Mahe Seychelles Travel Guide
Mahé has a tropical climate, featuring warm temperatures year-round. Distinct seasons, shaped by trade winds, pattern weather and the state of the sea.
The temperature stays warm, typically from 24°C to 32°C. Rainfall occurs year-round, more prevalent during the Northwest Monsoon, often clearing quickly.
Monsoon winds dictate sea conditions. The Southeast Monsoon (May to September) brings stronger winds and rougher seas to south and east coasts.
The Northwest Monsoon (November to March) results in calmer waters but more rainfall. Seychelles generally lies outside the main cyclone belt, making direct hurricane hits rare.
December to January, July to August
Dec-Jan: Warmer, wetter, calmer seas. Jul-Aug: Cooler, drier, stronger winds.
Higher prices for flights and accommodation; more crowded attractions.
April, May, October, November
April/May: Often best with peaceful, clear seas, less wind. Oct/Nov: Transition.
Unpredictable weather at the very beginning or end of the period.
June to September
Cooler, drier, stronger winds; choppier seas, specifically on southeastern coasts.
Choppier seas may affect snorkeling/diving on some coasts; potential for increased rainfall.
For the calmest seas on all sides, April or November are often ideal. These months present a balanced experience.
Mahé''s tropical conditions means consistent warmth. Showers often come as short, heavy bursts, clearing quickly to reveal sunshine.
The best time for diving with top visibility.
Good for hiking, sailing, and windsurfing.
Excellent for clear water activities.
Beach lounging on sheltered coasts.
Choppier seas for snorkeling on particular coasts in low season.
Entry into Seychelles is straightforward for most nationalities. No visa is required in advance.
A "Visitor's Permit" is issued upon arrival. Ensure you have the following before your journey.
No specific entry fees for the Visitor's Permit. Upon arrival at SEZ, pass through border control.
The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Major international credit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted.
Seychelles has a reputation for being an expensive destination, but strategies exist to manage your budget.
| Category | Budget Traveler | Mid-range Traveler |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | SCR 700 - 1,500 | SCR 2,000 - 5,000 |
| Meals | SCR 200 - 400 | SCR 500 - 1,000 |
| Transportation | SCR 50 - 150 | SCR 300 - 600 |
Mahé is a generally safe destination. Awareness of health and safety aspects supports a trouble-free trip.
Required if from a Yellow Fever risk country.
Travel health professional for personalized advice well in advance.
Routine vaccinations, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid. Review personal needs.
Prevention is .
Mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue fever are present. Use Insect repellent, dress in long sleeves and trousers, particularly at dawn and dusk. Consider a Mosquito net for open-air accommodations.
Sunburn and sunstroke are concerns due to high UV. Use High-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen, a hat, and Sunglasses. Stay hydrated with plenty of water throughout the day. Traveler's diarrhea can occur; practice good food hygiene and consider filtered water.
Access to healthcare: Seychelles Hospital in Victoria. Private clinics and pharmacies are available. Medical evacuation may be necessary for serious conditions.
Tap water in Mahé is generally considered safe in urban areas. Bottled water is widely available and often recommended for visitors. A LifeStraw or other Portable water filter bottle is a good option.
Food hygiene standards are generally good, especially in established restaurants. Exercise caution with street food or unpeeled fruits.
Consume only thoroughly cooked food to prevent common issues.
Seychelles has a relatively low crime rate. Mahé is generally safe for tourists.
Keep emergency contact information readily available.
Dial 999 for all emergencies.
Details for contacting passport loss or legal issues. Keep details handy.
Have your policy number and emergency contacts for your provider ready. Providers include Adventure Medical Kits and Pacsafe for security.
