Mauritius in Winter: Weather and Top Attractions

Tired of the cold, gray weather, and dreaming of swapping your winter jacket for a swimsuit? Then a vacation in Mauritius is the perfect solution! During the winter months, this paradise island in the Indian Ocean experiences the height of the southern summer.

This time of year is associated with rain and even the risk of cyclones, but don't jump to conclusions! In fact, winter in Mauritius can be interesting and eventful. What to expect from Mauritius from December to February, what to do, and why this might be the best time to travel. Read on for more details.

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Mauritius Winter Weather: What to Expect from a Tropical Summer

From December to February, Mauritius experiences a true tropical summer, as the island is located in the Southern Hemisphere. The climate is tropical, without extreme fluctuations.

Air temperature: Daytime temperatures are stable between 28°C and 33°C. Due to high humidity, it can feel like 35°C, especially on the more wind-protected northern and western coasts. Evenings and nights are very warm, rarely dropping below 23°C. Air conditioning in the room is a must during this time.

Water temperature: The ocean at this time is like warm milk, a true natural spa. The water in the lagoons warms up to 27°C - 28°C. You can spend hours in the water, making it ideal for families with children.

Rain and Humidity: It's officially the rainy season, but it's important to understand what it actually is. These typically feature powerful but short tropical downpours, most often occurring in the afternoon or at night. They can come on suddenly, pouring down in sheets for 15-30 minutes, and are almost always immediately followed by bright sunshine.

Cyclones: The highest risk of tropical storms and cyclones occurs between January and March, peaking in February. Full-blown, destructive hurricanes are quite rare in Mauritius, not occurring every year. The Meteorological Service monitors the weather and issues warnings in advance at four levels of danger. Hotels and local services are well prepared. If high alert levels are issued, you will be asked to remain in your room, provided with all necessary supplies, and regularly updated on the situation.

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The main advantages of the winter season

Despite the rain and humidity, there are many benefits to visiting Mauritius from December to February:

• The warmest ocean possible - ideal for swimming and water sports.
• At this time, the island appears at its most lush, emerald green. The waterfalls are at their fullest, and the tropical forests are especially lush.
• A paradise for divers and snorkelers, the warm water attracts a variety of marine life, and underwater visibility (between rainfalls) is often excellent.
• Exotic Fruit Season: Winter is peak season for the most delicious tropical fruits: juicy mangoes, fragrant lychees, sweet pineapples, and papayas. Markets are bursting with fresh fruit.
• Vibrant Festivals: This is the time for the most colourful and impressive cultural events, from Christmas and New Year celebrations to unique Hindu and Chinese festivals.

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December in Mauritius

This is the very beginning of the tropical summer. The days are very warm and sunny, with temperatures consistently hovering around 29°C to 32°C. Humidity is already high, but hasn't yet reached its peak, as in February. It's considered the sunniest month of the southern summer. The water temperature is 27°C.

Entertainment: Celebrate Christmas and New Year's. Instead of Christmas trees, there are decorated palm trees and bright red Delonix blooms. Hotels host lavish gala dinners, and on New Year's Eve, the entire coastline is illuminated with fireworks.

Prices: The second half of December, from Christmas to New Year's, is peak tourist season. Tourists from all over the world flock to the island. Airfare and hotel prices skyrocket. Bookings should be made in advance (ideally six months in advance). The average budget for a week's all-inclusive vacation can start from €1,300 for two (excluding flights).

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January in Mauritius

The first week of January is still a continuation of the New Year's peak. But by the second half of the month, the rush subsides. Tourists become fewer, and prices for accommodation and flights begin to drop.

January, along with February, is the hottest and wettest month of the year. Temperatures often exceed 33°C, and the high humidity makes the heat palpable. It is also one of the peak months for rainy season and cyclones. Be prepared for heavy but short downpours, which can occur almost daily. However, there are still plenty of hours of sunshine.

Entertainment: This month is best suited for lovers of ethnography and vibrant festivals. It's also ideal for budget travelers looking to catch summer weather at reduced prices in the second half of the month.

Prices: From the second week of January, after the New Year holidays, Mauritius experiences a noticeable lull. Hotel and airfare prices drop, and you can find some great deals. Tourists are significantly fewer, and the beaches and attractions are less crowded.

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February in Mauritius

This is the hottest, wettest, and rainiest month of the year. It is also the peak of cyclone season. Temperatures consistently remain above 30°C. Downpours can be very intense.

Entertainment: February is ideal for budget travelers, those interested in culture and religion, and those looking to experience authentic festivals.

Prices: One of the cheapest months to visit Mauritius. There are few tourists, allowing you to enjoy the island without the crowds.

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What to do in Mauritius in winter: an activity guide

Many types of active leisure are available both in summer and winter.

Beaches for winter holidays in Mauritius

• North and West – Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy, Flic-en-Flac. These beaches are protected from winds and rain clouds by the central mountains, so they are usually drier and sunnier. The calm turquoise lagoons are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and family fun.
• To the east are Belle Mare and Pointe d'Esny. A pleasant ocean breeze brings refreshment and relief from the heat. Kilometers of white sand and luxurious hotels.
• South – Gris-Gris and Blue Bay beaches. Although Gris-Gris is not suitable for swimming, its wild beauty is especially impressive during this season. And Blue Bay is a must-see for snorkeling.

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Diving and snorkeling

Water temperature +28°C – what could be better for diving? Explore the underwater world with confidence. Blue Bay Marine Park is a great choice. The coral garden here is teeming with life. Experience new sensations. Take a glass-bottom boat tour or simply snorkel right from the beach. There are also excellent spots near Trou aux Biches Beach and around the islands to the north.

Excellent visibility and warm water during winter guarantee excellent diving in Mauritius. Marine life is very active during this period. You can explore the Stella Maru wreck off the coast of Trou aux Biches, the steep cliffs of Flic-en-Flac, or head to the reefs off the islands to the north.

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Sea excursions on a catamaran

Some popular destinations:

• To the Northern Islands (Gabriel Island, Flat Island, Coin de Mir Island). Departing from Grand Bay, you'll snorkel in crystal-clear waters, enjoy a barbecue lunch on board, and disembark on paradise-like uninhabited islands.
• To Ile aux Cerfs (East). A must-see excursion departing from the village of Trou d'Eau Douce. The island boasts perfect beaches, restaurants, and a variety of water sports, including parasailing. A visit to the Grand River South East waterfall is often included.
• Dolphin Watching on Benitier Island (West). Take a boat to Tamarin Bay to see and even swim with pods of dolphins, then continue to picturesque Benitier Island with its famous Crystal Rock lagoon.

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Island hopping

Even during the rainy season, you can find clear skies. And the lush greenery and full-flowing waterfalls make Mauritius's landscapes especially beautiful.

• Black River Gorges National Park is the largest nature reserve on the island. Even if you're not up for a long hike, it's worth a visit to admire the views from the lush observation decks.
• Chamarel and the "Seven-Colored Earths." After the rain, the colors of the unique dunes become especially vibrant and saturated, and Mauritius's highest waterfall reveals itself in all its might. And don't forget to visit the Chamarel rum distillery.
• Pamplemousses Botanical Garden - giant palms and water lilies, exotic plants of the oldest garden in Mauritius.

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Festivals and holidays in Mauritius in winter

Winter in Mauritius is the most culturally rich time!

• Christmas and New Year's Eve are celebrated under palm trees, with the bright red flowers of the delonix, or "flame trees," in bloom. Hotels host sumptuous dinners, and on New Year's Eve, the skies above beaches across the island are illuminated by spectacular fireworks displays.
• Chinese New Year (January-February). Chinatown in the capital, Port Louis, transforms into a sea of red lanterns. A parade of dragons and lions, accompanied by the pounding of drums, bursting firecrackers, and delicious street food, makes for a vibrant and noisy spectacle.
• Thaipusam Kavadi (January-February). This Hindu festival, held on the full moon of the month, is known primarily for its shocking rituals. It is banned in most parts of India, but can be observed in Mauritius. The main ritual is the kavadi attam, or "dance of suffering."
• Maha Shivaratri (February-March) - "The Great Night of Shiva." A grand pilgrimage of tens of thousands of Hindus, dressed in white, to the sacred lake Ganga Talao (Grand Bassin). They carry "kanwars" - decorated bamboo arches - on their shoulders to make offerings to the god Shiva. One of the largest Hindu pilgrimages outside of India.
• Valentine's Day in Mauritius is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the holiday in a tropical atmosphere: beautiful promenades, beaches, restaurants, art galleries and much more.

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