Climate and When to Go

Mauritius is an all year round destination with a typical tropical climate. The south east trade winds help to make sure it does not get too humid. Summer lasts from December to April and during this time it is hot and humid. January and February are the peak of the cyclone season which, although they rarely hit Mauritius, can bring rain to the island. The weather cools down and becomes drier from May to November during the winter months.

Temperatures range from 25⁰C to 33⁰C in the summer and 18⁰C and 24⁰C in the winter. The south-east of the island can be quite windy during the winter months, while the western and northern coasts are drier and warmer in comparison. Choosing when to visit is quite dependent on what you are looking to do in Mauritius. Summer is the best time for diving and snorkelling, whereas surfing and kite boarding are best during the winter months.

Most hotels and resorts on the island focus on outdoor dining and entertainment with open and airy dining and seating areas alongside the beach or swimming pool. As a rule, most rooms offer air-conditioning and some resorts offer slightly heated swimming pools during the cooler winter months.

The winter months are mild and most holidaymakers will still enjoy swimming and days of sunshine on the beach although temperatures, including water temperature, increase considerably as the summer months progress.

South African holidaymakers should bear in mind that peak periods in Mauritius include local school holidays, Christmas and New Year, and the European school holidays in September and October. It is advisable to enquire and book well in advance to avoid disappointment - and 'early-bird' discounts often apply. For those needing to travel during school holidays, prices do fluctuate over these popular periods, with flights between South Africa and Mauritius being in high demand.