How to Get to Praslin Island from Mahe, Seychelles (2022)

How to Get to Praslin Island from Mahe, Seychelles (2022)

An updated travel guide showing the options for getting to Praslin Island in the Seychelles - from Mahe and from Praslin.

Praslin Island is one of the most popular places for those taking a trip to Seychelles. It is home to the famous Vallée de Mai as well as some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world, including the one and only Anse Lazio.

For those planning their vacation to the beautiful Seychelles, I have created this useful, up-to-date guide to getting to Praslin. I've listed three of the best options so you know exactly how to get here yourself.

Featured in: Praslin Island Travel Guide – 15 Best Things to do

Where is Praslin Island

Praslin is one of the 115 islands of the Seychelles. It is considered one of the 43 inner islands and, together with Mahe and La Digue, one of the three main islands for tourism.

Praslin is about 49 kilometers northeast of the main island; Mahe, but only about 10 kilometers from nearby La Digue. As the largest island in the area, it also has the most tourist infrastructure.

Below is a map that you can navigate to help you plan your journey to Praslin Island. Read on for the best options.

How to get to Praslin Island from Mahe?

Below I will give you an overview of the three current options to get from Mahe to Praslin Island.

Update: Creole Adventures now offers day trips to the islands of Praslin and La Digue. This is a great option if you're short on time but want to see lots of highlights like Praslin's famous beaches and the famous Vallée de Mai.

Option 1: Fast ferry from Mahé to Praslin

The most popular way to get from Mahe to Praslin is the Cat Cocos fast ferry. This boat runs daily and only takes about 1 hour to reach Praslin from Mahe. This is a popular route, so it's best to book online in advance to secure a spot.

Ferry price: €50 for the lower deck, €55 for the upper deck and €70 for business class

The journey begins at the Cat Cocos berth in Victoria, opposite Orion Mall, approximately 9.5 kilometers north of Mahé International Airport. Traffic in Mahe heading north can get notoriously heavy, especially in the morning, so give yourself plenty of time to reach the ferry port. The website states that you should arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

Once on Praslin, disembark at Baie Sainte Anne at the eastern end of the island.

Check price and availability: Cat Cocos Ferry Booking
alt=“Praslin Port Seychelles”>Arrival at the port of Praslin, Seychelles

Option 2: Air Seychelles scenic flight from Mahé to Praslin

The second most popular and, in my opinion, best option is the Air Seychelles round trip flight from Mahé to Praslin Airport. This option is a great value for money and can definitely be considered an experience. The quick 10-minute flight to Praslin is very scenic and you'll get great views over both islands on the way there.

The plane takes off from Mahe Domestic Terminal, which is very tiny – just a small room! The plane is a small propeller plane with space for about 12 people.

You must definitely book this flight if you choose this option to get from Mahe to Praslin. I always check Skyscanner and CheapOAir for discounted prices and special offers before booking.
alt="Air Seychelles flight from Mahé to Praslin">
alt=“Flight from Mahé to Praslin, Air Seychelles”>

Option 3: Private boat transfer to Praslin

If you are short on time or want to know how to get from Mahe to Praslin in style, you can also book a private boat online.

This trip is quite expensive, especially compared to public transport. However, I added it as I understand that some people prefer a luxury private trip, especially in Seychelles!

Accommodation options on Praslin after your arrival

Praslin is the second largest of the inner islands and offers some incredible hotels and resorts. A little sleepier than Mahe, Praslin is aimed at the more relaxed crowd.

The main area to stay on Praslin is Cote D’Or Beach. This is the main tourist area with many hotels and beach resorts. However, there are also great resorts and accommodation options throughout Praslin, including near the famous Anse Lazio. I've written a separate, comprehensive accommodation guide for Praslin, but below are some of the best tips.

Amazing Cote D’Or Beach Resort: Acajou Beach ResortAcajou is a beautiful resort offering 4-star accommodation right on the doorstep of the white sandy beaches of the Cote D’Or. I had the pleasure of staying here and honestly, it was one of the best resorts I have ever stayed at. Acajou offers sea-view rooms, a swimming pool and some of the island's best restaurants.
alt="Acajou Resort, Praslin Island, Seychelles">
Luxury Honeymoon Suites: Constance Lemuria Hidden between 3 of the best beaches in Praslin, this luxurious 5-star resort is considered one of the best honeymoon resorts in Seychelles. Attached is a luxurious spa center with a whirlpool and sauna in the middle of a palm and bamboo forest. There is even an 18-hole golf course.
alt=“Lemuria Resort Seychelles”>
Budget Self-Catering: Treasure Island RetreatTo be fair, I wouldn't describe any of the hotels on Praslin as 'budget'. However, for those who want to enjoy the outdoors and save a few pennies on accommodation and food, opting for a self-catering stay on Praslin is a good choice. The best you will find on the island is the Treasure Island Retreat. This hotel offers seafront apartments on Anse Kerlan, all equipped with king-size beds, fully equipped kitchens and furnished terraces or balconies.

alt=“Treasure Island Retreat self-catering apartments on Praslin Island, Seychelles”>

More travel inspiration for the Seychelles

I hope this updated and up-to-date guide on how to get to Praslin from Mahe in the Seychelles has been a useful tool in planning your holiday.

The ultimate Seychelles travel resource

Looking for more Seychelles travel guides and inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive travel guides that will serve as a great resource for your trip.

– 50 Things to Do in Seychelles – Seychelles Accommodation Guide – 18 Best Beaches in Seychelles – 10 Best Islands in Seychelles – 15 Best Hikes in Seychelles

While you're here on my blog you'll find lots of inspiration for the islands. Check out some of the latest articles below.

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