Mauritius Holidays

Overview Tab

The sun in Mauritius shines brightly all year round making for ideal holiday conditions. From November to April the summer sun rises at 5 in the morning and shines brightly until 7 at night. Temperatures can measure up to 33 degrees in summer. During this period the weather is humid and rain is common. The humidity and the heat peaks during January and February, which can be quite unbearable. Winter takes place between May and October with the temperature dropping to 18 degrees and humidity easing.

Most holiday goers escape the northern hemisphere’s winter to holiday in Mauritius over the Christmas break. This period brings about a peak in accommodation prices. The French school holidays in August also results in an influx of tourists, and though weather conditions may be ideal, demand and prices increase. Your safest bet is to travel to Mauritius around June and July when the weather is at its best and there are fewer tourists.

The island’s diverse mix of cultures means that there are a range of religious and cultural events that take place. Each year Mauritius plays host to Chinese New Year, Ramadan and numerous Hindu festivals. One event that Mauritians of all background take part in is Father Laval Day in September. Locals visit the tomb of Father Laval, a French missionary and doctor who sort to protect slaves and has since become a symbol of compassion.

Air

Airlines that fly from New Zealand include:

Flights via Johannesburgh with Emirates take around 25 hours in total from New Zealand to Mauritius. Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport is 48km from Port Louis which is the capital of Mauritius.

Sea

For a more leisurely journey, fly to Reunion and take a cruise ship through the Indian Ocean and disembark in Mauritius.

Luxury Resorts

Luxury resorts in Mauritius can be found either spread across the coast line or hidden inland. Whatever your preference you can be sure that this accommodation style boasts elegant interiors, breathtaking views, modern amenities and a high level of service. Contact us for more information

Spa Resorts

Mauritius is full of spa resorts so why not take advantage of the abundant facilities on offer and truly indulge? Spend your mornings swimming and soaking up sunlight in the lagoons, and your afternoons enjoying feel-good pamper sessions at the spa. Spa Resorts are ideal accommodation for couples and those looking for an indulging escape. Contact us for more information

Honeymoons

Honeymooners will be spoilt for choice with romantic accommodation options. All inclusive resorts and hotels offer wedded couples intimate privacy, luxurious suites and all the trimmings to ensure their holiday is stress free and unforgettable. Contact us for more information

To find out more about the range of holiday accommodation available with Travel Associates call 0800 482 776 or enquire online.

Sights to See

Scuba diving is a thriving industry in Mauritius so if you’ve never tried it, this is the place to do so. Take your pick from the numerous diving companies around the island and explore an underwater world of colourful coral gardens and inhabited ship wrecks.

Admire the magnificent views along cliff tops and through rainforests on the back of a majestic horse. Alternatively interact with lions, tigers at the Casela Nature and Leisure Park.

History buffs can easily spend hours at the L'Aventure du Sucre Museum. The building was established in 1797and was once the Beau Plan Sugar Factory. Inside, the museum focuses on the production of sugar, the factory’s history and the history of the island. Displays are interactive and incredibly educational. Learn a few facts and be rewarded with sugar tasting at the end.

Scenic tours, whether by bus, foot or cruise ship are great ways of not only getting around the island but experiencing all it has to offer.

Don’t Leave Without…

If travelling in summer a water proof jacket and plastic bags are essential to keeping dry and clean. Plastic bags are great for keeping wet clothes or dirty shoes away from clean clothes in your suitcase.

The heat from the Mauritian sun can get pretty deadly so bring sunscreen and don’t forget to re-apply every few hours.

Many tourists make the mistake of bringing over a full suitcase only to pay excess baggage fees when they return because they have bought too much. You will only need to really bring some casual summer clothes, thongs, walking shoes and a few swim suits. Leave room in your suitcase for all of your souvenirs.

Local Customs

The sega is the traditional dance and music of Mauritius. Sega has African origins and is a festival dance performed by women wearing colourful skirts. The dance involves a lot of twirling, feet shuffling and arm movements and requires a lot of energy.

Things to be careful of…

Theft

The Port Louis fruit and vegetable market is a wonderful place to visit, just be sure to hold on tight to your belongs and keep your wallet close to you at all times as bag theft has been known to happen here. Theft and crime is more frequent at night time so take precaution wherever you go. It’s also advised to keep jewellery to a minimum at night.