Mauritius in February
Visiting Mauritius in February is the opposite of a skiing holiday!
White sandy beaches, cocktails, turquoise lagoons and cultural visits: that's what your next February holiday could be like.
If you decide to spend it in Mauritius, that is...
On the spot
Every 1 February, the former British and French colony celebrates the abolition of slavery in Mauritius. It's a public holiday dedicated to remembering those who were enslaved.
If you're thinking of visiting Mauritius in February, be sure to catch the Chinese New Year parades (which sometimes take place in January). It's a day of festivities that marks the start of a New Year for Chinese-Mauritians, who parade through Port-Louis's Chinatown to the sound of music. Dragons made of silk and paper, symbolising happiness and prosperity for the coming year, are paraded through the streets
In February, the island's Tamil community also gathers in the streets for the Thaipoosam Cavadee festival (also a public holiday in Mauritius). Pilgrims walk to the temple carrying bows of flowers and offerings attached to their skin with hooks. Some then walk on a 7-metre carpet of embers, which is a spectacular ritual to witness.
In the same month, Hindu Mauritians celebrate Mahashivaratri. This religious festival is celebrated in honour of the Hindu deity Shiva, who represents goodness, benevolence and protection. Hindu devotees dress in white and carry ‘kanvar’ (flower-covered wooden arches) on their pilgrimage to Grand Bassin, a lake which is considered sacred.
Travelling to Mauritius in February means:
-
Making the most of the summer season, which is both hot and humid
-
Temperatures (air and water) are close to 28°C, ideal for swimming and outdoor activities
-
Some days are sunny but the weather can be changeable, with an average of 20 rainy days
-
There are occasional cyclones and heavy rain warnings
Mauritius tourist numbers in February
If you're planning a trip to Mauritius in February, you'll need to budget between €1000 and €1200 for a return flight (departing from Paris, Brussels or Geneva). Of course, flight prices vary according to the day of the week, the airline and the number of stopovers.
In February, you can treat yourself to seasonal fruits and vegetables:
Tamarind, a local fruit that is as delicious as a juice, as it is candied, or as a sauce in a Mauritian fruit salad (candied fruit).
Passionfruit
Carrot
Pomegranate
Cassava
Wild raspberries
Coconut, banana, papaya and even Victoria pineapple in the form of pickles served with tamarind sauce (available all year round at markets)
And yes, Mauritius is full of fresh, tasty produce, too!
Visit the small markets or the roadside fruit and vegetable stalls to stock up on fresh, local and seasonal produce.
Things to do
If you're an experienced or amateur diver, February is the ideal month to discover the depths of Mauritian waters. The changeable weather in no way prevents you from making the most of your holiday and discovering every corner of the island.
When the weather's fine, take to the sea, ride an electric bike along the rugged south coast or stroll along the beach. And when the weather's not so good, why not make the most of your hotel and the activities and experiences?
