Planning a trip to Mauritius? Wondering when to go? This blog will break down months, weather and festivals. Provide a good idea of the best time to visit Mauritius.
However, a quick direct answer- May to December is a good time.
Mauritius is one of the rare places that can be visited throughout the year. Due to its tropical climate, the weather is almost always sunny, making it perfect for a beach vacation or an adventurous trip (trust me!)
However, if you are searching for that sweet spot/goldilocks zone between good weather and vibrant festivals on this oceanic Island, this is the place.
What are the Best Times to Visit, Depending on the Weather?
This part of the article is categorised between summer and winter. Go through it to understand the weather cycle and activities during those months.
Weather Conditions in Mauritius
To determine the best month to visit Mauritius, we need to understand the average temperature for each month.
Take a look at the minimum and maximum temperatures as reported by the official weather in Mauritius in 2024.
Weather history of Mauritius in 2024-25
| Months | Min and max temperature |
| January | 25°C- 32°C |
| February | 25°C- 32°C |
| March | 22°C- 32°C |
| April | 22°C- 28°C |
| May | 20°C- 23°C |
| June | 20°C- 26°C |
| July | 20°C- 25°C |
| August | 21°C- 26°C |
| September | 20°C- 23°C |
| October | 20°C- 22°C |
| November | 22°C- 28°C |
| December | 22°C- 28°C |
Summer Months in Mauritius
The average temperature in Mauritius will be 27-32°C in summer.
November to April are the hottest times to visit Mauritius. Now, let’s break these months down according to the tourism crowd.
November, December & January are the Busy Season
The temperature rises along with the humidity, but tourists prefer this due to the Christmas and New Year holidays, where the holiday spirit will be at full swing. And of course, the prices will be as high as the number of tourists.
Make sure to book the tickets early, as there will be a peak surge fee or worse, you might not get a ticket. Ignore if you have a private jet!
February and March are the Low Season
These months will remain hot, with periodic cyclones and rains. If you are a fan of overcast skies, these months might be for you. And as Indians, we romanticise cloudy skies with chai/coffee and pakoda.
And also, cloudy weather = seafront resorts at half the price!
April is a Medium Season
April is generally quiet and calm. The weather doesn’t take a lot of turns, nothing much happens around, and you’ll see limited tourist crowds.
Activities in Summer
Summers will be the best time to do anything beach-related.
- Catamaran rides– Sail to different Islands around Mauritius.
- Snorkelling– Explore the corals without heavy equipment.
- Submarine rides– Enter the underwater world.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Most of these activities are possible during the rains, but cyclones will impact them.
- Surfing season is officially closed during these months.
- Avoid hikes during rain as there is a possibility of landslides during rainfall.
Winter Months in Mauritius
The average temperature in Mauritius will be 20-26°C in winter.
May to October are the winter months in Mauritius; let’s break down this as well. However, remember that Mauritius is a tropical country and there’s no real winter on the Island.
May, June, July & August are the Slow Seasons
Even though it’s winter, the temperature will still be hot, but the humidity will decrease.
These months are also prone to heavy winds, which will affect the south coast and the east coast.
September and October are the Medium Season
September and October will be a bit sunnier than the previous months, but the weather will be dry, which is perfect for outdoor activities. You can expect fewer crowds, but it will soon get packed in the upcoming months.
Activities in Winter
Winters are also good enough to do beachy activities, but these months also open up other areas of Mauritius that you can explore.
- Hiking Le Morne Brabant– Peak at the underwater waterfall.
- Hiking the 7 cascades– Get a chance to see seven waterfalls in one hike.
- Mountain Biking in Chamouny– Drive uphill, pedal downhill.
- Windsurfing– Surf your way through the waves.
Things to Keep in Mind
- All the water activities might wrap up 1 or 2 hours earlier than the summer’s usual hours.
- The sun will set sooner. The days are short, so make plans accordingly.
What are the Best Months to Visit, Depending on the Festivals?
Mauritius’ cultural calendar is as vibrant as its coral reefs. This is a country of people with different cultures, religions and original ethnicities; hence, there are 15 public holidays. These are the Main Festivals Celebrated in Mauritius.
Thaipoosam Cavadee (January to February)
A Tamil Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Murugan (Son of Lord Shiva), which features vibrant Processions, garlands, and yellow clothes. Devotees lift a decorated wooden arc called ‘Cavadee’ and dance around the temple, which is known as ‘Cavadi Aaattam’.
Chinese New Year (January to February)
Celebrated according to the Chinese Lunar calendar. During this time, the Chinatown of Mauritius is extremely lively with decorations, lion dances and more. The whole Chinese community comes together to celebrate the festival, happily inviting other communities and tourists.
Maha Sivaratri (February to March)
A major and one of the biggest Hindu festivals, which is celebrated at Grand Bassin Lake. It will be filled with people chanting prayers, fasting and being devoted to the deity all day and night.
Ganesh Chaturthi (August to September)
The festival honouring Lord Ganesh (son of Lord Shiva) features multiple idols of the deity and a wide variety of sweets. The idols are worshipped for a few days before being immersed in lakes, rivers, or the sea, symbolising that the deity takes away all the pain and worries before he reaches Lord Shiva and Maa Parvathi.
Don’t worry, as they are made of clay and they will dissolve in the water.
Pere Laval Day (9th September)
Jacques-Desire Laval, a doctor and a Catholic priest, devoted his life to helping people through medicine as a mission. Mauritians still honour him on his death anniversaries. Mauritians gather on this day to visit his shrine to pay tribute to him.
Kreol International Day (November to December)
Mauritius is not what it is without the rich Creole culture. So, in honour, the island will celebrate the festival for an entire week. Concerts, dance performances like Sega music, Creole delicacies such as Rougaille, and other fun activities will be held in different parts of the Island.
Christmas and New Year (25th December & 1st January)
Needs no introduction, the Island will be most lively during this time of the year. Parties at all pubs, resorts and beaches. Bright and colourful lights, crackers, and more will make it a blast.
As you can see, there are festivals celebrated throughout the year. So, you will get to witness at least one of them whenever you plan to visit. However, January to March and November to December will be more festive-packed compared to the other months.
When is the Best Time to Visit Mauritius?
Travellers can be classified into niche categories because not everyone travels in the same way. Some people enjoy taking a family vacation, while others prefer to travel alone. I have categorised travellers into three types.
Newlyweds
Honeymoons and Mauritius go well like the Moon and candlelight. Undoubtedly, Mauritius is an extremely popular destination for newly married sweethearts.
If you are a couple who is still recovering from the hangover of your wedding celebrations, August to October is your sweet spot, it’s the best time to visit Mauritius for honeymoon.
These two months are slightly warmer than the rest of the winter months. Well, don’t be intimidated because the temperature will be just right to give you the perfect tan without melting your new spouse.
Bonus, you’ll have most of the beach for yourself and your partner, as these months generally have fewer tourists. By choosing these months, you don’t need to edit out people from the background of your dreamy honeymoon pictures.
Families or Group Travellers
Imagine families with a bunch of quirky adults and naughty kids, or a bunch of men at a boy’s party. December to January or March to April are your perfect months.
The festival season will be vibrant with towns, pop-up stalls, shops selling a variety of food, and numerous activities to keep your group occupied and entertained.
Tip: Prices will be high, so book your hotels, flights, and activities early to avoid breaking the bank.
Solo/ Budget Traveller
I am a solo plus budget traveller myself. I understand the pain of paying thousands of rupees for just a hotel or an activity. The best time for budget travellers is February, May to August. February typically brings cyclones and rain, while May to August brings in the winds.
The off-season will give you the best rates on hotels and dormitories. You can chill and relax in different parts of the Islands for days while spending less money. However, note that many shops, cafes, and restaurants might be closed.
Conclusion
Mauritius’s weather is almost consistent, but if you are a picky person and want to find the flawless time to visit, then planning is necessary. The country offers a variety of seasons, accommodating whatever plans you make, whether it’s sipping cocktails at the beach or hiking up a mountain.
Plan your activities according to the weather and festivals. However, whatever time you choose to visit, the island will always be ready for you!
Frequently Asked Questions about Mauritius Seasons
What is the best time to visit the Island country of Mauritius in Africa?
May to December is the best time to visit, as there is a lower chance of rain and cyclones, and you can enjoy all the activities.
Which is the cheapest time of the year to visit Mauritius?
February to March and July to September are the affordable months to visit the Island of Mauritius.
When is the best time to go on a honeymoon in Mauritius?
August to October is arguably the best time for couples, as it offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy privacy on the Island.
