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Published on December 11, 2025

Best Time to Visit Seychelles: Weather & Activity Guide

The Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands in the Indian Ocean, offers a tropical escape year-round. However, understanding its distinct seasons and weather patterns is key to planning a trip that perfectly aligns with your desired activities, ensuring an unforgettable island experience.

Blessed with a warm, tropical climate throughout the year, the Seychelles experiences temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The islands are primarily influenced by two trade winds, which dictate the two main seasons: the drier, cooler southeast trade winds and the warmer, wetter northwest trade winds. This guide will help you navigate these patterns to find your ideal time to visit.

Seychelles Weather: The Two Main Seasons

While often described as having a "wet" and "dry" season, the reality is more nuanced. Both periods offer unique advantages, and rain can occur in any month, though it's typically short-lived tropical showers.

The Dry Season: May to October (Southeast Trade Winds)

Characterized by cooler, drier weather and stronger winds, the dry season is popular for many travelers. Humidity levels are lower, making for more comfortable exploration and relaxation.

  • Weather:Average temperatures hover around 27°C (81°F). Less rainfall, more sunshine, and a refreshing breeze from the southeast trade winds.
  • Sea Conditions:The stronger winds can create choppier seas, particularly on exposed coastlines. This is ideal for certain water sports but might not be perfect for glass-smooth snorkelling conditions every day.
  • Activities:Excellent for wind-dependent sports like windsurfing and sailing. The cooler temperatures are also perfect for hiking and exploring the islands' interior. Beaches like Anse Intendance and Anse Lazio remain stunning, though some might experience more seaweed due to currents.

Best Dry Season Months for Specific Activities:

  • May & June:A transitional period from the wet season, offering a good balance of calm seas and pleasant temperatures. Great for general beach activities, diving, and snorkelling before the winds pick up fully.
  • July & August:Peak dry season. Strongest winds make these months superb for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. Ideal for exploring La Digue Island by bicycle or hiking through Morne Seychellois National Park.
  • September & October:The winds begin to subside, leading to calmer seas and excellent visibility for diving and snorkelling towards the end of October. Still very pleasant for hiking and enjoying the beaches.

Tip:While the dry season offers less rain, occasional short showers are still possible. Always be prepared for quick changes in tropical weather.

The Wet Season: November to April (Northwest Trade Winds)

The wet season brings warmer temperatures, higher humidity, and more rainfall, but also calmer seas and lush, vibrant landscapes. Don't let the "wet" season deter you; rain often comes in short, intense bursts, leaving plenty of sunshine in between.

  • Weather:Average temperatures range from 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F). Higher humidity and more frequent, though usually brief, heavy rainfall. The winds are generally lighter.
  • Sea Conditions:Calmer seas are typical during this period, especially from December to April. This translates to excellent visibility for underwater activities and smoother boat trips.
  • Activities:Perfect for diving, snorkelling, and swimming. The lush vegetation makes this a beautiful time for nature walks and birdwatching. Visit Vallée de Mai National Park to see the unique Coco de Mer palm, or explore the marine life at Sainte Anne Marine National Park.

Best Wet Season Months for Specific Activities:

  • November & December:Transitional period with increasing rainfall and humidity. The sea is often calm, making it a fantastic time for diving and snorkelling before the peak holiday crowds. Early December can be a sweet spot.
  • January & February:Generally the wettest months, but also the warmest and calmest at sea. Excellent for divers and snorkellers, with exceptional visibility. Ideal for exploring marine protected areas or visiting Coco Island for its vibrant reef.
  • March & April:Rain tapers off, and the humidity starts to drop. These months are considered by many to be among the best for diving and snorkelling due to very calm seas and outstanding visibility. It's also a great time for photography as the islands are incredibly green.

Activities by Interest: Finding Your Perfect Time

Diving & Snorkelling

The best time for diving and snorkelling in the Seychelles is generally during the calmer inter-monsoon periods:March to MayandSeptember to November. During these months, the seas are placid, and water visibility can exceed 30 meters (100 feet). This is when you're most likely to encounter abundant marine life, including whale sharks from October to December. Places like Silhouette Island and the outer atolls offer spectacular dive sites.

Sailing & Wind Sports

For those who love to harness the wind, thedry season (May to October)is ideal. The consistent southeast trade winds provide excellent conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. The choppier waters during this period make for exhilarating experiences. Consider exploring the waters around La Digue Island or taking a catamaran trip between the inner islands.

Hiking & Nature Exploration

While hiking is possible year-round, thedryer, cooler months of May to Septemberare often preferred for exploring trails in areas like Morne Seychellois National Park or the nature trails on Fregate Island. The lower humidity makes for more comfortable trekking. However, the wet season offers incredibly lush scenery and vibrant flora.

Birdwatching

The Seychelles is a renowned birdwatching destination. Breeding season for many species runs fromApril to October, making this a prime time for spotting rare birds. Islands like Bird Island and Cousine Island Special Reserve are sanctuaries. Migratory birds visit from October to March, adding to the diversity.

Beach Relaxation & Sunbathing

For simply lounging on the world-famous beaches like Anse Lazio,Anse Intendance, or Anse Georgette, any time of year is fantastic. The temperatures are always warm, and even during the wet season, sunshine is abundant between showers. The calmer seas of the wet season can make for incredibly tranquil swimming conditions.

Considerations Beyond Weather

Crowds & Availability

Peak tourist seasons often coincide with the European summer holidays (July-August) and the Christmas/New Year period (December-January). During these times, popular spots, accommodations, and flights can be busier and require advance booking. The shoulder months of May-June and September-November often offer a good balance of pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Aldabra Atoll

For a truly unique experience, visiting the remote Aldabra Atoll, home to giant tortoises, is a bucket-list item. This UNESCO World Heritage site is typically accessed via liveaboard trips, which operate during the calmer sea conditions of the inter-monsoon periods, usually March to May and October to December.

Cultural Events

Keep an eye on local events when planning your trip. The Creole Festival in October is a vibrant celebration of Seychellois culture, music, and food, primarily centered in the capital,Victoria.

Conclusion

The Seychelles truly is a year-round destination, each season offering its own charm. The "best" time to visit ultimately depends on your personal preferences and the activities you wish to prioritize. Whether you seek thrilling water sports, serene underwater explorations, or simply blissful beach relaxation, a little planning will ensure your Seychellois adventure is perfectly timed.