Welcome to the Vallée de Mai in the North of Praslin Island Seychelles which is part of the WORLD HERITAGE SITE. This is a living relic of pre-history being part of the now dispersed super-continent Gondwana, and hosts a riparian ecosystem of palms and captivating wildlife. Stand amidst the huge groves of the ancient palm forest where the enormous nuts of the coco de mer trees are formed in the wild. There will be many twists and turns through the valley, the sounds of the rare black parrot, the emblem of the fauna in the valley. The paths themselves are snaky, and as a walker finds himself in the midst of the woods, he or she realizes that there are probably no changes in them for a period of thousands of years. Much has already been said about its being a tropical paradise, and a true word is Vallée de Mai.
Itinerary
This itinerary provides a comprehensive experience of Vallée de Mai, balanced with relaxation and additional exploration opportunities on Praslin Island.
Day 1: Arrival and Initial Exploration
Arrive on Praslin Island, Seychelles, and transfer to your accommodation. After checking in and having lunch, head to Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve for an initial exploration. Take a leisurely walk along one of the shorter trails to get acquainted with the lush surroundings and iconic coco de mer palms. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the chance to spot unique wildlife such as the Seychelles black parrot. Return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Immersion in Vallée de Mai
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a full-day adventure in Vallée de Mai. Explore the longer trails, delving deeper into the prehistoric forest. Marvel at the ancient palm trees, including the endemic coco de mer, and discover other unique flora and fauna. Take your time to observe the diverse birdlife, reptiles, and insects that call this UNESCO World Heritage Site home. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the designated areas within the reserve. In the afternoon, continue exploring or join a guided tour for more in-depth knowledge about the ecosystem. Return to your accommodation for a relaxing evening and dinner.
Day 3: Relaxation and Beach Time
After breakfast, spend a relaxing morning at one of Praslin’s stunning beaches, such as Anse Lazio or Anse Georgette. Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply soaking up the sun on the pristine sands. For those interested in more nature exploration, consider visiting the nearby Fond Ferdinand Nature Reserve, which offers additional hiking trails and viewpoints. In the late afternoon, return to Vallée de Mai for a final visit, perhaps focusing on areas you missed or favorites you’d like to see again. Conclude your day with a leisurely dinner and one last overnight stay on Praslin Island.
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Important Information
Packing Tips:
- Light, breathable clothing for daytime.
- Comfortable walking shoes for hiking trails.
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Insect repellent.
- Binoculars and a camera for wildlife spotting.
Additional Notes:
- Ensure you have enough water and snacks for hikes.
- Respect the natural environment and follow reserve guidelines.
- Guided tours can provide valuable insights into the unique ecosystem.
