Christmas in Port Louis feels warm and tropical, a huge contrast to the chilly holidays in many other parts of the world. Daytime temperatures usually hover around 26°C (78°F), with highs close to 29°C (85°F) and lows near 22°C (73°F).
The air stays humid, and you’ll probably notice short bursts of rain, but the sun still manages to break through often. Outdoor activities are definitely still on the table.
December kicks off the wet season, so you’ll see more frequent showers than in earlier months. Rain comes in quick spells, not all-day storms, so you can still get out and explore the city, beaches, or markets.
The sun and rain together create lush greenery that really adds to the festive vibe. Honestly, it’s a unique holiday experience.
With about 13 hours of daylight and high UV levels, you’ll want to balance your time in the sun with some good protection. Warm temperatures, high humidity, and long days make Christmas in Port Louis a vibrant time for both relaxation and adventure.
Overview of Port Louis Weather at Christmas
Around Christmas, Port Louis stays warm, humid, and sees frequent rain showers typical of the early wet season. Expect a mix of sunny hours and cloudy, damp spells, with tropical warmth that makes the city feel both inviting and, well, a little sticky.
Typical Temperature Range
During Christmas, temperatures usually range from 22°C (73°F) at night to 29°C (85°F) during the day. The daily average sits around 26°C (78°F).
Mornings start off warm but feel comfortable, while afternoons heat up, especially when the sun’s out. Nights stay mild, so you can enjoy dinner outside or an evening stroll without needing extra layers.
December feels noticeably warmer than months like June or July. January and February get a bit hotter, but Christmas falls right in that steady tropical heat zone.
For most visitors, these temperatures are perfect for the beach, though you’ll want to keep an eye on sun exposure.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Relative humidity at Christmas averages around 81%, which is pretty high. This makes the warmth feel heavier, and if you’re not used to tropical climates, it can be a bit much.
Afternoons and evenings feel the stickiest. Even with breezes averaging 11 mph (4.8 m/s), the air can seem dense.
You’ll probably sweat more quickly, so pacing your outdoor time helps.
If you’re heading outside, stick to lightweight clothes, stay hydrated, and find some shade when you can. The high humidity keeps the island looking lush and green, which gives Port Louis a vibrant, tropical look for the holidays.
Rainfall Patterns in December
Rainfall jumps up in December as the wet season gets underway. Port Louis gets about 113 mm (4.5 in) of rain spread over 23 days.
Showers come often but don’t usually last long, and they tend to arrive in the afternoon. Mornings can stay sunny, but clouds and rain often roll in later.
Compared to drier months like May or June, December definitely feels wetter. Still, January and February get more rain overall.
At Christmas, expect a balance of sunshine and showers, so carrying a light rain jacket makes sense.
Temperature Trends During December
December brings warm weather, high humidity, and steady breezes from the Indian Ocean. Temperatures stay pretty consistent, but you’ll notice small shifts between day and night, and from early to late December.
Historical records show year-to-year variation is modest, but it’s still worth checking if you’re planning a trip.
Daytime and Nighttime Temperatures
Daytime highs in December usually reach 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F). On some hotter days, the temperature can hit 31°C (88°F), but that’s not the norm.
At night, things cool off a bit, dropping to about 22°C to 24°C (72°F to 75°F). The difference isn’t dramatic, but evenings feel more comfortable for being outside.
Humidity makes the daytime heat feel warmer than the thermometer says. The “feels like” temperature can climb to 30°C to 32°C (86°F to 90°F) in the afternoon.
Light, breathable clothes work best during the day. Near the coast, a light layer might help in the evening when breezes pick up.
Comparing Early and Late December
The first half of December feels a bit cooler, with highs near 28°C (82°F) and lows around 22°C (72°F). Rain showers are less common early in the month, though humidity stays high.
By mid to late December, temperatures usually edge up. Highs reach 29°C to 30°C (84°F to 86°F), and lows rise to 23°C to 24°C (73°F to 75°F). Rain becomes more frequent, especially in the afternoons.
This gradual warming shows the island shifting into the peak of summer. If you’re spending Christmas in Port Louis, expect it to feel a little warmer and wetter than at the start of the month.
The change isn’t huge, but it’s enough that you might want to plan outdoor sightseeing earlier in the day as December winds down.
Temperature Variability Year to Year
Looking at historical data, December temperatures in Port Louis stay pretty steady. Highs usually sit between 28°C and 29°C, and lows run from 22°C to 24°C.
Some years get hotter, with highs reaching 30°C to 31°C, while cooler years might see daytime temps closer to 27°C (81°F). Nighttime lows rarely fall below 21°C (70°F), even in the coolest years.
Rainfall patterns can make December feel a bit different each year. A wetter December might seem cooler on cloudy days, while a drier one can feel hotter with more sun.
These shifts are small, but it’s still smart to prep for both sun and rain. You’ll find the climate pretty consistent, but little changes each year can affect your comfort outside.
Rainfall and Precipitation Around Christmas
December is one of the wetter months in Port Louis. You’ll get warm weather mixed with noticeable rainfall, though showers don’t usually last long and daylight is plentiful.
Average Rainfall Amounts
Rainfall in December averages between 120 mm and 170 mm for the month, depending on local patterns. It’s one of the wetter times of year, though not the absolute rainiest.
Compared to dry months like September, when rainfall can drop below 10 mm, December’s jump in precipitation stands out. The summer monsoon gets stronger from late November onward.
Rain doesn’t fall evenly throughout the month. Some days pass with little rain, while others bring several hours of showers.
This unpredictability means it’s smart to keep your plans flexible for outdoor activities.
The sea stays warm, averaging 26–27°C (79–81°F), so rain rarely affects swimming or water sports. Land excursions, though, might get interrupted by a passing storm.
Frequency of Rainy Days
Port Louis usually sees 15 to 20 rainy days in December. Most of these are brief showers, not all-day rain, but it’s still more than in winter.
Rainy days happen more often in the late afternoon or evening. Mornings are usually clearer, so you get good windows for sightseeing or tours.
Compared to January or February, December has slightly fewer rainy days, but not by much. The wettest stretch usually comes in February.
Keep in mind, “rainy days” don’t always mean rain all day—many days offer hours of sunshine before or after showers. December weather is pretty manageable for visitors who plan ahead.
Typical Rainfall Intensity
Rainfall around Christmas is usually moderate to heavy, but showers come in short bursts. Storms might last 20 minutes or maybe a couple of hours, then clear up.
The tropical monsoon climate causes these sudden changes. You might get bright sun, then a heavy shower, all in one afternoon.
Flash flooding is rare in Port Louis due to its coastal location, but low-lying spots can see temporary water pooling after heavy rain. Drivers should be cautious during sudden downpours.
Umbrellas and light rain jackets are usually enough. Strong storms are less common than inland areas, but you should still expect a few days of intense rain during your visit.
Humidity and Atmospheric Conditions
Late December in Port Louis brings warm, moist air shaped by the tropical monsoon. Relative humidity stays high, which really affects how you feel outdoors, especially when you add in heat and wind.
Average Relative Humidity Levels
You’ll find relative humidity around Christmas stays between 73% and 78%. This is normal for Port Louis, but it feels more noticeable in summer months like December, when temps climb above 26°C (79°F).
Humidity doesn’t drop much during the day, even with steady winds. Nights stay muggy, and the air rarely feels dry.
You’ll probably notice a sticky or heavy atmosphere, especially in the afternoon when heat and moisture peak.
Here’s a quick table for reference:
| Time of Day | Typical Relative Humidity | Comfort Level |
|---|---|---|
| Morning | 75–78% | Damp, mild |
| Afternoon | 73–76% | Sticky, warm |
| Evening | 74–77% | Muggy |
These levels aren’t extreme compared to some equatorial places, but they’re high enough to matter when planning your day.
Impact on Comfort and Outdoor Activities
High humidity makes temperatures feel warmer than they really are. For example, 28°C (82°F) can feel more like 31°C (88°F) with 75% humidity.
You’ll probably tire faster when walking or sightseeing in Port Louis. Outdoor activities like shopping at the central market or strolling the waterfront work best in the morning, when it’s a little less oppressive.
Midday can feel uncomfortable without shade or breaks. For the beach or marine tours, the sea temperature around 26–27°C (79–81°F) makes swimming refreshing, even with humid air.
Hiking or inland trips might feel more tiring since there’s less breeze.
Carrying water, wearing light clothes, and pacing your schedule helps you stay comfortable in the humid climate. Even with all the moisture, you can still enjoy being outside if you adjust your timing and expectations.
Sunshine and Daylight Hours
At the end of December, Port Louis enjoys long, bright days with steady sunshine. You’ll have plenty of reliable daylight for outdoor activities, though sunshine hours can shift a bit compared to other months.
Average Daily Sunshine
During December, Port Louis gets about 9 hours of sunshine per day. That’s more than the yearly low in June, which is closer to 7 hours.
The longer sunshine in December means you get more time for beaches, markets, and walking tours—no need to rush.
Cloud cover is common in the wet season, but skies usually clear for several hours each day. January sees slightly less sunshine, but December still offers a good mix of sunny and overcast periods.
If you’re spending time outside, remember the UV index is high this time of year. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help you stay comfortable and make the most of those bright days.
Daylight Duration in December
In late December, Port Louis enjoys daylight for 13 hours to 13 hours 19 minutes. The sun usually rises around 5:30 a.m., and you can expect sunset close to 6:45 p.m..
This extra daylight gives you plenty of time to fit in both morning and evening plans. You might explore central Port Louis in the morning, then maybe wander the waterfront or relax at the beach later.
Compared to June, when daylight lasts about 10 hours 54 minutes, December brings almost 2 extra hours. The holiday season definitely feels brighter and more lively in Mauritius.
Other Seasonal Weather Factors
In December, Port Louis locals and visitors keep an eye on more than just temperature and rain. Wind strength and sea conditions also matter, especially if you want to enjoy water activities or just stay comfortable on land.
Wind Patterns and Breezes
Winds in Port Louis shift as the season changes, and December marks the move toward wetter summer weather. The southeast trade winds bring steady breezes, though they don’t blow as hard as they do in the middle of the year.
Average wind speeds in December sit around 17–20 km/h (10–12 mph), so you’ll notice a gentle airflow most days. The breeze helps keep that tropical humidity from feeling overwhelming.
Evenings outdoors feel more comfortable thanks to the wind, even when the daytime temperature climbs above 27°C (80°F). July brings stronger gusts, often over 23 km/h (14 mph), but December winds stay moderate.
Outdoor dining, sightseeing, and city walks become more enjoyable when the wind isn’t too harsh. If you’re thinking about boat trips or ferry rides, conditions usually stay calm and steady.
Sometimes, showers bring short bursts of stronger wind, but December rarely brings long stretches of high winds.
Sea Temperature and Coastal Conditions
The Indian Ocean around Port Louis feels warm in December, usually hovering around 26–27°C (79–81°F). Honestly, you can swim or snorkel for ages without needing a wetsuit.
On the west coast, where Port Louis sits, the sea tends to stay calm. Most days, you’ll spot only gentle waves near the beaches, so families and casual swimmers can relax.
Sometimes rain showers roll in and mess with visibility for diving or snorkeling. Still, the water usually clears up pretty fast.
The warmer sea draws in more marine life, which is great news if you’re into reef tours or fishing trips.
If you compare it to August, when the water drops to about 23–24°C (73–75°F), December really stands out. You get both warm water and longer daylight, making it a fantastic time to hang out by the sea.