Best time to visit

Best time to visit   

As the Seychelles islands are blessed with a year-long warm, tropical climate, it’s always a good time to visit, although different times of year may be better suited to your particular interests.

Snorkeling off La Digue - © Raymond SahuquetTwo opposing trade winds generally govern the weather pattern: the north-westerly trades blow from October to March when wind speeds average from 8 to 12 knots; and the brisker south-easterly trades blow from May to September with winds of between 10 to 20 knots, bringing the cooler and windier conditions ideal for sailing.

The periods of calm between the trades produce fairly warm and wind-free conditions throughout April and also in October. Conditions for swimming, snorkelling and especially diving are superb during April/May and October/November when the water temperature sometimes reaches 29ºC and visibility is often 30 metres plus.

The ‘SUBIOS Underwater Festival’, showcases Seychelles’ extraordinary underwater world through a series of film shows, talks and competitions, while the 'Festival Kreol' (a week-long celebration of Creole heritage and traditions) is held in October of each year.

The Seychelles Sailing Cup, an international sailing event, is held in January and the International Fishing Competition in November. Further local fishing competitions are held throughout the year.

Temperatures range between 24° and 32° celcius all year round.
The year is divided between the northwea trade winds (December-March), when it is generally hot and humid, and those of the southeast (May-September), when it is drier and cooler. March, April, May, October and November are normally calm and relatively windless.

The trade winds also affect the different types of activities. Divers have the clearest water and best conditions between March – May / September - November when the trade winds reverse and the wind has about 5 knots. The best time for surfers is in between (May - September) when the stronger winds (average more than 10 knots) causes big waves.

The table below summarises the best times to visit Seychelles for different types of activities.