Praslin Island Guide

The island of Praslin is actually considered by many travel experts and nature photographers as the most famous holiday island in the world. It is located at least thirty-four kilometers away from the island of Mahe in the archipelago of Seychelles. From Mahe, you can travel by plane and reach Praslin in about fifteen to twenty minutes. But for those who want a longer voyage, you can take a boat and sail for at least three hours before getting at the second largest island in Seychelles. Because Praslin Island is now one of the most visited tourist destinations, there are currently five thousand inhabitants, including migrants that are now protecting the natural exquisiteness of the island.


Out of all the islands in Seychelles, Praslin is not only popular because it is the second largest island. Secluded beaches are everywhere in Praslin as well as resorts that are famous all over the world. Much more, Praslin is also well-known for its rare nut produced by the palm called coco de mer. The nut grown here in Praslin Island is so special not just because of its physical features (which looks like a female's pelvis) but because it is the biggest nut in the whole world. There are a lot more rare sights, plants, and animals here in Praslin. This includes the fruit pigeon and the black parrot – two of the rarest birds in the world.

However, the surprises of Praslin Island do not just end in beaches, bird watching, and nuts. Tourists may also get to several tourist attractions such as the Black Pearl, the gallery of George Camille, and the Vallee de Mai. You can never find any oyster farm located in the Indian Ocean aside from the Black Pearl. In here, guides will explain how they cultivate the pearls coming from the Black Lip Pearl Oyster. Jewelry fanatics will also get the chance to buy black pearls at a very low price. The Black Pearl welcomes visitors daily from 10 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon during weekdays. A different schedule is set during Saturdays which starts from 10 in the morning until 12 midnight.

The gallery of George Camille on the other hand, exhibits painting that had been recognized in Paris and London. His works usually depict the excitement and the colorful culture of Creoles. For those who are interested in his works, you can buy it at his studio located in Cote d'Or also here in Praslin Island.

And last but not the least is the Vallee de Mai, a natural attraction in Praslin Island. In 1984, the UNESCo declared the Vallee de Mai as a World Heritage Site. You must walk at a virgin forest in order to get to the Vallee de Mai, where you can see all sorts of exotic plants as well as wildlife creatures. You walk the trails going to Vallee de Mai if you don't want to get the guided tour package offered by the hotel or resort where you are staying in. Accommodations in the Praslin Island can be found at Seychelles Hotels guide.