Made up of 115 heavenly islands, the Seychelles archipelago is a popular destination for tourists looking to relax and get away from it all. Choosing the best time to travel to the Seychelles can be complicated by the different seasons and the tropical climate that prevails in this part of the world. Here are the different aspects to take into account to determine the best time to organise your stay and take full advantage of the attractions of this dream country.
Seasons in the Seychelles
In the Seychelles, there are two main seasons : the hot and humid season, which runs from November to April, and the cooler and drier season, which runs from May to October. However, the climate is fairly constant throughout the year, with average temperatures fluctuating between 26 and 30 degrees. Although there is no really "bad" time to visit the Seychelles, it is useful to know the specifics of each season so that you can adapt your programme to suit your preferences and constraints.
The hot and humid season
As the name suggests, the hot and humid season brings high temperatures and heavy rainfall. This period also corresponds to the hurricane season in the Indian Ocean, but Seychelles is generally spared these phenomena thanks to its geographical location. However, there can be episodes of heavy rain and fairly strong winds, mainly between January and February. The months of November, December and March are more favourable for a stay during this season, as the weather conditions are milder.
The cool, dry season
From May to October, temperatures drop slightly and there is less rain in the Seychelles. This is the ideal time to enjoy the outdoor activitiesThese are the months when you can enjoy a wide range of activities, such as hiking or boat trips, without suffering from the heat or being bothered by the rain. The wind is also less strong during these months, making it ideal for water sports such as snorkelling and scuba diving.
Transition periods
Between the two main seasons, there are transition periods, during which weather conditions vary from week to week and sometimes even from day to day. These periods, which take place in April and October, are interesting for those looking to avoid the tourist crowds while enjoying a generally pleasant climate. However, you should expect a few occasional showers and rougher seas than during the dry season.
April: milder weather
April marks the end of the hot and humid season, and the weather is generally more pleasant than in January or February. Temperatures are still high, but rainfall gradually decreases, making outdoor activities more pleasant. Nature is also very lush at this time of year, offering lush, colourful landscapes to delight photography enthusiasts.
October: the arrival of the dry season
October heralds the arrival of the cool, dry season in the Seychelles, offering a milder, less rainy climate. However, the winds can be quite strong during this month, especially on the islands to the south-east of the archipelago, particularly La Digue and Praslin. These weather conditions are not ideal for certain water sports such as snorkelling or sailing, but they are favourable for deep-sea fishing and hiking.
School holiday periods and busy tourist season
To make the most of Seychelles' attractions, it is important to take into account the number of tourists when choosing the best period for your trip. During the school holidays During the European summer months, particularly December-January and July-August, the islands are busier with tourists and accommodation prices often rise. If you want to avoid the crowds and benefit from cheaper rates, opt for May, June, September or October for your stay in Seychelles.