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Chamarel

Mauritius’ Natural Wonderland

MAURITIUS' NATURAL WONDERLAND

Chamarel is a picturesque region located in the heart of Mauritius, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and unique geological formations. It is home to the famous Seven Coloured Earths, a geological wonder featuring vibrant, layered earth formations that have captivated visitors from around the world. The area also includes the Chamarel Waterfall, one of the island's highest waterfalls, which cascades into a lush tropical valley. Visitors can explore the surrounding countryside, which offers stunning views of the island's diverse flora and fauna.

Nearby, the Black River Gorges National Park provides a vast natural sanctuary with over 60 km of hiking trails, offering opportunities to spot endemic species like the pink pigeon and the Mauritius kestrel. The park's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of plant and animal life, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking an immersive experience of Mauritius' unique biodiversity. Chamarel's natural beauty is complemented by its cultural significance, with local artisans and craftsmen showcasing their skills in nearby villages. The region's focus on conservation and sustainable tourism ensures that its natural wonders are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Best time to visit
June to October
Famous for
Seven Coloured Earth Geopark, Chamarel Waterfall, Rhum, Local Coffee and Cuisine
Accommodation types
All types

Experiences

Cultural Excursion
Local Culture Experience
Conservation Experience
Conservation Experience
Private Chef
Culinary Journey
Fishing
Fishing
Animals Tracking
Animal Tracking

OUR ICONIC

DESTINATIONS

Discover our camps, lodges & hotels in Chamarel

LUX* Le Morne

A Tranquil Beachfront Escape on the Sunset Coast

LUX* Le Morne

A Tranquil Beachfront Escape on the Sunset Coast

seasonal guide

January

Jan

February

Feb

March

Mar

April

Apr

May

May

June

Jun

July

Jul

August

Aug

September

Sep

October

Oct

November

Nov

December

Dec

Mauritius in January

January in Mauritius is a mixed month for travel, offering warm tropical weather and vibrant landscapes but also challenges due to the wet season and high humidity. Daytime temperatures range from 27°C to 30°C (81°F–86°F), while nights remain warm at around 24°C to 26°C (75°F–79°F). Rainfall is significant, with approximately 228–297 mm spread across 13–20 days, often accompanied by afternoon thunderstorms. January also falls within cyclone season, though direct hits are rare. The sea temperature is a balmy 28°C, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving when conditions allow.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy shorebird watching at Le Morne beach or explore underwater ecosystems at Mnemba Atoll and Trou-aux-Biches. On land, lush rainforests provide opportunities to spot endemic species like the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel. Cultural highlights include Thaipoosam Cavadee celebrations on January 4th and Chinese New Year festivities later in the month, offering a unique glimpse into Mauritius’s multicultural heritage.

Tourism peaks in January due to holiday travellers seeking tropical escapes, leading to higher accommodation prices and busier attractions. Early booking is essential to secure preferred lodges and tours.

January offers a unique experience in Mauritius with its lush greenery, vibrant wildlife encounters, and cultural festivities. While not ideal for uninterrupted beach holidays due to rain and humidity, it’s perfect for adventurous travellers seeking nature and cultural immersion.

Not an ideal time to visit

Why visit in January

Tick Warm days with frequent rain, high humidity, occasional cyclonic activity.
Tick Shorebird watching at Le Morne, thriving marine life, pink pigeon sightings in rainforests.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving (when weather permits), exploring spice plantations, and attending cultural festivals like Thaipoosam Cavadee.
Tick Pack light clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Tick High season requires early booking.
Weather in January January

Mauritius in February

February is a warm and vibrant month to visit Mauritius, offering tropical weather, lush landscapes, and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities. Daytime temperatures average 28°C to 30°C (82°F–86°F), while nights remain balmy at around 23°C to 25°C (73°F–77°F). Rainfall is significant, with around 228–242 mm spread across 13–17 days, often in short bursts followed by sunshine. February also falls within the cyclone season, though direct hits are rare. The sea temperature is a warm 28°C, making it ideal for snorkelling, diving, and other water-based activities when conditions are favourable.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy exploring coral reefs teeming with marine life at Trou-aux-Biches or Blue Bay Marine Park. On land, Black River Gorges National Park offers opportunities to spot endemic species like the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel amidst lush greenery. Cultural highlights include the Thaipoosam Cavadee Hindu festival (February 11), Chinese New Year celebrations in Chinatown, Port Louis, and Valentine’s Day events across the island.

Tourism in February is quieter compared to December’s holiday rush, allowing for a more relaxed experience. However, early booking is recommended to secure accommodations and tours during this popular travel period.

February offers a unique experience in Mauritius with its lush greenery, vibrant wildlife encounters, and colourful cultural festivities. While not ideal for uninterrupted beach holidays due to rain and humidity, it’s perfect for adventurous travellers seeking nature and cultural immersion.

Good time to visit

Why visit in February

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, high humidity, potential for cyclonic activity.
Tick Thriving marine life, pink pigeons and Mauritius kestrels in Black River Gorges.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, exploring spice plantations, and attending cultural festivals like Thaipoosam Cavadee and Chinese New Year.
Tick Pack light clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, rain gear, and insect repellent.
Tick Book accommodations early.
Weather in February February

Mauritius in March

March is offering tropical weather, lush landscapes, and exciting cultural events. Daytime temperatures average 28°C to 30°C (82°F–86°F), while nights remain balmy at around 23°C to 25°C (73°F–77°F). Rainfall is significant, with around 140–220 mm spread over 13–20 days, often in short bursts followed by sunshine. March also marks the tail end of the cyclone season, though direct hits are rare. The sea temperature is a warm 28°C, making it ideal for snorkelling, diving, and other water-based activities when conditions are favourable.

Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Black River Gorges National Park to spot endemic species like the pink pigeon or Mauritius kestrel amidst lush greenery. Marine parks like Blue Bay offer vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish for snorkelling and diving. Cultural highlights include Mauritius Independence Day celebrations on March 12th, featuring concerts and parades across the island, and Holi, the Hindu festival of colours, celebrated with music and vibrant powder fights in mid-March.

March falls within Mauritius’ shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December. This allows for a more relaxed experience with slightly better accommodation rates.

March is a good time to visit Mauritius for those seeking lush scenery, vibrant wildlife encounters, and colourful cultural festivities. While rainfall can be frequent, sunny intervals and exciting events make it a rewarding tropical getaway.

Good time to visit

Why visit in March

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, high humidity, potential cyclonic activity.
Tick Endemic birds in Black River Gorges, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, exploring spice plantations, and attending festivals like Independence Day and Holi.
Tick Pack light clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in March March

Mauritius in April

April is offering warm tropical weather, lush greenery, and vibrant cultural events. Daytime temperatures average 28°C to 29°C (82°F–84°F), while nights remain mild at around 22°C to 23°C (72°F–73°F). Rainfall is moderate, with around 130–171 mm spread over 16–20 days, often in brief showers followed by sunshine. The sea temperature is a warm 27°C (81°F), making April ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Although April falls within the cyclone season, the likelihood of cyclonic activity decreases as the month progresses.

Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Black River Gorges National Park to spot endemic birds like the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel or enjoy marine biodiversity at Blue Bay Marine Park and Trou-aux-Biches. Cultural highlights include the Mama Jaz Festival, celebrating jazz music throughout April, and local events such as the Mystik Garden electronic music festival and the Mauritius Piano Festival. Visitors can also enjoy exploring Port Louis’ markets, spice plantations, and iconic beaches like Belle Mare Plage and Ile aux Cerfs.

April is part of Mauritius’ shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December or July. Accommodation prices are reasonable, but early booking is recommended for popular resorts and tours.

April is an excellent time to visit Mauritius. With its warm weather, unique wildlife encounters, and lively cultural events like jazz festivals and electronic music gatherings, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Excellent time to visit

Why visit in April

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, high humidity, lush landscapes.
Tick Endemic birds in Black River Gorges, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, exploring spice plantations, and attending cultural festivals like Mama Jaz and Mystik Garden.
Tick Pack light clothing, sunscreen, rain gear, and insect repellent.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in April April

Mauritius in May

May is offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and a variety of activities and cultural events. Daytime temperatures average 26°C to 28°C (79°F–82°F), while nights are cooler at around 19°C to 22°C (66°F–72°F). Rainfall is moderate, with approximately 97–130 mm spread over 8–14 days, but showers are typically brief and followed by sunshine. The sea temperature remains warm at 26°C–27°C (79°F–81°F), making May ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The southeast trade winds begin to pick up, bringing slightly cooler breezes to the island’s eastern coast.

Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Black River Gorges National Park to spot endemic birds like the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel or enjoy vibrant marine life at Blue Bay Marine Park. Cultural highlights include the AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open golf tournament, the Bread Festival celebrating local artisan pastries, and the LUX* Royal Raid trail running event showcasing scenic island views. Visitors can also enjoy exploring iconic attractions like Chamarel Coloured Earth and the Mauritius Botanical Garden.

May is part of Mauritius’ shoulder season, meaning fewer tourists compared to peak months like December or July. Accommodation prices are reasonable, but early booking is recommended for popular resorts and tours.

May is an excellent time to visit Mauritius. With its mild weather, unique wildlife encounters, and lively cultural events, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

One of the best month to visit

Why visit in May

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, cooler evenings, steady southeast trade winds.
Tick Endemic birds in Black River Gorges, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, exploring spice plantations, and attending cultural festivals like the Bread Festival and AfrAsia Bank Mauritius Open.
Tick Pack light clothing, sunscreen, rain gear, and insect repellent.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in May May

Mauritius in June

June is offering mild weather, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures average 24°C to 25°C (75°F–77°F), while nights are cooler at around 17°C to 20°C (63°F–68°F). Rainfall is relatively low, with approximately 76–95 mm spread over 8–13 days, making June one of the driest months of the year. The sea temperature remains warm at 25°C (77°F), perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The southeast trade winds bring steady breezes, making June ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing along beaches like Le Morne.

Wildlife enthusiasts can explore Black River Gorges National Park to spot endemic birds such as the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel or enjoy marine biodiversity at Blue Bay Marine Park. Hiking trails in La Pouce and Île aux Aigrettes provide opportunities to discover Mauritius’s lush landscapes and conservation efforts. June also features exciting events like the Tropicadingue Festival (June 3), a fun costume race, and the Kite Surf Festival in Rodrigues, showcasing international kite surfers.

June falls within Mauritius’s low season, meaning fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices compared to peak months like December or July. Early booking is recommended for popular resorts and tours.

June is an outstanding time to visit Mauritius. With its pleasant weather, unique wildlife encounters, and exciting cultural events like the Kite Surf Festival, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Outstanding time to visit

Why visit in June

Tick Mild days with minimal rain, cooler evenings, steady southeast trade winds.
Tick Endemic birds in Black River Gorges, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking, kitesurfing, and attending festivals like Tropicadingue.
Tick Pack light layers for cooler evenings and sunscreen for daytime activities.
Tick Low season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in June June

Mauritius in July

July is offering mild winter weather, fewer crowds, and a range of exciting activities and events. Daytime temperatures average 23°C to 25°C (73°F–77°F), while nights are cooler at around 17°C to 19°C (63°F–66°F). Rainfall is relatively low, with approximately 83 mm spread over 15 days, ensuring plenty of sunny intervals for outdoor exploration. The sea temperature remains warm at 23°C–25°C (73°F–77°F), making July ideal for water-based activities like snorkelling, diving, and dolphin watching.

Wildlife enthusiasts can spot migratory pods of bottlenose dolphins along the east coast or enjoy vibrant marine life at Blue Bay Marine Park. On land, Black River Gorges National Park offers opportunities to see endemic birds such as the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel. July also features lively cultural events like the Dodo Trail race, which crosses scenic parts of the island, and concerts such as "Mukesh Forever" at Caudan Arts Centre. For adventure seekers, the steady southeast trade winds make July perfect for kitesurfing and windsurfing along beaches like Le Morne.

July falls within Mauritius's off-peak season, meaning lower accommodation prices compared to peak months like December. Early booking is recommended for popular resorts and tours.

July is an excellent time to visit Mauritius. With its mild weather, unique wildlife encounters, and vibrant cultural events like the Dodo Trail and concerts at Caudan Arts Centre, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Fantastic time to visit

Why visit in July

Tick Mild days with occasional rain, cooler evenings, steady southeast trade winds.
Tick Migratory dolphins, endemic birds in Black River Gorges, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, kitesurfing, dolphin watching, heritage tours in Port Louis, and attending events like the Dodo Trail.
Tick Pack light layers for cooler evenings and sunscreen for daytime activities.
Tick Off-peak season offers lower prices.
Weather in July July

Mauritius in August

August is offering mild winter weather, minimal rainfall, and excellent conditions for outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures average 22°C to 25°C (72°F–77°F), while nights are cooler at around 17°C to 20°C (63°F–68°F). Rainfall is low, with approximately 31–50 mm spread over 6–19 days, ensuring plenty of sunshine for exploration. The sea temperature remains warm at 23°C–25°C (73°F–77°F), making August ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The steady southeast trade winds bring breezy conditions, perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing along beaches like Le Morne.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy whale watching as humpback whales migrate to Mauritius’s waters during this time. Dolphin swimming tours at Tamarin Bay and birdwatching in Black River Gorges National Park also provide unique experiences. Cultural highlights include Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations featuring vibrant processions and traditional music, as well as horse racing events at Champ de Mars Racecourse in Port Louis. Visitors can explore iconic attractions like Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, Île aux Cerfs, and Le Morne Brabant.

August falls within Mauritius’s winter season and shoulder tourism period, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December. Accommodation prices are reasonable, but early booking is recommended for popular resorts and tours.

August is an exceptional time to visit Mauritius. With its mild weather, unique wildlife encounters like humpback whales, and vibrant cultural events such as Ganesh Chaturthi, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Fantastic time to visit

Why visit in August

Tick Mild days with minimal rain, cooler evenings, steady southeast trade winds.
Tick Whale watching, dolphins at Tamarin Bay, endemic birds in Black River Gorges.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, kitesurfing, hiking Le Morne Brabant, exploring Chamarel Waterfall, and attending Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Tick Pack light layers for cooler evenings and sunscreen for daytime activities.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in August August

Mauritius in September

September is offering mild weather, minimal rainfall, and excellent conditions for outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures average 24°C to 26°C (75°F–79°F), with cooler nights around 17°C to 20°C (63°F–68°F). Rainfall is low, with approximately 50–54 mm spread over 4–12 days, ensuring plenty of sunshine for exploration. The sea temperature remains warm at 23°C–25°C (73°F–77°F), making September ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The steady southeast trade winds provide breezy conditions perfect for windsurfing and kitesurfing at Le Morne.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy whale watching as humpback whales migrate through Mauritius’s waters during this time. Dolphin tours at Tamarin Bay and vibrant marine life at Blue Bay Marine Park offer additional opportunities for nature lovers. On land, Black River Gorges National Park provides scenic hiking trails and sightings of endemic birds like the Mauritius kestrel and pink pigeon. Cultural highlights include Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations in early September, featuring colourful processions and traditional rituals.

September falls within Mauritius’s shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December. This allows for a more relaxed experience with reasonable accommodation prices.

September is an exceptional time to visit Mauritius. With its mild weather, unique wildlife encounters like humpback whales, and vibrant cultural events like Ganesh Chaturthi, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

One of the best month to visit

Why visit in September

Tick Mild days with minimal rain, cooler evenings, steady southeast trade winds.
Tick Whale watching; dolphins, endemic birds in Black River Gorges.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, kitesurfing, hiking Le Morne Brabant, exploring Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, and attending Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
Tick Pack light layers for cooler evenings and sunscreen for daytime activities.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in September September

Mauritius in October

October is offering warm spring weather, minimal rainfall, and excellent conditions for outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F–86°F), while nights are cooler at around 19°C to 22°C (66°F–72°F). Rainfall is minimal, with approximately 50–60 mm spread over 6–11 days, typically in brief showers followed by sunshine. The sea temperature remains warm at 24°C–25°C (75°F–77°F), making October ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The calm seas provide excellent visibility for exploring coral reefs and vibrant marine life.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching in Black River Gorges National Park or dolphin excursions at Tamarin Bay. October is also considered one of the best months for diving due to peak marine biodiversity and clear waters at sites like Blue Bay Marine Park. Cultural highlights include the Diwali Festival of Lights, which illuminates the island with vibrant celebrations, and the Kreol Festival showcasing Mauritian music, dance, and cuisine.

October falls within Mauritius’s shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December. This allows for a more relaxed experience with reasonable accommodation prices.

October is an exceptional time to visit Mauritius. With its warm weather, unique wildlife encounters, and vibrant cultural events like Diwali and the Kreol Festival, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Excellent time to visit

Why visit in October

Tick Warm days with occasional light rain, low humidity, calm seas.
Tick Thriving marine life, dolphins; endemic birds in Black River Gorges.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking Le Morne Brabant, exploring Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, and attending Diwali and Kreol festivals.
Tick Pack light layers for cooler evenings and sunscreen for daytime activities.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in October October

Mauritius in November

November is offering warm weather, vibrant cultural events, and a mix of outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 29°C (77°F–84°F), with mild nights around 20°C (68°F). Rainfall is moderate, with approximately 66–108 mm spread over 12–13 days, typically in short bursts followed by sunshine. The sea temperature remains warm at 25°C–26°C (77°F–79°F), making November ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The calm seas during this time provide excellent visibility for exploring coral reefs and marine life.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy unique experiences such as witnessing the nesting season of giant Aldabra tortoises on Île aux Aigrettes or whale watching along the west coast as humpback and sperm whales migrate through Mauritius’s waters. Diving at Blue Bay Marine Park offers opportunities to see vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. Cultural highlights include Diwali celebrations, the Festival Kreol showcasing Mauritian music and cuisine, and the commemoration of the arrival of indentured labourers on November 2nd.

November falls within Mauritius’s shoulder season, meaning fewer crowds compared to peak months like December. This allows for a more relaxed experience with reasonable accommodation prices.

November is an outstanding time to visit Mauritius. With its warm weather, unique wildlife encounters like tortoise nesting and whale watching, and vibrant cultural events like Diwali and the Festival Kreol, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Fantastic time to visit

Why visit in November

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, moderate humidity, calm seas.
Tick Giant Aldabra tortoise nesting, whale watching, thriving marine life in Blue Bay Marine Park.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking in Black River Gorges National Park, exploring Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, and attending Diwali celebrations.
Tick Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Tick Shoulder season offers fewer crowds.
Weather in November November

Mauritius in December

December is offering warm weather, festive celebrations, and ideal conditions for outdoor and water-based activities. Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F–86°F), while nights are mild at around 21°C to 24°C (70°F–75°F). Rainfall is moderate, with approximately 135–162 mm spread over 13–16 days, typically in short bursts followed by sunshine. The sea temperature remains warm at 27°C–28°C (81°F–82°F), making December perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. Long daylight hours allow ample time for exploration and relaxation.

Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy vibrant marine life at Blue Bay Marine Park and dolphin excursions at Tamarin Bay. December is also one of the best months for diving due to peak visibility and rich biodiversity. On land, Black River Gorges National Park offers opportunities to spot endemic birds such as the pink pigeon and Mauritius kestrel. Cultural highlights include Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks, and the International Kreol Festival showcasing Mauritian music, dance, and cuisine.

December is part of Mauritius’s peak season due to holiday travellers seeking tropical escapes. While this means higher accommodation prices and busier attractions, early booking ensures access to top resorts and events.

December is an exceptional time to visit Mauritius. With its warm weather, festive atmosphere, unique wildlife encounters, and vibrant cultural events like the Kreol Festival and Christmas celebrations, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Outstanding time to visit

Why visit in December

Tick Warm days with occasional rain, high humidity, long daylight hours.
Tick Thriving marine life, dolphins, endemic birds in Black River Gorges.
Tick Perfect for snorkelling, diving, hiking Le Morne Brabant, exploring Chamarel Seven Coloured Earths, and attending festive events like Christmas markets and New Year’s Eve fireworks.
Tick Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, rain gear, and reef-safe insect repellent.
Tick Peak season requires early booking.
Weather in December December

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