Mauritius enjoys warm weather throughout the year, but certain months offer clearer skies, calmer seas, and lower rainfall. Whether you are planning a beach escape, a full island tour, or an adventure packed holiday, choosing the right season can make your experience even better. This guide uses recent 2024 temperature and rainfall trends to help you pick the ideal time to visit. You can also explore our interactive widget on this page to view the average temperature and rainfall for each month.
If you want more inspiration while planning your trip, explore our guides including the 7 day Mauritius itinerary, the best breakfast spots in Mauritius, or top nightclubs for a fun night out.
Contents
Climate Overview: What to Expect Year Round
Mauritius has a tropical maritime climate with two main seasons. Summer runs from November to April and is warm and humid. Winter runs from May to October and is cooler, drier, and more comfortable. Temperatures remain pleasant year round, with coastal areas rarely dropping below 24°C in winter or rising above 31°C in summer.
Rainfall, not temperature, is what defines the seasons. The wettest period is summer, when short intense showers are common. Winter is much drier, especially on the north and west coasts. Sunshine averages seven to eight hours daily, dipping slightly in summer due to cloud cover.
Certain regions are naturally different. The central plateau is cooler with more frequent showers, while the western and northern coasts stay sunnier and drier. This helps when choosing where to stay depending on your preferred weather.
How 2024 Weather Compared to Normal Years
Weather patterns in 2024 were very close to long term averages, with no major heatwaves and slightly cooler winter temperatures. This made mid year travel particularly enjoyable.
2024 Temperature Highlights
- January and February reached typical highs around 29°C to 30°C
- Winter months like June and July were slightly cooler than usual at 20 to 22°C
- Sea temperatures stayed comfortable at 24°C to 27°C throughout the year
2024 Rainfall Highlights
Island wide rainfall was lower than average. Mauritius recorded about 1992mm of rain in 2024 compared with 2374mm in 2023. Northern regions, including Petit Raffray, were particularly dry with a deficit of more than 300mm. July had only 20mm of rain which made it one of the driest months of the year.
No major cyclones directly affected travel in 2024 which created a smooth and predictable tourist season.
Month by Month Weather Guide
Summer: November to April
Expect highs of 29°C to 31°C and warm evenings around 25°C. Rainfall increases to 200mm to 250mm per month, with February and March being the wettest. Rain normally comes in short tropical bursts. The sea is at its warmest which is perfect for swimming, diving, and snorkeling.
Cyclone season falls within this period, although most systems pass without significant impact.
Winter: May to October
Winter is the most reliable and comfortable season for travel. Days average between 24°C and 27°C with low humidity and minimal rainfall. July to September are the driest months with long sunny days and steady trade winds. These winds make this season ideal for kitesurfing and other wind sports. Nights can be cooler on the plateau so a light jacket is useful.
Transition Months: May and October
These shoulder months offer a great balance of warm temperatures and decreasing rainfall. They are ideal for visitors who want good weather with fewer crowds. October in particular is sunny and lively as the island prepares for summer.
Best Time to Choose Based on Activities
For Beaches and Swimming
May to October is best for calm, clear seas and cooler temperatures that make long beach days more enjoyable.
For Watersports
Kitesurfers and windsurfers prefer the strong steady winds of July to September, especially on the east and south coasts.
For Hiking and Nature
Trails are cleaner and safer in winter when rainfall is low. Visit Black River Gorges, Chamarel, and Le Morne during this season for the best visibility and comfort.
For Culture and Events
Mauritius is vibrant all year. However, summer festivals such as Cavadee and Diwali bring a richer cultural atmosphere. Plan activities in the morning or late afternoon during hot summer days.
For Budget Travel
July to September often offers lower hotel and flight prices with reliable weather. This is a great time for families or long stay visitors.
Which Region Has the Best Weather
- North coast (Grand Baie, Pereybere): Driest and sunniest, great for families and beach lovers
- West coast (Flic en Flac, Tamarin): Calm seas and spectacular sunsets
- South and East: Greener and more rugged but slightly windier and wetter
- Central plateau: Cool and refreshing but with more frequent showers
2024 Trends and What They Suggest
Lower rainfall and stable temperatures in 2024 suggest a continued trend toward slightly drier winters. Petit Raffray and other northern stations recorded noticeable rainfall deficits which enhanced travel conditions. No extreme events affected tourism, reinforcing winter as the most predictable period.
Conclusion: The Best Time to Visit Mauritius
For the best overall weather, the ideal time to visit Mauritius is May to October. This season delivers long sunny days, low humidity, and very little rainfall. June to September stand out as the absolute best months thanks to comfortable temperatures around 24°C to 26°C and dry conditions that suit beaches, hiking, and sightseeing.
If you prefer warmer days and lively island energy, consider late October to early December which offers summer warmth before heavy rains begin. No matter when you come, Mauritius offers beautiful landscapes, friendly people, and unforgettable experiences.
Continue exploring more travel tips and guides on our Mauritius blog.
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