What to Pack and Wear in Mauritius For 2023?

Mark Twain’s famous sentence that God created a paradise in the image of Mauritius says enough to get an idea of the beauty of this African island.

Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius belongs to the Mascarene Islands archipelago, formed by a series of volcanic eruptions.

A coral reef surrounds Mauritius. This reef is a natural barrier for big waves but also sharks.

Although there are many sharks in the Indian Ocean, they are extremely rare in Mauritius, so swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving here are considered absolutely safe.

Mauritius is known for its turquoise, crystal clear water and incredible white sand beaches.

Flora and fauna on the island are fascinating. Giant turtles, flying foxes, hundreds of plants with colorful flowers, and the extinct dodo form part of the specific world for which Mauritius is known.

The underwater world is equally exotic, where you can meet turtles, dolphins, and shoals of beautifully colored fish. With warm water all year round, it’s always the perfect time to snorkel and swim in Mauritius.

Although images of paradise beaches are the first thing that comes to mind when talking about Mauritius, this island also offers many other opportunities for enjoyment, fun, and adventure.

A walk through the fascinating nature, hiking, a tour of waterfalls, and sightseeing in the zone called “Seven Coloured Earths” are ideal activities for nature lovers.

Animal lovers can enjoy whale watching on the west coast of Mauritius, swimming with dolphins, or even the unique experience of walking with lions in Casela Nature Parks.

A zipline ride and suspension bridge in the Valley of Colors, along with karting, rafting, and skydiving, will satisfy the taste of adrenaline junkies.

For those who enjoy a quieter pastime, it will be interesting to know that in Mauritius, they can play golf on fantastic courses of different difficulty levels.

Golf is part of the tradition in Mauritius, where the first club was opened at the beginning of the 20th century.

The culture of Mauritius is just as exciting as nature.

The combination of different influences and populations of Indian, African, Chinese, and European settlers create an unusual mix of cultures.

The most widely spoken language is Mauritian Creole, and the official languages are French and English (spoken by an extremely small percentage of the population).

There is no official religion. Among the people, there are mostly Hindus, Catholics, and Muslims. Still, many other religions are also present.

In Mauritius, it is not unusual to see a mosque, a church, and a Hindu temple next to each other.

In keeping with the different cultural influences, the local food is also a mixture of Indian, French, and Creole cuisine. It is intensely flavored and very spicy.

However, in Mauritius, you can find restaurants that offer food from various parts of the world, including even international fast-food chains.

The currency used in Mauritius is the rupee. Although you can pay by card in most places, you will need cash for some services.

Climate in Mauritius

The mild tropical climate in Mauritius makes temperatures pleasant throughout the year. Mauritius has two seasons.

Since it is located in the southern hemisphere, summer lasts from November to April, while winter lasts from June to September.

May and October are transitional months that bring little precipitation and warm but not too hot days.

Rain is expected during the summer, but it’s usually short showers and thunderstorms that quickly pass and give way to sunshine. The wind often blows from the southeast, especially during winter.

Mauritius has many different microclimates. So if it’s raining where you are right now, it can easily happen that you’ll encounter clear skies just a few kilometers away.

The warm season is also the period of cyclones. However, they are rare in Mauritius. Also, hotels and houses are prepared to withstand cyclones, so there is nothing to worry about.

What to Pack for Mauritius?

The golden rule, wherever you travel, is not to overstuff your suitcase.

Pack only the essentials. It should be a relatively easy task when traveling to Mauritius.

If you are traveling between November and April, the most important would be beach gear: swimwear, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, and beach towel.

Outside the beach, you will wear light summer clothes during this time of year, and you may need long sleeves only in the evening and when visiting religious facilities.

Summer is the rainy season, so pack a raincoat or a small umbrella.

You will need a slightly warmer wardrobe for the rest of the year. Temperatures during the day are enjoyable and average around 25°C (77°F).

Still, it is a bit cooler at night, especially in the island’s interior.

What to Wear in Mauritius?

Clothes you wear to Mauritius should only be of natural materials such as cotton, linen, or silk. Mauritius is too warm for synthetics.

Mauritius is not too conservative, but there are some dress codes.

For example, you can wear whatever swimsuit you want on the beach, but you can’t go topless.

Also, there are no nudist beaches in Mauritius.

A T-shirt, tank top, and shorts are fine during the day unless you visit religious sites. In sacred places, modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is expected.

Also, most hotels and restaurants have a dress code in the evening. Men should wear long pants and closed shoes. Women can wear a T-shirt and trousers or a summer dress. Sandals are acceptable for women, but they shouldn’t wear flip-flops.

Dressing Tips for Women

Summer dresses made from breathable materials are a great choice, so pack at least one. The advantage is that you can wear them on more or less all occasions.

For example, a summer maxi dress is a good choice for the beach, a walk, and dinner in a restaurant. In addition, it can be combined very well with exciting jewelry and summer hats with a wide brims.

If you feel better in sports clothes, choose a tank top, T-shirt, shorts, or capri pants. However, don’t forget to change your clothes when you go to dinner, as most hotels expect slightly more formal wear.

A summer romper or jumpsuit is also a great, adaptable piece of clothing. You will feel comfortable in it both on the beach and during a walk. Also, a jumpsuit can be a classy evening wardrobe with the right shoes and jewelry.

Shirts and thin sweatshirts are a good choice in winter and during summer evenings or in air-conditioned rooms. Summer in Mauritius (from November to April) is a period of high temperatures and frequent rains, so bring a thin raincoat. During the winter you will need a light jacket in the evenings.

In Mauritius, there are many sacred places of different religions. The rules aren’t the same everywhere, but you don’t want to risk offending anyone, so cover your arms and legs when entering any temple. It is unacceptable to enter some temples with leather items, so always remove belts, bags, and leather shoes just in case.

A sarong or pashmina is also a handy piece of clothing in Mauritius. You can use it to cover yourself before entering the temple, or you can use it to protect yourself from the sun or insects. A pashmina and sarong can also transform your daytime outfit into an elegant evening outfit.

Dressing Tips for Men

T-shirts, polo shirts, shorts, and cargo capri pants are the best choices for men. The dress code in the evening is smart casual.

Then you can wear long pants and a shirt. Linen pants are a good option and are very comfortable to wear during the day.

Leave your jeans at home as most hotels and restaurants do not allow them.

Between June and September, you will also need some warmer clothes. Plan to dress in layers so that you are not too hot during the sunny hours and cold in the mornings and evenings. Pack thin hoodies and sweaters.

It would be best if you also had a light jacket for evening chills at this time of year. Choose practical models that are easy to pack and do not take up much space in your luggage.

If you are not in the habit of carrying a backpack, choose a jacket with many pockets where you can pack all the small things you need for daily tours or walks.

Even in summer, in sacred places, follow the dress code and wear full-length pants. Before entering, remove all accessories made of leather.

Footwear for visiting Mauritius

For beach time in Mauritius, you will need flip-flops the most. Please don’t rely on buying them when you get to Mauritius. Bring your own.

Flip-flops and other beach gear in Mauritius can be much more expensive than you expect, especially in hotel shops. Flip-flops are comfortable for short walks but don’t plan on walking in them for long if you want to avoid blisters.

Also, you won’t be allowed to dine in flip-flops at most restaurants and hotels.

Swimming shoes are also great, especially if you plan to go diving or do some water sports. Swimming shoes protect your feet from coral, sea urchins, and scratches from shells and rocks.

Bring sandals or flat shoes if you plan excursions and long walks. In some hotels, men will be expected to wear closed shoes during the evening.

During the winter period, bring sneakers or flat shoes. During the day it will be warm enough for sandals, but in the evening you will be more comfortable in closed shoes.

What else to pack for Mauritius?

In Mauritius, you will probably spend most of your time on the beach, so make sure you have everything you need to enjoy the sun and sea safely. Of course, you can also buy all these things on the island, but the prices are pretty high.

The sun is intense in Mauritius, so sunscreen with a high protection factor is a must. Bring enough so that you don’t have to buy more in Mauritius.

Sunglasses with UV protection will protect your eyes on the beach and during other activities. Also, they can be the perfect fashion accessory for your favorite outfit.

Bring a hat to protect your face and head from the intense sun. Choose hats with a wide brim and in bright colors.

In Mauritius, you can swim all year round. A bikini or one-piece swimsuit for women and swim trunks for men will be at the top of your packing list no matter what time of year you travel. Bring plenty of beachwear to be relaxed about drying and changing.

For going to the beach, excursions, hiking, and various other activities you plan, it is helpful to have a backpack with many compartments.

Backpacks like this are much more practical than bags because they can fit many things, and you won’t waste time looking for something that got lost inside.

Pack an extra layer of clothing, a water bottle, an umbrella, and all the other small items in different compartments, and enjoy knowing that you have everything you need on your back.

At the same time, your hands are free to make memories with your camera.

The summer months in Mauritius are the hot but also the wet season. Therefore, pack a small travel umbrella or raincoat if traveling between November and April. In addition, it is a good idea to bring a backpack rain cover to keep your stuff dry.

Tap water in Mauritius is unsafe to drink. Bring a water bottle with a filter to avoid wasting money on bottled water and contributing to plastic pollution.

These reusable bottles are handy, especially for people who travel a lot, because drinking water is available with them, no matter where you are in the world. Also, it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout the day in the Mauritian heat.

Don’t forget to pack a personal hygiene kit, a small first aid kit, and a travel sewing kit. In addition, because of the high humidity in the air, women may need cosmetic products to keep their hair tidy.

Finally, don’t forget your mosquito repellent, as there are mosquitoes in Mauritius most of the year.

A camera will be valuable to you in Mauritius, especially if you are a passionate photographer. There are plenty of sights and landscapes on this island that you’ll want to capture with your camera.

In addition, the underwater world is unbelievably beautiful in Mauritius, so it’s worth bringing a waterproof camera.

Also, pack everything that will help you use your technical devices smoothly in Mauritius. You’ll need a power bank, SD cards, a travel adapter for power outlets, and a voltage converter.

What not to bring to Mauritius?

In the first place, avoid any clothes made of synthetic materials. A tropical climate is unsuitable for artificial materials because you will be too hot, sweat, and your clothes will stick to your body.

You can also leave your jeans at home. It’s too hot for them in Mauritius, and many places have a no-jeans policy.

Women can save space in their luggage by not bringing high heels. These shoes are very impractical for Mauritius, so choosing elegant flat shoes or sandals for your fashion combinations is better.

Instead of a thick beach towel, pack a thin microfiber towel. You will save space in your suitcase, and a microfiber towel will dry much faster than a classic beach towel.

You can also leave the hair dryer at home. Most hotels in Mauritius have a hairdryer in rooms. You can also dry your hair naturally and more healthily in the sun.

What to wear in Mauritius in January?

Summer in Mauritius lasts from November to April and is in full swing during January. With an average daily temperature of 26°C (79°F) and maximum temperatures above 31°C (88°F), January is the warmest month of the year in Mauritius.

The average sea temperature is as high as 28°C (82°F), making you want to spend the whole day swimming. During January, even the nights in Mauritius are warm, with temperatures dropping to an average of 22°C (72°F).

Remember that summer in Mauritius is also the rainy season. Therefore, you will experience a few rainy days if you visit Mauritius in January. Don’t worry about this ruining your vacation, though.

These are short-term showers that pass quickly. In this part of the world, there are occasional cyclones during January. However, they generally bypass Mauritius.

On average, the island finds itself in the center of a cyclone once every five years. However, don’t worry about that. Even if you find yourself in Mauritius at that moment, you’ll be safe. Almost all hotels are prepared for these situations.

Get ready for the summer weather. Bring light clothes and everything you need to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget a thin raincoat. A shirt and trousers will be a good choice for visiting religious places and dining in restaurants.

What to wear in Mauritius in February?

February is the rainiest month in Mauritius but also one of the warmest. The average temperature during the day is the same as in January – 26°C (79°F), but the maximum values are slightly lower.

February in Mauritius is very popular among European tourists. Because of that, you can expect slightly more crowds and higher prices.

Therefore, make timely reservations for your accommodation and the activities you plan.

Essential clothes during February for both men and women will be T-shirts and shorts, along with indispensable flip-flops and sandals. Women can also bring practical maxi dresses and jumpsuits for any time of the day.

An umbrella or a thin raincoat is also a must this month. Finally, get some lightweight long-sleeved clothing for more formal occasions.

What to wear in Mauritius in March?

If you travel to Mauritius in March, you will have difficulty avoiding the rain. However, it will still be less than during the previous two months.

Days are still warm, averaging 26°C (79°F). If this is too hot for your taste, choose the east or south coast, as they have refreshing southeasterly winds.

The UV index is very high at this time of year, so protect yourself adequately from the sun.

Gear up for the beach because that’s where you’ll spend most of your time. Tank tops, T-shirts, summer dresses and shorts are the best choices.

Choose a light shirt and trousers for occasions that require it, such as dinner at a restaurant or visiting holy places.

What to wear in Mauritius in April?

April is the last summer month in Mauritius. The average daytime temperature is 25°C (77°F), while at night, it drops to an average of 21°C (70°F).

You won’t need a lot of warm clothes, just enough to be ready for possible evening chills or air-conditioned rooms.

Short sleeves and light, breathable garments are ideal for April weather.

In April, it rains less than at the beginning of the year, but just in case, keep a light raincoat or umbrella handy.

What to wear in Mauritius in May?

May (along with October) is one of the two transitional months in Mauritius. The weather conditions are ideal, as the amount of precipitation decreases significantly, and the days are still warm.

It averages 23°C (73°F), while maximum daytime temperatures can reach 30°C (86°F). You can also expect lower accommodation prices because the summer season is ending.

Summer clothes should occupy the most significant part of your luggage in May.

Along with it, pack a few shirts, thin hoodies, and trousers for the evening chill when the average temperature is around 19°C (66°F). Sarongs or pashminas can warm your shoulders in the evenings.

They will also add a touch of elegance to your look.

During the day, flip-flops and sandals will be perfect, but you’ll probably want closed-toe shoes like sneakers or flats in the evening.

What to wear in Mauritius in June?

June is the beginning of the winter, dry season in Mauritius. Rain is possible, but it is much less than during the summer. The daily average is 23°C (73°F), and the sea is still warm, even 25°C (77°F). Southeasterly winds increase.

Choose the north and west of the island if you want warmer weather.

Choose summer clothes during the day, but also bring slightly warmer clothes for the evening hours.

Dress in layers because a T-shirt and light pants will be enough during the sunny hours, while in the evening you will need a sweatshirt and maybe even a light jacket.

What to Wear in Mauritius in July?

July is slightly colder than previous months, with an average temperature of 21°C (70°F), which is still very pleasant. The sea temperature is 24°C (75°F).

Bring T-shirts, but also shirts and hoodies. During the sunny hours, you will have the opportunity to wear shorts, but in the evening you will need trousers.

A light jacket is a good choice for evening chills at this time of year. Pack sandals for the daytime and sneakers or flats for the evening.

What to Wear in Mauritius in August?

The coldest month in Mauritius is August, when the average air temperature is 21°C (70°F), while at night, it can drop to 16°C (61°F) in parts of the island away from the coast.

Although it is winter in Mauritius in August, the hotels are mostly full as tourists from the northern hemisphere escape the heat to pleasant tropical regions.

If you are traveling to Mauritius in August, bring summer ware, but also a few warmer things. August has an average of eight sunny hours per day when you’ll be most comfortable in a T-shirt.

However, you’ll need a hoodie or sweater for the rest of the day. Evenings during August can be chilly, so a thin jacket is a good idea.

What to Wear in Mauritius in September?

September is the last winter month in Mauritius.

It is warmer than August, averaging around 22°C (72°F). The sea temperature is 23°C (73°F), which is pleasant for swimming and ideal for water sports.

A T-shirt and light summer pants are the best options for September weather. Keep in mind that Mauritius has many different microclimates and that some parts of the island will be colder than others.

If you want less wind and warmer weather, choose the north and west coasts. Pack a few thin sweatshirts and a light jacket for evening walks.

What to Wear in Mauritius in October?

October is the transition month when summer slowly comes to the island.

The daily average is still 23°C (73°F), and the sun shines almost all the time. There is practically no rain in October in Mauritius.

Summer wear and a few shirts or thin sweatshirts will be enough for you in October in Mauritius.

However, remember that an evening dress code is a smart casual in many places, so bring clothes suitable for the occasion.

What to Wear in Mauritius in November?

Summer in Mauritius starts in November. The weather is dry and warm, averaging 24°C (75°F). The wind is light and pleasant.

In November, you will need tank tops and shorts more than sweaters in Mauritius.

Bring a few long-sleeve combos for evening outs and temple visits, but expect to spend a lot more time in beachwear.

What to Wear in Mauritius in December?

If you’re traveling in December, you’re likely to experience a lot of rain but also a lot of warm and sunny weather.

The daily average is 25°C (77°F). New Year’s holidays in Mauritius are lovely, but everything is more expensive than during the year.

Leave warm clothes at home. Instead, pack for summer and enjoy the beach.

Bring a shirt, light sweatshirt, and trousers for occasions that require a more formal wardrobe.

Don’t forget an umbrella and a light raincoat to protect yourself from frequent downpours.

A few additional tips

In Mauritius, you can pay for many things with a card, but make sure you always have some change for tipping.

When we protect ourselves from the sun, we often forget about our lips, which are also sensitive. Bring lip balm to protect them.

When you give or take something from someone, use your right hand. Using the left hand on these occasions could be considered rude in Mauritius.

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