Vallée de Mai (Praslin Island)

A prehistoric forest with rare coco de mer palms.

Overview

The Vallée de Mai in Praslin Island is a truly unique and breathtaking destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. The area is steeped in history, with some of the world’s oldest plant species found here, including the legendary coco de mer palm tree. This UNESCO World Heritage site is also home to a wide variety of wildlife, including the rare black parrot and the Seychelles bulbul. The geographical coverage of the area is simply awe-inspiring, with lush tropical forests and crystal-clear streams flowing throughout. The climate is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with warm temperatures and gentle sea breezes.

Things to Do

There are plenty of things to see and do in Vallée de Mai, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Seychelles. Here are just a few of the top activities and attractions that you won’t want to miss:

Take a guided tour: One of the best ways to experience the area is to take a guided tour. Expert local guides will take you on a journey through the lush tropical forests, pointing out rare plant and animal species along the way.

Hike the trails: The Vallée de Mai is home to a number of hiking trails, offering visitors the chance to explore the area on foot. The trails vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone, and the scenery is simply breathtaking.

Visit the Coco de Mer museum: The Coco de Mer is one of the most unique species of palm tree in the world, and the Vallée de Mai is home to a museum dedicated to it. Here, you can learn all about the history and significance of this iconic tree.

Spot the black parrot: The Seychelles black parrot is one of the rarest birds in the world, and the Vallée de Mai is one of the best places to see them. Keep your eyes peeled for these beautiful birds as you explore the area.

Enjoy a picnic: There are plenty of spots throughout the Vallée de Mai that are perfect for a picnic. Bring a blanket and some food and soak up the natural beauty of the area.

What to See

The Coco de Mer palm tree: The Coco de Mer is perhaps the most iconic symbol of the Seychelles, and the Vallée de Mai is home to the largest collection of this rare and unique species of palm tree in the world. These trees are known for their enormous seeds, which are shaped like a woman’s pelvis and are said to have aphrodisiac properties.

Rare plant species: The Vallée de Mai is home to a number of rare and endangered plant species, many of which can only be found in this part of the world. Visitors can see everything from vanilla orchids to pitcher plants as they explore the area.

The Seychelles black parrot: This rare bird is one of the top attractions in the Vallée de Mai. Visitors can spot these beautiful birds as they fly through the forest canopy, and may even be lucky enough to see them feeding on the fruit of the Coco de Mer palm.

Scenic views: The Vallée de Mai offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Seychelles. From the lush forest canopy to the crystal-clear streams that flow throughout the area, visitors are sure to be captivated by the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The museum: The Vallée de Mai also features a museum dedicated to the Coco de Mer palm tree. Here visitors can learn all about the history and significance of this iconic plant, as well as see examples of the different types of Coco de Mer seed.

Best Time to Visit

Vallée de Mai is a unique and breathtaking destination that is best visited between April and October, during the dry season in the Seychelles. This is the perfect time to explore the area’s many hiking trails, spot the Seychelles black parrot, and take in the natural beauty of the surroundings. The wet season (November to March) brings more rainfall and higher humidity levels but also offers lush greenery and blooming flowers. Whether you visit during the dry or wet season.

Getting there

By road: The easiest way to get to Vallée de Mai is by car or taxi. The area is located on Praslin Island, which is connected to Mahe (the main island in the Seychelles) by regular ferry services. Once on Praslin, visitors can drive or take a taxi to Vallée de Mai, which is located in the center of the island.

By air: Praslin Island also has its own airport, which is served by several airlines, including Air Seychelles and Cat Cocos. Visitors can fly directly from Mahe to Praslin, and then take a taxi or rental car to Vallée de Mai.

By boat: There are also a number of boat tours available that can take visitors to Vallée de Mai. These tours typically depart from Mahe or Praslin Island and offer visitors a chance to see some of the surrounding islands and beaches before arriving at Vallée de Mai.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Hotel L’Archipel

This charming hotel offers comfortable rooms with ocean or garden views. Guests can enjoy a restaurant serving Creole and international cuisine, a swimming pool, and easy access to Vallée de Mai and other attractions on Praslin Island.

Le Duc de Praslin

Situated near Vallée de Mai, this hotel offers cozy rooms with private balconies or terraces. It features a restaurant serving local and international dishes, a swimming pool, and a beachfront bar. Guests can relax in a tranquil setting and explore the natural beauty of Praslin Island.

Luxury Accommodation:

Raffles Seychelles

This luxurious resort offers spacious villas with private pools and stunning ocean views. It features several restaurants, a spa offering a range of treatments, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy a luxurious stay with easy access to Vallée de Mai and other attractions on Praslin Island.

Constance Lemuria

Located near Vallée de Mai, this luxury resort offers elegant suites and villas with private pools and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. It features several restaurants, a spa, an 18-hole golf course, and a swimming pool. Guests can indulge in luxury while exploring the natural wonders of Praslin Island.