Last updated: January 18, 2025
Rodrigues, a picturesque island in Mauritius, experiences a tropical maritime climate classified as Am under the Köppen-Geiger system. Characterized by warm temperatures throughout the year, the island sees minimums of 18°C (65°F) in November and average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). The peak warmth occurs in January, where maximum temperatures can reach 29°C (84°F), offering a delightful environment for both residents and visitors alike. This consistent climate fosters a rich biodiversity and a vibrant ecosystem, making Rodrigues an ideal destination for eco-tourism and outdoor activities.
The temperature patterns in Rodrigues, Mauritius, reveal a tropical climate characterized by warm conditions year-round, marked by distinct seasonal trends. January and February are the warmest months, with minimums around 24°C (75°F) and maximums peaking at 29°C (84°F), while average temperatures hover around 26°C (80°F) to 27°C (81°F). As the year progresses into March and April, a slight cooling trend is observed, with daytime highs decreasing gradually to about 28°C (82°F), while minimum temperatures dip to 23°C (74°F). The transition into the cooler winter months of May through August introduces lower average temperatures, dipping to a minimum of 20°C (68°F) and maximums around 25°C (77°F), providing a refreshing change. Early fall months saw a reset in temperatures, with September to November experiencing a gradual warming again, culminating in November with minimums of 18°C (65°F) and maximums reaching 27°C (80°F). The cyclical nature of these temperature variations underscores Rodrigues' appealing climate and its ability to cater to diverse outdoor activities throughout the year.
In Port Mathurin, temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in November to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in January, which is mirrored in Baie aux Huitres where the temperature also spans the same range. For detailed monthly temperature information, you can explore the links for Port Mathurin monthly temperatures in Port Mathurin and Baie aux Huitres monthly temperatures in Baie aux Huitres.
Rodrigues, Mauritius experiences a distinct precipitation pattern throughout the year, with January often being the wettest month, receiving 104 mm (4.1 inches) of rainfall over an average of 15 days. Following closely, March records the highest monthly precipitation at 175 mm (6.9 inches) spread over 22 days, signaling the peak of the rainy season. The precipitation gradually declines through April and into the mid-year months, such as May and June, where totals drop to 54 mm (2.1 inches) and 56 mm (2.2 inches), respectively. This trend reflects the transition into the drier months, which typically lasts until the tail end of the year.
As the island transitions to the cooler months of July and August, precipitation continues to decrease, reaching its lowest point in September with just 29 mm (1.1 inches) over 11 days. The drier periods culminate in October, where only 23 mm (0.9 inches) of rain is recorded. However, the precipitation begins to rise again in November and December, coinciding with the onset of the warm season, bringing 42 mm (1.7 inches) and 98 mm (3.9 inches), respectively. This cyclical precipitation pattern supports the island's lush vegetation, making it an inviting destination for nature lovers.
In Rodrigues, Mauritius, sunshine duration exhibits a clear seasonal trend, with a notable increase as the year progresses from winter to summer. January marks the beginning of the year with 311 hours of sunshine, but it is the following months that showcase a significant uptick. February and March stand out as peak sunshine months, boasting 335 hours and 341 hours respectively, providing ample daylight for outdoor activities. As the island transitions into the cooler months, April through June still receive generous sunshine, though there is a slight dip in hours, peaking at 327 hours in April before dropping to 296 hours in June.
The climax of sunshine duration occurs in the latter part of the year, with October, November, and December shining brightly, featuring 366 hours, 367 hours, and 379 hours respectively. This marked increase during the summer months underscores Rodrigues' appealing tropical climate, inviting visitors to bask in extended sunlight and enjoy its picturesque landscapes. The steady rise from winter's 296 hours to the year's end demonstrates not only the island's vibrant ecosystem but also its potential as a year-round destination for sun-seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Rodrigues, Mauritius experiences a notably high UV Index throughout the year, particularly during the summer months. In January and February, the UV Index peaks at an extreme level of 16, with a rapid burn time of just 10 minutes under direct sunlight. This high exposure continues into March, where the UV Index slightly reduces to 15, but remains categorized as extreme, indicating that caution is necessary for outdoor activities. Even in April, the index is still significant at 12, emphasizing the need for effective sun protection as the risk of harm from UV radiation persists throughout much of the year.
As Rodrigues transitions into the cooler months, UV levels begin to decrease, with May recording a UV Index of 9 and June dropping to 7, which is classified as high. However, the levels remain elevated, reflecting the island's proximity to the equator. The UV Index sees a slight uptick in July and August, reaching 8 and 10, respectively, both retaining very high exposure ratings. As the year draws to a close, the UV Index returns to extreme levels in November and December, reaching 13 and 14, with burn times consistently at 10 minutes. Given these levels, it's crucial for visitors and locals alike to prioritize sun safety year-round, particularly during the months when UV exposure is at its highest.
UV Risk Categories
Rodrigues, Mauritius enjoys a varied daylight duration throughout the year, beginning with its longest days in January, where sunlight stretches to 13 hours daily. This abundance of daylight gradually tapers off in the following months, with February and March maintaining a steady 12 hours of sunlight, promoting an ideal setting for numerous outdoor activities. As the year progresses into April and May, daylight duration further declines to 11 hours. This pattern signals the transition toward shorter days, coinciding with the arrival of the cooler months.
The trend continues into June, where daylight duration decreases to 10 hours, marking the year’s shortest days. However, by July, sunlight begins to stabilize again at 11 hours, which remains consistent through August, September, and October. Notably, daylight duration begins to increase once more as the year ends, returning to 12 hours in October and back to 13 hours in both November and December. This cyclical pattern of daylight not only enhances the island's tropical charm but also underscores Rodrigues' suitability for year-round exploration and leisure.
The climate in Baie aux Huitres, Mauritius, is characterized by warm temperatures year-round, with averages ranging from 22°C (72°F) in August to 27°C (81°F) in February. The wettest months are typically March and January, experiencing up to 175 mm (6.9 in) and 104 mm (4.1 in) of rainfall, respectively. Sunshine is abundant, with the highest hours recorded in December at 379 hours. This tropical paradise enjoys pleasant weather, making it an attractive destination throughout the year. For more details, visit Baie aux Huitres climate.
Port Mathurin, Mauritius, has a tropical climate characterized by warm temperatures and seasonal rainfall. Temperatures range from a minimum of 18°C (65°F) in November to a maximum of 29°C (84°F) in January and February, with averages peaking around 27°C (81°F) in the summer months. Precipitation varies throughout the year, with March being the wettest month at 175 mm (6.9 in) and August the driest at just 36 mm (1.4 in). The area enjoys ample sunshine, particularly in October and November, which boast around 367 hours of sun. For more details, visit Port Mathurin climate.
In conclusion, Rodrigues, Mauritius, offers a captivating climate characterized by warm temperatures, consistent sunshine, and notable seasonal variations in precipitation and UV exposure. The island's tropical maritime environment fosters a rich biodiversity while providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year. With longer daylight hours in the warmer months and an elevated UV Index, visitors and residents are encouraged to embrace sun safety measures. As seasonal changes unfold, Rodrigues remains a vibrant destination, inviting travelers to indulge in its natural beauty while enjoying the diverse climatic experiences it has to offer.