Praslin Map

Description:

---

Praslin is the second-largest inhabited island of the Seychelles, situated in the Indian Ocean approximately 44 kilometers northeast of Mahé. With an area of 38.5 square kilometers (15 sq mi), it hosts a population of around 8,000 people and is a significant tourist destination within the archipelago.

The island is home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1983. This prehistoric forest contains the unique Coco de Mer palm trees, which produce the world's largest seed, weighing up to 25 kilograms. The reserve also protects several endemic species, including the Seychelles Black Parrot.

Anse Lazio, consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches, is located on the northern coast of Praslin. This pristine beach is characterized by its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic granite boulders. Another notable beach, Anse Georgette, offers similar natural beauty and is accessible through the Constance Lemuria Resort.

The island's infrastructure includes a small airport handling domestic flights and a jetty for boat connections to other islands. Transportation on Praslin is primarily by car, with a road network connecting all major settlements. The main villages are Baie Ste Anne, which serves as the administrative center, and Grand Anse, the largest residential area.

Praslin's economy is largely based on tourism, with numerous hotels and guesthouses scattered across the island. Traditional industries include fishing and agriculture, particularly the cultivation of vanilla and coconuts.

The Facts:
Districts: Baie Sainte Anne, Grand'Anse Praslin.
Population: ~ 8,000.
Area: 15 sq mi (38.5 sq km).
Cities and Towns: Baie Sainte Anne, Anse Kerlan, Grand Anse.