The best time to visit Mauritius depends on you. If you like the heat and fewer crowds, visit Mauritius between November and April - just remember an umbrella and sunscreen! For more comfortable weather the winter months may be more suitable.

If you experience the island's daily micro-climate, there's no reason to panic! You may witness grey skies and a heavy downpour one minute, but take a look to your left and the skies may be sunny and clear. You may also find it overcast in the morning, but within a matter of minutes the Mauritius weather can change to sunshine and cloudless skies.

Despite being mild and tropical all year round, Mauritius is split into two seasons; summer and winter. The hottest months in Mauritius are during their summer which takes place from November to April. 

The two hottest months in Mauritius during summer are January and February when the temperatures reach the high 20's, humidity is apparent and the sea is at its warmest. The sun is high in the sky by 5am and sets around 7pm, making the days long and bright. During the summer, winds only tend to affect the South and South East coast. The North and Western parts are very well protected by the mountains meaning they stay warm and dry.    

Cyclones can occur in Mauritius in the summer months, from November to April, due to the small size of the island. However, cyclones don't tend to cause much damage and most resorts remain unaffected. 

The warmer weather in Mauritius normally attracts more marine life so for keen snorkellers, calmer, warmer seas make for exciting viewings!

There are no major changes in temperature in Mauritius in winter, and no defined wet season.

July is considered the coldest month of the year in Mauritius with temperatures sitting in the balmy low 20's. Other months see averages of around 22-23 degrees celsius on the coast, and 18-19 degrees celsius in the Central Plateau. 

The winter sees around two hours less sunshine a day, but the sea temperatures remain pleasant only falling 2 or 3 degrees. 

Trade winds that blow from June to September on the east of Mauritius can make it feel breezy and several degrees cooler than it is. If snorkelling, choppy seas on this coast can result in poor visibility to spot any ocean activity, although the west coast does tend to remain calmer and warmer.

With numerous beliefs and faiths throughout Mauritius, lots of events and festivals take place all over the island. Most tend to take place during November and April, so if your holiday is taking place during these months, make sure you seek out some of the celebrations below.

Thaipoosum Cavadee - This event takes place every year whenever the star 'Pusam' is at it's highest in the sky, usually at the end of January or early February. Thaipossum is celebrated in most parts of the island and lasts ten days in total with the main ceremony day being a public holiday.

Chinese Spring Festival - Depending on the Chinese calendar the exact date can vary but celebrations usually take place on the west coast in the country's capital, Port Louis. These celebrations include colourful fireworks, lion and dragon street dances as well as family gatherings where delicious food is enjoyed. 

Holi - Usually taking place in March each year, the Hindu 'Festival of Colour' sees thousands of locals covering themselves in coloured powder to celebrate the beginning of Spring and the triumph of good over evil. It starts by lighting a bonfire the night before and continues for two days. It's a very joyous and happy celebration for all Mauritians and shouldn't be missed if you find yourself here during this time.     

Independence Day - On the 12th of March, wherever you are in Mauritius you will find Independence Day celebrations. The colourful flag is on show all over the island with communities gathering together to witness parades, live music and dance and light shows.

Diwali - 'Row of Light' - Taking place in November, another colourful celebration lasting five days sees Mauritius cover itself in lights. Locals light Dyas (oil lamps) to welcome good fortune into their homes, families will pray together and share homemade sweet treats before releasing fireworks and firecrackers late into the night to chase away evil spirits. Temples are extravagantly dressed with special ceremonies taking place. The streets can become very crowded with people singing and dancing to traditional songs.

For inspiration on how to explore this wonderful island, take a look at our Mauritius Holidays page.