Mauritius in February - Travel Tips, Things to See and a Lot More!

Officially the Republic of Mauritius, this African island nation is an incredible place to visit, no matter the time of year. Sparkling water, beautiful beaches and a whole host of island adventures await you in this particular vacation spot. Happy throughout the year, but different months are more suitable for specific events and activities.

In this list, we've put together everything you need to know if you're planning to visit in February. From weather patterns and travel tips to festivals and local events, this article will cover them all. So if you're thinking of taking a vacation in February, look no further for all the relevant information.

Here is all that you need to know if you are planning a visit to Mauritius in February: 

Is Mauritius in February a Good Idea?

Mauritius is one of those places that you can visit pretty much any time of the year. If you go in February, you'll not be bored as several festivals, and events take place in Mauritius around that time. Add to that the fact that the peak tourist season would be ending around that time and so the crowds will probably be a tad less.
The weather will be hot this time of the year, and as we have mentioned later in the article too, in February there is a chance of cyclones occurring. This can affect your water-plans adversely, so make sure you consult the weather forecast in the planning phase of your trip.

Weather of Mauritius in February

Mauritius is at its hottest in February. As a tropical island nation, the temperatures throughout the year do not vary drastically here. The summer temperatures can go up to 33 degree Celsius, with a minimum of 25 degree Celsius. Unfortunately, the weather around this time can be a tad more hot and humid. But don't let that stop you, especially if you're planning to spend large quantities of time in the water.
Take heed; cyclones can come up during the summer months. So be extra careful when you're planning your trip.

Events You Cannot Miss!

1. Chinese New Year and Spring Festival - Capture the dancing dragons and the fireworks in the sky 

Although the exact dates of this festival vary over the years, you can expect in the January-February period. This festival ushers in the Chinese New Year and is commemorated with an abundance of food, firecrackers, festive dances and so on. In 2018, the Chinese New Year fell on Friday, 16 February. For 2019, the date is tentatively Tuesday, 5 February. You're however strongly urged to run a search and verify the date before booking your tickets.

In this festival, families get together for an extended new year celebration. There are parades where you can catch sight of gigantic dancing dragons and lions. Red, the symbolic colour of happiness dominates the decorations everywhere. You can watch firecrackers shows during the festival celebrations. The tradition behind bursting crackers is that it will drive away evil spirits. And finally, at the end of the festivities, Chinese dancers will perform something that is known as the "Lion Dance".

Do make sure that you go to Port Louis in Chinatown to get the full experience of this glorious festival.

2. Thaipoosam Cavadee and Cavadee Festival - Be astound and mesmerized at the same time!

Another festival that takes place at the end of January-beginning of February period is an unusual festival celebrated chiefly by Indians descending from Tamil origins. In 2018, the festival occurred on Wednesday, 31 January.

In 2019, unfortunately, the date has been given as Monday, 21 January.

During this festival, devotees fast, and many pierce their tongues, chests and cheeks with needles before heading to the temple with their offerings on their back. They walk barefoot all the while carrying the "Cavadee", an arc of wood, metal or plastic that is covered with flowers and a pot of milk. This arc is considered as a symbolic representation of the sacred mountains and is laid down at the foot of the deity in the temple. Fire climbing and sword climbing rituals too are often part of the ceremony.

Thaipoosam Cavadee, called the Tamil day of remorse, is celebrated with rituals such as mortifications, washings and fasting.

3. Maha Shivratri - A sight of thousands of devotees is something you cannot miss!

Maha Shivratri is celebrated with great zeal in Mauritius among the Hindus. The three-day religious festival sees thousands of devotees pay homage to Lord Shiva and undertake a pilgrimage to Grand Bassin which is considered a holy lake by Hindus in Mauritius.

4. Abolition of Slavery Day - Get all artsy and enjoy the cultural events

The 1st day of February is celebrated in Mauritius as the Abolition of Slavery day and commemorates the implementation of an act of the same name in the country in February 1835. This historic milestone is marked by events organised by the Ministry of Arts and Culture and has both cultural programmes as well as speeches by dignitaries. While this may not be a festival is the conventional, celebratory sense of the word, this is a significant occasion for Mauritius.

5. Valentine's Day - Bask in the sun at the beachside with your loved one

What could be better than celebrating the day of love in a beautiful foreign land? Soak in the sun and water with some beach-side activities or explore the majestic Alexandra Falls, the highest in the island with your loved one. Immerse yourself in history with a visit to the colonial era Château De Labourdonnais museum or Fort Adelaide which offers some beautiful views.
And while we're at it, what can be more romantic than a stroll along the beach at sunset or a cruise? You can even go snorkelling in the blue depths of the Mauritian coast and swim amidst colourful fishes and coral reefs if you like.

Read more on Festivals in Mauritius

Travel Tips

1. Sunblock and water are your friends. The sunny climate can quickly dehydrate you if you let it, so make sure to consume lots of liquids. And if you're prone to sunburns, make sure to protect your skin from those harmful rays.

2. Keep in mind that Mauritius has hilly areas too. If you're planning to visit all parts of the island country, you might want to pack some light shawls. Also, many hotels and resorts host events, so make sure you carry appropriate clothes. And if you're going to experience the Mauritian nightlife, that too is possible.

3. Make sure you check out weather forecasts for your trip dates as cyclones and such can occur in these months, from December to March. 

4. The Mauritian currency is equivalent to approximately 2 Indian rupees for each Mauritian Rupee. Although you can exchange the money at many banks and in exchange centres throughout the country, the best exchange rates are available at the Mauritius airport itself. Card payments are widely accepted in Mauritius.

Still considering your February visit?
Don't hesitate anymore! 
And when you return from your vacation, do tell us if you have any details for us to add to this article.