June 2026 statistics published by Statistics Mauritius reveal a notable slowdown: 89,098 tourists received, a fall of 8.4% compared to June 2025. But the first half of the year remains in positive territory, thanks to strong momentum early in the year.
June in the Red, Semester in the Green
June 2026 saw 89,098 arrivals versus 97,273 in June 2025 (-8,175 visitors, or -8.4%). Both air arrivals (88,640) and maritime (458) declined. But cumulatively over the first six months, Mauritius totals 668,471 visitors, up 1.5% from the 658,909 recorded in H1 2025. Average length of stay remains solid at 11.2 nights.
Source Markets: Winners and Losers
Europe, which forms the core of the market, posted significant losses in June: UK -25.2%, Belgium -31.7%, Netherlands -34.4%, Germany -13.1%, France -6.1%. The Middle East saw the sharpest correction at -34.8%—a direct consequence of regional tensions that disrupted air flows during the first half.
Conversely, two markets are emerging as growth relays: South Africa +26.6% in June, sub-Saharan Africa +4.8%. China posted a remarkable +30.1% gain over the full semester, confirming the post-Covid recovery of this premium market.
Maritime: The Only True Positive Driver
The maritime segment proved to be the semester's pleasant surprise: +55.8% to 23,331 visitors over six months. The cruise stopover development strategy is paying off, even if volumes remain modest compared to air traffic.
Why It Matters
June's slowdown illustrates how sensitive the Mauritian tourism model is to external geopolitical shocks—a lesson to read alongside the Seychelles situation. Diversification towards Africa and Asia is no longer optional. Mauritian operators who invested in these markets are now reaping the rewards. For 2026, the challenge is to preserve positive half-year momentum despite pressures on European markets. Source: Statistics Mauritius, Le Mauricien, July 2026.