Fond Ferdinand is the other coco de mer forest on Praslin — 122 hectares of native palm forest on the south of the island, accessible only by guided tour from the visitor centre. Larger than Vallée de Mai, less visited, and arguably more pristine. The guided walk takes about 2 hours and climbs to a viewpoint over the south coast.
The reserve was opened to visitors in 2010 (later than Vallée de Mai) and still feels like a working forest rather than a tourist site. The black parrots are easier to hear here, the coco de mer palms are denser, and the canopy stays cool all day.
Best for
Natural-history travellers, anyone who’s done Vallée de Mai and wants the deeper version.
When to go
Year-round, with guided tours leaving at 9am, 10am, 11am and 1pm. Wear closed shoes.
How to get there
South Praslin, signposted from the main road near Anse Marie-Louise. 20 minutes from Anse Volbert by car.
What’s nearby
Anse Marie-Louise (the beach below) and the south-coast viewpoints. Pair with Vallée de Mai across one half-day each.
