Best Places to Visit in Seychelles in March

Summary: March in the Seychelles offers calm seas for snorkelling on Mahé, quiet exploration of the granite boulders on La Digue, and prime conditions for spotting nesting birds on Cousin Island. While humidity levels begin to shift as the trade winds transition, the islands remain an accessible tropical destination for those prioritising water-based activities and nature reserves.

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Seychelles in March: at a glance

• For underwater exploration, visit Mahé to experience the clear waters around the Sainte Anne Marine National Park.

• For a slower pace of life, head to La Digue to navigate the coastal paths and granite-framed beaches by bicycle.

• For wildlife enthusiasts, choose Cousin Island to observe protected avian species in their natural island habitat.

• For accessible granite landscapes and forest trails, explore the interior peaks of Praslin.

Is March a good time to visit the Seychelles?

March is a reliable time for visitors who prefer stable, warm conditions and lower wind speeds. As the islands sit between two seasonal trade winds, the sea is often notably still, which benefits those planning to spend significant time on boats or engaging in snorkelling and diving.

The period is well-suited for travellers looking to visit multiple islands, as inter-island ferry crossings are frequently smoother than during the windier months of the year. However, travellers should anticipate occasional tropical showers, which are a characteristic feature of the archipelago’s climate rather than a sign of prolonged bad weather.

Weather in the Seychelles in March

The Seychelles experiences a transitional climate in March. Air temperatures remain warm throughout the day and night, providing a consistent tropical environment across the archipelago.

The primary change during this month is the shift in wind direction, which often leads to reduced surface agitation in the surrounding ocean. While rainfall is always a possibility in a tropical environment, the intensity often decreases as the month progresses.

Coastal areas remain generally warmer than the higher elevations of the larger granitic islands, where mountain mist can persist in the mornings.

Best places to visit in the Seychelles in March

1. Mahé

As the largest island in the archipelago, Mahé serves as the primary gateway and offers a diverse range of environments. In March, the island's many beaches are particularly inviting due to the calmer sea states.

Visitors can spend time exploring the Morne Seychellois National Park, which features trails through lush forests leading to elevated viewpoints. The capital, Victoria, provides an insight into the local history and culture, featuring the clock tower and the central market.

Because of its size, Mahé allows for a balance between rugged nature exploration and access to established facilities, making it an ideal starting point for those new to the region.

2. Praslin

Praslin is defined by its ancient natural landscapes, most notably the Vallée de Mai. This protected forest is home to the endemic coco de mer palm and provides a shaded, canopy-covered experience that is rewarding regardless of the time of year.

In March, the island's coastal paths are pleasant for walking, connecting the interior forests to the white sands of Anse Lazio. The atmosphere here is quieter than on Mahé, appealing to those who wish to focus on the islands' endemic flora and the slower rhythm of island life while still having access to a selection of small, independent dining spots.

3. La Digue

La Digue is arguably the most distinct island in terms of transport, as bicycles remain the primary mode of movement. In March, cycling between the village of La Passe and the famed granite-strewn beaches of the south is highly manageable due to the consistent, gentle weather.

The island maintains a traditional feel, with preserved colonial-era architecture and a focus on coastal recreation. Spending time on La Digue involves a deliberate deceleration; the lack of motorised traffic and the compact nature of the island ensure that the coastline, rather than the infrastructure, remains the focus of every day.

4. Silhouette Island

Positioned a short boat ride from Mahé, Silhouette Island offers a more secluded experience with a focus on mountainous terrain and marine conservation. As a designated national park, the island is heavily protected, and its dense jungles are home to several rare plant species.

March is an excellent month for boat-based access to the island's surrounding reefs, which are less frequented than those closer to the main hubs. For those interested in historical remnants and rugged hiking, the island provides a contained, high-altitude experience that contrasts significantly with the flatter coastal zones of the larger islands.

5. Cousin Island

Cousin Island is a specialist destination dedicated almost exclusively to nature conservation. Owned by an environmental organisation, the island acts as a vital sanctuary for endemic bird populations. March is a productive time for birdlife, and visits are strictly managed to ensure the protection of nesting sites.

Visitors are guided through the interior and along the shore, offering a direct, close-up experience with rare species like the Seychelles magpie-robin. It is a necessary choice for anyone with a specific interest in ornithology or ecological preservation, providing an experience that cannot be replicated on the more developed tourist islands.

6. Sainte Anne Marine National Park

Located just off the coast of Mahé, this cluster of small islands is a protected zone famous for its extensive coral reefs and varied sea life. In March, the low wind and calm sea conditions make this one of the most accessible spots for snorkelling directly from a boat or shore.

The park encompasses several islands, each with distinct submerged geography. It is the go-to location for visitors who want to spend their days in the water, observing schools of tropical fish and, occasionally, sea turtles.

The proximity to the main island makes it a convenient choice for those who do not wish to travel long distances.

7. Curieuse Island

Curieuse is distinctive for its red-earth landscape and its role as a rehabilitation centre for giant tortoises. The island features a marked trail through a mangrove forest, which is accessible and provides an immersive natural history lesson.

In March, the warm, clear water allows for pleasant swimming in the bays surrounding the island. The contrast between the lively red soil and the deep green vegetation makes it a visually striking destination.

It is a highly recommended stop for those interested in biology or photography, as the roaming tortoises are a persistent and approachable feature of the island.

8. Aride Island

Aride Island is known for its high concentration of breeding seabirds and the density of its tropical vegetation. The island is often cited as having one of the most important bird colonies in the region. Because of its protected status, visitor numbers are monitored and access is organised via professional guides.

March provides steady weather for the boat transit to the island, allowing for a thorough exploration of the hiking paths that wind through the peaks. It is a rugged, wild destination best suited for those who prioritise biodiversity and undisturbed natural habitats over traditional beach resort amenities.

9. Bird Island

Situated at the northern edge of the granitic Seychelles, Bird Island lives up to its name with immense numbers of migratory and resident birds. The island is privately managed with a focus on keeping the environment as close to its natural state as possible.

In March, the island's isolation and the calm weather patterns create a sense of genuine solitude. There are no paved roads or high-end commercial developments here, only straightforward beachfront accommodation and miles of shore.

This is the destination for those looking to disconnect completely from the digital world and spend their time observing the natural cycles of the ocean and sky.

10. Denis Island

Denis Island offers a different perspective as a low-lying coral island rather than a granitic one. This unique geography creates a flat, sandy landscape ringed by turquoise lagoons. March is a quiet time to enjoy the island's perimeter, where the water is calm enough for extended swimming and paddle sports.

The island's management focuses on self-sufficiency, often sourcing much of its food from its own farm. For visitors who appreciate the aesthetics of a remote coral cay and wish to experience a tranquil, low-impact holiday, Denis Island is a distinct departure from the dramatic, mountainous terrain of the central islands.

Planning and packing for March

When planning a trip to the Seychelles in March, consider splitting your time between a larger island like Mahé for variety and a smaller island like La Digue for a change of pace. Because the weather is consistently warm and the sea is calm, focus your packing on high-quality UV protection, lightweight cotton or linen clothing, and sturdy footwear for the granite-based trails found in the national parks.

Bring a light waterproof layer for the occasional tropical shower, and ensure you have high-quality snorkelling gear if you plan to explore the reefs independently. Keep in mind that transport between islands relies on ferries and local flights, so pack light to make inter-island transitions as simple as possible.

Frequently asked questions

Is the water calm enough for swimming in March?

Yes, March is considered one of the best months for water-based activities in the Seychelles. The transition between the trade winds results in lower wind speeds and less swell in the ocean, creating ideal conditions for swimming, snorkelling, and taking small boats between the islands.

Do I need to visit more than one island?

While you can have a full holiday on a single island like Mahé, visiting at least two is recommended to experience the geological and social diversity of the archipelago. Pairing a large, mountainous island with a smaller, cycling-focused one provides a comprehensive view of the region.

Should I expect daily rain?

Tropical showers are common throughout the year, but they are rarely continuous in March. You should expect short, intense bursts of rain followed by clearing skies, which is standard for the region and generally does not disrupt outdoor plans for long periods.

Is it necessary to bring formal clothing?

The Seychelles has a relaxed, informal culture. Lightweight, casual clothing is suitable for almost all occasions, including dining. Comfortable footwear for walking on sand or forest trails is much more important than formal attire for any part of your trip.

Are the popular beaches crowded in March?

Compared to peak holiday seasons, March generally experiences more manageable visitor numbers. While the most accessible beaches near major towns will have other visitors, it is easy to find more secluded coves by walking a short distance or cycling away from the primary transport hubs.

Can I book day trips to the nature reserves?

Yes, boat trips to reserves like Cousin Island or the marine parks are widely available. It is advisable to coordinate these visits through official providers, as some islands have strict limits on visitor numbers and require guided access to protect the local fauna.

Which island is best for someone who does not like hiking?

La Digue is the most suitable option for those who prefer to avoid strenuous hikes. Its terrain is relatively flat, and the primary way to get around is by bicycle, allowing you to reach excellent beaches without needing to traverse the mountainous trails found on the larger islands.

Is March better than the summer months for sailing?

Many experienced travellers find March superior for sailing because the sea conditions are significantly calmer. The lack of strong trade winds makes navigation smoother and creates a more pleasant experience for those spending their days on the water compared to the windier periods of the year.

Final thoughts

For a trip defined by variety and ease of movement, choose a combination of Mahé and La Digue. Mahé provides the necessary infrastructure and dramatic hiking opportunities to ground the first half of your holiday, while La Digue offers the necessary contrast of a car-free, slow-paced environment to finish your stay.

Choose this pairing if you want a balance of activity and relaxation without needing to navigate complex logistics during the transition month of March.

Weather, opening times and transport details in this guide were correct as far as we could check. Always confirm directly before you travel.

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