Mauritius is a picturesque island in the Indian Ocean, known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, and mild tropical climate. Thanks to its location in the Southern Hemisphere, the climatic conditions in Mauritius differ from those familiar to residents of Europe or Northern Asia. Below, we will take a closer look at the island’s climate and give you tips on the best time to plan your trip.
Type of Climate
The climate of Mauritius is classified as tropical maritime, which means consistently warm temperatures year-round and relatively high humidity. Seasonal changes are subtle, but there are two main seasons:
- Summer (wet season) — from November to April
- Winter (dry season) — from May to October
At the same time, it’s important not to confuse Mauritius’s wet season with the rainy seasons of other tropical islands. Rainfall in Mauritius is much less frequent — even in the so-called wet season, it receives less precipitation than the dry season in Bali or the Caribbean.
Summer (November – March)
Summer in Mauritius is relatively hot and humid. Daytime temperatures usually range from 28°C to 32°C, while nighttime temperatures range from 23°C to 27°C. This period is characterized by short but intense showers, especially in January and February. It is also the cyclone season, although strong storms do not occur every year.
Advantages of the summer season:
- Warm sea water (up to 29°C)
- Ideal time for beach holidays and perfect tanning
- Great conditions for diving and snorkeling (outside of cyclones)
- An abundance of juicy fruits like mangoes and lychees
Disadvantages:
- Possible showers and high humidity
- Cyclone risk in January and February
It’s important to understand that cyclones in Mauritius are nothing like the destructive catastrophes in Southeast Asia or the Caribbean. Here, cyclones are much milder, and government-issued restrictions are often just precautionary — or an opportunity for an unexpected public holiday.
Winter (May – September)
Winter in Mauritius is drier and cooler, though the term “cooler” is quite relative: daytime temperatures usually range from 22°C to 27°C, while nighttime temperatures drop to 20°C on the coast, 12°C in the mountains, and around 15°C in the central parts of the island. Rainfall is lower during this period, and humidity is reduced, making it particularly comfortable for outdoor activities and sports.
Advantages of the winter season:
- Clear, sunny weather
- Comfortable temperatures without heat or humidity
- Suitable for active holidays and excursions
- Golf and tennis in Mauritius during winter are simply magnificent
Disadvantages:
- A bit windy, especially in the East and in the South of the island
- Ocean water is slightly cooler (24°C–25°C)
Regional Differences
Climate may vary slightly depending on the location on the island:
- Eastern and southern coasts — windier and more humid
- Western and northern coasts — warmer and drier, especially in winter
- Central plateau — slightly cooler with more frequent rain than the west and north
Mid seasons
Interseasonal periods in Mauritius are marked by sudden weather changes. One day might feel like summer, the next like winter. One week may be full of rain showers alternating with sunshine, while the next may be completely dry. April also tends to be windier than other months.
It’s also worth noting that specialists identify 15 distinct climate zones in Mauritius. Yes, it’s a small island, but weather conditions can vary significantly from region to region. That’s why locals often smile when tourists refer to the general weather forecast on their iPhones for “Mauritius as a whole.”
Best time to visit Mauritius
Mauritius is a year-round destination! And that’s not just a marketing slogan — it’s true. You can swim in the ocean, play golf, go hiking, or enjoy windsurfing any time of year. However, for those who love to bask in the sun, the summer months (November to March) are ideal. If you prefer milder temperatures, then visiting between May and September would be perfect.
Our company doesn’t just sell real estate in Mauritius. We offer a wide range of services, including organizing your vacation on the island. We’ll be happy to help you rent an apartment or choose a hotel, book a tour, arrange car rental or chauffeur service, and advise you on the best time to visit Mauritius based on your personal preferences.