Seasons change, and so do our interests. Browse by month to uncover some of the unique seasonal highlights of each island destination.
Where and when to go on an island escape
Island highlights
Celebrate in island seclusion
What better way to ring in the new year than with a tropical island escape to the ultra-romantic Mnemba Island? Start with a few days on Zanzibar Island, to explore its labyrinth of winding alleys, vibrant markets and spice plantations, then cocoon on the nearby heart-shaped nirvana that is Mnemba Island for the ultimate in seclusion and relaxation.
Glorious sunshine & beach adventure
Take a breathtakingly scenic helicopter flip from the Mozambican coastline to the tropical island of Benguerra, where relaxation and adventure meet. Glorious beach days are spent relaxing on the golden stretch of soft sand, riding horses bareback into the ocean, and snorkelling/diving the world-class reef. The romantic castaway picnic is an absolute must.
Castaway on a small private island
Settle into your own rustic beach banda on Mnemba Island, a small private island off Zanzibar. Enjoy sunny walks on the beach, complemented by leisurely island lunches and afternoon siestas. Get PADI-certified on the island and explore the surrounding atoll or opt for some snorkelling, sea kayaking or SUPing. Toast the sunset on a traditional dhow cruise.
Dive into the luxurious Maldives
This is a beautiful time to indulge in the romance, adventure and luxury of the Maldives. The tides are calm, allowing good visibility for divers as they explore the enchanting underwater world. The days are warm and sun-kissed and, although there is a slight chance of tropical showers towards the end of the month, they are short-lived and refreshing.
Ocean adventure & laidback luxury
May is the perfect time to hit the sunny beaches and warm waves of Mauritius, when the temperatures are moderate and not yet humid. From May, there are ideal wind conditions for surfers and kite surfers. Go island-hopping, explore markets, discover forested trails or just relax on the beach. A definite must-see are the seven-coloured earths of Chamarel.
Explore natural island beauty
The days are warm and the sky is blue, making June a tranquil time to discover the boulder-strewn beaches of the Seychelles. From May, the south-easterly trade winds start to blow, producing ideal conditions for some picturesque sailing. Hop on a bike, go hiking, delve into the deep blue, sample the island food and meet the endemic Aldabra giant tortoises.
Time for green sea turtle season
Although endangered green sea turtle egg layings and hatchings do occur year-round, the official turtle season peaks from May to July on the private, barefoot beach paradise of Mnemba Island. Witness upwards of 100 tiny hatchlings as they emerge from the nest and cheer them on as they brave the arduous trek to sea. Definitely one for the bucket list.
In search of the mighty humpback
The tropical and luxurious Benguerra Island, which forms part of the picturesque string of islands in the Bazaruto Archipelago, is ideally situated for Mozambique’s whale watching season. Each year, from July through to September, pods of giant humpback whales migrate to the warmer waters of the Indian Ocean for their annual mating and calving season.
Mauritian island adventure
This is typically Mauritius’ driest month, making it the perfect time for beach lovers, sun worshippers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Take to the sky for a scenic flight over the famed optical illusion of the Le Morne underwater waterfall. Venture out for an unhurried day exploring vibrant markets, or view the underwater wonderland from a glass-bottom boat.
Fair winds & following seas
The temperatures are pleasant in the Seychelles, making it a great time for an active island adventure. In between trade wind seasons, the wind conditions are calm, allowing great visibility for diving. This is also the start of egg laying season for the hawksbill turtle. Get out and explore the sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, lush rainforest, and more.
Island romance & adventure
November heralds the end of the wet season in the Maldives, so from now through to April, not only are temperatures ideal, so too are the diving conditions and visibility. Head into town to experience the hustle and bustle of a local fish market, or for those seeking a quieter pace, opt for an unforgettable sand bank picnic and a sundowner dhow cruise.
End-of-year island vibes
Gift yourself with an end-of-year island escape to tropical Mauritius and celebrate the festive season in style with hot, sunny days on the beach. This is one of the best months for underwater adventure, when the water is warm and visibility is good. Enjoy fresh, festive seafood feasts, explore the island’s many highlights and toast the year’s end, island style.
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