Mauritius in January
Mauritius is a tropical destination, which doesn't necessarily come to mind when looking for a destination for a January holiday
However, this small island has plenty to surprise you and offers you the chance to recharge your batteries.
Whether you want to escape the European winter or simply relax, take off to Mauritius and rediscover the joys of summer!
On the spot
In January/February, Mauritius is alive with the sound of drumming to welcome the Chinese New Year (a public holiday). If you're in Mauritius, it's the perfect opportunity to see a parade in Port Louis and taste Chinese specialities (for a year full of abundance, as the saying goes)!
The Chinese-Mauritians distribute the famous traditional ‘wax’ cakes made from rice flour and sugar, and firecrackers accompany the festive atmosphere to ward off evil spirits.
During the same period, the Tamil community also celebrates a festival: Thaipoosam Cavadee (also a public holiday). Some pilgrims begin by bathing and praying in the ocean or a river. They pierce certain parts of their bodies with hooks to which offerings are attached and then start their procession to a temple.
During the same period, the Tamil community also celebrates a festival: Thaipoosam Cavadee (also a public holiday). Some pilgrims begin by bathing and praying in the ocean or a river. They pierce certain parts of their bodies with hooks to which offerings are attached and then start their procession to a temple.
What's January like in Mauritius?
-
January is the height of the summer season. At this time of year, summer is rather hot and humid.
-
The temperatures averaging around 28°C.
-
January has around 17 days of rain.
-
The ocean temperature is close to 28°C.
-
The weather is always warmer in the cities and cooler on the coast.
-
Finally, January is the hurricane season.
Tourist numbers in Mauritius in January
If you want to avoid peak tourist season, high flight costs and high hotel prices, the good news is that January is in the middle of the “shoulder” season.
Flight prices are lower than in high season and often drop from 10/15 January. To travel to Mauritius in January, you should budget between €900 and €1100 for a return flight per person (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.
Fruits and vegetables
In January, you can stock up on vitamins by enjoying seasonal fruits and vegetables:
The famous chou chou (delicious in a gratin)
Juicy local watermelons
Brèdes petsai (Peking Cabbage) is a side dish
Green lemons
Tasty mangoes
Lychees
Longans, a fruit similar to the lychee with a subtle sweet flavour
Guavas
Dragon fruit or Victoria pineapple (available all year round)
In Mauritius, summer is the best season for fruit! Visit the famous Port-Louis market to discover the diverse range of fresh, local and seasonal produce.
Things to do
January is the perfect month for diving and watersports. You can stroll along the beach or relax at the hotel, take a day out on a boat or visit spots such as the 7 Coloured Earth, Maconde or Gris-Gris.
When the rain starts to fall, don't panic: take a cultural break with a visit to a museum, a rum distillery or watch a play. Or why not enjoy a moment of relaxation at the spa ?
