The mighty waters of the Indian ocean swirl around it. The large bulk of Africa looms right next to it. You would think, that with such large presences lurking around it, this small island nation would be overshadowed and lost in the blue waves. 

That simply isn’t true of Seychelles. Every year, thousands of tourists make their way to the 115 island nation, to partake in spectacular virgin beaches, to enjoy the sunny weather, to peer into its thick forests, to dig into the flavours of octopus and coconut, to slip into its surrounding waters and meet the sea beasts that lurk there, to enjoy the cultures and carnivals.

Seychelles might be dwarfed in size, but it packs quite a punch. So, if you’re planning to visit this beautiful country, the first thing you must ask is what would be the best time to visit Seychelles? Now that you’ve asked, let us answer. We’ve put together a guide to the Seychelles seasons. Pack your sunblock, slip on a swimsuit and join us on the Seychellean shores. 

Peak Season: May to August

Off-Season: December to March

Shoulder Season: September to November

The weather in Seychelles is rather complex – it rains throughout the year (even in summer), while the winter season features the hottest month of the year. To keep things simple, we’ve stuck to the traditional 4 seasons in the year. Each section will demonstrate the variability of these seasons. The primary dry and wet seasons of the year will be discussed in summer, spring, autumn and winter.

Seychelles In Spring (March-May)

Temperature: The air temperature during the season of spring fluctuates between 25°C and 30°C.

Weather: Spring conjures up images of bloom and sunshine. In Seychelles, however, things are a little cloudy. The wet season is in full swing and the days are hot, touching 30°C. At night the temperature drops to a soothing 25°C. During April, the weather shifts, with a few scattered showers, but the weather truly becomes pleasant and comfortable in May. The ocean is calm during this month, sending a light oceanic breeze to bless the day and night. The temperature at night during May drops to 23°C. 

Significant Events: March kicks off with the International Deep-Sea Fishing Competition, held in Mahe. Spring season also includes Easter celebrations. On the 1st of May, the Feast of Labour is celebrated, followed by the Seychelles Art Festival in the same month. Discover the incredible work of local artists, incredible Creole cuisine and the performances by traditional music and dance groups during this festival. 25th May is also Africa Day or FetAfrik, where many artists come together to celebrate.

Why you should visit now: The best months for scuba diving in Seychelles are during April-May. The water temperatures are warm and pleasant, the ocean is calm, and the visibility can extend as far as 30 metres.

Things to know before the visit: Boating, sailing and birdwatching (April is the breeding months for birds on the island nation) are the primary activities you can enjoy in Seychelles during this period, particularly the April-May months.

Tips: If you’re on a budget or looking for a quieter time to visit Seychelles, then this is the time to do it. Hotel accommodations are cheaper, and the islands remain relatively uncrowded.

Seychelles In Summer (June-August)

Temperature: The air temperature during the season of summer fluctuates between 24°C and 28°C.

Weather: Summer might throw you for a bit of a loop. These months see a drier and colder version of Seychelles. Local residents call this the “chilliest” months in the year and June is considered a sort of proxy winter month. For a traveller though, the weather is mostly pleasant as opposed to cold. Humidity drops sharply during these months. Towards August, there is a sharp rise in heat until the dry weather passes the islands over to the rains.

Significant Events: Summer in Seychelles includes holidays like the National Holiday of Seychelles on 18th June. You’ll see performances, entertainment shows and sporting events at Victoria. The Festival of Classical Music also occurs in June, in Mahe. Enjoy the swish of palm trees and the sway of the music at Beau Vallon Bay. In August, Seychelles also hosts the Sailing Regatta, where you can see the Miss Regatta competition. The same month also sees the Festival of Assumption, well-celebrated on the island of La Digue. Enjoy the Mass, processions and festivals which brings locals and tourists from other islands in Seychelles.

Why you should visit now: The pleasant and dry weather makes this the best time to visit Seychelles. You can go windsurfing and surfing as the waves and wind provide the right environment to indulge in these activities.

Things to know before the trip: The same conditions that make windsurfing and surfing possible during these months, must be viewed with caution. The ocean is quite restless during these months and there are high waves. If you are not an experienced swimmer or surfer, approach the water with a bit of caution.

Tips: Tourists from Europe flock to Seychelles during these months, so you’ll see crowds of families and other tourists in most of the popular spots. Be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as prices will soar.

Seychelles In Autumn (September-November)

Temperature: The air temperature during the season of autumn fluctuates between 24°C and 29°C.

Weather: September carries with it a rise in air temperature, with the middle of the month seeing the season’s highest temperatures. The water corresponds accordingly, warming up to 27°C. September continues the trend of dry weather, but October brings in short spells of rain daily. November sees Seychelle drenched in showers and the humidity spikes to almost 80-90%.

Significant events: Seychelles in autumn is festive and fun. This month boasts of the Praslin Culinary and Arts Fiesta. Traditional music and dance, a marathon, cooking events, art exhibitions and more liven up the island of Praslin. September also features the Windsurfing race in Mahe. Windsurfers glide across the 15 mile stretch that connects Victoria to Praslin. The Seychelles Round Table Regatta also takes place in September. The end of October is livened by the Festival Kreol. Music, dancing, art exhibitions, theatre performances – all of which are centred around Creole life and culture. October is also the month of the IGFA Fishing Tournament, and the Seychelles Ocean Festival, which sees underwater videographers and photographers slip into the deep, deep blue. In November, the Offshore Fishing Competition in the water around La Digue selects the best deep-sea fisherman in over 15 categories.

Why you should visit now: This is another peak season to visit the Seychelles. Water conditions are (mostly) good, allowing for scuba diving, boat rides, snorkelling and other activities. This is also the time where you can see shark whales, migratory birds and the hawksbill turtle.

Things to know before the visit: Although the water is calm during this season, there are sudden turnarounds. Out of the blue, large waves can appear. Do take that into consideration before you enter the water. Check the conditions before you book any water-based adventure sports and consult with the professionals who are organising these activities.

Tips: The second peak season means that prices will shoot up again. Make sure you book well in advance if you’re planning a trip during this period.

Seychelles Winter (December - February)

Temperature: The air temperature during the season of winter fluctuates between 24°C and 29°C.

Weather: Although this is traditionally regarded as winter months, Seychellois winter is little different. Precipitation levels are high, promising lots of rain, but the air temperature is also high promising heat and humidity. The air temperature touches 27°C during the day, but only drops down to 26°C at night, bringing very little relief. December records the highest temperatures in the year, making for a warm Christmas. January sees similar levels of precipitation, but relief comes in a 2-3 degree drop in temperature. The rain slowly thins out in February, and temperatures become a little more comfortable.

Significant events: From October to December, Seychelles sees First Communion celebrations, which makes visits to the church entertaining and touching. Christmas sees some of the biggest celebrations on the island, with many locals and tourists spilling out on the beach to celebrate with friends. The Seychelles Marathon also takes place during this season, so carry your sneakers!

Why you should visit now: A paradise island nation, coupled with some of the biggest festivities in the year makes a trip to Seychelles the perfect way to close the year.

Things to know before the visit: The showers during December are short and intense. The rest of the day is blessed with sunny weather. Still, it never hurts to carry an umbrella!

Tips: The humidity reaches close to a hundred per cent during December, which can leave many tourists feeling drained out and dehydrated. Drink lots of water and get adequate rest in between the rest of your activities.