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Praslin National Park
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Praslin Overview

Praslin National Park, known locally as Parc National de Praslin, is a pristine natural reserve located on Praslin Island, the second-largest island in the Seychelles. Established in 1979, the park spans approximately 324 hectares (800 acres) and is renowned for its lush tropical forests, dramatic granite ridges, and unparalleled biodiversity. Nestled in the heart of the island, Praslin National Park is home to the legendary Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has earned worldwide acclaim for its ecological importance and captivating beauty.

The park’s terrain features rolling hills, granite peaks, and dense forests, offering scenic vistas of Praslin’s coastline and neighboring islands. The highest point within the park is Fond Azore, which rises to 367 meters (1,204 feet) above sea level, providing breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails that wind through the verdant forest, creating opportunities to immerse themselves in the natural splendor and discover the island’s diverse ecosystems.

Praslin National Park is best known for protecting the endemic coco de mer palm (Lodoicea maldivica), an iconic species famous for producing the world’s largest seed. The coco de mer forest in Vallée de Mai is often described as a “prehistoric garden,” with towering palms and massive leaves creating a magical, primeval atmosphere. The park also harbors a variety of other endemic plants, including screwpines, ferns, and orchids, which thrive in its nutrient-rich soil and humid environment.

Wildlife is another highlight of Praslin National Park. The forest is a haven for endemic bird species, most notably the Seychelles black parrot, the national bird of Seychelles and one of the rarest parrots in the world. Other avian residents include the Seychelles bulbul, blue pigeon, and the Seychelles swiftlet, making the park a premier birdwatching destination. Reptiles, such as the bronze-eyed gecko and the Seychelles skink, thrive within the park’s forest floor, while insect species like the giant millipede add to the park’s rich biodiversity.

In addition to its natural wonders, Praslin National Park plays a critical role in conservation. As a protected area, it safeguards the fragile ecosystems of Praslin Island from deforestation, invasive species, and human encroachment. The Seychelles government, alongside conservation organizations, has implemented measures to monitor wildlife populations, restore degraded habitats, and promote eco-friendly tourism practices. Vallée de Mai, in particular, receives ongoing attention for its ecological preservation, ensuring the survival of the coco de mer and its associated flora and fauna.

Visitors to Praslin National Park can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, birdwatching, and exploring the UNESCO-listed Vallée de Mai. Popular trails, such as the Glacis Noir Trail, lead to stunning viewpoints and offer glimpses of the park’s diverse flora and fauna. The serene, shaded environment provides a peaceful escape for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the island’s unspoiled beauty.

In summary, Praslin National Park is a natural paradise, celebrated for its coco de mer palms, rare wildlife, and enchanting forest landscapes. It remains a cornerstone of Seychelles’ conservation efforts and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the archipelago’s ecological treasures.

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Park Map
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Praslin National Park Highlights

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Praslin National Park, located on the island of Praslin in the Seychelles, is a UNESCO-listed wonder teeming with rare wildlife, lush tropical forests, and unique ecosystems that create a harmonious balance between flora and fauna.

Seychelles Giant Millipede
Thriving in the cool, damp forest undergrowth, the Seychelles giant millipede plays a vital role in nutrient cycling as it breaks down decaying vegetation.

Seychelles Tree Frog
This small, agile frog is often spotted on broad leaves, where its bright green hue blends seamlessly into the lush forest canopy.

Bronze Gecko
A rare and shimmering reptile, the bronze gecko clings to tree trunks and rocky surfaces, camouflaging itself to evade predators.

Coconut Crab
Renowned for its strength, the coconut crab climbs trees and cracks coconuts with ease, adding to its reputation as the “king of crabs.”

Praslin Snail
This tiny, endemic snail species thrives in the moist forest floor, where it plays a role in decomposing organic matter.

Seychelles Skink
Quick and energetic, the Seychelles skink basks on sunlit rocks and preys on small insects found throughout the park.

Tenrec
This small, nocturnal mammal searches for insects in the undergrowth, resembling a hedgehog with its spiny coat and pointed snout.

Seychelles Chameleon
A master of disguise, the Seychelles chameleon changes color to blend into the forest surroundings as it hunts insects.

Giant Land Crab
Easily spotted in coastal and forested areas, the giant land crab digs burrows and scavenges for leaves and small organisms.

Black Mud Turtle
This elusive turtle inhabits the park’s freshwater areas, swimming gracefully and foraging for aquatic vegetation.

Birds

Praslin National Park’s pristine forests and towering palm groves attract an incredible variety of birdlife, including some of the rarest endemic species in the Seychelles.

Seychelles Black Parrot
The emblem of Praslin, the Seychelles black parrot is a rare and iconic bird seen feeding on fruits in the Vallée de Mai.

Seychelles Bulbul
With its energetic personality and melodious calls, the Seychelles bulbul is often heard echoing through the park’s forest canopy.

Seychelles Swiftlet
This nimble flyer soars over the park’s trails and cliffs, catching insects in mid-air with incredible precision.

Seychelles Blue Pigeon
This vibrant blue bird, with its red crown, is commonly seen perching on fruit-laden branches high in the treetops.

White-tailed Tropicbird
Effortlessly elegant, the white-tailed tropicbird glides above the forested slopes, its long tail streamers trailing behind.

Mascarene Swiftlet
Swift and graceful, the Mascarene swiftlet nests in crevices and darts through the sky, feeding on insects.

Seychelles Sunbird
The iridescent feathers of the Seychelles sunbird shimmer as it moves energetically among flowering plants, sipping nectar.

Collared Dove
With its gentle cooing and unassuming presence, the collared dove adds to the tranquility of the park’s woodlands.

Grey Heron
This tall and patient hunter frequents the park’s wetland areas, where it stalks fish and amphibians in shallow waters.

Black-naped Tern
A coastal visitor, the black-naped tern soars near the park’s edges, diving to catch small fish along the shoreline.

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Engaging Praslin National Park

Hiking the park’s scenic trails rewards visitors with breathtaking views of Praslin’s lush landscapes and sparkling coastline. Popular routes, such as the Glacis Noire trail, wind through dense vegetation and rocky outcrops, leading hikers to stunning viewpoints overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Along the way, hikers encounter endemic wildlife such as the Seychelles skink and giant millipede, as well as lush flora, including orchids and ferns. At the summit, panoramic vistas reveal the shimmering turquoise waters, distant islands, and dramatic granite landscapes that define Praslin’s beauty.

The combination of physical activity, wildlife encounters, and unparalleled views makes hiking an unforgettable way to experience the park’s natural splendor.

A visit to Praslin National Park’s Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore one of the world’s most pristine palm forests. Guided trails lead visitors through lush groves dominated by the legendary coco de mer palm, famous for producing the world’s largest seed.

The trails meander under dense, leafy canopies, creating a cool, tranquil atmosphere where the calls of the rare Seychelles black parrot can be heard echoing through the forest. Interpretive signs provide fascinating information about the park’s biodiversity, including endemic plants, insects, and reptiles.

This serene and visually striking experience immerses visitors in a living prehistoric paradise, making it one of the park’s standout attractions.

Birdwatching in Praslin National Park is a dream activity for nature lovers, with its diverse habitats attracting rare and endemic avian species. Guided tours lead visitors to strategic vantage points, where the elusive Seychelles black parrot, Seychelles bulbul, and Seychelles sunbird can be observed in their natural surroundings.

Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for spotting birds as they forage, call, or display courtship behaviors. Guides assist in identifying species and interpreting their unique behaviors, making the experience educational and engaging.

With the lush, unspoiled forest as a backdrop and the symphony of birdcalls surrounding you, birdwatching in Praslin delivers an immersive connection to the island’s avian wonders.

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