Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean - a tropical paradise akin to Maui or Martinique but more budget-traveller friendly. Though nestled up alongside Africa, it's actually more influenced by its British and French ties and predominantly Indian... Read the overview

Pictures

Inspiration

Climate

Overview

Mauritius experiences a hot, humid summer from December to April and a cooler, drier period from May to November. However, the climate varies considerably across the island. On the coast, temperatures range from 25°C to 33°C (77-91°F) in summer and 18°C to 24°C (64-75°F) in winter. On the plateau, it will be some 5°C (41°F) cooler. The highlands are also the wettest part of the island - it can rain here at any time of year and, even when it's not raining, the area can be cloaked in low cloud. Under the influence of the prevailing southeasterly winds, the east coast is slightly cooler and wetter than the west. The winds are at their strongest during July and August - it can be blustery on the east coast, though the breeze brings welcome relief in summer. The cyclone season lasts from December to March. Although direct hits are rare, cyclones out at sea can bring days of squally rain.