A Local’s Guide To Vallée de Mai On Praslin Island
From The Authors: Gaelle was born and raised in the Seychelles while Viktor has been living here for 1+ year. Unlike many other travel blogs, we actually have first-hand knowledge and experience of the places we write about. If you have any questions, we respond quickly to comments!
The Vallée de Mai nature reserve is the biggest draw the island of Praslin has to offer – and for good reason. Its stunning beauty has even evoked comparisons to the Garden of Eden.
In this article, we will detail what to expect of and keep in mind when visiting Vallée de Mai, how to get there, and how much it costs.
👉 Key Facts | Directions | Entry Fee & Opening Hours | Exploring Vallée de Mai | Waterfall
Key Facts About Vallée de Mai
The Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, which is located on the Seychelles’ second largest island Praslin, is one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites the archipelago has to offer.
This prestigious status, granted in 1983, recognizes the reserve not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its remarkable ecological significance.
Interestingly enough, it almost never became the renowned site it is today. In April 1958, a major fire threatened the nature reserve, which was ultimately fended off by local firefighters.
Its commander, Mr. Ephrem Pool, was subsequently awarded the British Empire Medal in the New Year’s Honours List of 1959.
And since 1989, the site has been managed by the Seychelles Island Foundation, a charitable trust, under the patronage of the then-president of the republic France-Albert René.
Today, Vallée de Mai is the home of various reptile species, endemic birds like the Seychelles black parrot, and the world’s largest nut – more on that later, though.