WHEN TO TRAVEL TO Seychelles

Location

Climate

The Seychelles are a destination of choice for lovers of paradise beaches, lush nature and cultural discoveries.

High season (December to April)

High season is from December to April.It's a time of year when temperatures are warm and the weather is generally sunny. This is also the period when accommodation and flight prices are highest. The start of the high season coincides with the end-of-year festivities, which are celebrated in style in the Seychelles. On December 25, Christmas is celebrated with the family, while on December 31, everyone takes to the streets for the New Year festivities.

Kreol Festival (October or November)

If you want to discover the cultural richness of the archipelago, don't miss the Kreol Festival, which takes place every year in October or November. During this week of festivities, local people celebrate their Creole identity with shows, exhibitions and parades. A great opportunity to learn more about the age-old traditions of this part of the world.

Low season (May to November)

The low season runs from May to November, with slightly lower temperatures and higher rainfall. It's also the ideal time to take advantage of lower rates.for both accommodation and flights.

Rainy season (June to September)

June to September is the rainy season in the Seychelles. During this period, rainfall is frequent but generally short, allowing you to enjoy the tourist activities. If you don't mind a few showers during your vacation, this could be a good time to visit the Seychelles.

Independence Day (June 29)

June 29 is a public holiday in the Seychelles, as it celebrates the country's Independence, achieved in 1976 after centuries of British colonization. Official celebrations take place in the capital, Victoria, as well as in other localities, with speeches, parades and shows.

When should you go for certain activities?

The Seychelles offer a multitude of sporting and outdoor activities. Here are a few tips to help you choose the best period for your interests:

• Scuba diving and snorkeling : The best conditions are generally found between March and May, then between September and November, with exceptional visibility and calm waters.
• Big game fishing : if you're dreaming of catching marlin or tuna, opt for a stay between October and April, during the warm, dry season.
• Hiking : to take advantage of the lush green landscapes and pleasant temperatures at altitude, choose to stay between May and September, during the cool, wet season.
• Birdwatching : The best time to admire endemic species in the Seychelles is between April and October, when they are nesting and rearing their young.
• Surfing and windsurfing : Surfing enthusiasts will be delighted between May and September, when the trade winds blow and provide some of the beaches with excellent waves.

General statistics on immigration to Seychelles

Over the years, Seychelles has welcomed a growing number of immigrants, mainly to work or join their families. According to official data from the Seychelles government, there has been a steady increase in the number of arrivals in recent years:

• In 2016, the total number of arrivals was 304,958.
• In 2017, it rose to 349,861
• In 2018, the figure reached 361,844

Interestingly, the majority of immigrants come from other African countries, followed closely by Asian and European nationals.

Immigrants by continent

• Africa: 45.9%
• Asia: 34.6%
• Europe: 14.1%
• Oceania: 3.9%
• Americas: 1.5%

Most popular visas in Seychelles

Among the various types of visa available to foreigners wishing to visit the Seychelles, some are more in demand than others. Here are the main visa categories according to the number of applications:

• Work visa This visa is intended for people who have found a job in Seychelles and wish to work there for a fixed period.
• Residence visa Seychelles: people wishing to settle permanently in Seychelles must obtain a residence visa, which can be granted for family or professional reasons.
• Student Visa Student visas: International students wishing to study in Seychelles can apply to the relevant authorities for a student visa.
• Short-stay visa This type of visa is generally used by tourists or business travelers who come to Seychelles for a limited period.

We should also mention the joint visawhich allows the spouse of a Seychellois national to stay in Seychelles for up to three months.

International tourism figures for Seychelles

The tourism sector is one of the economic pillars of Seychelles, which has seen significant growth in recent years. In 2018, revenue from tourism totaled around $520 million, up 9% on the previous year.

Number of international tourist arrivals

Available data show that the number of international tourist arrivals to Seychelles has been rising steadily for several years:

• In 2016, there were 303,177 arrivals
• In 2017, this figure rose to 349,861
• In 2018, it reached 361,844

This growth is due in part to the diversification of the markets from which tourists come to Seychelles. While Europe remains the main source of visitors, other regions of the world are increasingly represented, notably Asia and the Middle East.

Tourists by country of origin

• Europe : 56%
• Asia and Middle East: 25%
• Africa: 10%
• Americas: 5%
• Oceania: 4%

The impact of tourism on Seychellois society

While the development of tourism in Seychelles has generated significant economic benefits, it has also had social and environmental consequences. The challenges facing the country include:

• Managing natural resources and preserving the environment in the face of growing tourist numbers
• Increased security to protect visitors, especially from tourism-related crime
• Access to housing for local residents in a context of real estate speculation

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