Top things to do and see in Praslin Island
Anse Lazio is one of the world’s most popular beaches. Swimming and snorkeling are world-class from the coral to the incredible 900 species of fish among the rocks in the bay. Palm and takamaka trees line the beach between impressive granite boulders. A fun beachside restaurant is standing by to serve you a drink or a bite to eat after swimming.
The Cote d'Or beach is another hot spot on Praslin Island that offers even more time in and next to the stunning Indian Ocean. You’ll love the gorgeous view of the vibrant, blue sky and can grab some takeaway food from the truck near the beach. Take a walk along the beach at low tide if you get the chance.
The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, or May Valley, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and park on Praslin renowned for its flagship species plant life and the animals who live among the endemic palms. You can expect a look at the coco de Mer (Lodoicea maldivica), a palm tree with the largest seeds of any plant in the entire world. You'll also see the rare Seychelles black parrot.
Adventure activities on Praslin include kayaking, snorkeling, Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), bicycle rides, and nature walks. During these activities, you’ll have opportunities to experience the unusual plant life of Praslin, including the carnivorous pitcher plant, vanilla orchids, and the Coco de Mer palm tree. There are many rare birds in Praslin, including the Seychelles bulbul, fruit pigeon, and the black parrot. Sea turtles are frequently spotted on Praslin Island as well.
Top Tips for visiting Praslin Island
We recommend a few things to help you enjoy your visit to Praslin Island, including:
- Protection from the sun: sunblock, long sleeves or layers.
- Water and hiking shoes that are sand friendly.
- A camera for your Coco de Mer and black parrot sightings.
- A waterproof cell phone protector case and a dry bag to protect your electronics.
- A snorkeling mask if you have one.
- A day pack with a reusable water bottle.
Best time to cruise Praslin Island
What's the best time to visit Praslin Island? This weather guide in Seychelles will help you plan for your trip to the beautiful islands.
The Southeast Monsoon season from May to October is relatively dry. This season peaks in July and August. It is characterized by low rainfall, slightly choppy seas, and an average temperature of 27°C. This weather is best for hiking, exploring the land, and enjoying the white sand beach.
Praslin Island in November experiences a pre-Northwest Monsoon season that brings warm winds of the Northwest Monsoon season, which lasts from December to March. By December, the weather in Praslin Island is wet. The weather, however, is warm, and the vegetation particularly lush. If you don't mind some rainfall, you can still enjoy hiking and sightseeing. Although this is cyclone season, Praslin Island is outside the cyclone belt, so no problems are anticipated.
By April, Praslin Island experiences its calmest and warmest month of the year before leading back up to the Southeast Monsoon. Although snorkeling and swimming are great in the islands year-round, April usually sees calm seas, which are ideal.
The good news for nature lovers is that every season in Praslin Island is great to see wildlife in the dense vegetation and the beautiful water.
Where do Praslin Island cruises depart from?
Numerous flights are available to the Seychelles International Airport on the island of Mahé near the capital city of Victoria. Your cruise itinerary will indicate which port your small ship cruise departs from, and you may need to arrange a domestic flight or take a ferry to reach your destination point. When you reach your final landing point, members of the crew will meet you to assist you to the ship with your luggage.
Most Seychelles small ship cruises depart from either Inter-Island Quay, Mahe, or Anse Possession, Praslin.
Our reservations team can help you book your next cruise to Praslin Island in Seychelles. Contact us today.
