When to travel

The Seychelles' seasons are defined by the trade winds.

The South East Trade Winds are prevalent from May to September when it will be drier, breezier, and slightly cooler than during the remainder of the year.

You should plan your trip to the Seychelles around what you want to do. Windsurfing and sailing are best at the start and end of the trade winds, usually around May and October.

The North West Trade Winds are prevalent from October to April. This is a much calmer breeze, which results in increased humidity and calmer seas. Higher rainfall occurs during this time of year.

The transition periods of April and October tend to be the calmest and hence the best visibility for divers but diving is possible throughout the year.

As tropical islands close to the equator, the Seychelles experience quite a lot of rain at all times of the year, but this mostly occurs in brief showers followed again by tropical sunshine, hence the lush green vegetation.

The tropical sun is very strong and even on overcast days one should take great care to cover-up and use high factor suntan protection. A hat and sunglasses are recommended.

For birdwatchers, the migratory birds such as sooty terns start arriving in May for the breeding season and depart in October.