Mauritius Weather Tips for Holidays 2012

The tropical Mauritius weather is one of many reasons that this exotic island has become such a popular travel destination, with year-round warm weather that is ideal for scuba diving, snorkelling, hiking and many other outdoor activities. The island’s location in the Indian Ocean means that Mauritius has a typical tropical climate, characterised by mild, dry winters and hot, rainy summers. The high rainfall in summer creates a lush environment that is a haven for many bird, animal and plant species, creating vibrant coastal forests teeming with flowers, palm trees and other indigenous vegetation. While Mauritius weather is excellent all year round, some months offer the best time for scuba diving, birding and other pursuits. Depending on how you plan to spend your holiday, this allows you to plan ahead to make the most out of your time in Mauritius.
Planning Your Holiday around Mauritius Seasons

The two primary Mauritius seasons consist of a dry season that runs from May to October, and a wet season that runs from November to April. In addition to these distinct seasons, certain times of year provide better opportunities for various activities that can be enjoyed on this island. Some tips to keep in mind when planning a holiday around Mauritius seasons include the following:

• Cyclone season runs between January and February. During these months, it is not always safe to scuba dive or snorkel due to strong currents along the coast.
• The dry season is best for hiking and other outdoor activities. The excessive heat and humidity in the wet season can make it less than comfortable to be exploring the forests and nature reserves, with temperatures reaching 30oC or higher during the day.
• Water visibility is at its best from November to December and throughout March,which means that scuba diving is excellent during these months.
• Fishing can be enjoyed all year round. Marlin can be found during the wet season, while tuna and other game fish are found during both seasons.
• The dry season is also the off-season, which means more affordable travel packages and accommodation rates.

Packing for Mauritius Weather

Packing for your Mauritius holiday can be a challenge, but once you know which season you will be visiting the island, it will be easier to know what to pack. Shorts, t-shirts, sandals and swimming costumes are essential throughout the year. Comfortable walking or hiking shoes, sunblock, mosquito repellent and sunglasses are also must-pack items, especially during the rainy season. It is also a good idea to bring warm jackets and clothing, with rain jackets during the raining season also coming in handy. Once you have gotten the basics sorted, also remember to pack cameras, spare batteries and memory cards or film, binoculars to spot birds and a Mauritius bird book and travel guide. This will ensure that you are not only covered to prepare for any type of Mauritius