Is September a good time for a Seychelles and Kenya safari combo?

September is a fantastic month to visit the Seychelles, especially if you are looking to combine your island getaway with a safari in Kenya. During this time, the **Southeast Trade Winds** (locally known as the *Vent de Sud-Est*) are in their final stages, bringing refreshing breezes, lower humidity, and relatively dry weather. While the wind makes the sea choppier on exposed coasts, it creates ideal conditions for a "Bush and Beach" itinerary as it coincides with the tail end of the Great Migration in East Africa.

### Weather and Wind Conditions in September In September, air temperatures typically hover between **24°C and 29°C**, making it one of the "coolest" months in the Seychelles. The Southeast Trade Winds are consistent, blowing at speeds of **10 to 20 knots**. This means that beaches on the south and southeastern coasts of the main islands—such as **Anse Royale** on Mahé or **Anse Marie-Louise** on Praslin—can experience significant wave action and deposits of seagrass.

For calm swimming conditions, you should focus on the northwestern coasts. **Beau Vallon** on Mahé remains the most popular sheltered spot, offering glassy waters and a wide range of water sports. On Praslin, **Anse Lazio** and **Anse Georgette** are generally well-protected and spectacular this time of year. On La Digue, the famous **Anse Source d'Argent** remains swimmable due to its protective reef, though the water level may be lower during low tide.

### Combining Seychelles with a Kenya Safari September is widely considered the best time for a safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara, as the Great Migration is usually in full swing. Logistics between the two destinations are straightforward. **Kenya Airways** operates direct flights between Nairobi (NBO) and Seychelles (SEZ) multiple times a week. The flight duration is approximately **3 hours and 10 minutes**.

**Typical Costs and Logistics:** * **Regional Flights**: A return flight between Nairobi and Victoria typically costs between **SCR 8,500 and SCR 13,000**, depending on how far in advance you book. * **Entry Requirements**: While Seychelles is visa-free, you must complete the digital Travel Authorization (e-boarding) which costs approximately **SCR 150-200** for processing. Kenya requires an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation). * **Island Transport**: Upon arrival, a taxi from the airport to Beau Vallon will cost roughly **SCR 500-700**.

### Pro Tips for September Travelers If you are sensitive to motion sickness, the ferry crossing between Mahé and Praslin (Cat Cocos) can be quite "lively" in September due to the swell. We recommend booking the "Business Class" or "Upper Deck" for a slightly more stable ride, or consider a 15-minute domestic flight with **Air Seychelles**, which often costs around **SCR 1,200 - 1,800** one way if booked early.

For hikers, September is the golden window. The lower humidity and cooler breeze make the trek up to **Copolia Peak** or through the **Vallée de Mai** much more comfortable than in the humid months of March or April. Always look for "wind-shadowed" bays; if you see whitecaps on the horizon at one beach, simply drive to the opposite side of the island where the water will likely be as calm as a swimming pool.

### Final Considerations A two-week trip split between five days of safari and nine days of island hopping is a popular and highly rewarding balance. Start with the early mornings and dusty drives of the safari, then head to the Seychelles to unwind. This combination allows you to experience the raw wilderness of Africa followed by the refined tropical luxury of the granite islands. Check the **Cat Cocos** ferry schedules in advance as they may occasionally adjust timings based on sea conditions during peak wind days.