Mauritius in April: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

North & Northwest Coast (Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Cap Malheureux)

Late autumn showers taper off in April and the air starts to feel cleaner - the north warms but is noticeably less oppressive than earlier months. Transparency in the water improves and island gardens flush green; this is a good window for day trips to Coin de Mire or snorkeling off Île aux Cerfs while avoiding peak-season prices. Bring a light rain jacket for occasional tropical showers, and expect fewer crowds at Grand Baie’s restaurants and boat operators.

West Coast & Coral Reef Lagoons (Flic en Flac, Tamarin, Le Morne)

April’s reduction in rain leaves beaches on the west coast feeling more comfortable; evenings are less sultry and the sea begins to calm for longer stretches. Flic en Flac’s long beach is pleasant for walks, and boat trips to spot dolphins off Tamarin resume more reliably - the rivers and waterfalls still have strong flows after the wet season. A light layer for cooler nights and good walking shoes for muddy paths will keep plans flexible.

East Coast & Windward Beaches (Belle Mare, Palmar, Île aux Cerfs)

April often brings relief from the heaviest storms, leaving the east coast warm with more predictable mornings and afternoon showers; Île aux Cerfs’s beaches are pleasant for day-trippers and golf courses are lively. Water clarity improves for snorkelling inside protected lagoons and coastal restaurants reopen fully after seasonal closures. Bring a light rain jacket for surprise squalls and plan early starts for island outings before later cloud build-up.

South & South-West Coast (Le Morne, Gris Gris, Souillac)

By April the worst of the heavy summer storms usually subsides and the south coast becomes pleasantly warm with clearer days for scenic drives and coastal viewpoints. Gris Gris’s cliffs are striking with the tide variations and calmer windows allow safe viewing, while Le Morne’s lagoon can be swimmable early before late-afternoon clouds form. Pack light layers for cooler evenings and plan outdoor activities for mornings when the weather is most stable.

Central Plateau & Mountains (Curepipe, Moka, Black River Gorges)

April’s rainfall usually declines, leaving highland forests dripping and the scenery vivid - Chamarel’s Seven Coloured Earth and the waterfalls are full but more accessible. Mornings can still be cloudy and cool, while afternoons brighten making this a rewarding month for photography and for visiting nature reserves. Carry walking poles for slippery terrain and expect fewer tourists at mountain lodges compared with coastlines.

Rodrigues Island (Port Mathurin and outer reefs)

April typically brings easing of heavy rains, leaving the landscape green and waterfalls running while lagoon snorkeling improves in clarity; Rodrigues begins to settle into a more predictable pattern. Sea trips to coral gardens become more reliable and local fisheries are active; book guided reef trips early in the day for the calmest conditions. Bring a light rain jacket for the odd shower and enjoy fewer tourists and friendlier rates than Mauritius main island.