The Vallee de Mai
The Vallee de Mai is the world-famous valley where the fabulous Coco-de-mer or double-lobed coconut, in the exact form of the female pelvis, grows on ancient palms. This is the world’s heaviest seed, weighing in at anywhere between 15 and 30kg, and for centuries it was thought to come from a tree beneath the ocean. When General Gordon of Khartoum visited the valley in the 18th century he returned to London claiming that the Vallee de Mai was the original site of the biblical Garden of Eden. Today, it is one of Seychelles’ two UNESCO World Heritage sites, one of the best places you should visit during your vacation.
The coco de mer is perhaps the most iconic and well-known plant species in Valle de Mai. It is a species of palm tree that is endemic to Seychelles and produces the largest seed of any plant in the world. The fruit of the coco de mer is shaped like a female pelvis and is often referred to as the “love nut.”
In addition to the coco de mer, Valle de Mai is home to many other rare and exotic plant species. The valley is a natural palm forest that is dominated by several species of endemic palms, including the coco de mer, the latanier, and the palmist. The forest also supports a rich and diverse community of other plant species, including orchids, ferns, and lianas.
Valle de Mai is a truly unique and important natural site that has played an important role in the history and culture of Seychelles. It remains a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers who come to marvel at its natural beauty and rare plant species, including the iconic coco de mer, which continues to fascinate and intrigue visitors from around the world.
Important Tips and Links For Visitors
- Travel Advisory: CLICK HERE
- Dress Code: Day- Casual and Night- casual, but smart
- Language: Seychelles has 3 official languages, that is, English, French and Creole.
- Available flights: Kenya Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Air France, Air Seychelles,
- Apply For Travel Authorization: https://seychelles.govtas.com/
- Domestic Transportation: www.airseychelles.com, www.catcocos.com
Book A Holiday: www.goplacesholidays.com
Check us out on Social Media
