Climate, temperatures, cyclone season & best time to visit

    Mauritius Weather — Month by Month

    Mauritius lies in the Indian Ocean south of the equator — so the seasons are reversed from the northern hemisphere. The southern winter (May–November) is dry and mild; the southern summer (December–April) is hot, humid and cyclone season. Sea temperature stays swimmable year-round (24–28 °C).

    24–30 °C
    Air temp
    24–28 °C
    Sea temp
    May–Nov
    Best Time to Visit
    15–25 km/h
    Trade wind
    MonthAir °C (day/night)Sea °CRain mmNote
    January30 / 2428215Peak summer, cyclone risk, humid
    February30 / 2428270Highest cyclone probability
    March30 / 2328215Last hot month
    April29 / 2227130Transition, often very pleasant
    May27 / 202695Best travel season begins
    June25 / 182570Dry, fresh trade winds
    July24 / 172460Coolest month, ideal for hiking
    August24 / 172455Peak kitesurfing season
    September25 / 182440Driest month
    October26 / 192545Whale shark sightings (west)
    November28 / 212655Last dry month
    December29 / 2327170Cyclone season starts

    Best Time to Visit

    May to November is ideal: dry, 24–28 °C during the day, sunny. The absolute sweet spot is September and October — little rain, pleasant temperatures, calm sea, and whale sharks pass the west coast.

    Understanding Cyclone Season

    The official cyclone season runs from 15 November to 15 May. Statistically, Mauritius is directly hit by a strong cyclone every 4–5 years. More common are glancing blows with heavy rain and wind. The Mauritius Meteorological Service issues a four-level warning class (I–IV); from class III, hotels and the airport close.

    Microclimates: Coast vs. Plateau

    The central plateau around Curepipe (550 m) is significantly cooler and wetter — up to 5 °C lower and twice as much rain. The west coast (Flic en Flac, Le Morne) is the driest and sunniest; the east coast (Belle Mare) windier due to trade winds. Plan beach days in the west, hikes or culture on the plateau.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When is the best time to visit Mauritius?

    May to November (southern winter) — dry, 24–28 °C during the day, sunny. September and October are the absolute top months. December to April is hot, humid and cyclone season.

    Is it warm enough to swim in July?

    Yes. Even in the coolest month the sea sits at 24 °C, often 25 °C on the west and north coasts. Air 22–24 °C by day, dropping to 17 °C at night.

    When is cyclone season in Mauritius?

    Officially 15 November to 15 May. Peak risk: January and February. A direct hit is rare (every 4–5 years), but heavy rain and wind are normal in this period.

    What is the weather like in December?

    Hot (29 °C), humid, with the first heavy rains (~170 mm). The sea is warm (27 °C). Cyclone risk starts — but Christmas/New Year remains peak season.