Visiting Mauritius in December: Weather, Activities, and Travel Tips

This year, are you in the mood for a different kind of Christmas, deciding to spend the holiday season under the sunny skies of Mauritius?

Excellent choice!

With its ideal temperatures, pristine white beaches, and unique traditions, December is the perfect time to discover this gem of the Indian Ocean.

Traveling to Mauritius in December is also the dream opportunity to experience a Christmas and a New Year’s Eve that will stay forever etched in your memories!

Whether you’re spending Christmas in Mauritius as a couple or with family, this guide has everything you need to make your stay in Mauritius in December a success.

I’ll point out the best activities for the season, the accommodations to choose from, the budget to consider, and the best places to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Mauritius.

So, what can you do in Mauritius in December?

I’ll tell you everything!

Is December a good month for Mauritius?

There are many good reasons to plan a trip to Mauritius in December, especially for the ideal climate and festive atmosphere of the holiday season.

December in Mauritius: Climate and Weather

In December, Mauritius is in the midst of full summer.

It’s precisely the austral summer, a season characterized by strong sunlight and temperatures ranging between 25 and 30°C (often even higher in towns and along the coast).

At this time of the year, you’ll enjoy a delightfully warm sea that can reach 28°C, making it the ideal season for swimming and water activities!

Unlike the wetter months of the austral summer (between January and March), December remains relatively dry, allowing you to fully enjoy outdoor activities without the worry of heavy rain.

With a sunrise around 5:30 AM and sunset around 7 PM, the days offer long hours of daylight, perfect for excursions or simply relaxing under the palm trees.

Spending Christmas in the Tropics: A Unique Experience

In Mauritius, the holiday season coincides with the austral summer, which corresponds to the European summer holidays.

The island is alive with summer vibes, and children enjoy a 2-month break. From November, the festive atmosphere sets in: the flamboyants (beautiful red trees) bloom in vibrant colors, multicolored flowers decorate the landscape, and seasonal fruits like mango and lychee add their sweet flavors.

Besides the summer weather, heading to Mauritius in December is also an opportunity to experience the holiday season differently.

If you want to enjoy an original family experience, I encourage you to come and experience the Mauritian Christmas.

Of course, don’t expect to find the typical European holiday vibe. Here, the warmth and sunshine make the magic of Christmas quite different: in Mauritius, on December 25th, you lounge on the warm sand, soothed by the sound of waves 🎅.

You’ll have the pleasure of discovering a distinctive festive atmosphere, where Creole and European traditions blend.

Throughout December, shopping malls and hotels are adorned with colorful decorations, and locals gather to celebrate in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. There are plenty of beach parties, and the sega (local traditional music) can be heard everywhere.

This makes it the perfect time to experience an unconventional Christmas with family or your significant other. Imagine sharing a festive meal by the sea, with your feet in the sand, surrounded by palm trees!

Christmas and New Year in Mauritius

Wondering what to do during the end-of-year festivities in Mauritius?

Here are some ideas for fully experiencing these magical moments on the island.

Christmas Markets in Mauritius

During your stay, you should visit the Mauritian Christmas markets to get into the festive spirit.

You’ll find local crafts, festive decorations, and culinary specialties. At these markets, you can discover unique gifts and taste local treats!

They often include entertainment: concerts, children’s shows, caricaturists, and even appearances by Santa Claus for photo opportunities.

For 2025, here are the main Christmas markets scheduled:

• Telfair La Promenade (Moka, central region): on 29th November from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (with an open-air cinema at 7 p.m.!)
• Ferney (south-east): on 30th November from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – More info here
• Château de Labourdonnais: on 4th December from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Ruisseau Créole (in Rivière Noire, on the west coast): on 6th December from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. – More info here
• Azuri Ocean Village (north-east region): on 7th December from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. – More info here
• On Cap Tamarin square (west coast): on 13th December from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Quartier des Serres (in Mapou, in the north): on 18th December from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. – More info here

(List updated according to new dates and locations announced)

Christmas Masses

For those who wish to celebrate Christmas traditionally, many churches across the island offer special masses on December 24 and 25.

Whether you are a believer or simply curious, attending a Christmas Mass in Mauritius is a beautiful way to experience an authentic facet of the local culture.

It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit alongside Mauritians, in a friendly and festive atmosphere.

Check with the managers of the establishment where you are staying to find out about the nearest Christmas masses.

Where to Celebrate Christmas in Mauritius?

Will you be in Mauritius in December and are looking for places to celebrate Christmas?

The majority (if not all) of the 4-star hotels and 5-star hotels on the island organize a Christmas Eve celebration on December 24th, with a special meal and musical shows.

And if you’re not staying at a hotel, these hotels do accept a few outside guests. However, spots are limited, and you’ll have to be on the lookout for when reservations open, usually happening early December.

If you prefer to go out and celebrate Christmas Eve like a local, you can also choose to spend the evening at one of the many restaurants that organize special meals for the occasion. You can enjoy festive menus inspired by Mauritian flavors.

Among the most beautiful restaurants to celebrate Christmas in Mauritius, I recommend:

• Domaine Anna, near Flic en Flac – Bookings at +230 453 9650
• Le Poivrier, in Grand Baie – +230 5702 5956
• La Demeure Saint-Antoine, in Goodlands in the north – +230 282 1823
• The Beach House, in Grand Baie – +230 263 2599
• Sunset Garden, in Flic en Flac – +230 57813131 / 59006673 / 453 8614

Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in Mauritius?

Just like for Christmas Eve, most hotels in Mauritius go all out to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

While Christmas Eve usually has an intimate ambiance, December 31st is all about partying and excitement!

On the agenda: a gourmet menu and fine dining, entertainment, and to top it all off, a magnificent fireworks display at midnight!

Do you prefer to spend New Year’s Eve outdoors? In that case, you can choose to celebrate at one of the most beautiful restaurants in Mauritius, which offer sophisticated and festive New Year’s Eve parties.

I recommend the same restaurants that I mentioned in the previous paragraph :

• Domaine Anna, near Flic en Flac – Bookings at +230 453 9650
• Le Poivrier, in Grand Baie – +230 5702 5956
• La Demeure Saint-Antoine, in Goodlands in the north – +230 282 1823
• The Beach House, in Grand Baie – +230 263 2599
• Sunset Garden, in Flic en Flac – +230 57813131 / 59006673 / 453 8614

Things to Do in Mauritius in December

To help you plan your holiday activities in Mauritius in December, I’m going to talk about the best things to do during this season:

The Beaches

Can you swim in Mauritius in December? Absolutely! In December in Mauritius, you simply can’t resist the call of the warm waters of the Indian Ocean!

It’s truly the perfect time to enjoy the island’s dreamy beaches to the fullest.

You’ll be able to swim in crystalline waters at 28°C and sunbathe on the warm sand, facing a turquoise blue sea. What could be better?

(A friendly tip: the Mauritian sun is no joke, so arm yourself with a good sunscreen!)

Cruises

If you’re lucky enough to visit Mauritius at the end of the year, you should also book one or more boat excursions! It’s the must-do summer activity here, and honestly, you wouldn’t want to miss it.

If I had to choose just one, I would definitely recommend the day-long catamaran cruise that takes you to explore the 3 northern islets.

You’ll depart from 8 AM to 4 PM for an unforgettable day at sea, with several stops on 3 little wild islands, snorkeling breaks, and a delicious lunch served on board.

Ready to embark? Reserve your spot now by clicking the button below (hurry, though, because spots fill up fast!):

And because there’s something for everyone, here are other essential boat outings to enjoy in Mauritius:

• The catamaran cruise to Île aux Cerfs departing from Trou d’Eau Douce – Book here
• The speedboat excursion to the 5 South-East islands, including lunch on Île aux Cerfs – Click here to reserve your spot
• The trip to Île aux Bénitiers, including dolphin watching and a barbecue lunch on board – Click here to book
• The speedboat ride in the Blue Bay lagoon, with snorkeling sessions and a Creole picnic on a wild island! – Book your place here

Water Activities

If you’re keen on water sports, take advantage of your stay in Mauritius in December to try activities like paddleboarding, sea kayaking, kitesurfing, and parasailing or even scuba diving!

These are the types of activities that are a must in Mauritius during summer.

Canyoning is also superb for staying cool and experiencing some great thrills amidst exceptional wild scenery. In Mauritius, there are several trails of different levels, including those suitable for families.

To help you put together an amazing schedule of water activities during your holiday, here are my recommendations:

• Kitesurfing Lesson at Le Morne – Learn to conquer the waves at one of the most beautiful spots in the world. Guaranteed thrills!
• Seabob Excursion at Grand Baie – To explore the lagoon like a dolphin
• Kayak Adventure to Amber Island – A magical getaway including the crossing, a swimming break, and a guided tour of the island
• Canyoning at the 7 Waterfalls of Tamarin, in a breathtaking setting – A half-day adventure suitable for ages 12 and up
• Introductory Dive in Blue Bay Lagoon (where encountering turtles is not unusual!)
• Discovery Dive in the Northern Lagoon (for experienced divers)
• Kayak Trip on Tamarin River – Paddle on calm waters and be amazed by the wild beauty surrounding the river

Hiking

Even though summer is not the best season for hiking in Mauritius, especially due to the intense heat, it would be a shame to leave the island without having explored its stunning natural beauty.

An advantage of December over January, February, and March is that it’s still relatively dry. So, you can take advantage of this period to explore the natural wonders of Mauritius while avoiding the heavy rainfall.

Among the most beautiful places to hike in Mauritius, I recommend:

• the Black River Gorges, the largest nature reserve in the country, with incredible landscapes and biodiversity!
• the Wild South, authentic and very different from the rest of the island (for this excursion, I recommend booking a guide by clicking here).
• Climbing Mount Morne Brabant, an absolute must-do with breathtaking views from the top (here again, I recommend hiring a guide, which you can easily book here).
• the Tamarin Falls (or the 7 Waterfalls circuit), one of the most beautiful hiking places in Mauritius and a very athletic trail (guide strongly recommended, to book by clicking here).
• Climbing Pieter Both, a symbolic mountain of the island, very challenging to ascend! A journey reserved for experienced adventurers, to be undertaken exclusively with an expert guide (to be booked by sending me a Whatsapp message to +23059024487).

Where to Stay in Mauritius in December?

Wonder which side of Mauritius is best in December? The good news is that you can’t go wrong! All regions of the island are fantastic this time of year, as the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for exploring beaches, lagoons, and lush landscapes.

Whether you’re staying in the lively north, the wild south, the picturesque east, or the vibrant west, you’re guaranteed to enjoy Mauritius at its best!

For a festive holiday season in Mauritius, you can choose between a hotel, a beachfront villa, or an apartment rental.

There is a wide variety of accommodation on the island, and you’re sure to find something that fits your desires and budget.

The Most Beautiful Hotels for a Romantic Christmas in Mauritius

For couples, staying at a hotel is probably the most sought-after option for a December visit to Mauritius. The luxury and beauty of the Mauritian hotels promise an unforgettable stay.

You can also enjoy the famous special evenings organized for Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Here are my recommendations for hotels to stay in Mauritius in December:

3-Star Hotels

• Coin de Mire Attitude, in the north of the island

Located between Cap Malheureux and Grand Baie, Coin de Mire Attitude offers a serene setting facing the iconic Coin de Mire islet.

This warmly atmospheric hotel offers authentic experiences such as dining with locals, bicycle rides, or outings on traditional boats.

Its rattan décor and soft tones make it a perfect place to relax and celebrate a wonderful Christmas in Mauritius, whether you’re in love or with family.

• Peyrebere Hotel & Spa, overlooking the Northern lagoon

The Pereybere Hotel & Spa, located in front of the Indian Ocean on a beautiful white sandy beach fringed with palm trees, is an invitation to comfort and relaxation. This hotel offers modern rooms with bright colors, each with a balcony and sea views.

After a day at the beach or water activities, enjoy the heated pool, hot tub, or steam room for a true wellness moment.

4-star Hotels

• Le Sands Suite Resort & Spa, in Flic en Flac

If you’re looking for an intimate 4-star hotel on the West coast of Mauritius, the Sands Suites is an excellent choice. You will stay in an elegant suite with a balcony or terrace, offering views of the sea or a tropical garden.

The hotel offers romantic beachfront dinners, 3 restaurants with local and international flavors, a spa, a gym, and inclusive water activities (windsurfing, diving, cruising…). The attentive staff will make your stay even more enjoyable.

• Sunrise Attitude, on the East coast

Sunrise Attitude is a true haven of peace located in front of the idyllic beach at Bellemare.

With its stylish tropical decor, lush gardens, and carefully landscaped outdoor areas, this adults-only hotel offers an idyllic setting for tranquil rejuvenation.

It also stands out for its ecological commitment and rooms without TVs to encourage self-reconnection.

5-star Hotels

• 20 Degrés Sud Hotel, in Grand Baie

The 20 Degrés Sud, the only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Mauritius, is known for its intimate setting and colonial charm in Grand Baie. Located along a private beach with coconut trees, it offers about thirty rooms and suites, some with a private pool or spa bath.

With its 3 restaurants, spa, and unique experiences like romantic dinners on the water, this 5-star hotel provides a luxurious and relaxing stay.

• LUX* Le Morne, in the southwest

LUX* Le Morne offers luxury and comfort in an exceptional setting facing Morne Brabant. With its heavenly beach, sumptuous rooms, 5 pools, 3 restaurants, and a wellness center, it promises a true tropical palace experience.

The hotel is also known for its musical evenings on the waterfront, and for New Year’s Eve, it organizes a memorable evening with plenty of festivities.

Private Rentals for a Family Christmas in Mauritius

Would you prefer a rental property for a more intimate holiday?

Imagine spending your stay in a house with a pool, a beachfront villa or an apartment with a sea view… Dreamy, isn’t it?

Renting is an excellent option for families or groups of friends who want to celebrate Christmas together while enjoying the comfort and privacy of a private accommodation.

You can cook your own festive meals or even hire a private chef for the occasion!

Here are my recommendations for the most beautiful houses and apartments to rent in Mauritius in December:

• Villa Kai, on the East Coast:

A splendid villa with a pool and sea view, nestled on the tranquil East Coast of Mauritius, just steps away from the island’s most beautiful beaches. With its 3 bedrooms, pool, garden, and modern amenities, Villa Kai can accommodate up to 8 guests.

It offers an idyllic setting and stands out with its modern and neat decoration. You can enjoy a continental breakfast served on the terrace every morning.

A play area for children and a barbecue grill are also available. This beachfront house is the perfect spot for a family holiday in Mauritius in December!

• Villa Kayana, Flic-en-Flac (West Coast):

Welcome to Villa Kayana, a true haven of serenity in Flic-en-Flac, perfect for celebrating Christmas in Mauritius. This modern villa can accommodate up to 4 guests and offers all the necessary comforts with its 2 spacious bedrooms, a pool, and a terrace overlooking a charming garden.

Located less than a kilometer from the beach and set in a quiet environment, it features high-end amenities such as a fully equipped kitchen, walk-in closet, and an Italian shower. Plus, a dedicated and helpful owner who ensures that every stay is absolutely perfect!

• Preety Blue Residence, Grand Baie (North Coast):

A lovely family house of 150 sqm that can accommodate 4 to 5 guests. Situated within a secure residence in the north of the island, close to the seaside resort of Grand Baie, Preety Blue Residence is perfect for a relaxing holiday with family or friends in Mauritius.

Here you’ll find everything you need for a dream stay: an outdoor pool to cool off, a tropical garden to unwind in, and a terrace with a view to enjoy the sunsets.

You’ll also appreciate the fully equipped kitchen and the air-conditioned rooms. The very helpful owner will be glad to assist in organizing your outings and excursions and even offers a homemade breakfast each morning.

• Lamarel Beach House, Flic en Flac:

A stunning seaside rental apartment on the West coast of Mauritius, with a colorful and modern decor. It accommodates up to 9 guests.

Just 300m from the beach, this fully-equipped accommodation includes 3 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a balcony with mountain views, and a terrace perfect for relaxation.

Nestled in a peaceful residential area, it combines comfort and proximity to the beach with a warm atmosphere thanks to Manuela and Yassin, caring hosts.

A true haven of peace and happiness for an unforgettable stay in Mauritius in December!

Is it expensive in Mauritius in December?

The budget for end-of-year holidays in Mauritius can vary greatly depending on several factors:

• the duration of your stay
• the number of people
• the type of accommodation chosen
• and of course, the number and type of excursions you wish to do.

In any case, remember that December is the peak season here, so everything will be a bit more expensive, from flight tickets to hotels. To avoid any surprises, you should book your flight and accommodation as early as possible to take advantage of the best prices.

When it comes to food, there are options even for those on a tight budget. If you enjoy discovering local flavors, Mauritian street food is delicious and super affordable. Faratas, dhal puri, roti… you’ll find them on every street corner, and they’re really good (even if a bit greasy at times!)

If you prefer restaurants, expect to pay about 15 to 20€ per person for a complete meal in a nice place. And if you want to indulge in a more upscale restaurant, budget around 40€ per person.

Additionally, don’t forget to factor in the cost of Christmas Eve dinners or parties, if you plan to celebrate at a restaurant or hotel.

You should also consider the cost of renting a car or taxi fares for getting around.

Given all these factors, I can’t give you an exact budget for a stay in Mauritius in December. But you will find plenty of resources on my blog to easily calculate your budget. I especially recommend this complete guide: What budget for a trip to Mauritius?

Spending Christmas in Mauritius: Practical Tips

Early Bookings

If you are considering spending Christmas in Mauritius, it’s crucial to plan your trip by booking your flight and hotel as early as possible. The holiday season is very popular, so the earlier you book, the better!

I advise you to make your reservations 6 to 8 months before your departure date, which will allow you to benefit from the best rates.

Gift Ideas

Whether for your loved ones back home during Christmas, or to bring back as a souvenir from your trip, why not take a bit of the island’s authenticity with local handmade items?

You will find many local boutiques offering unique creations by Mauritian artisans: jewelry, clothing, home decor, beauty products, children’s toys, artistic creations, and more. Here are the must-visit local boutiques:

• Le Rendez-Vous: there are 3 boutiques on the island, located in Grand Baie La Croisette, Rivière Noire, and Saint Pierre.
• My Pop Up Store: there are also 3 boutiques at Cap Tamarin (west coast), Bagatelle Mall (center region) and at the Caudan Waterfront (Port-Louis)

And if you’re looking for a special keepsake, I also recommend our souvenir posters, featuring iconic locations of Mauritius (and created by my husband ^^). They are perfect as gifts or to bring a little bit of the island into your home.

You can find all the details about these posters right here.

Travel Insurance for Mauritius: My Advice

And you, what have you planned for your vacation in Mauritius this December?

You’re traveling to Mauritius? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about Mauritius: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mauritius are listed there.

• The 21 Best Places to Visit in Mauritius

• The 11 Most Beautiful Beaches in Mauritius

• Best Time to go to Mauritius? – Seasons, weather, activities, prices
• Mauritius Family Guide: Top Kid-Friendly Spots & Activities

The best itineraries for your trip

• Itinerary: 5 days in Mauritius – An amazing itinerary for a short stay in Mauritius
• Itinerary: One week in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit the island in 7 days
• Itinerary: 10 days in Mauritius – The perfect itinerary to visit Mauritius in 10 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mauritius – The ultimate guide to Mauritius in 15 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mauritius – Plan your 20-21 day stay in Mauritius easily!

• Road-trip in Mauritius – The 6 best itineraries for your trip!
• Mauritius off the beaten track – 17 hidden gems to discover

Places to Visit

• Bellemare: Top 11 places and activities
• Underwater waterfall in Mauritius – How to get there + Tips
• Chamarel: 11 Epic Things to Do
• Flic-en-Flac: Top 10 places to visit and things to do
• Grand Baie: The Ultimate Guide
• Grand Bassin: All the Best Things to Do
• Île aux Bénitiers: How to get there + Tips
• Île aux Cerfs: The Definitive Guide to Plan Your Visit
• Mahébourg: Best Places to Visit + Tips
• Morne Brabant: How to Visit Morne Brabat?
• Black River Gorges National Park: What to See and Do?
• Port-Louis: The ultimate guide

• 9 Natural curiosities to see in Mauritius

Activities

• The Best Activities in Mauritius – Water sports, cruises, day trips, guided tours…

• The Best Boat Trips in Mauritius – Top 5 + Rates and booking
• Hiking in Mauritius – The 25 best hiking trails and nature walks + Local Tips
• Scuba diving in Mauritius: The Definitve Guide
• Swimming with dolphins in Mauritius: Best excursions, Prices + My best Tips
• Seaplane tour in Mauritius: My experience + Prices and Tips
• Sharks in Mauritius: Species, Risks, and Where to See Them
• Whale watching in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide
• Zipline in Mauritius – La Vallée des Couleurs Nature Park: My Experience + Tips

Organize your stay

• Where to Stay in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide – All types of accommodation for all budgets

• 4-Star Hotels in Mauritius: My selection of the best!
• 5-Star Hotels in Mauritius: The Definitive Guide
• All Inclusive Hotels in Mauritius: My top 15 of the best hotels

• The 11 Most Beautiful Hotels in Mauritius – Guide + Tips

• Guesthouses and B&B in Mauritius: My Selection for a perfect stay
• The 11 Most Beautiful Nature Lodges in Mauritius

• Renting a Car in Mauritius: Guide + My Best Tips
  

• How much to travel to Mauritius? Travel Costs, Best prices + Tips

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