You dream of enjoy the beaches for your next trip to Mauritius? But are you afraid of falling during the wet season? When is this period located? Is it dangerous? Is this a season to absolutely avoid? Today, we explain to you everything about the rainy season in Mauritius.
The climate of Mauritius: between rainy season and dry season
Mauritius is an island in the Indian Ocean, located east of Madagascar and north of Reunion Island. She has of a humid and hot tropical climate. There are two seasons:
- A season dry and freshalso called southern winter, which extends from May to October
- A season humid and hot, also named southern summer, which lasts from November to April
These two seasons are therefore reversed compared to those of Europe.
Furthermore, Mauritius has a warm climate all year round with temperatures above 20°C.
In fact, during the rainy season in Mauritius, the averages range from 27°C to 33°C. The heat is significant and the humidity of the air sometimes makes it difficult to bear.
On the contrary, during the dry season, on average, temperatures range from 17 to 24°C. The nights can be a little cooler and you will need to bring something to cover up in the evening. Furthermore, during the southern winter, the trade winds blow regularly. Which makes it a period of choice for surfersand kite surfers, especially between July and August.
Furthermore, this wind also lowers the temperatures of the lagoon which goes from 28 to 23°C in places. However, this does not prevent you from enjoying the sun, the beach and swimming this season.
The period when the rainfall is the largest on Mauritius last month of December to April. The months rainier are January, February and March. During this period, significant cloud bands move towards the island, bringing regular showers and sometimes thunderstorms. In general, the showers are almost daily but remain quite brief. Most of them take place in the evening and last less than an hour. Exceptionally, rains can become torrential and last several hours/days.
However, it should also be noted that the relief of Mauritius is important. So, rainfall varies enormously from one region to another. In general, the west and north coast of the island are more spared by the rainy season, while the center and the south can receive 5 times more annual precipitation. These latter are also windier which makes the atmosphere easier for travelers to bear during the rainy season.
Rain in the form of temporary or continuous showers?
To summarize, it may happen that during your entire stay, you experienced one or two days of intense rain (which lasts several hours). This, especially between January and March. However, during the rainy season in Mauritius, don’t imagine two weeks of continuous rain. This season is rather marked by significant heat and refreshing showers which fall for only a few minutes before stopping. The sky is sometimes cloudy, but don’t forget your sunscreen, because UV rays pass through this cloud layer.
Finally, you are witnessing it, the climate is currently changing. Thus, just as in Europe, we have struggling to accurately assess the different seasons in Mauritius. With tropical storms, there can be a lot of rain falling at once for a few days but there are also chances of not experiencing a single day of rain during a stay in January or February.
So, the important thing is undoubtedly to experience this period as the locals do, with a smile, by carrying a raincoat in your suitcase. With ambient temperatures of 35°C at times, showers may be welcome during your outings.
The rainy season in Mauritius: possible for a trip or not?
Avoiding rain at all costs when traveling in a tropical area is a risky bet. Indeed, even during the southern winter, you may face a few showers.
At first glance, we could say that the best time to travel to Mauritius is especially during the dry season, i.e. from May to October. However, the reality is quite different, because the influx of tourists is very important during the Christmas holidays in December and January. Or in the middle of the rainy season.
So, if you want to be sure enjoy the beach without getting too wet, the period of June to October (especially September and October) will be ideal for you. And if you want avoid tourists but despite everything experiencing a dry season, the months of May and June will be perfect.
The advantages of discovering Mauritius during the rainy season
Island specialists will agree that the rainy season is favorable for a trip. Going during the rainy season to Mauritius even has many advantages. On this multicultural island, you can enjoy a chinese new year, between the end of January and February, particularly festive and lively.
On the other hand, the celebration of Maha Shivatree, important festival for Hindus, will be a significant event to attend, if you go to February or March. It takes place every year at the sacred lake of Grand Bassin and is a tribute to the god Shiva.
Finally, if you don’t like crowds that much, the months between February and April will be interesting to take advantage of lower prices. The low tourist season will also allow you to interact with the locals in a more authentic way.
Finally, Mauritius has a relatively pleasant climate throughout the year. It therefore seems that you never make bad choices by going to this paradise island.
The risk of cyclones during the rainy season in Mauritius
Mauritius, just like Reunion, is subject to the risk of tropical cyclones. These episodes correspond to violent winds and torrential rains for several days. Flooding is possible and heavy swell prevents sea trips. The wind can also disrupt airports during a cyclone.
However, the damage is generally less for residents, who have learned to live with this cyclone risk. They are like this well equipped to deal with it and the information is fast and efficient. A trip during the hurricane season should therefore not be avoided at all costs. This period lasts from mid-November to the end of April, with a peak of intensity between December and February.
Whether it rains or not, Mauritius is an island from which you do not emerge unscathed. Its lagoon, its landscapes and the kindness of its inhabitants make it a destination that is always a favorite. You now have all the information for traveling during the rainy season in Mauritius. Don’t hesitate to share your questions and feedback about your stay in comments…
