When to visit Mauritius? The season-by-season guide

Mauritius enjoys a tropical climate that attracts travellers all year round — but not every period is equal. Between the ideal months for diving in the lagoon, the weeks to avoid if you’re worried about cyclones, and the price peaks in high season, choosing the right date often makes the difference between a dream stay and a disappointing week. Here is the complete guide to choosing when to visit Mauritius, season by season.

Climate in Mauritius: the two main seasons

Mauritius has two distinct seasons, driven by the trade winds and the island’s position in the Indian Ocean (latitude 20°S).

The cool, dry season (May to November)

This is the ideal high season for most visitors. Temperatures range between 18°C at night and 27°C during the day. The sky is generally clear, the wind moderate, the sea calm. The south-easterly trade winds keep the atmosphere pleasant without excessive heat. This is when the lagoons are at their clearest — ideal for snorkelling and diving.

The hot, humid season (December to April)

Temperatures climb between 25°C at night and 33°C during the day, with notable humidity. Rain is more frequent, often in the form of short but intense tropical showers. This is also the cyclone season (mainly January to March): cyclones do not strike every year, but the risk is real. On the upside, it is the cheapest and greenest period — the landscapes are lush.

Month by month: temperatures and conditions

• January – February: 28-33°C, humid, maximum cyclone risk. Not recommended for families with children or people sensitive to heat.
• March – April: end of the hot season, sea sometimes rough on the east coast, decreasing cyclone risk. Some good accommodation deals.
• May – June: transition to the cool season. Very pleasant temperatures (22-26°C). Excellent value for money before high season.
• July – August: the heart of the austral winter. 18-24°C depending on the region. Stronger wind in the South. Tourist high season (European holidays), prices rising.
• September – October: the golden period. Temperatures between 22 and 28°C, little wind, calm sea, reasonable crowds.
• November: rising temperatures (26-30°C), a few showers. Still a good period before the December crowds.
• December: absolute high season (Christmas, New Year). Prices at their peak, bookings essential several months in advance.

Best period according to your activity

Diving and snorkelling

Visibility is at its best from May to November, when the sea is calm. Discover our diving and snorkelling excursions offered all year round from the North.

Surfing and kitesurfing

Le Morne (South-West) is THE kite mecca in Mauritius. The best period: July to September, when the trade winds blow steadily.

Hiking and nature

The cool season (May to October) is perfect for exploring the Black River Gorges National Park. See our guide on which region to visit in Mauritius to plan your stops.

Beach and relaxation

The beaches are beautiful all year, but September-October offers the best compromise: calm sea, generous sunshine, no crowds yet.

Crowds and prices: when to travel for less?

The peak pricing season covers July-August and mid-December to early January. The best windows for tight budgets are May-June and September-October: the same pleasant climate, prices 20 to 40% lower, and fewer people.

Advice by traveller profile

• Family with children: favour June-July or September.
• Honeymoon: May, September or October — romance guaranteed, crowds avoided.
• Tight budget: April or November, outside school holidays. Compare with Sailset’s all-inclusive packages.
• Nature and hiking: August to October.

Cyclones: should you worry?

The cyclone season runs from November to April, peaking in January-March. A direct cyclone remains statistically rare. If you travel in January or February, take out cancellation insurance covering natural disasters.

Would you like a tailor-made trip timed to the best period for you? Contact Sailset Tours for a personalised quote — we know the island in every season.