In order to have a truly memorable experience in the Vallée de Mai, we can provide either an expert guide or recommend a self-guided walk through this wondrous valley.  The biodiversity here is incredible, contributed to a large extent by the introduction of ornamental, fruit and spice trees in the 1930s.  Despite the government introducing a programme to remove the alien species in the late 1940s, a number of them still remain, including jackfruit, cinnamon and allspice trees and vanilla vines.

Considered by General Gordon (of Khartoum fame) as being the original site of the Garden of Eden, the primeval Vallée de Mai harbours some of the most  fascinating botanical wonders in the world.  The World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai is a small 20 hectare enclave within the Praslin National Park, home to some 4000 Coco de Mer palms, which are famous for producing the world's largest nut.

The national park has well maintained and clearly marked paths, with informative wildlife identification plaques placed sporadically throughout, making it a fantastic place to enjoy a fascinating nature trek.  Upon entering the valley, visitors are likely to see the Seychelles sunbirds feeding on the sweet nectar of the Takamaka tree.  The paths are strenuous in places, consisting of steep ascents, steps and the occasional boulder stepping stone across streams along the way.  An advantage of some of the circular trails is that they provide trekkers with the flexibility to double back before completing the entire route.  The shortest circular route through the valley is 1km and takes approximately one hour.  In order to complete the entire north to south circular route and fully appreciate the atmosphere of the Vallée de Mai, approximately three to four hours will be needed.  This trek includes a visit to the rustic shelter on the northern extremity, where impressive views across the park can be observed.  It is worthwhile venturing off the main circular path, where stunning view points and a spectacular waterfall can be found.

Vallée de Mai is a particularly fascinating place to visit during the rain, when a somewhat magical spell is cast over this subtropical valley.  The impressive corrugated leaves of the Coco de Mer palm act as umbrellas.  Directly after a rain shower is the best time to see the jewel-green endemic Seychelles tree frogs, which generally rest horizontally flattened against palm leaves.  It is also likely to encounter the elusive tenrec, which rummages around in the leaves searching for insects.

Photographs kindly provided by Ralph Pannell, STB

Praslin - La Digue - Aldabra - Bird Island - Mahe - Islands of the Sainte Anne Marine Park - Desroches & the Amirantes - Silhouette - North Island - Fregate - Cousine - Cousin - Aride - Denis - Alphonse - Felicite - Marianne - Victoria - Assumption - Cosmelido - Vallée de Mai - Coco de Mer - St Pierre - Seychelles Black Parrot - Seychelles Blue Pigeon - Seychelles Fruit Bat - Seychelles Paradise Flycatcher - Scops Owl - Giant Tortoise - Tailor Made Holiday in the Seychelles - Bareboat & Skippered Yacht Charters - Sailing Guide to Seychelles - Liveaboard Diving - Dive & Snorkel Holidays -  Wildlife Natural History & Birdwatching - Beaches - beach vacations - Marine Life whales sharks rays dolphins & coral reefs - Hiking Trekking Car Rentals Hotels Resorts & Accommodation - Mountains & Rainforest - Responsible Travel - Honeymoons & weddings - Family Adventures - Single Travellers - Whale Shark Research & Conservation