Quick Facts

• First discovered by Arab and Malay sailors, Mauritius has an extraordinary past, having been colonized by the Dutch, French and British.

• The long-extinct Dodo bird was endemic to Mauritius, with the main island of Mauritius being the only known habitat of the flightless bird.

• Mauritius is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites which are Aapravasi Ghat and Le Morne Brabant, both of which stand today as reminders of the country’s past.

• The small island nation is home to over 1.2 million people which means that it not only has the highest population density in Africa but one of the highest in the world.

• Currency: Mauritian rupee

• Language: English

• Time zone: GMT +4
  

Best Time to Visit:

Shoulder Season: March to April and October to November

• It’s less humid than during summer months and slightly cooler, but without losing that agreeably tropical feel.

• These months are a brilliant time for festivals. Underwater visibility is still ideal for diving and snorkeling.

• With fewer visitors, cheaper accommodation and flight prices is to be expected.

High Season: December to February

• While it’s winter in Europe and North America, it’s summer in Mauritius. The balmy temperatures and near-transparent waters are ideal for a tropical beach vacation.

• Prices for accommodation and flights peaks and the occasional late cyclone is always a possibility.

Low Season: May to September

• These months are cooler, cheaper, quiet with fewer visitors and almost as appealing as visiting during the more popular months.

• However, rougher seas can reduce visibility for divers and snorkelers.