Weather in Seychelles: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The Seychelles is made up of over 100 idyllic islands and is best known as a warm, tropical honeymoon destination off the coast of East Africa. The archipelago consists of mountain rainforests, beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and coral reefs. There is never a bad time to visit Seychelles weather-wise as temperatures tend to hover around 86 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

However, there is a mixture of tropical rainfall, sunshine, and sea breezes that make for a humid climate. Due to its location in the middle of the Indian Ocean only several degrees south of the Equator, the weather in the Seychelles can be unpredictable so take heed as you can go from rain showers to bright, sunny skies within short periods of time.

Fast Climate Facts

• Hottest Month: April (87 F)
• Coldest Month: July (81 F)
• Wettest Month: January (15 inches)

Seasonal Seaweed

From May through the start of October the South-East trade winds bring loads of seaweed to the popular island of Praslin. While it is a good thing for the local environment, it can negatively affect the usually pristine beaches for tourists. In order to avoid the seaweed buildup during this time, it is recommended to visit beaches on the other side of the island as they are typically free of seaweed.

The Weather in Popular Seychelles Cities

Victoria

Victoria is popular for tourists interested in views of mountains, plateaus, and nice long sunny days. It’s a great destination to visit year-round due to pleasant temperatures averaging 82 F and with humidity hovering around 75 percent. The climate in Victoria is extremely moist due to its proximity to the equator.  

In Victoria, May through October is a dry period with cooler temperatures. The monsoon season rains occur from November to April due to the northwest trade winds. While it can be slightly cooler during this time, temperatures rarely fall below 73 F. During the monsoon season from May to October however, the seas can be rougher when the trade winds blow from the southeast. During the months of December and January, it can become quite wet with around 15 inches of rain falling and the occasional hurricane.  

Beau Vallon

The weather in Beau Vallon is typically warm, windy, and mostly cloudy on average. Throughout the year the temperatures range between 76 F to 87 F, rarely reaching above 89 F. The best time of the year to visit Beau Vallon in order to enjoy outdoor activities is from early June to early November. The rainiest month in the region is in January which averages around 7 inches and the least rain occurs in late July with an average accumulation of just under an inch in total.

Unlike Victoria, the humidity in Beau Vallon typically is quite oppressive and muggy throughout the year, staying around 100 percent constantly. The windier part of the year is from May to October, with average wind speeds of more than 12 mph. Mid-October until mid-May has wind speeds around 7 mph, making it a prime time to enjoy outdoor activities on the water such as sailing or snorkeling.

Praslin Island

The climate in Praslin Island is normally warm, windy, and mostly cloudy. Average temperatures range from 77 degrees F to 87 degrees F throughout the year. The best time for visiting the island is from mid-June to late October due to the gorgeous weather during this time of the year. The most rain occurs in the month of January with an average of 7 inches, so plan accordingly if visiting during the winter as it may be difficult to enjoy certain outdoor activities.

Like other regions in the Seychelles, Praslin Island has a constant muggy, high level of humidity close to 100 percent. However, due to its location at the equator, the island also remains sunny throughout the year. There is an average of 12 hours of sunlight each day pretty consistently throughout the year making it an ideal location for tourists to enjoy outdoor activities such as water sports and hiking.

Summer

The summer months from July through August bring about cooler, comfortable weather conditions with temperatures ranging between 82 F to 84 F. During the months of July and August the Southeast trade winds bring about plenty of wind. Also during the month of August humidity is quite low, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking. Summer is during the high season, so tourists should book their hotels month in advance and expect to pay high season prices.

What to Pack: Make sure to bring with you plenty of sunscreen for the long summer days while visiting Seychelles. As the summer months are ideal for hiking and sailing remember to bring a versatile hat or cap for these activities.

Fall

Visitors can expect a continuation of pleasant, warm temperatures through the fall months with an average high in the mid-80s F. There are few rainy days during the fall months of September and October as well as a comfortable breeze in the air, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as sailing and windsurfing.

The ocean is pretty calm due to the trade winds, however underwater visibility is not high but the waters are still blue and beautiful. The days are stunning with ample amounts of sunshine and warmth. It’s a perfect time for relaxing at the beach, swimming, sunbathing, and hiking for tourists and locals alike.

What to Pack: The islands attract outdoor enthusiasts, so pack your snorkeling and diving gear, as well as sunscreen and a sailing hat.

Winter

The winter months bring in the rainy season due to the northeast trade winds and visitors can expect a rise in humidity. Nevertheless, it is a popular time for tourists to the picturesque islands with average temperatures ranging from 85 F to 87 F. Precipitation levels may range from 8 inches to 15 inches between the months of November through January. While it may be a bit rainy during this time, the temperatures are so lovely that many enjoy swimming in the warm waters in the Indian Ocean paradise.

Flight and hotel prices can be staggeringly high during the winter holiday months so it is best to book months in advance to receive the best deals and availability. There are a host of art galleries to check out during the winter months if the rains do not allow for much time outdoors and also Creole cooking classes are a great indoor option at various hotels and resorts.

What to Pack: Make sure to bring ample swimming gear, a lightweight rain jacket, and a small umbrella for the rainy months.

Spring

During the spring months, temperatures can fluctuate from the high 70s to mid-80s F. April and May offer warm and mild weather due to the humid northwest trade winds. Precipitations are lower than the fall and winter months with average rainfalls ranging from 4 to 7 inches. The climate is perfect during this time with less humidity, making it ideal for a relaxing beach holiday, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Spring is a shoulder season, so you'll find more affordable hotel rates and flight options.

What to Pack: Bring hiking boots for those looking to explore the trails and scuba diving gear for the water fanatics.