115 islands in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa, make up this archipelago that’s home to spellbinding beaches, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
The sand on these postcard-perfect strips is warm and perfect for dipping in the water or enjoying a snorkel, and the waters are a gorgeous turquoise hue.
Weather
Lying just below the equator, the 150 islands that make up Seychelles enjoy warm, tropical weather throughout the year. The average temperatures rarely drop below 23 degrees Celsius and seldom rise above 32 degrees.
The weather in Seychelles is mainly controlled by the Indian Ocean currents, a meridional south high pressure zone, and the inter-tropical convergence zone. The drier, cooler southeast trade winds blow from May to October, and the hotter, humid northwest monsoon winds are ushered in by November (pre-northwest monsoon).
It rains all year round, though December until February are the wettest months and can be very heavy. Fortunately, this rainfall usually only lasts for short periods, and the sun often re-emerges in time to dry up the islands.
In general, the best time to visit Seychelles is during the drier season (April through May and October through November) when the air is less humid and the sun is more likely to shine. The weather is also calmer and more pleasantly mild, making the outdoors more comfortable for beachcombing or exploring the attractions of Victoria City.
July and August are also a great time to visit the Seychelles as the cool south-east trade winds make it perfect for sailing or hiking, while temperatures remain comfortable in the mid-20s. The drier air also allows for better visibility underwater, allowing you to snorkel or scuba dive without worrying about seaweed.
Another good time to visit the Seychelles is during September, which marks the end of the European school holidays and offers a more pleasant travel time with little rainfall and cool, calm weather. The Seychelles are known for their beautiful beaches, so this is the best time to enjoy the powder-soft sand.
It’s worth mentioning that the Seychelles have no distinct dry seasons, so you should be prepared for any weather in the country at any time. However, if you’re visiting the islands during the drier season, it’s important to have waterproof clothing for any activities that require it. If you’re planning to spend a lot of time on the beach, it’s worth bringing a hat and sunglasses, too.
Seychelles Map
Seychelles is a small island country in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar. It is a popular vacation destination for those who love beaches and the tropical climate. There are 115 islands in this archipelago, but only three major ones are populated: Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue.
The island of Mahe is the largest and most developed of the Seychelles, and offers a sprinkling of historical sites and museums that blend seamlessly with the modern buildings. Victoria is the capital of this granitic island, and its streets are lined with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants. Visitors can learn about the history of this island at L’Union estate, a former plantation that still grows many crops, including vanilla.
Another interesting attraction on the east side of Mahe is Beau Vallon, which is renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches that are perfect for snorkeling and swimming. This town is a great place to explore Seychelles’ natural beauty without the crowds that tend to engulf other top tourist attractions on the island.
Other areas worth visiting on Mahe include Police Bay, which is a beautiful beach that offers great opportunities for sunbathing and exploring the granite rock formations that are stuck to the sand. This beach is located a few minutes off the main road, but it is well worth the effort.
The best time to visit the Seychelles is during November – January, when the weather is generally sunny and not too hot or windy. This is also the time of year when the tides change at the most picturesque beaches.
In terms of accommodation, Seychelles is home to a wide range of luxury and budget resorts, as well as guesthouses and self-catering apartments. It is important to note that some establishments do not accept credit cards and you may need to exchange cash before booking your stay.
You should also bring travel insurance, as the Seychelles are a high-risk destination for travelers. A visa is not necessary for most tourists, but you will need an onward ticket and sufficient funds for your length of stay.
Seychelles Travel Tips
Seychelles is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, incredible views and lush vegetation. Whether you’re planning to visit for a long weekend or a week, here are some travel tips that will help you plan your perfect trip to the beautiful island.
The 115 islands that make up the Seychelles archipelago are all unique and each has its own special charm. Most visitors head for the islands of Mahe and Praslin but you can also explore other islands in the area by ferry or boat.
To save on accommodation costs, consider staying in the shoulder seasons of January to April or in October and November. This way you can avoid high season when the number of tourists increases and you’ll experience lower prices at your accommodation.
If you’re travelling on a budget, try staying in self-catering apartments or guest houses instead of hotels. These accommodation options are less expensive and you’ll have a private kitchen where you can prepare your own meals.
Another great idea is to travel with a group of friends and go on experiences together, such as sailing and diving. This will ensure you get the most out of your time in Seychelles without breaking the bank.
Be sure to bring plenty of cash to cover your accommodation, food and attractions fees in foreign currency. The official currency of the islands is the Seychelles rupee (SCR), but credit cards and major currencies are also accepted.
It’s also a good idea to bring motion sickness medication if you’re planning to take a ferry ride, as the water conditions can be rough.
The Seychelles are known for their rum made from sugar cane and this is something you shouldn’t miss out on! To learn more about the process, you can go on a free tour and tasting at Takamaka Rum Distillery.
The Seychelles are a year-round destination but there are some seasonal weather variabilities that you should know about. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the tourist season is at its lowest and the weather is at its warmest.
Seychelles Accommodations
The islands of Seychelles are known for their luxury resorts, but there’s plenty to see and do for those on a budget as well. Whether you’re looking for a private island resort for your honeymoon or a self-catering apartment on Mahe, there’s a place for you in the Seychelles.
The Seychelles is an archipelago of over 100 tropical islands in the Indian Ocean. Each of these islands is different, but they all offer pristine beaches, azure waters, and a lush jungle that will make you feel like you’ve left the modern world behind.
Guests staying in Seychelles often choose to stay on the main islands, including Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue, but there are also plenty of private islands that offer a more intimate experience. These are best for honeymooners and couples looking to escape the crowds and reconnect.
For families, the Seychelles has some of the finest family-friendly resorts in the world. At Constance Ephelia on Port Glaud, for example, kids can frolic in the pool or join in on water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling masks.
There’s also a wide selection of activities for kids and adults. The resort’s large kids’ club offers indoor and outdoor play areas, games, a computer station, and a mini rock-climbing wall.
Another option is Mango House Seychelles, an upscale beach hotel that draws a mix of tourists and party animals thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and selection of high-end bars and restaurants. While the property doesn’t have a large stretch of beach, it more than makes up for this with its lux amenities.
This renowned luxury resort is surrounded by a sparkling white sand beach and luxuriant palm trees. It has a range of accommodation options that include villas and suites with garden and sea views.
In addition to a full range of on-site facilities, this resort also has five pools and five restaurants. There’s also a gym and wellness center.
One of the best ways to see the island is to book a stay at a local guesthouse, where you’ll be able to gain an insight into the life of a local. Most of these guesthouses are run by families who provide a great service and can give you a taste of what life is really like on this remote island.
