UNESCO World Heritage Site - Vallée de Mai- Half Day (Group Tour)
- Duration: 5 Hours (approx.)
- Location: Praslin
- Product code: valleedemai
Vallée de Mai is a natural palm forest that has been preserved in almost its original state, an amazing example of nature and unlike anywhere else on Earth.
The island is said to have been placed under protection as early as 1966. The protection was placed in the hands of the government as action was needed to ensure the survival and preservation of one of the world's most unique forests.
Vallée de Mai is located right in the center of Seychelles second largest island, Praslin. Vallée de Mai is an extremely well-preserved palm forest almost 20 hectares, or 50 acres, in size.This morning, guests will be picked up from their hotel/accommodation on Praslin between 9 am and 9:45 am. Pick up can be arranged from nearby islands upon request.
Although home to many endemic palms and fauna species, Vallee de Mai famously hosts the largest population of coco-de-mer. More commonly known as the sea coconut, or double coconut, coco-de-mer holds the title of the largest nut in the world. Coco-de-mer is a very rare species of palm tree native to Seychelles.
The nut is a treasured collectible and has many hidden secrets behind it. Our guides today will let you in on a few of these including the aphrodisiac properties the seed is said to have!
There are many stories and tales of how these seeds, or nuts, arrived on the island. While it is impossible to know for sure, there are still many people who speculate that this was the original site of the Garden of Eden.
Seeing Vallée de Mai is a truly unique experience, one that can not be replicated anywhere in the world. The coco-de-mar is also not something that comes up in conversation, typically. Experiencing this ancient forest give you somewhat of an enchanted feeling and is sure to leave an impression.
**Tour is complete around 12 pm.
** Tour available on Monday to Friday