Praslin is the country’s second-largest island, 11 km long and far more relaxed than Mahé. It’s the launching pad for Curieuse, Cousin, Aride, La Digue and the rest of the protected island circuit, but it earns its place on the itinerary on its own merits — Anse Lazio, Vallée de Mai, Anse Georgette, and a slow coastal pace.
The geography
An hourglass-shaped island with the airport at the south, the main harbour at Baie Sainte Anne to the east, and the headline beaches arrayed across the north and west coasts. The protected UNESCO valley sits in the centre — Praslin’s entire middle is essentially a forest reserve.
Where to stay on Praslin
| Area | Vibe | Stay options |
|---|---|---|
| Côte d’Or / Anse Volbert (east) | Resort strip, calm bay, restaurant scene | Acajou, Coco de Mer, Berjaya, Paradise Sun |
| Anse Lazio (north-west) | The country’s most-photographed beach | No on-beach hotels — drive in |
| Anse Kerlan (west) | Constance Lemuria, golf course | Constance Lemuria, Raffles nearby |
| Baie Sainte Anne (south-east) | Ferry hub, working harbour | Mid-range guesthouses |
| Anse Possession (north-east) | Quieter than Côte d’Or, same access | Guesthouses, villa rentals |
The non-negotiables
- Anse Lazio — go in the late morning for the best photos and water.
- Vallée de Mai — go early. The UNESCO-listed forest is the country’s natural-history pearl.
- Anse Georgette — book ahead through Constance, walk in through the golf course.
- Curieuse day-trip — tortoises + St-Pierre snorkel + barbecue lunch.
- Fond Ferdinand — the other coco de mer forest, less visited, just as good.
- Anse Boudin sunset.
- Dinner at Capricorn or PK’s.
Getting to and around Praslin
From Mahé: Cat Cocos catamaran (~1 hr, EUR 70) or Air Seychelles Twin Otter (~15 min, EUR 80–120). Both leave several times a day. Once on Praslin, rent a car (essential to combine Vallée de Mai and Anse Lazio in one trip) — small hatchback SCR 800/day. SPTC bus around the perimeter SCR 7/trip.
Frequently asked questions
Praslin or La Digue if I have to choose one?
Praslin has more variety — the UNESCO forest, the best beach (Anse Lazio), the protected-island boat trips, more restaurant choice. La Digue has the single most-photographed beach (Anse Source d’Argent) and the cycling vibe. Praslin wins on length-of-stay value.
How long on Praslin?
Three nights minimum, four is better. Less than three and you don’t get a real Vallée de Mai morning + a boat day + sufficient beach time.
Can I day-trip Praslin from Mahé?
Possible but compromised. The 1-hour ferry each way eats the day. You’d get Anse Lazio + a fast Vallée de Mai walk and not much else. Stay overnight if you can.