island of the coco de mer palm, with a primeval forest and some of the world’s finest beaches

Photo by Tobias Alt (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons
LanguageSeychellois Creole
CurrencySCR
Best Time to VisitApr – May, Oct – Nov

Praslin is the second-largest island of Seychelles, about 45km north-east of Mahé. It is quieter than Mahé, with granite headlands, palm-fringed bays and a laid-back pace.

It is famous for the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO-listed forest where the giant coco de mer palm grows wild.

Top Sights in Praslin

Palm forest in Vallée de Mai

Vallée de Mai

This palm forest became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. Trails wind under giant palms, and you may spot the rare Seychelles black parrot.

The entry fee is high; check the current price.

Photo: NorbertNagel, CC BY-SA 4.0

A coco de mer fruit

Coco de mer

The coco de mer produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. Exporting nuts needs an official permit.

Photo: Brocken Inaglory, CC BY-SA 3.0

Anse Lazio beach

Anse Lazio

In the north-west, this beach of fine sand and granite boulders is often listed among the world’s best. Snorkelling is good near the rocks.

Photo: Bjørn Christian Tørrissen, CC BY-SA 4.0

Anse Georgette beach

Anse Georgette

This small, beautiful beach is reached through a resort; ask at the resort reception for access.

Photo: flowcomm, CC BY 2.0

A giant tortoise on Curieuse Island

Curieuse Island

A short boat trip away, Curieuse has free-roaming giant tortoises, mangroves and a walking trail.

Photo: NorbertNagel, CC BY-SA 4.0

Eating & Drinking

Try Creole curries, grilled fish and ladob (a sweet dish of banana or breadfruit in coconut milk).

Small takeaways are much cheaper than hotel restaurants.

Getting There & Around

Fast ferries from Victoria take about an hour. Short flights from Mahé take about 15 minutes.

Buses run around the island; car hire and taxis are also available.

Best Time to Visit Praslin

Jan
28°C
Wet, humid
Feb
28°C
Wet
Mar
29°C
Calm
Apr
29°C
Calm, clear
May
28°C
Calm
Jun
27°C
Windy
Jul
26°C
Windy
Aug
26°C
Windy
Sep
27°C
Breezy
Oct
27°C
Calm
Nov
28°C
Calm
Dec
28°C
Wet, holidays

What Does Praslin Cost?

Seychelles uses the rupee (SCR). Many tourist prices are quoted in euros. It is an expensive destination.

Budget
€110–170 / day
Accommodation
Guesthouse
€80–130
Food
Takeaways
€15–30
Transport
Bus
about €1

Mid-range
€280–450 / day
Accommodation
Hotel
€180–300
Food
Restaurants
€60–90
Entry
Vallée de Mai
check current fee

Splurge
€800+ / day
Accommodation
Luxury resort
€600+
Food
Fine dining
€120+
Activities
Private island trip
€300+

3 Days on Praslin

Forest, beaches and islands.

Day 1
Vallée de Mai

Walk the forest in the morning, then relax at Côte d’Or.

Day 2
Anse Lazio

Spend the day swimming and snorkelling at Anse Lazio.

Day 3
Islands

Take a boat trip to Curieuse and St Pierre.

Travel Tips

Ferries

Book ferries ahead in busy months.

Coco de mer

Buy nuts only with an export permit.

Insects

Bring repellent for the forest.

Entry

Visitors must apply online for travel authorisation before arriving in Seychelles; check the current requirements and fee.

Common Questions about Praslin

Quick answers for planning time in Praslin.

How do I get to Praslin?

By fast ferry from Victoria in about an hour, or a 15-minute flight.

What is the Vallée de Mai?

A UNESCO-listed palm forest where the coco de mer grows wild.

Is Anse Lazio worth visiting?

Yes, it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Seychelles.

Can I visit La Digue from Praslin?

Yes, the ferry takes about 15 minutes.

When is the best time to visit Praslin?

April to May and October to November.

Useful Apps

Useful apps for Seychelles.

Google Maps

Offline maps help on winding island roads.

Free

Google Translate

English and French are widely spoken alongside Seychellois Creole.

Free

WhatsApp

Guesthouses, taxis and boat operators take bookings by message.

Free

GetYourGuide

Bookable tours, boat trips and transfers.

Free

More in Seychelles

Planning a wider trip? Our Seychelles travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.

✓Content last reviewed: October 2026 by the traveling-to.com editorial team.
Explore More Destinations