General Charles George Gordon of Khartoum was long convinced the Vallee de Mai was the “Garden of Eden”. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the two places on planet Earth where the Coco-de-Mer trees grow in its natural state. The Coco-de-Mer tree produces the largest seed and palm flower. The tropical forest is the abode of an array of endemic birds like the Seychelles bulbul, the blue pigeon, the Seychelles warbler and the black parrot. There are three hiking trails which lead through this primeval forest. Though it’s marked but it’s always recommended to take a guide. There is an informative centre, a café and a souvenir shop on site.

Location: Praslin Island

Known for:  World Heritage Site 

How to reach:  By road

Type:  World Heritage Site