Best Time to Hike in Mauritius

Mauritius is a year-round destination, but the best time for hiking is during the dry season from May to October. During these months, temperatures are cooler, humidity is lower, and trails are far less slippery after rain.

Why the dry season is best

From May to October, daytime temperatures on the coast hover around 22–26°C, while the central plateau and mountain summits can be noticeably cooler. This makes long hikes like Black River Peak and Pieter Both far more comfortable and safer.

Rainfall is also reduced, which means basalt rock stays grippy and stream crossings remain manageable. Waterfall hikes such as Tamarind Falls and 500 Pieds Cascade are still beautiful, but the reduced flow makes the terrain safer.

What about November to April?

The wet season brings higher humidity, afternoon thunderstorms, and the risk of tropical cyclones between January and March. While early mornings can still be good for shorter hikes, the afternoon heat and sudden storms make planning harder. Technical scrambles on Le Morne Brabant and Pieter Both become significantly more dangerous when wet.

Best time of day

Regardless of the season, start early. Sunrise hikes beat the heat, avoid crowds, and give you the best light for photography. Most trailheads open around 7:00 AM.

Month-by-month summary

**May–June**: Excellent conditions, green landscapes after the rains.

**July–August**: Coolest months, ideal for strenuous peaks.

**September–October**: Great visibility and warming temperatures.

**November–December**: Hotter and more humid, but early mornings are still viable.

**January–March**: Cyclone risk; avoid technical hikes and check weather daily.

**April**: Transition month; mornings can be good after the wet season.

Final tip

Always check the local weather forecast the evening before your hike. Conditions in the mountains can change quickly, and a guide will know when it is safe to proceed.

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