Seychelles
Northwest Monsoon (November to March): This period is warmer and wetter. Average temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F to 86°F). Expect higher humidity and more rainfall, often in short, intense showers. Seas generally stay calmer from November to December, good for marine activities.
Calmer winds and generally good visibility for marine activities here. Bird Island demand remains consistently high year-round due to limited capacity, so advance booking is a must regardless of season. These months frequently bring the best overall conditions for both land and sea activities.
Seychelles is generally outside the main cyclone belt. However, tropical disturbances occur, especially between December and March. These disturbances bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, which might change flight schedules to and from the island.
Always check weather forecasts close to your travel dates.
(May to October)
This time aligns with the breeding season for millions of Sooty Terns. Birdwatchers find this the busiest and most rewarding time. The island experiences strong southeast trade winds during this period. These winds can create choppier sea conditions for transfers but bring cooler, more comfortable temperatures for exploring the island and observing the massive bird colonies.
If seeing the Sooty Terns is your main goal, this is your recommended window.
(December to March)
This period is warmer and wetter but generally sees calmer seas. Fewer Sooty Terns nest in large numbers during these months. Despite this, the low season still offers excellent opportunities for seeing other resident birds, interacting with the giant tortoises, and enjoying marine activities like snorkeling and diving in calm waters.
You might also find slightly lower demand, although Bird Island's limited chalets make booking ahead worthwhile.
Tropical Disturbances
Seychelles stands generally outside the main cyclone belt. However, tropical disturbances occur, especially between December and March. These disturbances bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, which might change flight schedules to and from the island.
Always check weather forecasts close to your travel dates.
Birdwatching (Sooty Terns): Peak nesting activity spans May to October. Sooty Terns arrive March or April, lay eggs in May, chicks hatch June or July, then fledge by October. Other Birds (Migratory and Resident): Observation for these happens year-round, with migratory species present from October to April. Giant Tortoises: Encounter these magnificent reptiles any time of year. Their roaming is constant.
Marine Life (Snorkeling, Diving): April, May, October, and November feature the calmest seas and best underwater visibility. Marine life flourishes all year. Fishing: October to April often brings calmer seas, good for deep-sea fishing excursions. Such excursions can be arranged from Mahé before or after your Bird Island stay.
May-Oct brings millions of Sooty Terns, an unique spectacle.
Expect windier conditions during peak bird season.
April/May or Oct/Nov offer tranquil waters.
These months combine calmer seas with pleasant temperatures.
High demand exists year-round for Bird Island Lodge.
Seychelles maintains a straightforward entry policy for international visitors. It operates a visa-free policy for all nationalities. This simplifies the entry process considerably for most travelers.
Upon arrival, a 'Visitor's Permit' stamp appears in your passport. This permit initially lasts up to three months. Further extension, to a maximum of 12 months from original issue, comes via the Seychelles Department of Immigration.
No direct entry fees apply for the Visitor's Permit. All visitors complete a digital Travel Authorisation online before departure for Seychelles. This step is mandatory.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: A valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required only for travelers arriving from, or transiting through, a country with a risk of Yellow Fever transmission.
Your comfort and safety matter, given Bird Island's remote nature. Plan for these items before your journey.
Required if from or transiting a risk country (over one year of age). Check current regulations with your local health authority or a travel clinic before your trip.
Consult a medical professional for routine vaccinations (Measles, Mumps, Rubella; Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis; Polio), Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid.
Malaria risk is very low; Dengue fever occurs, so mosquito bite prevention is a precaution. Bird Island Lodge rooms provide mosquito nets.
Always inform lodge management immediately of any health concerns or emergencies.
Bird Island features a first aid station with trained personnel for minor medical issues. For serious emergencies, air evacuation to Mahé comes necessary.
Victoria Hospital on Mahé functions as the main public hospital. Private clinics also appear on Mahé. They coordinate necessary care.
Emergency contacts: Police/Fire/Ambulance: 999. Victoria Hospital: +248 438 8000.
The equatorial sun shines intensely. High-SPF, reef-safe sunscreen application is generous and frequent, especially after swimming. Hats and sunglasses offer coverage. Hydration through ample water intake is . Seek shade during peak sun hours (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM).
Rare on Bird Island, yet insect repellent with DEET or picaridin finds use, specifically at dawn and dusk if sensitivity to bites exists or other islands are part of the visit.
Strong currents during swimming or snorkeling merit attention. Stonefish, stingrays, or jellyfish may appear. Appropriate footwear on rocky or reef areas. Never touch marine life. Observe from a distance.
Comprehensive travel insurance is a wise acquisition. This policy covers medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and personal liability. Adventure activities merit specific coverage. Reputable providers give comprehensive coverage, such as World Nomads or SafetyWing.
Bird Island operates as a private, remote island with virtually no crime. It brings an extremely safe environment for visitors. Seychelles generally keeps low crime rates, but petty crime, like pickpocketing, may occur in busier areas on Mahé (Victoria).
Tap water on Bird Island is desalinated and safe to drink. The lodge supports guests in refilling reusable water bottles. This reduces plastic waste.
Food hygiene standards at Bird Island Lodge are generally high. Meals are fresh, served buffet style, with careful attention to preparation and storage.
Seychelles generally stays outside the main cyclone belt. Rarely, tropical depressions affect the islands (Dec-Mar). Indian Ocean carries a low tsunami risk; lodge staff are emergency-trained.
