10 Things to Do in Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, Victoria Seychelles
Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is a protected area located on the island of Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago. This unique nature reserve is home to some of the world’s rarest and most exotic plants and animals, including the iconic Coco de Mer palm, the world’s largest seed, and the world’s rarest bird, the Seychelles Black Parrot. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, here are 10 things to do in Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve.
1. Take a Guided Tour: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers a variety of guided tours, including a 1.5-hour guided tour of the reserve and a 3-hour guided tour of the entire island. During the tour, you will get to explore the unique flora and fauna of the reserve, learn about the conservation efforts, and get a chance to spot the rare Seychelles Black Parrot.
2. Visit the Coco de Mer Palm Grove: The Coco de Mer palm is the world’s largest seed, and it’s only found in Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to a grove of these majestic palms, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about this rare species.
3. Go Birdwatching: The Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is a great spot for birdwatchers. You can spot a variety of birds, including the Seychelles Black Parrot, the Seychelles White-eye, and the Seychelles Blue Pigeon.
4. Take a Hike: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult. You can explore the lush rainforest, spot wildlife, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
5. Visit the Interpretation Centre: The Interpretation Centre is a great place to learn more about the reserve and its conservation efforts. You can take a self-guided tour of the centre and learn about the history of the reserve, the plants and animals that inhabit it, and the conservation efforts.
6. Go Kayaking: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers kayaking tours, which are a great way to explore the reserve from a different perspective. You can paddle through the mangroves, spot wildlife, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
7. Visit the Botanical Gardens: The Botanical Gardens at Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve are home to a variety of exotic plants and trees. You can take a guided tour of the gardens and learn about the different species that inhabit the reserve.
8. Go Snorkeling: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers some of the best snorkeling in the Seychelles. You can explore the coral reefs, spot a variety of marine life, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
9. Visit the Beach: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is home to a stunning beach, which is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. You can also take a guided tour of the beach and learn about the conservation efforts to protect the marine life.
10. Take a Boat Tour: Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve offers boat tours, which are a great way to explore the reserve from a different perspective. You can spot wildlife, explore the mangroves, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands.
Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is a unique and beautiful destination, and there are plenty of things to do. From guided tours to kayaking and snorkeling, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience or just want to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding islands, Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve is the perfect destination for your next vacation.