What is the best time to visit The Seychelles in 2017?

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26 Sep 2014

Best time to go to the Seychelles

Best time to visit the Seychelles

So when should we go?

Located between 4° and 10° South of the equator, the Seychelles offers a tropical and mild climate with relatively high humidity year-round and temperatures ranging on average between 24°C and 32°C. So really, the question should be: “Why are you not here already?”.

In all seriousness, the best time of year for your visit depends on what you would like to do during your time here. There are certain times of year that is better for fishing or diving, but in terms of a tropical island destination, there are really no bad options here.

The Seychelles’ weather is mostly governed by the trade winds, although we only receive the tail- end of these trade winds and therefore do not experience periods of year where it is considered excessively windy.

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Rather these winds affect the clarity of the water as well as the movement of turtle grass, an integral part to the mating and nesting of the endangered turtle species found in the waters around the Seychelles archipelago.

In essence, the weather can be divided into two seasons: the South East Trade Wind Season (mainly May to September) and the North West Trade Wind Season (mainly from October to April)

During the SE Trade Wind Season, some south and east facing beaches are more prone to turtle grass, and visibility becomes slightly poorer (10m as opposed to the usual 30m), thereby affecting especially diving. These winds also ensure a slightly rougher ocean, so unless you have established sea legs, deep sea fishing and sailing might also be problematic. On the other hand though, these stronger winds provide for great surfing, windsurfing and kitesurfing.

During the NW Trade Wind Season, seas are tranquil and water visibility can reach up to 30m on a good day. Although these are considered the “wetter” months, you will still get about 6 hours of sunshine every day, along with relatively warmer weather and slightly higher humidity. These months are great for fishing and diving

In the transition periods i.e. the change from SE to NW Trade Winds and vice versa, one gets a period of calm with hot temperatures, light breezes and tranquil seas (April and October). Rain is possible all year round though, but in short, sharp bursts that does nothing to dampen the tropical atmosphere or to cool the temperature, and at no time of the year will you need a jacket in the evenings; rather a light shawl will suffice.

Do keep in mind that the weather can vary from island to island, and that the outer coral islands usually have less rainfall then the inner granitic islands.

Other reasons to visit during specific times of the year:

October to February is a great time to see turtles laying their eggs, especially on the private islands where turtle conservation is an ongoing effort. This peaks in December. Mid-January to April is great for seeing the turtle eggs hatch.

If you like birding, April to May is best for the breeding season, whilst September to October is best for watching the migration.

What would be your favourite time of year in the Seychelles?