Mauritius

The tropical islands off the East Coast of Africa really are as beautiful and peaceful as photographs suggest. They are a superb destination for family holidays, occasions such as honeymoons and weddings or a luxurious recharge. A visit to them also combines very well with a safari in Africa. MAP of MAURITIUS Mauritius is an idyllic island with stunning white beaches fringed by coral reefs and backed by dramatic emerald mountains. The beauty of the island is reflected in the cheerfulness and hospitality of its people who originate from a rich mix of races. There is a wide range of hotels - the best being of world class but there are also many smaller friendly hotels all with first class service. Whether you are seeking supreme luxury, solitude or company, water sports or golf, Mauritius definitely has the perfect hotel for you. Seafood and fresh fruit are plentiful and the food in hotels, derived from French, Indian, English and Creole cultures is very good. Most hotels offer free water sports. Some of the many excellent hotels to consider are detailed at  hotel directory. What do we like? Well it depends on your exact requirements but the following are currently tops in our humble view. Le Touessrok - East coast fabulous for the active or relaxed with top service. Le Paradis & Dinarobin - SW for families and couples Le Telfair - South coast, smaller style and good value La Residence - West coast beautifully run vibrant all rounder Shanti Mauritius - South coast Spa & honeymoons Maradiva - West coast couples/honeymoons.   Shandrani - SE coast all rounder and all inclusive GOLF HOLIDAYS The island provides the perfect place to combine golf with Tropical Island luxury. There are many good courses each with their own particular charm. Most hotels are within easy reach - 15 minutes or less of a quality golf course. Buggies are good clubs are available for hire or Air Mauritius carries golf clubs for free. Hotels with there own courses are: Dinarobin and Paradis   Bellmare Plage (2) Le St Geran Le Touessrok Le Telfair and Heritage Hotel Maradiva and The Hilton Resort Four Seasons and Anahita For hotel details please see our hotel directory CLIMATE Avg Monthly Temperature (max F) Avg Monthly Rainfall (inches) Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec 86 08 84 08 84 08 82 05 79 04 76 03 75 2 75 2 77 1 80 3 83 2 85 5 In all honesty there is no ‘best’ time to take your Mauritius holiday due to the islands sub tropical climate, meaning it is warm all year thanks to its sub tropical climate with average temperatures rarely dropping below 24 degrees Celsius. Mauritius does have rainfall year round, but it tends to fall in short, sharp showers. The sea temperature also remains warm enough to swim  throughout the year. We find that the busiest times are Christmas and New Year, Easter and UK/EU school holidays – it might be worth you booking early if you are looking at travelling over these periods especially at Christmas and Easter or you may find yourself disappointed. Here is some guidance on seasons January to March - This is the hottest and most humid time in Mauritius. It does rain at this time of the year but rainfall tends to be in heavy but short lived showers. Mauritius occasionally experiences the tail winds from anti-cyclones during this time (mainly during February), which generally last no more than 2 or 3 days. Once an anti-cyclone has passed the result is typically warmer and less humid conditions. April to August - These are the ‘cooler' months in Mauritius, although the day time temperatures remain warm at around 25 degrees Celsius on average. The weather is ideal for children or for those with fair skin. September to December- Traditionally a great time to visit Mauritius, the temperatures are warmer and its less humid. Mauritius is a fantastic fusion of many different cultures and religions and most of the religious ceremonies are celebrated during this period, although the hotels put a particular emphasis on the Christian calender. Take a look at today's forecast for Mauritius from the BBC SUGGESTED COMBINATIONS A week on Mauritius and a week on safari in Kenya, Tanzania or South Africa. Please contact us for details or look in our suggested itineraries section.