Mauritius is the most accessible island in the Indian Ocean - a tropical paradise akin to Maui or Martinique but more budget-traveller friendly. Though nestled up alongside Africa, it's actually more influenced by its British and French ties and predominantly Indian workforce.

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Few who come here ever leave disappointed, although the lively and warm people, the relaxed vibes and the music of everyday life are likely to leave an even greater impression on any visitor than even the most sumptuous palmfringed beaches, luxurious hotels and crystal-clear waters.

When To Go

Mauritius enjoys a typically tropical climate with year-round heat, although the southeast trade winds help it never to feel too muggy. The best months to visit Mauritius are May to early December. January and February, the peak cyclone months, are best avoided by water-sports enthusiasts and divers. Cyclones rarely hit Mauritius (although Rodrigues has suffered far more regularly than the mainland).

Hardly a week goes by in Mauritius without some celebration. On Rodrigues, the main cultural event is the Festival Kréol, which takes place over three days at the end of October.

Apart from the Christmas-New Year peak, Mauritius doesn't really have high and low seasons. The situation is more dependent on outside factors (such as the French school holidays, which cause a big increase in demand and prices in August).

Fast Facts

• Full Name : Republic of Mauritius
• Capital City : Port Louis
• Area : 2,040 sq km | 788 sq miles
• Time Zone : GMT/UTC + 4 ()
• Languages : English (official)
• Currency : Mauritian rupee (Rs)