When is the best time to visit Mauritius?

Do you dream of crystal-clear, blue waters and heavenly beaches?

Then Mauritius is the place for you!

But when is the best time to visit this island nation in the Indian Ocean?

Read below to learn more about the seasons of Mauritius.

NB: The guide below is a guideline only.

The climate of Mauritius

Mauritius is about 2000 km east of the coast of Africa in the south-western end of the Indian Ocean.

This island nation is in the southern hemisphere, which means that their summer is in our winter – and the other way around.

The country is located in the tropical climate zone, so you can generally expect a hot climate with a lot of sunshine and blue skies all year round.

However, it is a good idea to note:

• The south-east trade wind, which means that there is a gentle breeze from the south-east all year round. This is primarily felt on the south-eastern end of the island, while the north-western part of the island, situated behind the mountains, is more protected from the wind. The trade winds are at their strongest in July/August.

• The cyclone season between January and March, which forms as the air and sea temperature rise. Mauritius could be struck by powerful storms every year, but statistically speaking, cyclones have only centred in Mauritius every 5 years. During the cyclone season, it rains more often than it otherwise does.

Seasons in Mauritius

Generally speaking, Mauritius has two seasons: Summer and winter.

However, the differences between the seasons are minimal, making Mauritius a good destination all year round.

Summer in Mauritius

Summer in Mauritius lasts from November to April.

At this time of the year, you will experience the hottest temperatures of the year and high humidity in the island state.

The high humidity means that the summer in Mauritius has more rain than usual, reaching a peak during the cyclone season between January and March. The rain typically comes in heavy showers followed by sunshine and a more comfortable humidity. Despite the cyclone season, the cyclones often pass by Mauritius.

Summer in Mauritius means:

• The highest temperatures of the year.
• High humidity.
• Risk of cyclones, as well as more rain, particularly between January and March.

Aside from this, summer is:

• Ideal for sunbathing, if you can withstand hot temperatures.
• A good time to go snorkelling and diving in Mauritius, particularly between October and December, when the water is at its clearest.
• Popular in December/January due to the Christmas holidays on the northern hemisphere and local holidays in Mauritius.

Winter in Mauritius

Winter in Mauritius lasts from May to October.

This period is still warm, though cooler than the summer, and it can get a little chilly in the evening. Humidity drops from May and onward, which makes the weather a little more comfortable for a lot of people.

In July and August, the south-east trade winds grow stronger as they blow from the east and south-east. The eastern and south-eastern ends of Mauritius are therefore particularly exposed to the growing wind, which results in slightly lower temperatures here than the rest of the island. It may therefore be a good idea to keep your holiday on the more sheltered beaches in the western and northern areas. The wind dies down again in September, which brings the temperatures back up.

Winter in Mauritius means:

• Warm temperatures.
• Lower humidity and less rain.
• Prevailing winds in July/August, particularly in the south-eastern end of Mauritius.

Beyond this, winter is:

• Popular in July due to summer holidays in the northern hemisphere.
• Off-peak season, which means fewer visitors with the exception of July.
• Good season for outdoor activities, as the humidity is more comfortable.

Want to experience the beaches of Mauritius?

A tour to Mauritius offers fantastic experiences all year round.

Conclude your safari experiences in South Africa with a holiday on the heavenly beaches of Mauritius.

If you are uncertain of the best time for you to visit Mauritius, then you are most welcome to get in touch with our tour counsellors. They have a lot of experience guiding you on the right time to travel.

Please note that the above guide is a guideline only and recommendations may change on an ongoing basis.

TourCompass – From tourist to traveller