The second largest island of the Seychelles, Praslin is surrounded by sandy white beaches and dotted with boulders that you'd half-expect to see mermaids perched atop. Inland, you’ll see why early settlers referred to the island as the Garden of Eden, its tropical forests filled with colorful birds and orchids. Things to do on Praslin Island include hiking through the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve to find vanilla orchids, lounging on the white sand at Anse Lazio, and trying to catch a glimpse of the Seychelles black parrot.
Praslin Island is at its best in April–May and October–November, when the seasonal winds and storms of the Indian Ocean die off and the water becomes calm and clear. Without wind and waves kicking up the sand, the visibility underwater is excellent, and the hot, dry weather makes it even more welcoming to swimmers. Try to avoid visiting in the monsoon months of December to February so you can maximize your time in the sun.
Praslin is small, with a population to match, and the three main settlements are Baie Sainte Anne, Anse Volbert, and Grand Anse. While a public bus service exists, there are only three routes. For traveling in the evening, or if you’re trying to get somewhere more remote, taxis are easy to find, with prices standardized by the government. Renting a bike is also a great option—most hotels offer bikes, and you’ll find plenty of paths to explore.
The nature reserve of Fond Ferdinand is located near Baie Sainte Anne, and you can take guided hikes through the jungle. Groves of the unique coco de mer trees give way to views of the sea and valleys, and you can learn about the local flora and fauna. Bring water, a hat, and bug spray, as the climb can be challenging!
