"Star and key of the Indian Ocean | Star and key of the Indian Ocean"
About:
Mauritius, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, was first discovered by the Arabs in the 9th century, and later by the Portuguese in the 16th century. It was colonized by the Dutch in 1638, then the French in 1715, and finally the British in 1810. Mauritius gained independence in 1968 and became a republic in 1992. Its economy has transitioned from agriculture-based to a diversified one, with significant growth in tourism, finance, and manufacturing sectors.
When to visit:
Mauritius, a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, boasts a warm and pleasant climate year-round. However, the best time to visit Mauritius is during the dry winter season, which runs from May to December. This period offers lower humidity levels and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island's lush landscapes. Travelers should keep in mind that the peak tourist season in Mauritius typically occurs from October to April, so visiting during the shoulder months of May to September may offer a more peaceful and budget-friendly experience.
When to avoid:
The worst time to travel to Mauritius on a holiday is during the cyclone season, which typically occurs from January to March. During this time, the island experiences heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential disruptions to travel plans. Tourist activities may be limited, and certain attractions may be closed due to the weather conditions. It is advisable to avoid traveling to Mauritius during the cyclone season to ensure a more enjoyable and seamless holiday experience.
"Winter Rainy Season"
In Mauritius, the coldest and wettest period is from June to September, with July being the coldest month. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 24°C. Rainfall is highest in the central highlands, averaging 60mm in Port Louis. Sunlight is moderate, with an average of 7 hours per day. The sky is often partly cloudy. Sea temperatures can drop to 22°C. For a visitor, an average day may start with a mild morning, followed by occasional showers in the afternoon and a cool evening. Despite the rain, the weather is still pleasant for sightseeing and indoor activities.
"Summer (November–April)"
In Mauritius, the warmest part of the year is from December to April, which is their summer season. During this time, average temperatures range from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F). Rainfall is highest in these months, particularly in February and March, with monthly averages around 220mm. Despite the rainfall, there's still plenty of sunlight with an average of 7-8 hours of sunshine per day.
Humidity is high during this period, often exceeding 80%, making the heat feel more intense. The skies can be partly cloudy, but it generally does not obstruct the sunlight significantly.
A typical day for a visitor during this season would start with warm, sunny mornings. As the day progresses, the heat and humidity increase, often leading to afternoon showers which provide a brief respite from the heat. Despite the high humidity and rainfall, the ample sunshine and warm temperatures make it a popular time for beach activities and water sports. However, it's also the cyclone season, so visitors should be prepared for occasional stormy days.
Language:
In Mauritius, the most commonly spoken languages are Mauritian Creole, French, and English. Mauritian Creole, a French-based creole language, is the lingua franca and widely used in informal settings. French is often used in media and literature, while English is the official language and is typically used in government and business.