Mauritius is the Indian Ocean island, located in the tropical zone. When is the best time to visit Mauritius? It is the perfect year round vacation spot, but there are two distinct seasons with hottest and wettest months.
At the same time, the seasons are inverted there: summer lasts from November to April and winter from May to October. Winter months in Mauritius are less hot, average temperature varies + 24-25 degrees, and there is much less precipitation.
Check this ultimate travel guide on best time to visit Mauritius; keep reading to learn about rainy season, weather month by month. Please note that the data may change slightly each year; it is best to check the current weather before planning your vacation.
In general, the concept of the best season in Mauritius is rather vague, you can enjoy your holiday at any time of the year.
Summer in Mauritius
It lasts from October till April. During this period the temperature is rising, so many tourists from Europe and the USA come here to enjoy the warm weather.
If you don’t want to suffer from high humidity levels, plan your trip in November and December. In the summer months, the air warms up to +38 degrees Celsius on a sunny day. During the same period, a large amount of precipitation falls.
January and February can also be considered the best time to visit Mauritius as the ocean waters are the warmest. Due to this, number of marine life and its diversity increases, creating the ideal conditions for snorkelers and divers.
It’s better to choose north and more sheltered west coast, because south and east coast are more susceptible to hurricanes and floods.
Most tourists travel to Mauritius during the local winter, hoping for a rain-free vacation. They are not always lucky: the island is located in the middle of the ocean, and for a tropical climate, a sharp variability is very characteristic.
November
- Average air t.: +27.4 ℃.
- Average sea t: +25.5 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 4-6.
In November, humidity and rainfall begin to increase. But the air temperature is also rising.
It gives a start to peak season, when the resorts are filled with tourists. It is a holiday destination for travelers with families, youth companies and those who want to gain strength before the long European cold season. There are plenty of water sports and things to do in Mauritius island.
December
- Average air t: +29 ℃.
- Average sea t: +27.1 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 6-8.
December marks the beginning of summer and the rainy season. The level of humidity and the amount of precipitation are rising.
But this does not bother visitors: many want to celebrate the New Year and Christmas in the tropics. If you’re planning your trip on this period, it’s better to book tours in advance, as local hotels may not have free rooms.
January
- Average air t.: 32 ℃.
- Average sea t: +27.
- Number of rainy days: 11 days.
It is the hottest month and therefore the wettest month. On rare occasions, cyclones come here in January, bringing storms and strong winds. To fly to Mauritius in January is for those who dream of hiding from the cold. Even on the wettest and most cloudy day, the temperature is unlikely to drop below 27 degrees.
For walks, choose the first half of the day. The sun usually shines at this time. After 2-3pm, it rains. The evening is better to spend indoors: restaurants, spas, etc.
February
- Average air temperature: 31 degrees.
- Average sea t: +28.2.
- Number of rainy days: 12.
It rains slightly more often in February than in January, as it’s a time of heavy showers. As in most tropical countries, they are strong and short-lived, usually last no more than 2-3 hours in the afternoon.
This if the perfect period for snorkeling and diving. The warm sea attracts hundreds of marine life to the shores, so you’ll have a chance to see and meet different creatures.
March
- Average air t: +29.8 ℃.
- Average sea t: +28 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 10.
In March, the temperatures practically don’t change, but the precipitation becomes slightly less. Showers are still sharp and short-lived.
It’s festive period, so a lot of cool events and unique experience are guaranteed. Hindu festival of Holi is widely celebrated. People paint themselves in bright colors and take to the streets in hundreds to sprinkle those around them with this paint. Concerts, contests, processions and parades are held – this is a very vivid festival. So, if you plan your honeymoon in Mauritius during this period you’ll get the most vivid memories.
April
- Average air t: +29 ℃.
- Average sea t: +27.5 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 7.
April in Mauritius marks the end of summer and a decrease in rainfall. It is least likely to get caught in the rain at the end of the month. This season in Mauritius is ideal for beach holidays and swimming, as the waters heat up and sea temperature is about 28 ℃.
Humidity is high in April, but decreases every day as the dry season approaches.
Winter Season in Mauritius
Winter months are characterized by lower temperatures. But these fluctuations are insignificant, only 2 degrees. It’s better to choose the west of the island if you’re going to Mauritius during the winter season.
The eastern part in the meantime is under the influence of trade winds, which can be ideal if you’re planning to enjoy kitesurfing or surfing. It’s also worth exploring nature parks and island’s towns in the central plateau area. While beaches become less crowded, main inland attractions experience an influx of tourists.
May
- Average air t: +27 ℃.
- Average sea t: +26.5 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 5.
Winter comes to Mauritius in May, but it differs completely to what people from Northern hemisphere get used to. The temperature is high during the day, but at night it can drop to 17-18 degrees. Therefore, be sure to take light sweaters with you if you are planning night walks around the island.
In May, the days are mostly sunny, and the sea is still warm – especially in the north of the island.
June
- Average air t: +26 ℃.
- Average sea t: +25.1 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 2-3.
During June, the climate of Mauritius begins to cool, and the southeast trade winds intensify. Many kitesurfers come to Mauritius during this time. It is not the best option to go to the east or south coast of the island, as the winds are strongest here. These parts of the island are more severely damaged than others if hurricanes come to Mauritius.
But many of the island’s resorts are designed to protect tourists from the wind. In addition, prices for trips to Mauritius in June are among the lowest.
July
- Average air t: +24.9 ℃.
- Average sea t: +24.3 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 1-2.
Compared to European winters, it is warm there, but it is better to choose the northern areas, like Grand Bay if you plan to spend time outdoor in the evening or at night. It is one of the cooler months, nighttime temperatures reach their lowest values – up to + 15-16 degrees.
Winds in July remain the same strong – an average of 6.1 meters per second. The islanders wrap themselves in coats, but for tourists it is a time for last minute deals and walks along the beaches in shorts.
August
- Average air t: +24 ℃.
- Average sea t: +23.8 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 1-4.
The number of sunny days in August is one of the largest – almost half a month on the island you will not find a single cloud. Although it is officially dry season, the island can be hit by anticyclones between June and September. It can lead to cooler temperatures, heavy rainfall and increased winds, but they only last for a couple of days.
In August, it is better to choose northwestern part for vacation. There are many family hotels and the least chance of rain and wind.
September
- Average air t: +24 ℃.
- Average sea t: +23.8 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 1-2.
The sunny days do not end, but the temperature gradually starts to rise. September is a good time to visit Mauritius if you can’t stand the extreme heat and want to save some money. It’s one of the driest month with almost no rain till early November.
The weather continues to favor the west and north coasts, especially in the first half of the month.
October
- Average air t: +25.7 ℃.
- Average sea t: +24.4 ℃.
- Number of rainy days: 1-2.
If you choose the best month to go to Mauritius, this is definitely it. The air temperature is constantly increasing, the water is getting warmer, and precipitation is not yet coming.
It is the period of family holidays, there are many tourists with children, as autumn holidays begin at schools.
FAQ
There’s no definite answer to this question since everyone’s idea of the perfect time to visit Mauritius may be different. However, most people seem to agree that the best time to go is during the winter months (December through March) when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. Keep in mind though that this is also the busiest time of year on the island, so you may want to plan your trip accordingly.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, then spring (April and May) or autumn (September and October) are good times to go. The weather during these months is still lovely, although it can be a bit hotter and more humid.
Yes, there is a rainy season in Mauritius. The season runs from November to April, with December to March being characterized by a high amount of precipitation. Though rain is expected during this time, it doesn’t usually stop visitors from enjoying all that the island has to offer. In fact, many find the lush greenery and occasional downpour quite charming! So, if you don’t mind a wet weather, visiting Mauritius during the wet season can be a great option. Just be sure to pack your rain gear!
In Mauritius summer starts in November and lasts till April. This period is great for those who would like to enjoy diversity of sea life: calm and warm sea offers great opportunity for snorkellers.
