mauritius worst time to visit

Best Time to Visit Mauritius: Weather by Month + Local Tips

Wondering when is the best time to visit Mauritius Island? This month-by-month guide to Mauritius weather will help you figure out the best and worst time to go to Mauritius!

Mauritius has a tropical climate with hot, humid, and rainy summers (particularly from January to March) and cool, dry winters.

The weather also varies slightly from region to region – the north and west are the sunniest and driest, and the south and east can be quite windy especially during the winter while the center is much cooler.

Since I live in Mauritius, I’ve experienced my fair share of the Mauritius weather and although Mauritius is considered a year-round destination, there are some months that I would recommend avoiding.

So if you’re planning a trip, keep reading to find out what are the best months to visit Mauritius Island.

Mauritius Travel Essentials

Best Tours & Excursions in Mauritius :

• Catamaran Cruise to the Northern Islands + Lunch
• Full-Day Cruise to Ile aux Cerfs + BBQ Lunch
• Guided tour of the Southwest (affordable private tour for up to 4 people)
• Mauritius Guided Street Food Tour
• Le Morne Brabant guided hiking tour

Best places to stay on Mauritius Island :

• Luxury: Paradise Cove and Trou aux Biches Beachcomber  
• Mid-Range: Preskil Island Resort and Tropical Attitude
• Budget: Talamba Blue

Planning a family trip? Find the best hotels in Mauritius for families here.

Planning a romantic getaway? Find the best adults-only hotels in Mauritius here.

The best way to explore Mauritius is by car!   Book your rental car here to get the best rates .

*** This article may contain affiliate links, meaning each time you click through and make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you which helps a lot in keeping this website running. Thank you for your support 🙂

Table of Contents

What is the best time of the year to visit Mauritius?

The best time to visit Mauritius actually depends on what you want out of your trip:

Best time to enjoy the beach: April to December.

Best time to go hiking: April to December.

Best time to see the waterfalls: January to April.

Cheapest time to go to Mauritius: May to October to benefit from cheaper hotel rates.

For the absolute best weather, plan your visit to Mauritius in October or November since these are the driest months of the year.

You’ll thus be able to take advantage of all the best things to do in Mauritius ! This is by far the best time of the year to go to Mauritius if you want to fully enjoy the beaches, visit the islands, or go hiking. Hotels and tours will also be slightly cheaper.

Related post: 44 things to do on Mauritius Island

What is the worst time to visit Mauritius?

While there isn’t really a bad time to visit Mauritius, I would recommend avoiding the months of January to March since they are the hottest and rainiest.

This is also the cyclone season, so the weather can be very unpredictable, although it can still be sunny on certain days.

Overview of the weather in Mauritius

The weather in Mauritius varies slightly from region to region. The north and west coasts are the hottest and experience the least amount of rain. So, if you’re looking for the best regions to stay in Mauritius , I recommend either the north or west.

On the other hand, the weather in the south and the east of Mauritius is slightly cooler.

Just keep in mind that the east and southeast regions can get a bit windy during the winter months, mainly between July and September. If you’d like to kitesurf during your trip, this would be the best time to visit Mauritius.

Finally, the temperature in the center is much cooler compared to other regions since it’s found at a higher elevation. It also rains quite a lot there, so make sure to carry an umbrella or rain jacket if you plan on going there.

Related post: North Mauritius travel guide

Summer in Mauritius

November to April

Average temperature: 24-31°C

During this time of the year, the weather tends to be hot, humid, and rainy. The latter is especially true in January, February, and March, which are considered the cyclone/rainy season. But this doesn’t mean that it will be raining every single day .

You should know that the weather is quite unpredictable in summer, so try to be flexible when planning your Mauritius trip itinerary .

If you want to see the waterfalls of Mauritius , summer would be the best time to go to Mauritius since they would look way more impressive.

Note : Make sure to check the weather forecast beforehand and avoid visiting the waterfalls when it’s raining as the hike could potentially be dangerous.

The average temperature for summer in Mauritius ranges from 24 to 31 degrees Celsius and can sometimes go up to 34°C in the north and west.

Winter in Mauritius

May to October

Average temperature: 15-28°C

The winter months are cooler and relatively dry, although you should expect some rainy days. Winter is the best season to visit Mauritius if you want to enjoy some of the beautiful Mauritius beaches or go on hikes .

Hotel and tours , will also be cheaper, so if you’re planning a budget trip to Mauritius , make sure to visit during winter.

The average temperature for winter in Mauritius ranges from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. Note that it gets quite cold and wet in the central region, especially around Curepipe and the Black River Gorges National Park while the coastal regions are still warm.

Related post: 29 best Mauritius beaches to visit

Cyclone season in Mauritius

January to March

The cyclone season in Mauritius runs mainly from January to March, although it can sometimes begin in mid-December and end by mid-April.

Cyclones usually last about 3-4 days only, causing severe thunderstorms and torrential rain. Keep in mind that the weather can still be rainy a couple of days after the cyclone has passed.

Mauritius weather by month

Mauritius weather in january.

The weather in Mauritius in January can be quite unpredictable since this also marks the beginning of the cyclone/rainy season. Although it can rain non-stop on certain days, it can also be sunny for several days in a row.

Don’t be discouraged though as January is the best time to visit Mauritius for those who want to see the waterfalls at their best.  

January is also one of the hottest months of the year with temperatures rising to 34 degrees Celsius, particularly along the coast.

Note : January is the peak season in Mauritius, so hotels are usually fully-booked and rates are much higher. Don’t forget to book your hotel well in advance if you’re visiting in January!

Mauritius weather in February

Similar to January, February is very hot and rainy. For reference, Mauritius was hit by two tropical cyclones in February 2022 which resulted in heavy rain for several days while there was only one cyclone in February 2023.

Also on certain days, it might be raining in the morning but the weather tends to get better in the afternoon.

Tip : If you’re looking for indoor activities in Mauritius for rainy days, I recommend Chamarel Curious Corner , Natural History Museum , Dodo Quest escape rooms , or Chateau de Labourdonnais .

Related post: Top attractions to see in Chamarel

Mauritius weather in March

From what I’ve noticed while living in Mauritius, it will be raining almost every other day so the weather in March isn’t always the best.

In general, the weather is nice in the morning but it usually starts raining at around 12/12:30 p.m.

There’s also a risk of flash floods, so make sure to check the weather forecast before leaving your hotel, especially if you’re planning to go on a hike.

Update : The weather in March has been surprisingly good in March 2023 with plenty of sunny days. But I still recommend having a flexible itinerary if you plan to visit in March.

Related post: 21 unique places in South Mauritius

Mauritius weather in April

While the beginning of the month might still bring some rain, April marks the beginning of sunnier days. It’s one of the best months to visit Mauritius since it’s the perfect time to go to the beach.

The only downside is that hotel rates will be slightly higher due to the Easter holidays. The beaches will also be more crowded, so make sure to go early.

Mauritius weather in May

May is considered one of the cheapest months to go to Mauritius. As the weather gets cooler, the price of hotels in Mauritius starts to drop. Luxury hotels like Dinarobin Beachcomber or Constance Belle Mare Plage will cost only a fraction of their normal price.

You’ll also find fewer crowds at the beach and popular attractions like Chamarel and Ile aux Cerfs .

While the weather in Mauritius in May is cooler compared to the previous months, the average temperature hovers around 23-25°C which is still nice for a dip in the ocean.

Related post: Ultimate guide to the best places to stay in Mauritius

Mauritius weather in June

The weather in Mauritius in June is quite similar to May, although the temperature drops considerably toward the end of the month (it can sometimes drop to 12 degrees Celcius in the central region). Again, you’ll be able to take advantage of cheaper hotel rates.

The weather in June is also great for hiking. Just remember to pack a light cardigan if you’re planning to hike in the central region as it does get a bit chilly and rainy on certain days.

Mauritius weather in July

The weather in July normally offers bright sunny days and a lower chance of rain compared to the summer months although I’ve noticed that it’s been raining a lot more than usual in 2022 and 2023.

The east and southeast regions tend to be very windy in winter which is ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. Hotels like Preskil Island Resort even offer kitesurfing lessons to beginner surfers.

On the other hand, if you get cold easily, you should avoid staying on the east and southeast coasts. Accommodations like La Mariposa in the west or Trou aux Biches Beachcomber in the north would be much more ideal.

Mauritius weather in August

Similar to the previous months, the climate in Mauritius in August is nice but quite windy in the east and southeast. You’re also more likely to experience rain in these regions compared to the north and west, so keep that in mind when deciding where to stay.

From what I’ve observed, it usually rains in the morning for less than 30 minutes but the weather tends to get better throughout the day.

Mauritius weather in September

The weather in September is cool and sunny on most days (although you might experience light rain on c certain days which normally lasts about 30 minutes).

September in Mauritius is also your last chance to take advantage of lower hotel rates before the high season kicks in.

Related post: 10 amazing places to visit in East Mauritius

Mauritius weather in October

If you’re wondering when to visit Mauritius for the best weather, I recommend going in October, especially if you’re planning to spend a lot of time outdoors. It’s definitely the best time to visit Mauritius Island!

As one of the driest months of the year, the weather will be perfect for hiking at Le Morne Brabant , Le Pouce mountain , or Gris Gris beach .

Hotel rates will start to increase slightly but not as much compared to November and December.

What’s also great about visiting Mauritius in October is that you’ll also get the opportunity to experience the Diwali festival (note that Diwali may sometimes take place in November).

Related post: Where to go hiking in Mauritius?

Mauritius weather in November

In terms of weather, November is one of the best months to go to Mauritius. As the temperature starts to rise, you can expect bright sunny days with minimal rainfall.

Just keep in mind that hotel rates will go up, at times twice as much compared to September and October.

Update : Unfortunately, the weather in November 2023 has been quite bad with lots of rain which is very unusual. Hopefully, November 2024 will be better.

Mauritius weather in December

December is one of the busiest months of the year and hotels are usually filled up. This is why it’s important to book hotels and tours well in advance if you’re planning to visit Mauritius in December.

As the weather gets hotter, you might experience some rain towards the end of the month. Although rare, the country might also be hit by cyclones in December.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a rainy season in mauritius.

Technically, there’s no rainy season in Mauritius but the island experiences the highest level of rainfall between January and March which is known as the cyclone season.

What are the hottest months in Mauritius?

The hottest months are between December and March with temperatures averaging 24-31°C and can sometimes go up to 34°C along the coasts.

When should I go to Mauritius?

For the best weather, the best time to visit Mauritius is in October or November.

What is the coldest month in Mauritius?

July is the coldest month with temperatures averaging 15-22°C in the central region. Note that the coastal regions are still warm in July.

As someone who lives in Mauritius, I’ve experienced the weather first-hand and can say for a fact that the best time of the year to visit Mauritius is toward the end of winter. I hope that you found this guide to Mauritius weather by month helpful. As always, just comment below if you have any questions.

Read more about Mauritius:

• 44 unique attractions in Mauritius
• Where to stay in Mauritius + best hotels
• How to save money when visiting Mauritius?
• Complete guide to driving in Mauritius
• How to find the best car rental companies in Mauritius?
• Top 30 Mauritius hikes to do
• 18 breathtaking waterfalls in Mauritius
• Best beaches in Mauritius by region
• Port Louis travel guide
• Chamarel travel guide
• Best locations to take photos in Mauritius

Steph is an outdoor enthusiast who’s always down for adventure. When she's not traveling abroad, you’ll either find her exploring her own backyard or researching her next trip. She writes adventure travel guides featuring waterfalls, mountains, and beaches and shares her tips on how to travel on a budget without compromising on comfort and experience.

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Thank you for the above information.

We are planning on visiting for our honeymoon between 17 September and 05 October and were considering splitting our stay between either North and South/South West or East and West. Which would you recommend please for nice weather?

Also, how is the weather in Ile aux Cerf and Rodriguez island during this time of year please?

Thank you 🙂

Hi Dawn, You’re welcome 🙂 For the best weather, I recommend staying in the north since the southeast can be a bit windy in September. Right now, the temperature is already starting to rise so by September, the weather will be much nicer with less chance of rain. Ile aux Cerfs is located in the southeast so a bit windy in September but still enjoyable. As for Rodrigues Island, the weather is similar to Mauritius. You can read this guide to find the best areas to stay in Mauriitus.

Hey Steph 🙂 Thank you for your prompt reply.

Is there a great difference in weather between mid/end of September and October?

And apart from the north, would you also recommend the west?

You’re welcome, Dawn. There isn’t much of difference, except that the temperature gets slightly higher in October. The weather in the north and west is pretty similar. Overall, these two regions have the best weather compared to others.

Thanks Steph 🙂 One last thing, we will be staying in Mauritius, including Rodriguez, for a total of 19 days. Would you recommend to stay at one accommodation? Or suggest to split stay between North and West? And how many days would you recommend at Rodriguez island pls 🙂 ?

You can read this guide ( https://www.letsventureout.com/mauritius-itinerary-7-days-2-weeks/ ) for a suggested itinerary. I recommend splitting your stay between 2 or 3 regions, for example: Option 1: 7 days in North Mauritius, 8 days in West Mauritius, and 3/4 days in Rodrigues. Option 2: 4 days in Southeast Mauritius, 6 days in North Mauritius, 6 days in West Mauritius, and 3 days in Rodrigues. This will mostly depend on what you want to do during your trip. This guide ( https://www.letsventureout.com/where-to-stay-in-mauritius/ ) will walk you through each region of Mauritius, including things to do and where to stay.

WE’re planning a trip to MAuritius 27 Sep for either 8 or 10 nights with small children. WE are considering these hotels based on price, offering and availability. Long Beach, Shandrani. Wondering weather to split holiday in half by going to two hotels (west coast and east coast) or staying at one.

I’m just concerned about the wind that everyone speaks of on the East coast. Your advice is valuable. Also what hotel is fabulous on the west coast but affordable and great for kids?

Hello, the east can be a bit windy between July and September but it’s not super windy like in Iceland for example. If you’re coming from a cold region you should be fine as the temperature along the coast rarely drops below 20 degrees Celcius. If you’re planning to explore the country extensively, I would suggest staying in two different hotels so you don’t spend a lot of time and money driving around the country. As for hotels along the west, you can either stay at Sugar Beach ( https://www.booking.com/hotel/mu/sugar-beach.en.html?aid=1839570&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2 ) or La Pirogue ( https://www.booking.com/hotel/mu/la-pirogue.en.html?aid=1839570&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2 ). Both are great for kids – they have family/connecting rooms, kids club, kids pool, kids menu etc. You can read this guide ( https://www.letsventureout.com/best-family-hotels-in-mauritius-family-resorts/ ) for family-friendly hotels in Mauritius.

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​Best Time To Visit – Mauritius

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Lonely Planet guidebooks, including the guide to Mauritius.

Anthony is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Lonely Planet guide to Mauritius.

Anthony is the author of the Lonely Planet guide to Mauritius.

Mauritius can be visited throughout the year. The ideal months are May, June, and September to November. However, most visitors from the northern hemisphere come to Mauritius to escape their winter – December to April. The cyclone months from January to March are not ideal though. Even if there is no cyclone, rainfall tends to be high at that time. July and August can be windy on the east and south coast.

May to November – Dry Season – Winter

• Lovely weather with lots of sunshine
• Less hot and humid than in the Wet season
• June to October is the whale watching season
• Perfect for exploring and hiking
• The east coast is windy, especially in July and August

December to April – Wet Season – Summer

• Warm beach destination during the northern hemisphere winter
• Hot and regular rainfall
• Cyclone season from January to March
• Christmas and Easter holidays are busy

Want To Visit Mauritius?

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The Best and Worst seasons to visit Mauritius | Plan your Trip

Summer Seasons in Mauritius

Mauritius typically experiences a pleasant and warm climate during summer months, here is generally what you can expect during summer in Mauritius. Warm and Sunny Weather, making it an ideal time for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Daytime temperatures often range from 25°C to 35°C or even higher, depending on the specific month and location on the island life.

Rainy Seasons in Mauritius

Rainfall-while summer is generally dry and sunny, there can be occasional showers. The rainy season officially begins in December and continues into March, with the possibility of tropical rain showers and thunderstorms. However, these rain showers are usually short-lived, and the sun quickly returns.

High Humidity- Mauritius can be quite humid during the summer months, which can make the heat feel more intense. Humidity levels are typically higher in the coastal areas compared to the inland regions.

Summer is an excellent time for water activities in Mauritius

Here are some of the water sports activities you can enjoy during the summer in Mauritius.

The warm waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for swimming and snorkeling , the crystal-clear waters around the coral reefs provide fantastic opportunities for snorkeling. You can explore vibrant marine life and colorful coral formations at various snorkeling spots, such as Blue Bay Marine Park, Île aux Cerfs, and Trou aux Biches.

Mauritius offers world-class scuba diving experiences , with a variety of dive sites suitable for all skill levels.

Summer is also a great time for diving due to good visibility and comfortable water temperatures. Expect to encounter diverse marine species and even shipwrecks.

Mauritius is known for its deep-sea fishing opportunities. Summer is a good time to catch a variety of game fish, including marlin, tuna, and dorado and others.

Take a catamaran cruise to explore the island’s coastline and enjoy the sunset, we offer day trips and excursions.

If you’re not a strong swimmer or diver, you can still explore the underwater world of Mauritius through underwater walking tours . You’ll wear a helmet with a glass visor to walk on the seabed and observe marine

Crowds in Mauritius

Mauritius is a popular tourist destination, and the summer months tend to attract more visitors due to the pleasant weather. Therefore, you can expect larger crowds at popular tourist spots and higher prices for accommodations.

When to expect cyclones in Mauritius?

Be aware that Mauritius is susceptible to cyclones during the summer season, particularly from December to March. While cyclones are not a daily occurrence, they can disrupt travel plans and activities. It’s important to stay updated on weather forecasts and follow any advice or warnings from local authorities if a cyclone is approaching.

However, it’s essential to be prepared for the possibility of brief rain showers and the occasional cyclone, especially during the early part of the season. Overall, Mauritius is a beautiful destination to visit year-round, with each season offering a unique experience.

Things to do in Mauritius

Water sports activities in Mauritius are popular and vibrant during the summer months. The warm and sunny weather, along with the inviting Indian Ocean waters, makes this period an excellent time for various water sports and aquatic adventures.

Before engaging in any water sports activity, it’s essential to choose a reputable operator with experienced guides and safety measures in place. Also, consider your own skill level and comfort in the water when selecting activities.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced water sports enthusiast, Mauritius offers a wide range of options to suit your preferences and ensure an exciting aquatic experience during the summer months.

Summer is also an excellent time for land activities in Mauritius

Mauritius offers a variety of land-based activities during the summer months as well. Here are some other popular land activities you can enjoy in Mauritius during the summer, Hiking – explore the island’s lush interior by going on hiking adventures. The Black River Gorges National Park is a top choice for hiking with its diverse flora, fauna, and stunning viewpoints.

Golf-Mauritius is known for its world-class golf courses , many of which are set against scenic backdrops. The pleasant weather in summer makes it an ideal time to tee off at courses like Tamarina, Heritage Golf Club, and Anahita Golf Course.

Nature walks – beyond the national park, there are numerous nature reserves and botanical gardens where you can take leisurely walks to admire the island’s unique plant and animal species. Pamplemousses Botanical Garden is a must-visit.

Horse riding -enjoy horseback riding through the scenic landscapes of Mauritius. You can find horse riding opportunities at various equestrian centers and along the beaches.

Quad Biking -embark on quad biking adventures through rugged terrain, sugar cane fields, and nature reserves. It’s an exciting way to explore the island’s diverse landscapes.

Keep in mind that the summer months in Mauritius can be quite hot and humid, so it’s essential to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and take precautions to avoid heat-related issues when engaging in outdoor activities. Whether you’re interested in adventure, culture, or relaxation, you can find a wide range of land-based activities to enjoy during your summer visit to Mauritius.

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With over 19 years of experience in the travel & tourism industry, our packages and tours are designed for you to enjoy a memorable holiday in Mauritius.

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Unlocking Paradise: When To Experience Mauritius At Its Finest

Discover the best time to visit mauritius to enjoy it at its finest for adventure sports, island hopping, wildlife exploration, and more..

By: Esha Dasgupta Published: Feb 02, 2024 03:01 PM UTC

Mauritius is all about gorgeous beaches, lush forests, unique wildlife, and limitless opportunities for adventure. Plan your sojourn to this gem of the Indian Ocean by diving into our guide to the best time to visit Mauritius.

The high season for Mauritius is from December to February, offering ideal conditions for water sports, adventure activities, wildlife encounters , and more. The shoulder seasons, from late March to April and October to November, provide pleasant weather with fewer crowds, perfect for exploring and enjoying enhanced underwater visibility for snorkelling and diving . The low season, from May to September, may experience rougher seas and stronger winds, potentially limiting water sports and other adventure activities.

Best time to visit Mauritius for great weather

For encountering perfect weather, the best time to visit Mauritius is from December to February, which coincides with the high season for the island nation. During these months, expect ideal conditions for beach activities, island hopping, and sightseeing tours. Characterised by pleasant temperatures, sunny days, low humidity, and minimal rainfall, this period is perfect for enjoying the outdoors to the fullest.

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Best time to visit mauritius for a honeymoon.

September to December is considered the best time to visit Mauritius for a honeymoon . With average temperatures ranging from 22°C to 26°C, this period offers pleasant weather, lower humidity and calm seas, providing an ideal setting for couples to enjoy a variety of watersports, outdoor activities, and romantic explorations.

Shop the best travel experiences here

Best time to visit Mauritius for premium deals

May to September marks the low season for Mauritius and presents the best time to visit for great deals on travel packages, accommodation, sightseeing tours, and select adventure activities available during this time. With average temperatures ranging from 19°C to 23°C, this period offers a winter escape with thinner crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy beaches and tourist attractions with greater tranquillity.

Book your stay at Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa via Booking.com

Book your stay at Hilton Mauritius Resort & Spa via Agoda.com

Best time to explore wildlife in Mauritius

April to May and October to November are perfect for exploring wildlife in Mauritius. National parks and biosphere reserves such as the Black River Gorges National Park, Pointe d’Esny Wetlands, and the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve are ideal for spotting a wide range of flora and fauna. From impalas, lions, zebras, and tigers, to antelopes, ostriches, turtles, and caracals, these months provide the best conditions for wildlife enthusiasts to observe the rich biodiversity of Mauritius.

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When to explore mauritius for adventure activities.

May to December is the best time to visit Mauritius to explore a diverse range of adventure activities in Mauritius. From thrilling watersports like snorkelling, surfing , kayaking, and diving to exhilarating land-based adventure sports such as hiking, wildlife safaris, island hopping, and quad-biking, this period provides optimal conditions. With minimal chances of rain and a calm sea, adventurers can expect exceptional clarity while indulging in underwater activities.

Worst time to visit Mauritius

January to March marks the peak cyclone season in this East African country, making it the worst time to visit Mauritius. Additionally, July and August are the windiest months, posing challenges for enjoying most water and adventure sports during this period.

(Feature image credit: Serenity-H/Shutterstock)

Related:  White Sand Beaches, Crater Safaris And More: 8 African Countries That Promise A Toasty Winter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

-What is the best time to visit Mauritius for adventure activities? May to December is the ideal time to enjoy adventure activities in Mauritius.

-What is the best time to see snowfall in Mauritius? Mauritius, being a tropical country, does not experience any snowfall.

-What is the best time to explore wildlife in Mauritius? April to May and October to November are perfect for exploring wildlife in Mauritius.

-What is the best time to visit Mauritius island? The peak season, from May to November, is the best time for enjoying a solo trip to Mauritius, as most accommodation options and tourist attractions are open during this time, including adventure activities.

-How can I avoid extreme temperatures while visiting Mauritius? Avoid visiting Mauritius from January to early March, the peak cyclone season, and during July and August, the windiest months in the country.

-What are the specific seasonal attractions in Mauritius? Watersports and island hopping are a few of the seasonal attractions in Mauritius.

-What are the best festivals to attend in Mauritius? Some of the best festivals to attend in Mauritius include the Kreol International Festival (early December), C Kite Festival (June 27 to July 1, 2024), Sakifo Music Festival (mid-July), and the Mauritius Open Air Festival (July).

Esha Dasgupta

Esha is a traveller at heart, with a penchant for exploring the unchartered. She has previously worked with TravelTriangle and Internet Moguls. When not in work mode, she can be found downing endless cups of coffee while reading Enid Blyton/Sidney Sheldon.

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Mauritius is a year-round destination, with a mild tropical climate and up to eight hours of sunshine each day, but weather is still a consideration when deciding the best time to visit, where to go and what to do on Mauritius.

Seasons in Mauritius

Climate in mauritius, festivals and holidays in mauritius, tailor-made travel itineraries for mauritius, created by local experts.

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Delightful Mauritius

Stay in four different areas on this trip - first the South Coast, then the West Coast, then Chamarel in the center of the island, before spending the last few days relaxing on the beach of the popular North Coast. Mauritius has so much more to offer than just gorgeous beaches!

Tailor-made trips for   Mauritius

The island has two seasons : a hot, wet and humid summer (October to April), with a slight risk of cyclones from January to March, and a warm, dry winter (May to September). Average temperatures range from around 25°C in summer to 20°C in winter. Average annual rainfall is 2010mm, most of which falls in summer.

As Mauritius is best known for winter sun, the peak season for tourism is from October to April and low season runs from May to September. Rodrigues’ peak tourist seasons are from the end of November to February, around Easter in April and from the end of June to August; outside of these times beach restaurants are often closed and only a few tables d’hôtes are open. The cooler, drier months from June to September, with fewer mosquitos, are good for outdoor activities; clear, calm and warm waters from November to April are ideal for diving; the best deep-sea fishing is from October to April; and surfing conditions are at their best from June to August.

Note that the west and north coasts are warmer and drier than the east and south coasts. In the summer, the cooling southeast trade winds make the east coast pleasant and perfect for watersports, but the south and east can be chilly and windy in winter. The north and west coasts are more sheltered in winter, meanwhile, but can get stiflingly hot and humid in summer. Most rain falls in the highlands, with Curepipe the rainiest of the inland towns.

Mauritius is a multicultural society, with religious festivals for the different groups held year-round. Dates vary annually depending on religious calendars. Visitors are welcome to attend any of the major public festivals, and it may be worth timing a visit to coincide with one of the more spectacular ones listed below.

Thaipoosam Cavadee

January/February. Island-wide. Tamil penitents parade through the capital with their tongues, chests and cheeks pierced with needles in this devout and spectacular Tamil festival.

Chinese New Year/Spring Festival

February. Port Louis. Chinese dragons and lion dances grace Port Louis’ Chinatown when the Chinese–Mauritian community exchange traditional wax cakes, light firecrackers to chase away evil spirits and spread red, a symbol of happiness, everywhere.

Maha Shivaratree

February/March. Grand Bassin. The biggest Hindu festival outside India, devotees make a pilgrimage to the island’s sacred lake to leave offerings to Shiva.

March. Grand Bassin and island-wide. People splash each other with coloured water, throw lurid coloured powder and wish each other luck in the Hindu festival of joy.

May/June. Island-wide. A low-key celebration of the Hindu New Year by the Telugu community with prayers and rituals for Brahma, creator of the universe.

Corpus Christi

August/September. Port Louis. Devout Roman Catholics parade through the streets.

Ganesh Chaturthi

August/September. Baie du Cap, Grand Bassin. Mauritian Hindus take their statues of Ganesh, the God of Wisdom, for a birthday outing, dunking them in the sea or the sacred lake.

Pere Laval Day

9 September. Sainte Croix, Port Louis. Mauritians of all faiths make a pilgrimage to Catholic apostle Pere Laval’s tomb on the anniversary of his death to pray for miracles at his graveside.

23 October. Island-wide. The annual Festival of Light celebrates the triumph of good over evil: fairy lights and candlelight guide good fortune to Mauritian Hindus’ homes and sweet cakes are offered to the ancestors.

6 November. Plaine Verte, Port Louis. Muslims carry brightly lit lanterns or “ghoons” made of bamboo and paper to mourn the martyrdom of the prophet Mohammed’s nephew in Kerbala, Iraq.

Ganga Asnan

November. Island-wide. Hindus bathe at public beaches and offer prayers, fruits and flowers to Ganga, the goddess of purity, during this auspicious month.

Festival Kreol

28 November–1 December. Le Morne Village. This annual celebration of Creole culture held in Le Morne Village features food and craft stalls, traditional songs and séga dancing (festivalkreol.co.uk).

Eid-ul-Fitr

November/December. Mosques island, wide. The end of Ramadan and fasting for the island’s Muslims is celebrated with prayers and feasting with friends and relatives.

December–February. Temples island-wide. After ten days of purification and praying, Tamil penitents walk across a pit of burning coals in certain temples across the island, before cooling their feet in milk.

The Rough Guides to Mauritius and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Mauritius

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Mauritius

• Eating and drinking in Mauritius
• Shopping tips for Mauritius
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Mauritius
• Travel Tips Mauritius for planning and on the go
• Culture and Etiquette in Mauritius
• How to get to Mauritius
• Getting around Mauritius: Transportation Tips
• Travelling with children in Mauritius

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Andy Turner

updated 17.05.2021

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Best time to visit Mauritius: when to go and what to do

Plan ahead if you want to experience the best of the weather on this indian ocean island – and don’t want to miss those vibrant festivals.

A verdant, teardrop-shaped isle off the east coast of Madagascar, volcanic Mauritius rightly tops holidaymaker bucket lists thanks to its pristine beaches, raw mountainous wilds and rainbow culture. Despite easy, direct-flight access from the UK, for many people a visit to this tropical idyll will be a once-in-a-lifetime break — so it pays to time the trip just right. Whether you want to fly and flop when the weather is at its most reliably balmy or are hoping to snag a lower-season deal (ideal for enjoying the island’s many inland activities), read on to discover the best time to touch down.

This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue

When is the best time to visit Mauritius?

Many people associate Mauritius with year-round sun, but visitors need to know where to go and when.

The island has its own rather feisty microclimate. It could be dry and sunny somewhere that’s only a few minutes away from a downpour, so you’ll need to be mindful of this and plan activities accordingly. The east coast and central plateau catch the lion’s share of the wet weather, while the more sheltered west coast is much drier.

In general, the period from June to September is cooler and drier. Then, from November until April, the country goes through its warm and humid summer, which can make conditions testy but not unbearable. Cyclone season officially starts on November 1 and doesn’t end until May 15 the following year.

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A good rule of thumb is to aim for the east coast in winter (the Mauritian summer) and the northwest in summer (Mauritian winter).

When is peak season in Mauritius?

The island’s peak season is technically from November until April. While Mauritius has long been a favourite for winter sun, this is also the island’s wet season — we’re talking the middle of Mauritian summer. That said, October to December is popular with tourists for a reason: rain doesn’t stop play for long; downpours tend to fall in short bursts and the sky clears soon after. Resorts will be busiest and most expensive during these months, with some rates doubling over new year.

When is the cheapest time to travel to Mauritius?

For cheaper prices, travel during the northern hemisphere’s summer. July and August , for example, fall into Mauritius’s winter season and is a comparatively cooler time of the year — average temperatures of around 24C — with fewer mosquitoes, lower humidity and relatively little rain. Just stay on the sheltered parts of the island; the island’s north and west coasts will be warmer and much less windy.

When is the best season for surfing in Mauritius and where should I go?

Mauritius is well known for its water sports — everything’s up for grabs, from diving schools to parasailing competitions. But the island’s famous trade winds make it especially good for surfing, and it makes sense to chase them.

In summer, head to the east coast, where the cooling southeast winds make it particularly pleasant, and opt for the north and west coast in winter. There are a few places that are particularly popular with surfers. The jewel in the crown is Tamarin Bay, on the west coast, but it can be inconsistent; sometimes the waves don’t break for months at a time. The experienced should head to One Eye — named for the “eye” that’s allegedly visible in the jagged rock face when surfers ride a perfect wave — over at Le Morne.

• Best hotels in Mauritius • Best beaches in Mauritius

Sunshine and rainfall

Mauritius’s year-round sunshine and microclimate doesn’t lend itself to extremes; temperatures generally sit between 17C and 31C. January, February and March are the hottest and wettest months of the year, averaging 30C and 253 mm of rainfall.

Key dates for your calendar

Few things reflect Mauritius’s unique and impressive cultural diversity better than its spectacular religious festivals, many of which are island-wide and welcome visitor participation. Keep in mind that, though safe and friendly, Mauritians are quietly conservative and tourists should dress modestly if joining any of the celebrations. Also, if a public holiday falls on a Tuesday or Thursday, many will take the day in between off, as well as the adjoining weekend — this is called faire le pont (making a bridge).

January/February

One of the most vibrant festivals in Mauritius, the Chinese New Year celebrations are a sight to behold. Signalling the start of the Chinese Spring Festival — as well as three days of food, festivities and parades — a huge fireworks display lights up the sky to ward off evil spirits and is followed, 15 days later, by a beautiful lantern festival. Head to Port Louis for the focus of the action.

Maha Shivaratri, the spectacular three-day Hindu pilgrimage at the end of February, is an important occasion on Mauritius. Grand Bassin, watched over by a 33m (108ft) statue of Lord Shiva, is considered a holy lake for Mauritian Hindus — its waters are said to be an offshoot of the spiritually important River Ganges. The festival attracts people from all over the world.

Few celebrations are as instantly recognisable as Holi — the joyful Hindu festival of colours that marks the beginning of spring — and Mauritius goes all in. While water pistols are aimed and brightly coloured powder thrown (be aware that, as with snowballs, everyone is fair game), this is a day, scheduled annually by the lunar calendar, that’s all about strengthening community. Delicious street food and feelgood music keep the party going.

On Mauritius, Thimithi — a Tamil Hindu festival also known as “The Walk on Fire” — is celebrated by Hindus and non-Hindus alike during the Tamil calendar month of Aippasi (roughly around November, though this can change). Held in honour of Kali, the Hindu goddess of power, a ten-day meditating and fasting period is brought to a close by devotees ceremonially walking on burnt embers, and is one of the most-watched cultural events on the island. Another Tamil Hindu festival, Thaipoosam Cavadee, which takes place a few months later, is also spectacular; it involves more fire-walking, as well as sword-climbing and piercing rituals.

• Mauritius v the Seychelles: which is better? • Best things to do in Mauritius

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The Best Time to Visit Mauritius for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Mauritius for ideal weather are

June 11th to October 7th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Mauritius Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Mauritius Travel Info

Weather in mauritius.

Average temperatures in Mauritius vary very little. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a chance of rain throughout most of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 23rd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Mauritius, the hottest months are February, January, and then March. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally late January and early February where highs are regularly around 86.9°F (30.5°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 75.7°F (24.3°C) at night.

Mauritius Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Mauritius temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Mauritius Perceived Temperature (F)

Mauritius perceived temperature (c), average mauritius temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Mauritius are October, November, and then September. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around mid October. For example, on the week of October 15th there is 1 day of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in mid February with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of February 19th.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Mauritius.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Mauritius (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Mauritius has some very humid months, and above average humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is September (68.8% relative humidity), and the most humid month is February (76.8%).

Wind in Mauritius is usually moderate . The windiest month is August, followed by September and July. August’s average wind speed of around 11 knots (12.6 MPH or 20.3 KPH) is considered “a moderate breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in early to mid August where average top sustained speeds reach 15.4 knots, which is considered a moderate breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Mauritius.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to mauritius.

Our best data indicates this area is generally safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are no travel advisories or warnings for Mauritius; exercise normal security precautions. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 30, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Mauritius is November, followed by January and March. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Mauritius in June. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall mauritius travel experience by season, fall (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 86.3°F (30.2°C) and 81.4°F (27.4°C) with colder temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 7 to 11 days of significant precipitation per month. Fall is the busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Winter (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are comfortable. These months see moderate precipitation with 7 to 8 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the slowest season for tourism in Mauritius, so lodging and other accommodations may cost less than usual.

Spring (September through November)

Spring daily highs range from 85.1°F (29.5°C) and 78.9°F (26.1°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: approximately 5 days per month. Tourism is the second busiest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be slightly higher priced.

Summer (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Mauritius to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 86.9°F (30.5°C) and 85.6°F (29.8°C). On average, it rains or snows a fair amount: 7 to 11 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Mauritius

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The Best Times to Visit Mauritius: Everything You Need to Know

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Mauritius is a beautiful island country located in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush jungles. Mauritius is a popular tourist destination and with good reason! The weather is perfect year-round, and there is something to do for everyone.

But when are the best times to visit Mauritius? Well, Mauritius is a beautiful country all year round, and there are different activities you can do depending on the season.

Is Mauritius Worth Visiting?

Yes, Mauritius is definitely worth visiting! This small island nation is located in the Indian Ocean and is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and vibrant culture. Visitors can enjoy plenty of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and much more. There are also many great restaurants and hotels to choose from, making Mauritius a great vacation spot for everyone.

If you’re looking for all inclusive package of resorts in Mauritius , then our detailed guide will help you.

Best Times to Visit Mauritius

We have described which time is the best to visit Mauritius below:

1. Winter Time:

People usually go on vacations during the summer, but Mauritius is one country that you can even visit in the winter and have a great time. Winter is the best time to visit Mauritius if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. The island’s average temperature is a comfortable 23°C in December and January. Mauritius is also relatively dry during winter, with rainfall averaging around 100mm per month. However, thunderstorms can occur, so it’s always worth checking the forecast before you travel. It is also possible to find good deals on accommodation and flights during the winter months.

2. Summer Time:

For some people, summer may be the best season to visit Mauritius. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, visit during the summer when the island comes alive with festivals and events. Summer is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowded beaches and attractions. If you visit Mauritius in the summer time then you might find the island to be crowded with tourists, but it will also give you great vacation vibes, and you will remember your tour for years to come. It is a great time to visit if you are looking for a festive atmosphere.

3. Autumn Time:

Autumn doesn’t seem to be the ideal time for a vacation, but Mauritius is one country that has a lot to offer even in Autumn. If you are looking for a more relaxed vibe, visit Mauritius during Autumn. Temperatures are still warm, and the water is perfect for swimming, but the crowds have thinned out by this time of year. Autumn is also a good time to take advantage of hotel deals. Autumn is a great time to go hiking and explore the lush green landscape of Mauritius. The Black River Gorges National Park is a must-see for any nature lover, and hiking trails range from easy to difficult, so there’s something for everyone.

4. Spring Time:

Who doesn’t love the spring holidays? Spring is the time of the year when nature is at its best. The weather is perfect, the flowers are in bloom, and the birds are chirping. Spring is also the ideal time to visit Mauritius as the island is filled with an array of activities and events. Spring is perfect for nature lovers, as the flowers are in bloom and there are plenty of activities taking place outdoors. The weather is also lovely at this time of year, with highs of 26°C.

Things You Can Enjoy Throughout The Year in Mauritius

Mauritius is a beautiful country that should be on everyone’s bucket list. No matter what time of year you visit, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. Here are some things you can do no matter when you travel to Mauritius:

• Go swimming in the crystal clear waters
• Relax on the stunning beaches
• Explore the lush jungle landscapes
• Take a nature hike in one of the many national parks
• Visit the capital city of Port Louis
• Shop for souvenirs in the local markets
• Try the delicious food and Mauritian Rum.
• Take a nature walk in Black River Gorges National Park
• Visit the botanical gardens in Pamplemousses
• Attend the Mauritius International Trade Fair
• Take a day trip to Ile aux Cerfs
• Watch the dolphins off the coast of Tamarin
• Hike up Le Morne Mountain

These are just some of the amazing things you can do in Mauritius. However, these aren’t the only things you can do on this beautiful island. Make sure to plan the itinerary before you arrive in Mauritius, and remember that only you can make your trip fun and enjoyable.

Before going to Mauritius, tourists want to know where is Mauritius located. Read out our guide to know more about the location of Mauritius .

What Is The Most Affordable Time To Visit Mauritius?

The most affordable time to visit Mauritius is during the shoulder season, which runs from mid-April to late June and again from early September to mid-December. During these times, prices for accommodation and airfare are generally lower than they are during the peak season (July to August). However, there are still plenty of things to do on the island during the shoulder season, so it’s a great time to visit if you’re looking to save some money.

If you’re flexible with your travel dates, another way to save money on your trip to Mauritius is to book your flights and accommodation during the off-season (January to March. It should be noted, however, that the weather during this time of year can be quite unpredictable, so you may want to consider travel insurance if you’re planning a trip during this period.

Final Words

No matter what time of year you visit, make sure to spend some time on the beach relaxing in the sun! Mauritius is a beautiful country with something to offer everyone. Do some research before you travel so you can make the most of your trip. Pack all the necessary items, such as sunscreen and insect repellent, and don’t forget your camera to capture all the memories.

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The Very Best Time to Visit Mauritius

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Mauritius is a diverse island country in the Indian Ocean. It is about 500 miles east of Madagascar and a popular beach destination for travelers. If you haven't yet, do a quick Google search of "Mauritius" and with that alone, you'll be eager to book your flight. Careful though, you might fall so in love that you'll apply for their digital nomad visa to stay on the island long-term.

Now that you're mentally ready, it's important you decide when to visit. If you're flexible with your schedule, this travel guide will highlight the weather and what to do each season so you can make an educated decision. Regardless, you'll love your visit to this incredible destination!

The best time to visit Mauritius depends on if you want the best weather for exploring the island or if you want to avoid the worst crowds and save some money in the low season.

The temperature in Mauritius stays pretty consistent year-round, with highs ranging from the 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit depending on where on the island you are. And, rain is not bad in Mauritius unless you stay in the Chamarel Mountains or visit in January and February, which is cyclone season.

There are only two seasons in Mauritius: summer, which runs from October to April, and winter, which is from May to September. If you're from the northern hemisphere, read that again! The seasons are opposite to what you're used to. The winter is the low season, and summertime is much busier, with December to February being the busiest time to visit Mauritius.

We’re not a regular travel blog; we’re a collection of women living around the world, all with different backgrounds, jobs, desires, & nationalities. What do we have in common? A passion for life abroad. Each article is written from the 1st-hand perspective of a woman who has actually done or experienced what she writes about. Learn more about the author by clicking her bio pic at the start or end of each article.

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Summer in Mauritius: High Season

Summer is the most popular time to visit Mauritius since the weather is the best and most of Mauritius' holidays are during the summer, so people are off work and school and can travel. However, since it is a busier time to visit, prices are also higher, and you might struggle to find somewhere to stay if you do not book far in advance.

Summertime in Mauritius is from October to April. While these months are all considered summer, the weather does change, with the rainy season coming in during the middle of summer.

Weather in the Summer Months

The weather in Mauritius is best in the winter months, with the highest temperatures in the mid-80s between December and March. October is the driest time to visit Mauritius; then, in November and December, it gets more hot and humid as the rainy season approaches.

Mauritius sees the most rain in January and February, especially on the coasts coming off the Indian Ocean.

March and April see little rain, and it is the hottest and most humid time of year in Mauritius. But, crowds are low so it is one of the best times to visit if you want to spend a lot of time on the beautiful beaches.

Peak Summer Months

Since kids are off school and adults have time off work for the holidays, many people come to Mauritius to enjoy the tropical climate, especially from mid-December to early January.

The Christmas and New Year holidays are a busy time to visit Mauritius, and resorts host events to celebrate the holidays with their guests. There are also celebrations in the towns and cities with the locals who celebrate the holidays too.

Between mid-January and February, many people are still visiting the island, but there are significantly fewer people than during the height of the holiday season. This is partially due to people having less time off work and school, but also because it's the peak rainy season.

The lower number of visitors is also true from mid-November to early December when the holiday season is not in full swing yet.

Cyclone Season

January and February are still quite busy even though this is when Mauritius sees the most rain and cyclones are possible.

If you're new to this region, a cyclone is the same as a hurricane or a typhoon. The name only changes based on the location of the storm. In the South Pacific and the Indian Ocean, where Mauritius is located, these storms are called cyclones.

Cyclones are rare on the island, but they are possible during these times, so you may need to change your plans if the weather gets bad. The hotels will work hard to keep you safe from a cyclone, and tour guides know what to do if the weather suddenly gets bad, so don't worry too much.

Regardless, it is a good idea to be flexible with your travel schedule if you experience flight delays because of a hurricane. You never know when flights might be grounded, and you end up stuck in Mauritius longer than expected.

Shoulder Season

October to early November and March to April are considered shoulder seasons in Mauritius. It is the best time to visit Mauritius if you want good weather, without too much rain, and you want to avoid the peak holiday crowds.

During shoulder season, the beaches still see good weather, but there are fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. The prices are also lower in the shoulder season to match the lower demand. So, shoulder season is your best option if you travel with a larger group or want a quieter time on the island to enjoy the beaches and even take a tour.

Just be aware of Easter week, which is a high time for people to travel to Mauritius, especially from Europe when people have time off from school and work.

Summertime Holidays and Events

Many people come to Mauritius in the summer to celebrate the festivals that take place here, many of which are religious. Diwali festivals are big across the island in October and November since many Indian and Hindu people live and travel here.

In late February or early March, Mauritius celebrates the Holi Festival, a colorful Hindu festival meant to welcome spring. Other holidays that have big festivals or events to celebrate them include Christmas, Easter, Chinese New Year, and the Tamil New Year.

Things to do in Mauritius in the Summer

One of the most popular activities in Mauritius during the summer is deep sea fishing. The sport is popular on the island year-round, but the summer is the best time to visit the island for deep-sea fishing. The Black River on the west coast of Mauritius and the Trou D’Eau Douce on the east coast are both popular places for deep sea fishing, but there are places all around the island where you can find big game.

Summertime is also a good time to be in Mauritius if you want to enjoy the beach's warm weather or spend time in the ocean. The water is warm, so it's a good time to swim, and water sports are also popular.

The summer is also the best time to snorkel and dive in Mauritius, thanks to the clear water.

Winter in Mauritius: Low Season

Winter in Mauritius is from May to September, and it is the least busy time of year for tourists in Mauritius. The temperatures during the day are around 70 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), and they drop quite a bit at night.

The weather is still warm compared to winter in many other places in the southern hemisphere, like South Africa , or is a great place to cool down a bit if you're in the full swing of summer in the northern hemisphere. It's a great time to travel to Mauritius if you want to avoid the crowds.

Weather in the Winter Months

Even though it is winter, the weather is still nice, with highs in the 70s throughout most of the island, although it does get colder at night.

May can still reach temperatures in the 80s during the day, so it is a good time to visit the beaches. And June has some warm, sunny days, but the temperature drops at night. Wintertime is also much less humid but still sunny for most of the season. And, between July and August, there are some windy days.

The end of winter is in September, and it is the time of year when the least people visit Mauritius, so you will have a lot of options for places to stay and things to do, including tours, water equipment rentals, and surf lessons.

Low Season in Mauritius

Winter is the low season in Mauritius and tourism is much lower than in the summer. If you can tolerate cooler temperatures, you will see lower prices and fewer people traveling to the island.

You will not have to worry about booking too far in advance for winter travel to Mauritius.

Since prices are lower, it is a great time to travel to Mauritius for a longer-term stay. If you work online and need to find somewhere with a dedicated workspace and fast wifi, you will have better options and availability in the winter.

Winter Holidays and Events

Winter is not as popular for festivals as the summer, but there are still a few big ones for locals and visitors to the island.

• The Ganesh Chaturthi festival is held in August or September to honor Ganesh, a Hindu god.
• Athletes come to the island in July for the Rodrigues International Kitesurfing Festival, which is interesting to watch even if you are not a kitesurfer.
• The Père Laval Feast Day is a big celebration for Christians, especially the locals. The event occurs in Port Louis in the northwest part of the island.

Things to do in Mauritius in the Winter

Winter is a great chance to do things on and off the water. While it might be too hot or rainy to enjoy the jungle in other months, winter is the perfect time for a trek to see waterfalls and lush vegetation inland.

Its also the best time to surf in Mauritius, especially in July and August, when it is the windiest. The biggest waves come in on the east coast of Mauritius, but surfers go all over the island to surf. The beaches are still not as busy during the summer months, but you will find a lot of people there who are surfers. Even if you have not surfed before, it's a great time to learn how, especially since lessons are cheaper and easier to come by. Other popular activities during the windy winter months include flying kites and windsurfing.

Winter is also a good month to go stargazing. The skies are clear and the island is away from any larger ad brighter places, so you will be able to see a lot of stars. There is even a good chance you can spot a shooting star, especially in August.

With this you're ready to make your decision about when is the best time to visit Mauritius? Personally, I love traveling on shoulder seasons when you can snag better deals, face smaller crowds, and still get some of the great weather promised during high season. Your decision might differ from mine though based on what you're looking for during your unforgettable Mauritius vacation.

Hero photo by Michal Marek .

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Find Out The Best Time To Visit Mauritius For An Unforgettable Escape

By: Deb Hendricks | March 17, 2024

Are you considering heading for Mauritius and wondering when is the best time to go?

Then I’m glad you’re here! We’ve got the ultimate travel timing guide for you. And we’ll tell you why Africa’s island paradise absolutely should be on your radar this season.

After travelling to Mauritius 3 times, and spending several weeks on each trip, I can say for sure that there’s no bad time to be here. But some times are better than others.

The short answer : October . October in Mauritius has warm, comfortable weather and fewer tourists. It’s perfect for exploring beaches and for outdoor activities. It’s a sweet spot for enjoying the island’s natural beauty and cultural events without the peak season crowds.

So we’re diving into the best times to visit Mauritius. We’ll also touch on why it deserves a top spot on your travel list. From the perfect weather to exciting festivals, get ready to discover the magic of Mauritius and why it’s the getaway you’ve been dreaming of.

The Best Time to Visit Mauritius

Mauritius is a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean that’s got it all – stunning beaches, green mountains, and dynamic cultures. You’re wishing you were there right now, aren’t you?

Mauritius is always a good idea, but knowing the best time to go can make your trip even sweeter. Let’s dive in.

June through August: Winter Wonders (ave. temp 22°C)

June through August in Mauritius means a blend of cool weather and lots of activities, perfect for every type of traveller.

➦ Hit the Beaches: Even in winter, Mauritius beaches are gorgeous. Less crowded, enjoy the tranquility of Flic en Flac or Trou aux Biches. Perfect for sunbathing or just relaxing with a good book. Beaches on northern and western shores will be sheltered from the trade winds.

➦ Whale Watching: This is prime time to see magnificent humpback whales migrating close to the island’s shores. Grab a boat tour and keep your camera ready.

➦ Explore the Markets: From Port Louis to Mahebourg, the markets are buzzing. Shop for souvenirs or try some local snacks.

➦ Hiking and Nature Walks: The cooler weather is perfect for tackling the Black River Gorges National Park or hiking Le Morne Brabant. The views? Absolutely worth it.

➦ Kite Surfing: Windy season is on! If you’re into kite surfing or want to learn, this is your moment.

➦ Tea Plantation Tours: Visit the Bois Cheri Tea Plantation for a taste of local flavours and a wander through lush tea fields. Learn about tea making and taste some of the freshest tea around.

➦ Cultural Tours: Dive into the island’s complex history with visits to the UNESCO Site Aapravasi Ghat, the remains of an immigration depot. And explore the dynamic capital of Port Louis.

➦ Street Food Tastings: Sample Mauritian street food! A delicious blend of Creole, Chinese, and Indian influences, found at the Port Louis markets.

➦ Botanical Garden Visits: Discover the exotic plants and giant water lilies at the Pamplemousses Botanical Garden. I could have crawled into the greenery and stayed here forever.

➦ Stargazing: Clear winter skies mean perfect conditions for stargazing. Head to the east coast for an unobstructed view of the cosmos

October to March: Summer’s On With a Twist (ave. temp 30°C)

Summer means sun, right? In Mauritius, it also means a bit of rain and the odd cyclone warning. It’s the season of lush landscapes and tropical showers.

➦ Peak Summer Season: Embrace the warmth and hit the beautiful beaches for some sun, sea, and water sports.

➦ Underwater Wonders: The warmer weather means this is prime time for snorkelling and diving . You’ll find colourful coral reefs and a variety of sea life waiting to be explored.

➦ Adventures Galore: The weather’s perfect for checking out the island’s natural beauty – think lush forests, scenic waterfalls , and breathtaking hikes. A bit warmer though, than winter!

➦ Fresh Fruits: Savour the taste of the freshest local fruits like mangoes, lychees, and pineapples. It’s a tropical delight at its best, straight from the orchards.

➦ Fishing Season : Get ready for some big game fishing excitement, with marlin and tuna among the prized catches.

➦ More Daylight: Longer days mean you’ve got extra time for all the exploring, from early-morning hikes to late-night strolls on the beach.

These months blend the warmth of summer with the island’s fun-loving spirit, making it a prime time for your Mauritius getaway.

February and March: Festival Time

February and March deserve their own section. In Mauritius, these months are packed with festivals , each offering a unique glimpse into the island’s rich cultural tapestry. Mauritius goes all – it’s your ticket to the island’s heart and soul.

Commemoration of the Abolition of Slavery (February 1): This day marks the abolition of slavery in Mauritius, observed with solemnity and respect.

Thaipoosam Cavadee (Full Moon, Jan or Feb): A Tamil festival of faith and penance, where devotees carry kavadis in honour of Lord Murugan.

Mauritius Independence and Republic Day (March 12): Celebrating the day Mauritius gained independence from Britain in 1968, a national day of pride and joy.

Ugadi (Gudi Padwa) (March or April): The lunar New Year’s Day for many Hindus, celebrated with prayers, music, and delicious food.

Maha Shivaratri (February or March): A night dedicated to Lord Shiva, observed by a night-long vigil, prayers, and fasting by devotees.

Holi (March, Full Moon): The festival of colours celebrates the arrival of spring and the victory of good over evil with vibrant powders.

Spring in Mauritius

Mauritius doesn’t really have a spring, but as September falls between winter and summer, it’s as close as it gets.

The cool winter gradually shifts to warmer summer weather, with pleasant temperatures and less rain. It’s still a bit cooler than summer, with temps reaching up to around 26°C. The rains have dried up, and the days are slowly getting longer.

Autumn in Mauritius

Just as there is no spring, there’s no autumn, either. But May steps in to cover this territory. The air and water are cooling off, and the visitors are thinning out. May is a good time to visit if these aspects appeal to you.

So, When to Book?

Whenever you decide to visit, Mauritius won’t disappoint. But syncing your visit with what you love to do can make your trip epic.

Whether it’s catching the perfect wave, dancing at a local festival, or just relaxing in nature’s lap, Mauritius has a perfect time for everyone. Get packing, and let this island paradise wow you.

Mauritius is an amazing place to visit for several reasons, making it a coveted destination for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and relaxation.

Why Mauritius Should Be On Your Bucket List:

➦ spectacular landscapes:.

From the pristine, white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters to lush mountains and waterfalls in the interior, Mauritius offers breathtaking natural beauty.

➦ Rich Culture:

The island is a melting pot of cultures, including Indian, African, European, and Chinese influences, reflected in its cuisine, music, festivals, and everyday life.

➦ Adventure Activities:

Whether it’s snorkelling and diving in the coral reefs, hiking in the Black River Gorges National Park, or kite surfing at Le Morne, Mauritius caters to adventure seekers.

➦ Luxury Resorts and Spas:

Known for its world-class luxury resorts and spas, Mauritius provides the ultimate relaxation experience, making it perfect for honeymooners and those looking to unwind.

➦ Warm Climate:

With its tropical climate, Mauritius is a year-round destination, though the best times to visit are often cited as May to December for milder weather.

➦ Friendly Locals:

Visitors often praise the warmth and friendliness of the Mauritian people, enhancing the overall travel experience.

Best Time to Visit Mauritius: FAQs

Where do visitors to mauritius come from.

Mauritius attracts tourists from across the globe, but most of its visitors come from:

France: Being a former French colony, Mauritius has strong historical and cultural ties to France. This makes it a popular destination for French tourists.

United Kingdom: The UK is another major source of tourists, due in part to historical connections and direct flights.

South Africa: Proximity and ease of access make Mauritius a favourite holiday spot for South Africans.

India: Cultural ties and the increasing availability of direct flights have made Mauritius a popular destination for Indian travellers.

Germany and Italy: These European countries also contribute significantly to the tourist numbers. They come for the island’s beauty and hospitality.

The blend of breathtaking landscapes, cultural richness, and the hospitality of its people makes Mauritius a unique and delightful destination for travellers from these regions and beyond.

Did the Dodo come from Mauritius?

Yes . As a matter of fact, the dodo, extinct since the late 17th century, is the national bird of Mauritius. It’s a source of pride, and its image can be found on the island’s currency, and many other places around the island.

Summing it Up: Best Time to Visit Mauritius

Naturally, the best time to visit Mauritius really depends on what you’re looking for in your perfect island getaway. You might be aiming to catch the most sublime weather or want to dive into the festival scene. Or you might be eager to explore the natural beauty with fewer crowds in the shoulder seasons.

Mauritius promises an unforgettable experience whatever you’re looking for. So pack your bags and set your sights on this island paradise. Every season brings its own magic, making Mauritius a year-round destination for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

We can’t wait to hear about the memories you’ll make in this stunning corner of the world!

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I had been travelling for years before I first went to Africa. Once I had been on my first safari, I was hooked. Now I go back every chance I get. I've lived in Botswana, explored the wild coast of Namibia, toured Southern Africa and so much more.

There's no place that has more to offer a traveller than this enormous and stunning continent. I write about it here to hopefully inspire you to experience it for yourself, and to make your travels easier. It'll be the trip of your life! Happy travels!

Why winter is the best time to visit Mauritius

Jan 5, 2022 • 6 min read

You can dive into Mauritius' warm waters at any time of year © Getty Images / iStockphoto / Nuture

According to Mark Twain,  Mauritius was the model for heaven. It’s not difficult to see what he meant. Concentric circles of open ocean, a sapphire lagoon and beaches of powdery white sand wrap around the island. It's the perfect setting for luxury resorts and an astonishing range of activities both in and out of the water.

Mauritius has depth of character to go with its good looks. Its rugged interior, fascinating towns and intriguing cultural and culinary mix combine to make this so much more than just a world-class beach destination.

Best of all, the island can be enjoyed year-round, though the busy Mauritian summer (equivalent to the European and US winter) is when most come to take advantage of the blissfully warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether you join the crowds or prefer the quieter off-season, here at the best times to visit Mauritius.

High Season (December–February), is the top time to get out on the water in Mauritius

When it's winter in Europe and North America, it's summer in Mauritius, so the island ticks all the boxes for a perfect warm-weather Christmas-New Year escape. Yes, it can get busy, prices for accommodation and flights peak and the occasional late cyclone is always a possibility. But the balmy temperatures and near-transparent waters are ideal for a vacation spent by, and in, the water. Put simply, Mauritius in summer is everything you’d expect from a tropical, Indian Ocean island.

The top things to do in Mauritius, from beaches to botanical gardens

Have a cheaper and quieter experience during Mauritius' shoulder season (March–April & October–November)

Shoulder-season months in Mauritius mean lower prices. It’s less humid than during the high-season summer months and ever-so-slightly cooler, but without losing that agreeably tropical feel. You’ll share the island with fewer visitors, and underwater visibility is ideal for diving and snorkeling. These months can also be a brilliant time for festivals.

Save and enjoy cooler temperatures during the low season (May–September)

The low season in Mauritius - coinciding with the European and American summer – is cooler, cheaper and almost as appealing as visiting during the more popular months. So long as you avoid the European (especially French) school holidays, it can be lovely and quiet with few other travelers around. If there’s a downside, rougher seas can reduce visibility for divers and snorkelers.

January’s early weeks are some of the busiest of the year, but the rush is already tapering off by the end of the month. Cyclones are always a possibility, but fireworks are far more likely to come from Chinese New Year celebrations, especially in Port Louis . Key Events: Chinese New Year

February is the height of the Mauritian summer and the warm temperatures, clear waters and thinning crowds make this one of the best times to visit the island. During the month of February (or March, depending on the lunar calendar), some half a million Hindus make a pilgrimage to the sacred lake of Grand Bassin for Maha Shivaratri: it’s one of the most memorable cultural events on the calendar. Key Events: Maha Shivaratri

Everything seems to be easing in March, from the risk of cyclones and the high temperatures to the cost of accommodation. It’s an excellent time to visit the east coast of Mauritius in particular (where accommodation in particular can be busy and prohibitively expensive at other times). Festivals are further highlights, from the Fête du Poisson to open the fishing season in Rodrigues , to the colorful Hindu celebration of Holi, when everyone gets doused with water and colored powder. Key Events: Fête du Poisson, Holi

Temperatures are starting to cool, although it’s all relative out here in the tropics. Unless your visit to Mauritius coincides with Easter (when you can expect lots of visitors flying in from Europe, with accommodation price hikes to match), it’s a lovely time to visit. Tamil New Year usually falls in April, much merrymaking in Mauritian towns and themed dinners and cultural performances in many hotels. Key Events: Tamil New Year

May ushers in the cheapest time to visit Mauritius (except during the school holidays in far-off France), and there’s a noticeable shift from balmy to mild temperatures. Rain is also unlikely to upset your travel plans during May.

Even in the depths of a Mauritian winter, it’s still warmer on a beach here than in much of Europe or North America. Despite much of the northern hemisphere being on holiday, June accommodation prices are usually pretty reasonable.

July broadly mirrors June as Mauritius settles into its usual pattern of mild winter temperatures, clear skies and choppy seas that are better for surfing and windsurfing than for diving and snorkeling. Kitesurfers should make their way to the renowned Rodrigues International Kitesurfing Festival, which has been running since 2013. Key Events: Rodrigues International Kitesurfing Festival

You can look forward to the best of the low season in August, when you’re almost guaranteed to have very little humidity and rain, combined with pleasant temperatures. Generally low prices also help, though vacationing Europeans can make things a little busy on the coast.

Many regular visitors will tell you that September is the best time to visit Mauritius. Visitor numbers (and prices) are at their lowest, and temperatures are yet to climb to their summer heights. If you’re anywhere near Port Louis on 9 September, head to the Père Laval Shrine on the city’s outskirts for one of the biggest celebrations of the year for the island's Christians. Key Events: Père Laval Feast Day

October could just be the best time to visit Mauritius for perfect holiday weather. There’s a hint of tropical warmth in the air and the rain and cyclones are still a few months away. The island’s Hindus celebrate Divali (Dipavali), the Tamil Festival of Light, in late October or early November and it can feel like the whole island is joining in the party. Key Events: Divali (Dipavali)

Temperatures are on the rise but prices remain low, people are looking forward to a big peak season and people on the island have a real spring in their step. With the perfect weather and lack of crowds, November really could be the optimum time to visit Mauritius.

December’s early weeks are superb. The Christmas crowds are yet to build and there's fantastic diving and snorkeling and some fabulous festivals to look forward to. Among these are the three-day Festival Kréol (try and celebrate this on Rodrigues if you can) and the Hindu fire-walking ceremony known as Teemeedee, celebrated by the island's Tamil community. Many hotels also organize lavish Christmas events for guests. Key Events: Festival Kréol, Teemeedee, Christmas

Mauritius   is on our 2022 Best in Travel list. For more stories from some of the world’s most exciting destinations  click here .

Safety recommendations and restrictions during a pandemic can change rapidly. Lonely Planet recommends that travelers always check with local authorities for up-to-date guidance before  traveling during Covid-19 .

You may also like: How to explore Mauritius on a budget First time in paradise: the best things to do in Réunion Island  Victoria: the Creole capital of Seychelles has plenty to celebrate

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Best Time To Visit Mauritius

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What is the best time to visit Mauritius?

Mauritius only has two seasons, summer and winter. The best time to visit Mauritius is between April and June and September and December when the weather is most pleasant. You can avoid the peak of summer and winter during these months. The average temperature in Mauritius remains around 25 degrees Celcius which makes it suitable for swimming throughout the year. All the activities and sightseeing in Mauritius can be done throughout the year. The centre of Mauritius has cooler temperatures and higher rainfall, with a difference of 3 to 5 degrees Celcius between the centre and the coastal zones. East Mauritius is windier as it is influenced by southeastern winds, while North and West Mauritius is warmer and drier. October to April is the summer season in Mauritius. The temperature is the highest between December to February, while heavy rainfalls are expected in February and March. The summer season in Mauritius is ideal for diving and deep-sea fishing.  May to September is the winter season in Mauritius when the average temperature ranges around 22 degrees Celcius. Therefore, hiking and other outdoor tours are better during this time. July and August are the windiest months making them ideal for surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing. However, avoid visiting the east coast of Mauritius in July and August as the winds are the strongest during this time of the year.

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Mauritius holiday package with catamaran cruise, mauritius romantic honeymoon package, 6 nights luxurious mauritius package with scuba diving, alluring mauritius tour package with ziplining adventure, mauritius family vacation package (flight ticket included), more about best time to travel to mauritius, high season/peak season (november to january ), low season in mauritius (april to october), shoulder season in mauritius (march, april, and november), mauritius in winter (may-december).

• Winters in Mauritius are not as extreme as other destinations so you can try out most of the activities that can be done during summers in Mauritius.
• Although you can try out surfing but during winters, water sports are a no-no, since the water remains cool. So you can mostly try out adventure sports like Quad-biking, trekking, hiking and other exploration activities.
• If you do not like adventures, then you can go on a heritage sightseeing tour and explore Mauritius’s heritage. If not any of these, then you can just spend a day on the gorgeous beaches of Mauritius.
• Mid-Autumn Festival
• Ganesh Chaturthi

Mauritius Weather in May

Mauritius weather in june, mauritius weather in july, mauritius weather in september, mauritius weather in october, mauritius in summer (november-april).

• Summer months in Mauritius are considered as the best time for trying out water sports such as scuba diving and scuba scooting to get that perfect adrenaline rush.
• Since summers in Mauritius are the warmest, the warm water attracts a lot of tropical marine creatures, which is an added advantage. Other than water sports, the pleasant weather of Mauritian summers is great for trekking and exploring the intriguing features of this island.
• You can also go quad biking. If you are a tea-enthusiast, do visit the Mauritian tea plantations and try out a wide range of teas. 
• Thaipoosam Cavadee
• Chinese Spring Festival

Mauritius Weather in November

Mauritius weather in december, mauritius weather in january, mauritius weather in february, related posts.

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Best Time to Visit Mauritius

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It was very warm (about 28-30 degrees), but mostly cloudy and it rained more!

Weather Rating: 3 stars – Mixed

From 28 April to 13 May 2018 I was in Mauritius, in the north of the island. It rained once during this time, for 15 minutes. Each day was predominantly sunny, the temperature during the day 26 to 29 C°, at night 18C°. Best conditions for a beach holiday and not too warm for excursions in the interior of the island.

Weather Rating: 5 stars – Excellent

It was dry and pleasant throughout. A steady breeze made very pleasant days on the beach possible. In 10 days, it’s only drizzled a bit one afternoon.

it was winter in mauritius, with daily temperatures of 24 – 26 degrees. optimal weather for us.

Although the winter season begins in Mauritius in May, the average daily temperature was between 25-30°C. It was only quite cloudy on 2 days, it rained only a few times in the night. This information applies to the northwest of the island.

Weather Rating: 4 stars – Good

There was a daily shower that did not limit our activities

at the beginning of may we had 10 days of great weather, it was not so hot anymore but still very warm for bathing and lots of sunshine

Dream weather mid-October, two weeks constantly warm and sunny. No rain, perfect!

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone.

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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Strong Taiwan Quake Kills 9, Injures Hundreds

The earthquake was the most powerful to hit the island in 25 years. Dozens of people remained trapped, and many buildings were damaged, with the worst centered in the city of Hualien.

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• Hualien, Taiwan A landslide after the quake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Books flew off shelves as a home shook. @Abalamindo via Storyful
• Taipei, Taiwan Passengers waiting at a train station as some services were suspended. Chiang Ying-Ying/Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan People are rescued from a building that had partially collapsed. TVBS via Associated Press
• Hualien, Taiwan Firefighters rescuing trapped residents from a building. CTI News via Reuters
• Taipei, Taiwan Students evacuated to a school courtyard after the earthquake. Lam Yik Fei for The New York Times
• Guishan Island, Taiwan Rocks tumbling down one side of an island popular for hiking. Lavine Lin via Reuters
• Hualien, Taiwan A building leaned to one side after the quake. Randy Yang via Associated Press
• Ishigaki, Okinawa, Japan Watching news on a rooftop of a hotel after a tsunami warning. Chang W. Lee/The New York Times
• Hualien, Taiwan Motorbikes damaged in the quake. TVBS via Associated Press
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Damage in an apartment Fabian Hamacher/Reuters
• New Taipei City, Taiwan Water cascading down a building during the quake. Wang via Reuters

Meaghan Tobin and Victoria Kim

Here’s what you need to know about the earthquake.

Taiwan was rocked Wednesday morning by the island’s strongest earthquake in a quarter century, a magnitude 7.4 tremor that killed at least nine people, injured more than 800 others and trapped dozens of people.

The heaviest damage was in Hualien County on the island’s east coast, a sleepy, scenic area prone to earthquakes. Footage from the aftermath showed a 10-story building there partially collapsed and leaning heavily to one side, from which residents emerged through windows and climbed down ladders, assisted by rescuers. Three hikers were killed after being hit by falling rocks on a hiking trail in Taroko National Park, according to the county government.

By late afternoon, officials said rescue efforts were underway to try to rescue 127 people who were trapped, many of them on hiking trails in Hualien.

One building in Changhua County, on the island’s west coast, collapsed entirely. The quake was felt throughout Taiwan and set off at least nine landslides, sending rocks tumbling onto Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to local media reports. Rail services were halted at one point across the island.

The earthquake, with an epicenter off Taiwan’s east coast, struck during the morning commute, shortly before 8 a.m. Taiwanese authorities said by 3 p.m., more than 100 aftershocks, many of them stronger than magnitude 5, had rumbled through the area.

In the capital, Taipei, buildings shook for over a minute from the initial quake. Taiwan is at the intersection of the Philippine Sea tectonic plate and the Eurasian plate, making it vulnerable to seismic activity. Hualien sits on multiple active faults, and 17 people died in a quake there in 2018.

Here is the latest:

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people there were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, a holiday across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn the dead and make offerings at their graves. Officials warned the public to stay away from visiting tombs in mountain areas as a precaution, especially because rain was forecast in the coming days.

TSMC, the world’s biggest maker of advanced semiconductors, briefly evacuated workers from its factories but said a few hours later that they were returning to work. Chip production is highly precise, and even short shutdowns can cost millions of dollars.

Christopher Buckley

Lai Ching-te, Taiwan’s vice president, who is also its president-elect, visited the city of Hualien this afternoon to assess the destruction and the rescue efforts, a government announcement said. Mr. Lai, who will become president in May, said the most urgent tasks were rescuing trapped residents and providing medical care. Next, Mr. Lai said, public services must be restored, including transportation, water and power. He said Taiwan Railway’s eastern line could be reopened by Thursday night.

Meaghan Tobin

Taiwan’s fire department has updated its figures, reporting that nine people have died and 934 others have been injured in the quake. Fifty-six people in Hualien County remain trapped.

Shake intensity

Taiwan’s fire department reports that nine people have died and 882 others have been injured in Taiwan. In Hualien County, 131 people remain trapped.

Agnes Chang

Footage shows rocks tumbling down one side of Guishan Island, a popular spot for hiking known as Turtle Island, off the northeast coast of Taiwan. Officials said no fishermen or tourists were injured after the landslide.

The death toll has risen to nine, according to Taiwan government statistics.

Meaghan Tobin, Siyi Zhao

Officials in Taiwan warned residents to not visit their relatives' tombs, especially in the mountains, this weekend during the holiday, known as Ching Ming, meant to honor them. There had already been 100 aftershocks and the forecast called for rain, which could make travel conditions on damaged roads more treacherous.

Crews are working to reach people trapped on blocked roads. As of 1 p.m. local time, roads were impassable due to damage and fallen rock in 19 places, according to the Ministry of Transportation. At least 77 people remain trapped. A bridge before Daqingshui Tunnel appeared to have completely collapsed.

Taiwan’s worst rail disaster in decades — a train derailment in 2021 that killed 49 people — took place on the first day of the Tomb Sweeping holiday period that year, in the same region as the earthquake.

The earthquake hit Taiwan as many people here were preparing to travel for Tomb Sweeping Day, or Ching Ming, a day across the Chinese-speaking world when people mourn their dead, especially by making offerings at their graves. Now those plans will be disrupted for many Taiwanese.

The holiday weekend would typically see a spike in travel as people visit family across Taiwan. Currently, both rail transport and highways are blocked in parts of Hualien, said Transport Minister Wang Guo-cai. Work is underway to restore rail transportation in Hualien, and two-way traffic is expected to be restored at noon on Thursday, he said.

Taiwan’s preparedness has evolved in response to past quakes.

Taiwan’s earthquake preparedness has evolved over the past few decades in response to some of the island’s largest and most destructive quakes .

In the years after a 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in 1999, the authorities established an urban search-and-rescue team and opened several emergency medical operation centers, among other measures .

And in 2018, after a quake in the eastern coastal city of Hualien killed 17 people and caused several buildings to partially collapse, the government ordered a wave of building inspections .

Taiwan has also been improving its early warning system for earthquakes since the 1980s. And two years ago, it rolled out new building codes that, among other things, require owners of vulnerable buildings to install ad-hoc structural reinforcements.

So how well prepared was Taiwan when a 7.4 magnitude quake struck near Hualien on Wednesday morning, killing at least seven people and injuring hundreds more?

Across the island, one building collapsed entirely, 15 others were in a state of partial collapse and another 67 were damaged, the island’s fire department said on Wednesday afternoon . Structural engineers could not immediately be reached for comment to assess that damage, or the extent to which building codes and other regulations might have either contributed to it or prevented worse destruction.

As for search-and-rescue preparedness, Taiwan is generally in very good shape, said Steve Glassey, an expert in disaster response who lives in New Zealand.

“ The skill sets, the capabilities, the equipment, the training is second to none,” said Dr. Glassey, who worked with Taipei’s urban search-and-rescue team during the response to a devastating 2011 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. “They’re a very sharp operation.”

But even the best urban search-and-rescue team will be stretched thin if an earthquake causes multiple buildings to collapse, Dr. Glassey said.

Taiwan has options for requesting international help with search-and-rescue efforts. It could directly ask another country, or countries, to send personnel. And if multiple teams were to get involved, it could ask the United Nations to help coordinate them, as it did after the 1999 earthquake.

Pierre Peron, a spokesman for the United Nations, said on Wednesday afternoon that no such request had yet been made as a result of the latest earthquake.

Meaghan Tobin contributed reporting.

At least seven people have died and 736 have been injured as a result of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Another 77 people remained trapped in Hualien County, many of them on hiking trails. Search and rescue operations are underway, said the fire department.

Aftershocks of magnitudes between 6.5 and 7 were likely to occur over the next three or four days, said Wu Chien-fu, director of the Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Center, at a news conference.

As of 2 p.m., 711 people had been injured across Taiwan, the fire department said, and 77 people in Hualien County remained trapped. The four who were known to have died were in Hualien.

Victoria Kim

Hualien County is a quiet and scenic tourist destination.

Hualien County on Taiwan’s east coast is a scenic, sleepy tourist area tucked away from the island’s urban centers, with a famous gorge and aquamarine waters. It also happens to sit on several active faults , making it prone to earthquakes.

The county has a population of about 300,000, according to the 2020 census, about a third of whom live in the coastal city of Hualien, the county seat. It is one of the most sparsely populated parts of Taiwan. About three hours by train from the capital, Taipei, the city describes itself as the first place on the island that’s touched by the sun.

Hualien County is home to Taroko National Park, one of Taiwan’s most popular scenic areas. Visitors come to explore the Taroko Gorge, a striated marble canyon carved by the Liwu River, which cuts through mountains that rise steeply from the coast. The city of Hualien is a popular destination as a gateway to the national park.

According to the state-owned Central News Agency, three hikers were trapped on a trail near the entrance to the gorge on Wednesday, after the quake sent rocks falling. Two of them were found dead, the news agency said. Administrators said many roads within the park had been cut off by the earthquake, potentially trapping hikers, according to the report.

Earthquakes have rattled Hualien with some regularity. In 2018, 17 people were killed and hundreds of others injured when a magnitude 6.5 quake struck just before midnight, its epicenter a short distance northeast of the city of Hualien.

Many of the victims in that quake were in a 12-story building that was severely tilted, the first four floors of which were largely crushed, according to news reports from the time. The next year, the area was shaken by a 6.1-magnitude earthquake that injured 17 people.

The area has some of the highest concentrations of Taiwan’s aboriginal population, with several of the island’s Indigenous tribes calling the county home .

The county government in Hualien released a list of people that had been hospitalized with injuries, which stood at 118 people as of midday Wednesday.

Across Taiwan, one building fell down entirely, in Changhua County on the west coast, and 15 buildings partially collapsed, Taiwan’s fire department said. Another 67 buildings were damaged. One of the partially collapsed structures was a warehouse in New Taipei City where four people were rescued, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency. Another 12 were rescued at a separate New Taipei City building where the foundation sank into the ground.

Peggy Jiang, who manages The Good Kid, a children’s bookstore down the street from the partially collapsed Uranus Building in Hualien, said it was a good thing they had yet to open when the quake struck. The area is now blocked off by police and rescue vehicles. “Most people in Hualien are used to earthquakes,” she said. “But this one was particularly scary, many people ran in the street immediately afterward.”

Lin Jung, 36, who manages a shop selling sneakers in Hualien, said he had been at home getting ready to take his 16-month-old baby to a medical appointment when the earthquake struck. He said it felt at first like a series of small shocks, then “suddenly it turned to an intense earthquake shaking up and down.” The glass cover of a ceiling lamp fell and shattered. “All I could do was protect my baby.”

Chris Buckley ,  Paul Mozur ,  Meaghan Tobin and John Yoon

The earthquake damaged buildings and a highway in Hualien.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday damaged many buildings and a major highway in Hualien, a city on the eastern coast, and it knocked out power as it rocked the island.

Across Taiwan, the quake and its aftershocks caused one building to completely collapse and 15 others to partially collapse, according to Taiwan’s fire department. Sixty-seven other buildings sustained damage.

Two tall buildings in Hualien that sustained particularly extensive damage were at the center of the rescue efforts there. Most damage across the city was not life-threatening, said Huang Hsuan-wan, a reporter for a local news site.

Where buildings were reported damaged in Hualien City

“A lot of roads were blocked off. There are a lot of walls toppled over onto cars,” Derik du Plessis, 44, a South African resident of Hualien, said shortly after the earthquake. He described people rushing around the city to check on their houses and pick up their children. One of his friends lost her house, he said.

One of the damaged buildings in Hualien, a 10-story structure called the Uranus Building that housed a mix of homes and shops, was tilted over and appeared to be on the verge of collapse. Many of its residents managed to flee, but some were missing, said Sunny Wang, a journalist based in the city. Rescuers were trying to reach the basement, concerned that people might be trapped there.

Photographs of the initial damage in Hualien showed another building, a five-story structure, leaning to one side, with crushed motorcycles visible at the ground-floor level. Bricks had fallen off another high-rise, leaving cracks and holes in the walls.

The quake also set off at least nine landslides on Suhua Highway in Hualien, according to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, which said part of the road had collapsed.

Taiwan’s fire department said four people had been killed in the earthquake.

Across Taiwan, 40 flights have been canceled or delayed because of the earthquake, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Operation Center.

President Tsai Ing-wen visited Taiwan’s national emergency response center this morning, where she was briefed about the response efforts underway by members of the ministries of defense, transportation, economic affairs and agriculture, as well as the fire department.

A look at Taiwan’s strongest earthquakes.

The magnitude 7.4 earthquake that hit Taiwan on Wednesday morning was the strongest in 25 years, the island’s Central Weather Administration said.

At least four people died after the quake struck off Taiwan’s east coast, officials said.

Here’s a look back at some of the major earthquakes in modern Taiwanese history:

Taichung, 1935

Taiwan’s deadliest quake registered a magnitude of 7.1 and struck near the island’s west coast in April 1935, killing more than 3,200 people, according to the Central Weather Administration. More than 12,000 others were injured and more than 50,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Tainan, 1941

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake in December 1941, which struck southwestern Taiwan, caused several hundred deaths, the United States Geological Survey said.

Chi-Chi, 1999

A 7.6 magnitude earthquake in central Taiwan killed nearly 2,500 people in September 1999. The quake, which struck about 90 miles south-southwest of Taipei, was the second-deadliest in the island’s history, according to the U.S.G.S. and the Central Weather Administration. More than 10,000 people were injured and more than 100,000 homes were destroyed or damaged.

Yujing, 2016

A 6.4 magnitude earthquake in February 2016 caused a 17-story apartment complex in southwestern Taiwan to collapse, killing at least 114 people . The U.S.G.S. later said that 90 earthquakes of that scale or greater had occurred within 250 kilometers, or 155 miles, of that quake’s location over the previous 100 years.

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

‘20 or 30 Super Bowls.’ Drivers and Officials Brace for Massive Eclipse Traffic Jams

M elissa Schleig, a postmaster who lives in Strasburg, Virginia, drove more than 400 miles southwest to the Smoky Mountains to see the 2017 solar eclipse. The travel experience was miserable.

“It should have taken us about six to seven hours to go down there but it took us about a little over six hours just to go about two hours south of here. It was insane,” said Schleig, who began to drive down the day before the eclipse. 

At least 5 million people traveled for the 2017 eclipse, according to a journal by the Institute of Transportation Engineers, but even more are expected to gather to witness this year’s total solar eclipse on April 8. Already, an estimated 31.6 million people currently live in the roughly 115-mile wide path of totality —compared to the 12 million that did in 2017. 

“Having a total solar eclipse pass through the U.S. is kind of like having 20 or 30 Super Bowls happening all at once,” says Richard Fienberg, project manager of the American Astronomical Society's Solar Eclipse Task Force. “So many people are gathering for the spectacle over a long distance.”

Read More : How Cities Around the U.S. Are Celebrating the Eclipse

Transportation agencies are coordinating with the National Weather Service to spot areas of high interest for eclipse viewing to better prepare for traffic delays, but they say the impacts are unavoidable. “The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) knows that there is great interest in this rare solar event, and that’s why we want everyone to be aware of the real traffic and safety impacts,” FHWA Administrator Shailen Bhatt told TIME in an email. “We want people to remember this day and this experience—that may be once in a lifetime—for all the right reasons.”

This year Schleig, who is part of a Facebook eclipse chasing group, is traveling to the Canadian side of Niagara Falls to view the eclipse. And she’s hoping to learn from her 2017 mistakes: she’s planning to avoid the traffic by extending her trip from April 4 through the 10th, instead of driving the day before like she did last time.

How bad will traffic be? 

The FHWA says Schleig has the right idea. It is advising people to drive early, and stay longer in the town where they’re viewing the eclipse to avoid traffic. The FHWA says it's hard to predict which cities or states will be most impacted by the eclipse traffic-wise, but they predict up to 5 million people will be traveling to the path of totality between Texas and Maine.   

While drivers and officials are looking to the 2017 eclipse for hints of what is to come, traffic will likely be much worse this time. That’s because the 2024 path of totality—the area where the moon will completely obscure the sun—is a 3-hour drive away from 8 major cities with a population greater than 2 million, including Chicago, Houston, and Toronto. By contrast, the 2017 eclipse path of totality was a 3-hour drive away from only three larger metropolitan areas: St. Louis, Kansas City, and Portland, Ore.

Read More : How to Use Your Smartphone to Take Photos of the Solar Eclipse

If the expected 5 million visitors were to leave the path of totality as soon as the eclipse ends, the ensuing traffic would be equivalent to 71 sold out football games ending all at once, according to a journal by the Institute of Transportation Engineers.

Where are people traveling?

Several eclipse chasers, like 62-year-old photographer Beth Hutter, told TIME that they were planning to travel to Texas because it has the lowest chance of cloud cover. “We didn't want to take a chance that the day of the eclipse it [would be] overcast and rainy,” said Hutter, who is traveling from Michigan to Kileen, Texas five days before the eclipse. “We made the mistake of trying to drive home the same day [for the 2017 eclipse]... So thankfully, because we're going to be right there, I don't think we're going to have to deal with the traffic nightmares that most people are going to have.”

Texas Department of Transportation media relations director Adam Hammons says that up to one million out-of-state visitors may be traveling to view the eclipse, in addition to the millions that already live in the state and will likely also be driving to different areas/cities.  

Hammons says the eclipse runs through I-35, which is a significant corridor in the state that traverses through small towns as well as larger metro areas like Austin, Dallas, and Fort Worth. “It really goes through a large portion of Texas,” he says. “There’s going to be some possible significant delays on these major corridors and/or farm roads…Give yourself extra travel time. Plan ahead your trip, plan your route,” Drivetexas.org, a website that shares real-time traffic updates, could be helpful in deciding which way to go. 

Regardless of where you choose to see the eclipse, Hammons says it's important to have a safe, designated place to park and enjoy the experience—as long as it's off the shoulder of the highway.

Read More : Here’s What Determines How Long the Total Eclipse Will Last in Your Location

Other states like Arkansas, which has a population of some 3 million people , could see anywhere from 300,000 to 1.5 million visitors. (State officials have cited varying estimates .) The most extreme traffic will be seen along AR Highway 70 to Benton, AR Highway 65 from Conway to Greenbrier, and more. "There’s no doubt our Interstates and highways could be tested," Arkansas Department of Transportation Director Lorie H. Tudor told TIME in a statement, "but we have put forth our best planning efforts and we are cautiously optimistic that we are as prepared as possible to address any foreseeable issues that may arise."

New York is another state expecting a high volume of visitors and traffic. Many residents and out-of-state visitors will be traveling to the western and northern regions of the state, with Niagara Falls being an area of high interest. "We are expecting as many as a million people to come to Erie County solely for the eclipse," says Peter Anderson, press secretary for the Erie County executive, where Niagara Falls is based. According to data collected by Priceline and shared with TIME, Buffalo, New York has the second highest average airfare price compared to the travel cost to seven cities along the path of totality— including Dallas, Indianapolis, and Cleveland—at $999, and the most expensive average nightly hotel room cost among those cities listed at $476.

Still, for many of the eclipse watchers, braving bad traffic will be worth it. “It's just one of those things where you just realize your place in the world, and how small you are in comparison to the rest of the universe,” says Hutter. “The world just kind of stops.”

More Must-Reads From TIME

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Taiwan's strongest earthquake in 25 years kills at least 9

HONG KONG — Taiwan was shaken Wednesday by its most powerful earthquake in 25 years, a major trembler that killed at least nine people, injured a thousand more, collapsed hundreds of buildings, and triggered tsunami warnings across the region.

Some 143 people, many of them tourists in badly-damaged hotels, were feared trapped in the ruins, the Taiwan National Fire Agency reported.

Rescue efforts were underway to free 71 workers trapped in two rock quarries in the hardest-hit Hualien region, the NFA said. There were also reports that multiple people were trapped in eight collapsed tunnels in and around Hualien City, about 70 miles southeast of the Taiwanese capital Taipei.

The 7.4 magnitude quake happened around 8 a.m. local time (8 p.m. Tuesday ET) at a depth of about 21 miles, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The epicenter was about 11 miles south-southwest of Hualien City, on the island’s Pacific coast.

It was the strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan since 1999, when a 7.6 magnitude tremor killed about 2,400 people, said Wu Chien-fu, director of Taiwan’s Seismological Center.

While 1,011 people have so far been reported injured, Taiwanese fire officials warned that that figure — along with the death toll — could rise in the coming days.

The authorities have still not been able to reach at least 50 people who were riding in mini-buses through Taroko National Park when the quake struck and knocked out local phone networks.

Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen said a disaster response center had been set up and that the National Army would provide support to local governments. She also warned her constituents to be wary of aftershocks.

“I would like to remind everyone not to take the elevator for the time being, and to pay more attention to safety,” the president said.

Annie Lima, an American who has lived in Taiwan for almost 17 years, was visiting friends in Hualien on Tuesday when the building they were in began to tremble. She said there continued to be aftershocks in the afternoon, hours after the initial quake.

“It was pretty scary,” she told NBC News. “In all the years that I’ve lived here and in Southern California before that I’ve felt a lot of earthquakes, but this was by far the strongest and the most frightening.” 

When the shaking started, Lima said she and her husband ran for the nearest doorway.

“Even there in a doorway on the second floor, we could barely keep our balance, you know, holding both sides of the doorway,” she said. “And all around us things were falling off the walls and off shelves, smashing and crashing everywhere.”

Videos on social media showed two buildings in Hualien, one nine stories tall and the other five stories tall, that appeared to be partially pancaked and twisted into odd angles.

Jason Delickta, an American living in the nearby community of Meilun, said his home sustained some damage but his restaurant in Hualien, the Salt Lick Smokehouse & Grill, was “quite a bit worse.”

“We lost most of our plates, because they’re all on top of the line, and so they all were shaking and fell off,” he said. “We lost a lot of liquor bottles, beer bottles, glasses, things like that.”

Delickta said he and other local business operators had been expecting an influx of visitors this weekend. It's the start of a traditional Chinese festival known as Tomb-Sweeping Day, when people honor their ancestors. But the rail service has been disrupted by the earthquake.

“The damage to our restaurant wasn’t so bad, but the economic damage for this town will be,” said Delickta, who was also in Hualien in 2018 when a 6.4-magnitude earthquake killed 17 people. "It’ll be more because of the loss of revenue."

Hualien City has a population of around 106,000. The county’s population is around 340,000.

The earthquake was also felt in all parts of Taiwan, the Central News Agency reported. Metro systems in Taipei, the capital, as well as the cities of Taichung and Kaohsiung, were suspended before mostly resuming, the agency said.

More than 87,000 households had their power knocked out by the quake and the subsequent series of aftershocks, the biggest of which measured 6.5, according to Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration.

A live camera on YouTube captured the moment at 7:58 a.m. local time when the earth began shaking at Liyu Lake near Hualien.

Taiwan is home to TSMC, one of the biggest companies in the island's crucial semiconductor manufacturing industry . A spokesperson said its safety systems were operating normally and that some fabrication plants had been evacuated as a preventive measure.

“All personnel are safe, and those evacuated are beginning to return to their workplaces,” the company said in a statement. “The company is currently confirming the details of the impact.”

Earlier Wednesday, officials in Japan issued a tsunami warning and an evacuation order for coastal areas of the southern prefecture of Okinawa, warning of waves up to 3 meters (about 10 feet) high. As of late morning, the biggest reported wave was 30 centimeters (about 12 inches) on the Japanese island of Yonaguni, which is close to Taiwan.

A tsunami warning and evacuation orders were also issued and later rescinded in parts of the Philippines.

Tremors were reported elsewhere in the region, including by social media users in Fujian, a province on China’s southeast coast that sits across from Taiwan. Videos posted online also showed chandeliers swaying in cities in other parts of China including Shanghai and Hangzhou.

In the Chinese territory of Hong Kong , the Hong Kong Observatory said it had received more than 100 reports of tremors, likening the vibration to the “passing of light trucks.”

A spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office in China, which claims the self-ruling island as its territory, extended “sincere condolences to the affected compatriots in Taiwan,” and said they would closely monitor the situation and were ready to provide disaster relief assistance.

Jennifer Jett reported from Hong Kong, Janis Mackey Frayer reported from Beijing, and Corky Siemaszko reported from New York.

Jennifer Jett is the Asia Digital Editor for NBC News, based in Hong Kong.

Janis Mackey Frayer is a Beijing-based correspondent for NBC News.

Corky Siemaszko is a senior reporter for NBC News Digital.

• المملكة العربية السعودية

Best Time to Visit

Mauritius enjoys a relatively mild climate. Although temperatures are rather moderate throughout the year with occasional rainfall, the most pleasant times to visit the island are between the months of April and June and between September and December. As Mauritius is located in the southern hemisphere, the summer and winter months are opposite to seasons in Europe.

Seasons Summer: November to April

The weather is hot and humid during these months, with peaks in temperatures occurring in the months of December, January and February. Rainfall is abundant, especially on the central plateau. The highest rainfall normally occurs in the months of February and March. Daylight hours typically run from 5.30am to 7.00pm.

This is the best time for scuba diving – especially December through to March – and for deep-sea fishing. The cyclonic season extends right the way through from November to April. Most of the time, the cyclones manage to avoid Mauritius because of the small size of the island. However, if they come close enough, the bad weather may affect vegetation and certain wooden buildings. Please rest assured that beach resorts have been constructed in such a way as to be able to resist strong cyclonic winds.

Winter: May to October

The temperature is cooler during this season, and prevailing winds tend to blow over the island from the east and south-east. The lowest temperatures are felt in August (20°C on the coast). Daylight hours typically run from 6.45am to 5.45pm. This is the best season for surfing (June to August).

On the central plateau, which is some 600 metres above sea level, the average day temperature is between 20°C in August and 26°C in February. On the coast, the temperatures are higher by about three to five degrees. The northern and the western parts of the island are warmer and drier than the eastern and the southern regions.

Watch CBS News

Earthquake maps show where seismic activity shook the Northeast today

By Lucia Suarez Sang

Updated on: April 5, 2024 / 7:51 PM EDT / CBS News

Residents across the Northeast were rattled by a  4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook  the densely populated New York City metropolitan area and much of the surrounding region on Friday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey was quick to release maps showing the spot where the quake was centered, in New Jersey, and the area where it was felt.

The USGS reported the quake occurred about 7 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. It indicated that the quake might have been felt by more than 42 million people. There were several aftershocks later in the day, including one with a magnitude of 4.0.

People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

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More from CBS News

How are earthquakes measured? How today's event stacks up to past quakes

What causes earthquakes? The science behind why they happen

Earthquake snarls air and train travel in the New York City area

NYC, New Jersey earthquake witnesses share first-hand accounts

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When is the best time to visit Mauritius?

• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Mauritius is toward the end of the year, from October through to December, when temperatures are hottest. However, Mauritius has an enviable subtropical climate that normally brings sun, warmth, and blue skies, so expect perfect beach weather for most of the year.

The Chamarel Mountains in the south can get rain at any time of year, which provides them with a luxuriant green covering, but the rest of the island generally only sees prolonged rain in January and February, when cyclones roll in from the Indian Ocean.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Mauritius

Visiting Mauritius in January

Early January is very popular due to the Christmas holidays and escaping the Northern Hemisphere winter. However, this time of year is prone to cyclones and rain so is not a reliable time to travel.

Visiting Mauritius in February

February is affected by cyclones, so we would advise against traveling at this time.

Events & Festivals

• Holi festival (end of February or March): Celebrating the beginning of spring, it's also known as the Festival of Colours due to the brightly colored powder and water that is thrown around the streets, covering everyone in its path.

Visiting Mauritius in March

March is a popular time to visit Mauritius. The weather is hot, but it can also be humid with occasional rainfall.

Visiting Mauritius in April

April is hot, with temperatures hitting 30°C.

Visiting Mauritius in May

May is one of the best months to travel to Mauritius. The temperatures are warm, but the humidity has lifted, making for a more comfortable climate. There are also some fantastic offers to take advantage of at this time of year, and it's a good time to travel if you prefer to have more space to yourself.

Visiting Mauritius in June

June is very pleasant, offering warm, sunny days. Those who prefer hotter weather may find it a bit cooler, with average highs of 24°C, and you may need to wear warm layers for alfresco evenings.

Visiting Mauritius in July

July is a popular time of year due to the summer vacations in the Northern Hemisphere. The trade winds pick up, making some of the less sheltered beaches breezy and bringing temperatures down. In general, average highs are around 23°C.

Visiting Mauritius in August

August follows the pattern of July, with warm days that are perfect for sheltered beaches, but you will appreciate a jumper or coat in the evenings.

• Ganesh Chaturthi festival (August or September): This Hindu festival honoring the elephant-headed god Ganesh is a public holiday in Mauritius. Colorful Ganesh statues are displayed publicly and at home before being immersed in a body of water.

Visiting Mauritius in September

The trade winds die down during September and the temperatures start to rise once again.

Visiting Mauritius in October

October tends to be the driest month, with comfortable average highs of 25°C. It can be quite popular; particularly around half term dates for family vacations.

• Diwali (October/November): With its significant Indian/Hindu population, Mauritius sees enthusiastic Diwali celebrations, with twinkling candles and lamps lit across the island to mark the Festival of Lights.

Visiting Mauritius in November

In November the temperatures start to rise, as does the humidity. Gearing up for tropical summer rains, this month can be a real mixture. Some days may be more humid than others, but overall it's still a good time to visit Mauritius.

Visiting Mauritius in December

December is one of the busiest months for visitors to Mauritius; especially over the festive period. Humidity builds throughout the month and it is likely to rain; particularly around Christmas and New Year. However, the rain is normally a heavy shower and helps lower the humidity. Afterwards, the sun usually shines through and it dries up quickly.

Mauritius Climate Guide

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Travel advice

Practical tips for traveling to Mauritius, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest Government of Canada travel advice.

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