50 safari lodges
    Praslin and Neighbouring Islands, Seychelles
    Moderate
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Vallée de Mai National Reserve

    A UNESCO World Heritage Site on Praslin Island, famous for its prehistoric palm forest, home to the endemic Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the world. Visitors can spot rare birds like the Seychelles black parrot and enjoy unique flora and fauna in a truly ancient landscape.

    Best timeApril to May and October to November for diving and birdwatching. Year-round destination.
    Species
    21
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    50
    Area
    0.2 km²
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1966
    UNESCO World Heritage Sitesource

    Vallée de Mai National Reserve Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Vallée de Mai National Reserve

    Sign in to report

    21 species recorded in Vallée de Mai National Reserve5 threatened

    Safari Activities

    Things to do in Vallée de Mai National Reserve

    Book Safari Experiences in Vallée de Mai National Reserve

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Vallée de Mai National Reserve

    When planning your Seychelles safari, we find the dry season from April to October offers the most predictable weather, with calm seas ideal for exploring Aldabra Atoll and its incredible marine...

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm temperatures with occasional heavy showers, often clearing quickly. Humidity is high.

    This is a good month for birding, especially for resident species. Sea turtles may be nesting on quieter beaches.

    We love the dramatic skies and lush landscapes this time of year, perfect for exploring Vallée de Mai without the crowds.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Anse Source d'Argent

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Similar to January, with warm, humid conditions and intermittent rain. The sea can be a bit rough.

    Birdlife remains active. Keep an eye out for nesting seabirds on the smaller islands.

    We recommend visiting the less developed islands for a more secluded experience, enjoying the vibrant greenery after the rains.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Aride Island Nature Reserve

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still possible. It remains warm and humid.

    Marine life is abundant, with excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving as the waters start to calm.

    We find March offers a fantastic balance of good weather and low visitor numbers, ideal for exploring Aldabra's marine wonders.

    Aldabra Atoll
    La Digue Island

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather transitions to the dry season with less rain and lower humidity. Winds are generally light.

    This is prime time for whale shark sightings, particularly around the outer islands. Giant tortoises are active.

    We absolutely recommend April for Aldabra, as the calmer seas make exploring the lagoon and its incredible wildlife so much easier.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Praslin Island

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Calm seas and minimal rainfall characterize this month. It's warm and sunny with pleasant breezes.

    Whale shark season continues, and the underwater visibility is superb for diving and snorkeling. Birding is excellent.

    We love May for its perfect conditions for exploring the underwater world; the clarity is simply breathtaking.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds pick up, bringing drier air and cooler temperatures. It's generally sunny and pleasant.

    This is a great month for observing giant tortoises on Praslin and Curieuse. The seas remain calm for marine activities.

    We find June offers a refreshing change with the trade winds, making hikes through the nature reserves particularly enjoyable.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Curieuse Island National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds are strongest, making the sea choppier on the eastern sides of islands. Inland areas are dry and sunny.

    Giant tortoises are very active and visible. Seabird colonies are thriving on islands like Aride.

    We recommend July for its reliably dry weather and the chance to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat, though book well in advance.

    Praslin Island
    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with strong trade winds and dry conditions. The eastern coasts can be rough, while western coasts are calmer.

    This is peak season for giant tortoise sightings. The marine parks are still excellent for snorkeling and diving.

    We love the energetic feel of August, with the winds providing a cooling effect, perfect for exploring the islands' diverse ecosystems.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The trade winds begin to ease, and the weather remains dry and sunny. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    The end of whale shark season, but marine life is still abundant. Birding is good as resident species are active.

    We find September offers a sweet spot with fewer crowds than July/August but still excellent dry weather for exploring.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The weather transitions back towards the rainy season, with increasing humidity and a higher chance of showers. Winds are light.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching, with many species in breeding plumage. Sea turtles may start nesting.

    We recommend October for its excellent birding opportunities and the chance to see turtles beginning their nesting cycles.

    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    Praslin Island

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm, humid conditions with frequent, often short, rain showers. The sea is generally calm.

    The islands are at their greenest. It's a good time for spotting nesting seabirds and observing the rich flora.

    We love the lushness of the Seychelles in November; the rain brings everything to life, and the visitor numbers are low.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    December

    high

    Short Rains

    Warm and humid with a high chance of rain, though showers are often brief. The sea is typically calm.

    This is a good month for spotting nesting sea turtles on secluded beaches. The lush vegetation supports abundant birdlife.

    We recommend December for those seeking vibrant, tropical scenery and the chance to witness nesting turtles, but be prepared for rain.

    Anse Source d'Argent
    Curieuse Island National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm temperatures with occasional heavy showers, often clearing quickly. Humidity is high.

    This is a good month for birding, especially for resident species. Sea turtles may be nesting on quieter beaches.

    We love the dramatic skies and lush landscapes this time of year, perfect for exploring Vallée de Mai without the crowds.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Anse Source d'Argent

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Similar to January, with warm, humid conditions and intermittent rain. The sea can be a bit rough.

    Birdlife remains active. Keep an eye out for nesting seabirds on the smaller islands.

    We recommend visiting the less developed islands for a more secluded experience, enjoying the vibrant greenery after the rains.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Aride Island Nature Reserve

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still possible. It remains warm and humid.

    Marine life is abundant, with excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving as the waters start to calm.

    We find March offers a fantastic balance of good weather and low visitor numbers, ideal for exploring Aldabra's marine wonders.

    Aldabra Atoll
    La Digue Island

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather transitions to the dry season with less rain and lower humidity. Winds are generally light.

    This is prime time for whale shark sightings, particularly around the outer islands. Giant tortoises are active.

    We absolutely recommend April for Aldabra, as the calmer seas make exploring the lagoon and its incredible wildlife so much easier.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Praslin Island

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Calm seas and minimal rainfall characterize this month. It's warm and sunny with pleasant breezes.

    Whale shark season continues, and the underwater visibility is superb for diving and snorkeling. Birding is excellent.

    We love May for its perfect conditions for exploring the underwater world; the clarity is simply breathtaking.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds pick up, bringing drier air and cooler temperatures. It's generally sunny and pleasant.

    This is a great month for observing giant tortoises on Praslin and Curieuse. The seas remain calm for marine activities.

    We find June offers a refreshing change with the trade winds, making hikes through the nature reserves particularly enjoyable.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Curieuse Island National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds are strongest, making the sea choppier on the eastern sides of islands. Inland areas are dry and sunny.

    Giant tortoises are very active and visible. Seabird colonies are thriving on islands like Aride.

    We recommend July for its reliably dry weather and the chance to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat, though book well in advance.

    Praslin Island
    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with strong trade winds and dry conditions. The eastern coasts can be rough, while western coasts are calmer.

    This is peak season for giant tortoise sightings. The marine parks are still excellent for snorkeling and diving.

    We love the energetic feel of August, with the winds providing a cooling effect, perfect for exploring the islands' diverse ecosystems.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The trade winds begin to ease, and the weather remains dry and sunny. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    The end of whale shark season, but marine life is still abundant. Birding is good as resident species are active.

    We find September offers a sweet spot with fewer crowds than July/August but still excellent dry weather for exploring.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The weather transitions back towards the rainy season, with increasing humidity and a higher chance of showers. Winds are light.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching, with many species in breeding plumage. Sea turtles may start nesting.

    We recommend October for its excellent birding opportunities and the chance to see turtles beginning their nesting cycles.

    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    Praslin Island

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm, humid conditions with frequent, often short, rain showers. The sea is generally calm.

    The islands are at their greenest. It's a good time for spotting nesting seabirds and observing the rich flora.

    We love the lushness of the Seychelles in November; the rain brings everything to life, and the visitor numbers are low.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    December

    high

    Short Rains

    Warm and humid with a high chance of rain, though showers are often brief. The sea is typically calm.

    This is a good month for spotting nesting sea turtles on secluded beaches. The lush vegetation supports abundant birdlife.

    We recommend December for those seeking vibrant, tropical scenery and the chance to witness nesting turtles, but be prepared for rain.

    Anse Source d'Argent
    Curieuse Island National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm temperatures with occasional heavy showers, often clearing quickly. Humidity is high.

    This is a good month for birding, especially for resident species. Sea turtles may be nesting on quieter beaches.

    We love the dramatic skies and lush landscapes this time of year, perfect for exploring Vallée de Mai without the crowds.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Anse Source d'Argent

    February

    low

    Short Rains

    Similar to January, with warm, humid conditions and intermittent rain. The sea can be a bit rough.

    Birdlife remains active. Keep an eye out for nesting seabirds on the smaller islands.

    We recommend visiting the less developed islands for a more secluded experience, enjoying the vibrant greenery after the rains.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Aride Island Nature Reserve

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still possible. It remains warm and humid.

    Marine life is abundant, with excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving as the waters start to calm.

    We find March offers a fantastic balance of good weather and low visitor numbers, ideal for exploring Aldabra's marine wonders.

    Aldabra Atoll
    La Digue Island

    April

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The weather transitions to the dry season with less rain and lower humidity. Winds are generally light.

    This is prime time for whale shark sightings, particularly around the outer islands. Giant tortoises are active.

    We absolutely recommend April for Aldabra, as the calmer seas make exploring the lagoon and its incredible wildlife so much easier.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Praslin Island

    May

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Calm seas and minimal rainfall characterize this month. It's warm and sunny with pleasant breezes.

    Whale shark season continues, and the underwater visibility is superb for diving and snorkeling. Birding is excellent.

    We love May for its perfect conditions for exploring the underwater world; the clarity is simply breathtaking.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds pick up, bringing drier air and cooler temperatures. It's generally sunny and pleasant.

    This is a great month for observing giant tortoises on Praslin and Curieuse. The seas remain calm for marine activities.

    We find June offers a refreshing change with the trade winds, making hikes through the nature reserves particularly enjoyable.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    Curieuse Island National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    The southeast trade winds are strongest, making the sea choppier on the eastern sides of islands. Inland areas are dry and sunny.

    Giant tortoises are very active and visible. Seabird colonies are thriving on islands like Aride.

    We recommend July for its reliably dry weather and the chance to see giant tortoises in their natural habitat, though book well in advance.

    Praslin Island
    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, with strong trade winds and dry conditions. The eastern coasts can be rough, while western coasts are calmer.

    This is peak season for giant tortoise sightings. The marine parks are still excellent for snorkeling and diving.

    We love the energetic feel of August, with the winds providing a cooling effect, perfect for exploring the islands' diverse ecosystems.

    Curieuse Island National Park
    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The trade winds begin to ease, and the weather remains dry and sunny. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    The end of whale shark season, but marine life is still abundant. Birding is good as resident species are active.

    We find September offers a sweet spot with fewer crowds than July/August but still excellent dry weather for exploring.

    Aldabra Atoll
    Sainte Anne Marine National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The weather transitions back towards the rainy season, with increasing humidity and a higher chance of showers. Winds are light.

    This is a fantastic month for birdwatching, with many species in breeding plumage. Sea turtles may start nesting.

    We recommend October for its excellent birding opportunities and the chance to see turtles beginning their nesting cycles.

    Aride Island Nature Reserve
    Praslin Island

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    Expect warm, humid conditions with frequent, often short, rain showers. The sea is generally calm.

    The islands are at their greenest. It's a good time for spotting nesting seabirds and observing the rich flora.

    We love the lushness of the Seychelles in November; the rain brings everything to life, and the visitor numbers are low.

    Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve
    La Digue Island

    December

    high

    Short Rains

    Warm and humid with a high chance of rain, though showers are often brief. The sea is typically calm.

    This is a good month for spotting nesting sea turtles on secluded beaches. The lush vegetation supports abundant birdlife.

    We recommend December for those seeking vibrant, tropical scenery and the chance to witness nesting turtles, but be prepared for rain.

    Anse Source d'Argent
    Curieuse Island National Park
    Planning & reference

    We find that stepping into Vallée de Mai is like entering a prehistoric world, a truly unique experience where the giant Coco de Mer palms create an otherworldly canopy. The sheer scale and ancient feel of this forest, home to the planet's largest seed, make it an utterly captivating and unforgettable journey back in time.

    Gate Times

    We find the Vallée de Mai National Reserve is typically open daily from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with the last entry at 3:30 PM. There are no significant seasonal variations to these hours, but we always recommend arriving early to beat both the heat and the peak crowds, allowing for a more serene experience. An entry fee is required, payable upon arrival, and individual bookings are not usually necessary.

    Tipping

    We find that while tipping is not mandatory in Seychelles, a modest gratuity is always appreciated for exceptional service. If you hire a dedicated local guide for your nature walk, we suggest a tip of around 100-200 SCR per person for a half-day tour, depending on the quality and depth of their insights. For general park staff, a small token of appreciation for outstanding assistance is appropriate, though less common than for private guides.

    Dress Code

    For your nature walks and bird watching in Vallée de Mai, we strongly recommend light, breathable fabrics in natural tones like greens, browns, or khakis. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers are advisable for protection against the sun and occasional insect bites. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes with good grip are absolutely essential, as the trails can be uneven and slippery, especially after rain. Layers are not typically needed due to the consistent tropical warmth.

    Photography

    We love capturing the unique light filtering through the ancient palm canopy; it offers incredible photographic opportunities. Focus on the iconic Coco de Mer palms, the endemic birds like the Black Parrot, and the intricate details of the forest floor. A macro lens can be particularly rewarding here. We urge visitors to be respectful of other guests and wildlife, avoiding flash photography if it might disturb animals. Drone use is strictly prohibited within the reserve to protect the sensitive ecosystem and ensure visitor privacy.

    Etiquette

    We urge all visitors to adhere to park etiquette to preserve this precious UNESCO World Heritage site. Please stay strictly on marked trails to protect the delicate flora and fauna. Keep noise levels to a minimum to fully appreciate the natural sounds and avoid disturbing wildlife or other visitors. Do not litter, and carry out everything you carry in. Observe wildlife from a respectful distance, and never attempt to feed or touch any animals or plants.

    What to Bring

    Sturdy walking shoes
    Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
    Insect repellent
    Sunscreen
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Reusable water bottle (filled)
    Binoculars for bird watching
    Camera with extra battery and memory card
    Small backpack
    Light long-sleeved shirt and trousers
    Small first-aid kit (blister plasters, antiseptic wipes)
    Snacks (no food available inside the reserve)

    Temperature

    25.76°C

    78°F · Range: 24.71–26.69°C

    Rainfall

    318.1 mm

    Heavy rains · 22 rainy days

    Humidity

    79.6%

    Sunshine

    9.4 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    6.56 m/s

    23.6 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Vallée de Mai National Reserve Reviews