PRASLIN ISLAND - GETTING AROUND

By Taxis

Taxis are available throughout the island, and they are very accessible. Most taxis can be picked up at the airport or the jetty. You can note down your driver's number in case you need him to drive you to other locations in the future. Although taxis are more expensive than buses, taxis offer the luxury of additional baggage space, which is not allowed in buses. Buses have specific routes, while taxis can let you go off the roads and access more remote locations. Meters are installed in taxis, so there is no problem of visitors being ripped off. Prices are also discussed beforehand. Drivers are friendly and are known to share interesting tips and information about the island.

By Car

Having a rental car is one of the best ways to explore the island. Car rentals are available at the airport or in some hotels. The rental costs can be a little pricey (upward of $50/daily), but having the freedom to explore at your own pace is worth it.

There are only two gas stations on the island - Grand Anse and Baie Sainte-Anne. Cars are of right-hand drive, and they drive on the left. The roads are good and wide. There are very few street signs on the road, but a roadmap is enough to navigate around the small island. Traffic is not too severe either.

By Bicycle

Exploring the island by bicycle is a great adventure. The coastal road, known locally as the Consolation Road (after Anse Consolation that it passes) will give you some beautiful views but there are two particularly challenging climbs, that are tough to walk and drive up let alone cycle. You may need to get off and push at these points.

Cycling the road through the Vallée De Mai can be a fantastic experience. This road can be busy so watch for cars.

Keep in mind that the terrain may be uneven in some places, especially on unpaved trails. Biking uphill, as well as the differences in altitude can also be very challenging. Remember to stay hydrated. Most hotels offer bike rental services. You can also rent bikes at Anse Volbert, Grand Anse and Baie Sainte-Anne. A single bike may cost around SCR 100 per day.

By Bus

Buses are very affordable on the island and are frequented by tourists. Compared to other Seychellen islands, Praslin has a well-laid out road system, which makes most tourist centers accessible by buses. The buses are wide, spacious, and comfortable. They run from around 6:00 AM to 07:00 PM, which makes them ideal for tourists. On weekends and public holidays, there is minimum service. It is important to remember that buses usually do not allow large suitcases and other luggage; hand baggage is allowed.

There are three main routes - Mount Plaisir to Anse Boudin, Anse Consolation to Anse La Blague and Mount Plaisir to Grand Fond. These routes are frequented by tourists and locals. The main routes are as follows:

ROUTE 61: Mount Plaisir to Anse Boudin via Vallée De Ma

ROUTE 62: Mount Plaisir to Zimbabwe via Consolation

ROUTE 63: Mount Plaisir to Anse La Blague via Cote d'Or

Cost:

Around SCR 5 for non-airconditioned buses
Around SCR 10 for air-conditioned buses

The fares are the same, regardless of the dropoff point.

By Boats & Ferries

Private ferries, catamarans and boats are available in Praslin Island. Once you arrive on the island, you can expect to be approached (sometimes aggressively) by boatmen, haggling for rids. The rates are regulated by the government, so you can rest assured that you will not be taken for a ride (when it comes to the prices!). Boat taxis can also be hired at nominal rates. A trip from Anse Volbert to Curieuse costs around $35 - $40 USD. The taxis offer pickup and drop-off at specific intervals, for a fixed fare. A chartered boat is much more expensive, usually around $750 USD. Prices are negotiable. The Cat Cocos catamaran offers three trips between Mahé and Praslin, which cost around $75 for adults and around $35 for children, for a one-way trip. It is advised to book tickets at least one day in advance. We recommend that you take some medication for seasickness if you are prone to symptoms.