Weather in Seychelles in January

Is January a good time to visit Seychelles?

The month of January is one of the hottest, wettest and most humid in the Seychelles islands. During January the Seychelles are in the grip of the north-westerly trade wind season, which does not mean there are winds to relieve the heat – in fact it is generally calm, with an absence of the maritime breezes which cool things down in the middle of the year. Rain comes on quickly in sudden, heavy bursts, but there is still a preponderance of sunshine. Outdoors expect to feel sweaty and muggy, with little chance of cooling off in the azure seas, which feel like a warm bath.

 

What is the weather like in the Seychelles in January

Being well into the island’s “wet” north-westerly trade wind season, January has the highest average rainfall of any month in Seychelles (around 400mm). The rainfall increases with altitude, which means the granite mountainous Mahé and Silhouette islands are the wettest. Clouds gather quickly and rain falls in fairly brief, heavy spurts, giving way to steamy sunshine again. Temperatures hover at around 30°C in January. Although January is “Cyclone season” in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles lie outside the cyclone zone.

 

What to do in the Seychelles in January

The odd rain shower does not dampen holiday-makers’ enjoyment of the beautiful Seychelles beaches and watersports on offer, and the visibility for snorkeling during January is good. There is some enjoyable souvenir shopping in the cultural bazaars on the island of Mahé, and fishing competitions are held all year round. The Seychelles Sailing Cup held during January draws international yachtsmen.

 

What to pack for a holiday in the Seychelles in January

With high temperatures and humidity, a wardrobe of light, loose clothing along with a selection of swim suits is all one needs for a holiday in Seychelles in January. Don’t forget the sunhat, sunscreen and sunglasses, a pair of rubber thongs and perhaps a pair of trainers if you plan to go hiking. An umbrella or waterproof poncho is useful for those rain showers, but because of the heat you may well prefer to just get wet!