Mauritius General
Geography & Political Regime

Mauritius is a volcanic island situated in the Indian Ocean far off the west coasts of Madagascar, by 20.30 degrees South and 57 degrees East. Mauritius is part of the "Macarena" islands Its area is of 2,040 Km2 and is surrounded by coral reefs and lagoons..

Mauritius has the status of an independent republic with a democratic regime based on the Westminster model. The main political parties adopt a modern socialism ideology, that is with a pinch of capitalism.

With a population of 1,200,000, Mauritius is an over-populated island with inhabitants from several origins. (See "Population" below.)
The economy, relying on sugar and textiles exports, and now on the tourism industry, is healthy as compared to the majority of African countries but with a low growth rate. The infrastructures are fairly developed with good roads and telephone network. The electricity and water supplies are less reliable.

Mauritius is a reliable and safe destination, well organised to receive the average 800,000 visitors yearly.

Climate

Mauritius has a tropical climate with more rain in summer than in winter. Generally hot (27 to 37 °C in summer) and very humid (above 80 %) with a high rainfall, Mauritius has microclimates; the high grounds are cooler (av. 22oC) and much wetter (5,000 mm / year) than the coastal regions (1,000 mm / year).

Tropical cyclones occur in the warmest months of December to March. These very months are where the climate is fine for holidaymakers staying near the sea but can be very uncomfortable when moving around the island. The sea temperature is very pleasant during these months, between 25 and 29°C.

Most Mauritians prefer the winter period, as it is fresher and dryer, especially at night. The sun is also more bearable allowing long expositions, which is not recommended during summer. The sea in winter remains pleasant (around 22°C.)