Excursion Vallée de mai tour at Praslin

This tour offers guests the opportunity to experience the natural wonder of the Vallée de Mai, home to the fabled Coco de Mer, a World Heritage Site. As well, spend some time at Praslin's glorious beaches, notably Côte d'Or Beach.

Vallée De Mai

Following the tender ride ashore, board your coach for the 15-minute drive to the Praslin National Park, set in the central hills and covering an area of more than one square mile. During a guided walk into this magical forest, feel an atmosphere of great tranquillity surround you. Only the carefully laid out paths betray the fact that human hands have been at work here to make the homeland of the coco de mer accessible to the visitor and to provide an idea of the vegetation existing on the island prior to the arrival of Europeans.

Follow your guide on a nature trail and learn about a variety of interesting botanical species. At times, the palm fronds form such a thick roof that the sun is obliterated. Even walking just a short distance into this green palm thicket will enable you to marvel at the endemic coco de mer palms, some of which grow 60 to 90 feet (18-28 metres) high. For many years, the origin of the palms' uniquely shaped fruit, which washed ashore on African and Asian coasts, was shrouded in mystery. One of the legends suggested that giant underwater trees produced them, thereby giving the heavy (up to 40 pounds, 18 kg), double-cheeked nut its name. During the early 1900s, this rare object was such a highly prised collector's item that one illustrious owner even had it embellished in gold. Following your walk, there is time for a quick look at the gift shop before reboarding the coach.

Côte d'Or Beach

Next, a 20-minute drive brings you to the coastal area. At lovely Côte d'Or Beach, have about an hour to relax, swim and enjoy a cold drink, while taking in the shoreline beauty. Your tour concludes with the drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Vallée de Mai, Praslin National Park, homemade Coco de Mer, Côte d'Or Beach

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking at Vallée de Mai, partly on uneven ground and with some steep inclines. This tour is recommended for guests who are in good physical condition. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear Lightweight, comfortable clothing, a swimsuit under a cover-up with beach or water shoes, and bring sun protection and a towel from the ship. Guests must be at least 2 years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary. Operation of this tour is subject to weather conditions. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.