Knowing the best time to visit Seychelles is essential for making the most of your tropical getaway. This island paradise offers unique experiences throughout the year, but the ideal time depends on your priorities: snorkeling, diving, hiking, or simply basking in the sun. This comprehensive guide breaks down the pros and cons of each month, helping you plan the perfect Seychelles adventure.
Seychelles Weather Overview: The Key Seasons
Seychelles enjoys a tropical climate, meaning it’s warm and humid year-round. However, there are variations in rainfall, wind, and humidity that significantly impact the experience. Understanding these patterns is the key to timing your trip perfectly.
The two main seasons are differentiated by the prevailing trade winds: the northwest monsoon season (November to March) and the southeast monsoon season (May to September). April and October are transitional months, offering calmer conditions.
January: Lush Landscapes and Rainy Days
January falls within the northwest monsoon season. Expect warm temperatures (averaging around 27-28°C or 81-82°F), high humidity, and increased rainfall. This is the wettest month, with frequent downpours, sometimes lasting for several hours. However, the rain is usually intense but short-lived, and sunshine follows quickly. The vegetation is at its most vibrant, making the landscapes incredibly lush.
Pros: Lower prices on accommodations and flights (compared to peak season), fewer crowds, lush green scenery ideal for photography. The seas are generally calmer on the northwest coasts of the islands, making swimming and snorkeling possible.
Cons: High humidity can be uncomfortable, frequent rain might disrupt outdoor activities, visibility for diving may be reduced.
Activities: Focus on indoor activities during heavy rain, such as visiting the Seychelles National Museum of Natural History in Victoria (Mahé) or relaxing at a spa. When the skies clear, explore the nature trails on Mahé, such as the Copolia Trail in the Morne Seychellois National Park.
Specific Spot: Beau Vallon beach on Mahé is a good choice in January due to its relatively sheltered location. You can enjoy swimming and watersports here even during the monsoon season.
February: Still Wet, But With More Sunshine
February is similar to January in terms of weather, with continued warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rainfall. However, there is a slight decrease in rainfall compared to January, with more days of sunshine. The landscapes remain lush, and the vegetation continues to thrive.
Pros: Lush scenery, warmer sea temperatures, fewer crowds than peak season, slightly lower prices on accommodations.
Cons: High humidity, still a risk of rain disrupting outdoor activities, potential for reduced visibility for diving. Expect mosquitos due to standing water.
Activities: Similar to January, focus on maximizing outdoor activities during sunny spells and planning for indoor options during rain. Explore the Vallée de Mai on Praslin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the famous Coco de Mer palm. The increased rainfall makes the forest particularly vibrant.
Specific Spot: Anse Lazio on Praslin is stunning in February. Even with occasional showers, the turquoise waters and white sand beaches make it a worthwhile visit. Bring insect repellent!
March: Transitioning to Drier Weather
March marks the transition between the northwest and southeast monsoon seasons. Rainfall begins to decrease significantly, and the humidity drops slightly. Temperatures remain warm, and the days become sunnier. The seas are generally calm, making it a good time for watersports.
Pros: Drier weather than January and February, calmer seas, good visibility for diving, fewer crowds compared to the peak season
Cons: Humidity can still be high, prices start to increase slightly as the weather improves, potential for some afternoon showers.
Activities: March is an excellent time for watersports such as snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Take a boat trip to Curieuse Island to see the giant tortoises or explore the marine park around Sainte Anne Island. The snorkeling around Sainte Anne is excellent, with diverse coral reefs and abundant marine life.
Specific Spot: Sainte Anne Marine National Park provides great snorkeling opportunities this month. You may need to hire a boat from Mahé to get here (cost around €50-€100 depending on the boat and number of people).
April: The Sweet Spot – Perfect Weather
April is often considered one of the best months to visit Seychelles. The weather is generally dry and sunny, with light winds and calm seas. Temperatures are warm and comfortable, and the humidity is relatively low. Visibility for diving and snorkeling is excellent. There’s a noticeable absence of seaweed and a sense of renewal across the islands.
Pros: Excellent weather with dry sunny days, calm seas perfect for watersports, excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling, pleasant humidity levels
Cons: Prices start to increase as it approaches the peak season, can get crowded in popular tourist spots, accommodations are booked out quickly if you haven’t booked in advance.
Activities: Take full advantage of the excellent weather by spending time on the beaches, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Explore the islands by boat, hike in the national parks, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife. A day trip to La Digue is a must do. Rent a bicycle (cost approximately €10-€15 per day) to explore the island’s stunning beaches, including Anse Source d’Argent.
Specific Spot: Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue is iconic, and in April it really shines. The calm waters and sunny skies make it perfect for relaxing and taking photos. Be aware of the tide times, as some parts of the beach disappear at high tide. There is an entrance fee to access the L’Union Estate where the beach is situated.
May: Beginning of the Southeast Monsoon
May marks the start of the southeast monsoon season. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity increases, and there may be more cloud cover. The southeast trade winds bring slightly stronger winds and rougher seas, particularly on the southeast coasts of the islands. Despite this, rainfall remains relatively low.
Pros: Fewer crowds than April, slightly lower prices on accommodations, good for windsurfing and kite surfing, still relatively dry.
Cons: Stronger winds and rougher seas on the southeast coasts, may be less ideal for swimming and snorkeling in certain areas.
Activities: May is a great time for windsurfing and kite surfing, particularly on the southeast coasts of Mahé and Praslin. Explore the hiking trails on the islands, such as the Salazie Trail on Mahé, which offers stunning views of the coastline. Visit Moyenne Island near Mahé which is a nature reserve.
Specific Spot: Grand Anse on Mahé’s southwest coast is perfect for surfing and windsurfing in May, but be cautious of strong currents. Swimming is not always recommended here.
June: Windy Days and Pleasant Temperatures
June falls squarely within the southeast monsoon season, bringing consistent southeast trade winds. Expect pleasant temperatures (averaging around 26°C or 79°F), relatively low humidity, and drier conditions compared to the monsoon season’s earlier months. The seas can be choppy, especially on the southeast coasts, and seaweed accumulation may be noticeable in certain areas.
Pros: Fewer crowds, good for windsurfing and sailing, pleasant temperatures, drier conditions.
Cons: Strong winds can disrupt some water activities, seaweed accumulation on some beaches, rougher seas can make boat trips less comfortable.
Activities: Windsurfing, surfing, sailing, and hiking are excellent activities during this month. Explore the Vallee de Mai on Praslin, and the Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahe – the weather is much better for hiking than the rainy season. Consider a boat trip to the less sheltered islands with a larger boat to ensure comfort.
Specific Spot: Anse Intendance on Mahé is a great place to view the impressive waves (but not to swim – the current is treacherous here) this time of year. This beach is best appreciated for its raw beauty and power in June.
July: Peak of the Southeast Monsoon
July is peak season for the southeast monsoon in Seychelles. Expect strong southeast trade winds, relatively low humidity, and cooler temperatures (compared to the monsoon season) around 25°C (77°F). The seas are generally rough, especially on the southeast coasts, and seaweed accumulation can be significant in certain areas. It is a dry month, with minimal rainfall.
Pros: Fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, low humidity, ideal for windsurfing and sailing, competitive rates on some accommodations.
Cons: Strong winds, rough seas, heavy seaweed accumulation on certain beaches (particularly those facing the southeast).
Activities: This is the main season for water sports such as windsurfing and sailing at Anse Possession on Praslin. Hiking trails in the national parks are enjoyable due to relatively cool temperatures. Note: Beaches like Anse Takamaka on Mahé can suffer greatly from seaweed accumulation at this time.
Specific Spot: Cote d’Or beach (Anse Volbert) on Praslin might be a better option than other beaches as it is more sheltered, providing calmer waters for swimming despite the wind. The wind also keeps the mosquitos away!
August: Similar to July, Still Windy and Dry
August is very similar to July in terms of weather conditions: strong southeast trade winds, relatively low humidity, cooler temperatures, and dry conditions. Seaweed accumulation continues to be a factor on some beaches. Expect choppy seas.
Pros: Pleasant temperatures, low humidity, ideal for windsurfing and sailing, fewer crowds than the peak tourist season around Christmas or Easter.
Cons: Strong winds, rough seas, seaweed accumulation on some beaches.
Activities: Focus on windsurfing, sailing, and hiking. Explore the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin. This month is also ideal for diving as the sea is teeming with active marine creatures. Explore Silhouette Island or the remote Aldabra Atoll (if you’re an experienced diver; trips are expensive and require permits).
Specific Spot: Baie Ternay Marine National Park, accessible by boat from Mahé, offers some sheltered spots for snorkeling and diving, though conditions can still be choppy.
September: Winds Start to Subside
As September progresses, the southeast trade winds gradually begin to weaken. The weather remains relatively dry and sunny, but the seas become calmer. Temperatures start to increase slightly. Seaweed issues start to diminish (but are still present).
Pros: Calmer seas, less seaweed accumulation than July and August, pleasant temperatures, still good for windsurfing and sailing (but less extreme), prices beginning to fall.
Cons: Can still be somewhat windy, especially in the first half of the month, potential for afternoon showers.
Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sailing become more enjoyable as the seas calm down. This is a good time for exploring the inner islands by boat. Fishing is also a popular activity this month. Check with local operators for sustainable fishing tours and recommendations.
Specific Spot: Anse Georgette on Praslin is a hidden gem, much easier to access and enjoy in September with the calmer water. It’s often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
October: Another Sweet Spot – Calm and Sunny
October, along with April, is often regarded as the best month to visit Seychelles because it is one of the transitional months. The winds are generally light, and the seas are calm and clear. Temperatures are warm, and the humidity is relatively low, making it perfect for all kinds of activities. The weather is generally sunny with clear skies.
Pros: Excellent weather, calm seas, excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling, pleasant humidity levels, fewer crowds than April (generally).
Cons: Prices can be relatively high due to the desirable weather, accommodation can book up quickly.
Activities: Take full advantage of the excellent weather by enjoying the beaches, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Explore the islands by boat, hike in the national parks, and visit the local markets. Scuba diving is excellent. The whale shark migration season typically begins in October, making it an incredible opportunity to see these gentle giants. Contact local dive operators for whale shark snorkeling tours.
Specific Spot: Head to the waters of northern Mahé (around Beau Vallon) for the best chances of spotting whale sharks with responsible tour operators. Check ethical guidelines to ensure the tours are eco-friendly and do not harm the sharks. There may also be whale shark sightings near Praslin and La Digue.
November: Northwest Monsoon Arrives
November marks the beginning of the northwest monsoon season. The winds start to shift direction, bringing increased humidity and a higher chance of rainfall. Temperatures remain warm, but the seas become more choppy, particularly on the southeast coasts and visibility for diving can be affected.
Pros: Warmer sea temperatures, fewer crowds than the peak season, lush green scenery, diving still good in some spots.
Cons: Increased humidity, higher chance of rainfall, seas can be rougher on some coasts, less consistent weather.
Activities: November is a good time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds arrive in the Seychelles. Head to Cousin Island, a special reserve managed by Nature Seychelles, for excellent birdwatching opportunities. Explore the rainforests on Mahé and Praslin. Swimming is often possible on the northwest coasts (Beau Vallon), which is sheltered from the Northwest Monsoon.
Specific Spot: Explore the Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé. The trails are quieter in November and offer a challenging but rewarding trek through the rainforest.
December: Wetter Conditions and Festive Atmosphere
December, like January, is one of the wettest months in Seychelles. It falls within the northwest monsoon season, bringing warm temperatures, high humidity, and frequent rainfall. The downpours are often intense but short-lived, followed by sunshine. Despite the rain, the festive atmosphere and the lush landscapes can make it a magical time to visit.
Pros: Festive atmosphere with Christmas and New Year celebrations, lush green scenery, warmer sea temperatures, fewer crowds initially (before the Christmas rush).
Cons: High humidity, frequent rain, potential impacts on outdoor activities, premium pricing around the holidays, and difficulty in booking last-minute resorts.
Activities: Focus on indoor activities during heavy rain, such as visiting art galleries and museums. When the weather clears up, explore the beaches on the northwest coasts, such as Beau Vallon. Many resorts offer special Christmas and New Year events and celebrations. It’s crucial to book these well in advance.
Specific Spot: Eden Island may appeal if you want some holiday entertainment and nightlife. This area provides many restaurants and bars. Despite the weather, you should still enjoy the resort amenities.
Best Time for Specific Activities in Seychelles
Diving & Snorkeling: April, May, and October offer the best visibility and calmest waters. September also offers great conditions. Avoid June, July, and August for ideal conditions due to the Southeast trade winds.
Sailing & Windsurfing: June, July, and August are perfect if you are a windsurfer and you love strong winds. Otherwise, April, May, and October offer the best options for pleasant winds for all sailing activities.
Fishing: October and November see fantastic fishing conditions.
Bird Watching: April is when you’ll find breeding birds. November is when you can see migratory birds.
Hiking: All year round is possible. The cooler months between June and September are better if you prefer less heat and humidity. Be prepared for weather conditions when you arrive and pack rain gear.
Cost Considerations by Month
High Season (December to January, July to August): Expect premium prices for flights, accommodation, and activities. Book well in advance, especially for the Christmas and New Year period. A luxury hotel during high season can exceed €1000 per night.
Shoulder Season (April to May, September to October): Offers a good balance between weather and prices. You can often find good deals on flights and accommodation. Expect to pay between €300-€600 per night at luxury options.
Low Season (June, November, February and March): You’ll find the best deals on flights and accommodations. However, be prepared for higher humidity and a chance of rain. A luxury hotel during low season can go as low as €200 per night with aggressive promotions.
Tips for Saving Money in Seychelles
Travel during the low season: Take advantage of lower prices on flights and accommodations during the off-season.
Consider self-catering accommodation: Opting for a self-catering apartment or villa can save money on dining expenses. Supermarkets are available, but you may be restricted by brands. Try to bring some basics from home.
Eat at local restaurants and takeaways: Enjoy delicious and affordable Creole cuisine at local restaurants and takeaways instead of dining at expensive tourist restaurants. These are often family-run, but you may need to ask locals for their favorites. Seek out “takeaways.”
Use public transport: The local bus system is a cheap and efficient way to get around Mahé and Praslin. A single ride costs only a few Rupees.
Take advantage of free activities: Enjoy the beaches, hiking trails, and natural beauty of the islands without spending a fortune. Pack snorkeling gear to avoid rental costs.
Getting Around Seychelles
By Plane: Domestic flights connect Mahé, Praslin, and other islands. Air Seychelles is the main domestic carrier. Flights can be quite expensive, especially during the high season.
By Ferry: Ferries like Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry provide transfers between Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue. Booking in advance is highly recommendable to secure your spot.
By Car: Renting a car is a great way to explore Mahé and Praslin at your own pace. Roads can be narrow and winding, but the scenery is rewarding. Drive on the left-hand side of the road. Car rental costs around €40-€60 per day.
By Bus: The local bus system on Mahé and Praslin is an affordable option, covering most of the main routes. However, buses can be crowded, and the schedules may be unreliable.
By Bicycle: La Digue is best explored by bicycle. Renting a bike is cheap, and it allows you to access even the most remote beaches.
FAQ Section
What is the best month to visit Seychelles for good weather?
April and October are generally considered the best months to visit Seychelles. These transitional months offer excellent weather with calm seas, low humidity, and plenty of sunshine. However, keep in mind that weather conditions can still vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you go.
What should I pack for a trip to Seychelles?
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Include swimwear, sunscreen, insect repellent, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes. If visiting during the rainy season, pack a lightweight waterproof jacket and an umbrella. For hiking, bring sturdy hiking shoes. Bring a portable charger, as some accommodations have limited outlets. It is also handy to keep travel documents handy and to make copies, just in case.
Are there any health concerns I should be aware of when visiting Seychelles?
The CDC and WHO recommend that visitors be up-to-date on routine vaccinations. There is a risk of Zika virus in Seychelles, so pregnant women should take extra precautions to avoid mosquito bites. Dengue fever is also a concern. Consult your doctor before traveling. Drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues. Tap water is often desalinated and considered safe by locals, but you might find it doesn’t taste great.
Is Seychelles expensive?
Seychelles can be an expensive destination, particularly during peak season. However, there are ways to save money, such as traveling during the low season, staying in self-catering accommodation, eating at local restaurants, and using public transport. It’s also possible to find free activities, such as exploring the beaches and hiking trails.
What languages are spoken in Seychelles?
The official languages of Seychelles are Seychellois Creole, English, and French. Seychellois Creole is the most widely spoken language, but English and French are commonly used in business and tourism.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Seychelles?
While tap water is generally considered safe by the local authorities, it is desalinated and often tastes salty. Most visitors prefer to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach issues.
What currency is used in Seychelles?
The currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and local markets.
Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?
Seychellois culture is a blend of African, European, and Asian influences. It’s respectful to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
How far in advance should I book my trip to Seychelles?
It’s recommended to book your trip to Seychelles well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the high season. Booking flights and accommodations several months in advance will give you the best chance of securing your preferred options at a reasonable price.
References
Seychelles National Parks Authority (SNPA)
Nature Seychelles
Seychelles Tourism Board
World Health Organization (WHO)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Ready to experience the Seychelles? Don’t leave your dream vacation to chance. Knowing the best time to visit will help you make unforgettable memories in this tropical paradise. Start planning today! Check for seasonal flights, find amazing resort deals, and secure the perfect time for your ideal Seychelles adventure. Visit the Seychelles tourism official website to get started!
