Mauritius
Dry Season (Winter): May to November. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F). Humidity is lower, making for comfortable conditions, and rainfall appears less frequent and lighter. Prevailing northeast trade winds characterize this season, providing cooler breezes for coastal areas. This stable, comfortable weather makes it a favored time for many visitors.
Wet Season (Summer): December to April. During these months, temperatures are warmer, usually ranging from 27°C to 35°C (81°F to 95°F). You will notice higher humidity, and rainfall becomes more frequent and heavier, specifically from January to March. The landscape becomes very lush and green during this time due to the increased precipitation.
Rodrigues lies in the Southwest Indian Ocean cyclone basin. The official cyclone season runs from November to May, with the highest risk between January and March. Cyclones bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and can disrupt travel and services.
Monitor weather forecasts closely if visiting during this period. Local authorities provide warnings, and hotels have clear emergency plans. Heed all official advice for your safety.
Peak travel, ideal weather
Ideal weather for most activities, lively atmosphere. Warm temperatures, lower humidity, calm seas.
Higher prices for accommodation and flights. More crowded, book well in advance.
Pleasant, fewer tourists
Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists. Lower prices. Good for hiking and kitesurfing (consistent winds).
Windier, especially on exposed south-east coast. Some rain possible, but typically not prolonged.
Lowest prices, higher humidity
Lowest prices for travel and lodging.
High humidity, higher chance of heavy rainfall. Peak tropical cyclone season. Some businesses may operate with reduced hours.
Plan your hikes and explorations for May to November. Cooler temperatures and lower humidity make walking and outdoor activities comfortable and enjoyable. October to December offers warm, calm waters, ideal for beach relaxation and swimming. Clear skies and gentle breezes complement the beach experience.
June to October provides consistent trade winds, creating world-class conditions for kitesurfing. The wind appears strong for experienced kitesurfers during these months. Several schools operate during this season. Underwater creatures are more visible during this time. The fishing season varies by species, but generally, September to May provides good opportunities for deep-sea fishing. Confirm with local operators for specific target species.
May-November: Comfortable temperatures, low humidity.
October-December: Warm, calm waters, clear skies.
June-October: Consistent trade winds, world-class conditions.
June-October: More underwater creatures visible.
September-May: Good opportunities for various species.
Rodrigues forms an integral part of Mauritius. Its entry regulations are identical to those for the main island of Mauritius.
Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry to Mauritius (and thus Rodrigues) for tourism, typically for stays up to 90 days. This includes citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia, and UK.
Upon arrival, regardless of visa need, present these documents to immigration officials:
While not always strictly required for entry, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.
Rodrigues is generally more affordable than mainland Mauritius, offering good value for a tropical island getaway. Thoughtful planning still applies.
The local currency is the Mauritian Rupee (MUR). You will find exchange facilities at Sir Gaëtan Duval Airport (RGT) upon arrival. In Port Mathurin, the capital, several banks and exchange bureaus offer currency exchange services.
ATMs appear in Port Mathurin and some larger villages. While larger hotels and some mid-range restaurants accept credit cards, cash is often the preferred and sometimes only payment method for smaller establishments, local markets, street food vendors, and public buses.
Daily Costs: MUR 2,000 - 3,500 (approx. USD 45 - 80). Stay in local guesthouses or basic self-catering apartments (MUR 1,000-2,000/night). Eat at local eateries, "roulottes," and the Port Mathurin market (MUR 300-700/meal). Use public buses (MUR 20-50/trip) and focus on free activities. Budget MUR 300-600 for limited paid excursions.
Half-board guesthouses offer good value.
Limited luxury options at this price point.
Daily Costs: MUR 4,000 - 8,000 (approx. USD 90 - 180). Choose comfortable bungalows or mid-range hotels (MUR 2,500-5,000/night). Meals at mid-range restaurants (MUR 800-1,500/person/day). Mix public buses with occasional taxis or scooter/car hire for a few days. Budget MUR 500-1,000 for transport. Engage in wider activities like islet tours, snorkeling, and reserve entries. Budget MUR 800-1,500 for excursions.
More amenities and pleasant ambiance at hotels.
Private transfers can add up quickly.
Daily Costs: MUR 9,000+ (approx. USD 200+). Stay in boutique hotels, luxury villas, or high-end guesthouses (MUR 5,500+/night). Indulge in high-end restaurants, private dining. Utilize private transfers from the airport and hire a car with a driver for full-day excursions. Budget MUR 1,000+ for transport. Book private excursions, specialized diving or fishing trips, and other exclusive experiences. Budget MUR 1,500+ for premium activities.
Superior comfort, service, and amenities.
Limited true 5-star resorts, island charm is the luxury.
| Category | Item | Price Range (MUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Guesthouse/Bungalow | 1,000 - 3,000 per night |
| Mid-range Hotel | 2,500 - 5,000 per night | |
| Boutique/Luxury Villa | 5,500 - 15,000+ per night |
Rodrigues is generally a very safe destination. Grasping potential risks and how to manage them frames responsible travel.
Certificate mandatory if arriving from or transiting through Yellow Fever risk countries. Check WHO guidelines or travel health clinic.
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, and Polio. Ensure these vaccinations are current.
Advised for those exploring local food markets or venturing into rural areas. Consult a travel health clinic for personalized advice.
Practice good hygiene to avoid common travel issues.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Traveler's diarrhea. Eat hot, freshly cooked food. Avoid raw or undercooked food, especially seafood from questionable sources. Drink only bottled or purified water.
Sunburn and Heatstroke: High UV index. Use High-SPF broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher), wear Wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses. Seek shade during peak sun hours (10:00 to 16:00). Stay well hydrated with plenty of Bottled water.
Mosquito-borne Diseases: Dengue fever present. Use Insect repellent consistently, especially at dawn and dusk. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and long pants in evenings. Choose DEET-Free Insect Repellent or OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent.
Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Crève Coeur provides basic medical services. Several smaller dispensaries across the island offer main care.
Pharmacies in Port Mathurin stock common medications.
Rodrigues' emergency medical services are limited. Serious medical emergencies may necessitate evacuation to Mauritius or further afield. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is important.
Rodrigues generally remains a very safe island with low crime. Violent crime against tourists appears extremely rare. Petty crime (pickpocketing, bag snatching) is uncommon but possible in crowded areas.
Keep these numbers accessible, either in your phone or written down:
Police: 999 or 112
Ambulance: 999 or 114
Fire: 995 or 115
Coast Guard: 999
Queen Elizabeth Hospital (Rodrigues): +230 832 0261
Your Embassy/Consulate: Contact details for Port Louis, Mauritius.
Inform your hotel/guesthouse staff of any emergency. They often assist with local procedures.
