Explore the Beauty, Culture, and Adventure of Mauritius
It’s easy to run out of adjectives when describing the natural beauty of Mauritius, a small tropical paradise found in the Indian Ocean. Indeed, celebrated author Mark Twain claimed ‘Mauritius was made first, then heaven was copied from it.’ The volcanic island lies east of Madagascar just south of the Equator, and is covered with lush forest, streams, waterfalls, and dazzling white sands, is fringed with palms, and teems with coral reefs.
Mauritius is small, covering just 720 square miles (1,864 sq km). It is the archetypal dream destination for an idyllic beach holiday, and is equipped with modern resorts that have been carefully developed to preserve the island’s beauty.
Since the Portuguese arrived in 1505, the island has been occupied by the Dutch, the French, and the British. All have contributed over the centuries to the melting pot that is Mauritian culture and heritage, along with African slaves, Arab traders, and indentured Chinese labourers.
Most of the tourist resorts in Mauritius are situated along the 205 mile (330km) coastline, with the capital Port Louis on the west coast being the centre of operations for most visitors. The bulk of the population reside on the central plateau around Curepipe, the island’s other major town.
Although everybody who takes a holiday in Mauritius comes for the sandy beaches and blue lagoons, most are delighted to discover that the island has plenty of other attractions too, from some of the world’s rarest stamps to the first ever race course to open in the southern hemisphere.
Of course, no holiday would be complete without good food and entertainment, and Mauritius offers both. The delicious local cuisine makes use of tropical fruits and vegetables, and there’s the chance to learn the island’s indigenous wild dance, the Sega, which originated among African slaves.
Key Facts
- Language:
- English is the official language of Mauritius, but the most widely used language is French and the local dialect, Creole. Hindi, Urdu, and Chinese are also spoken.
- Passport/Visa:
All foreign passengers to Mauritius must hold a confirmed booking for accommodation in Mauritius, return or onward tickets to their country of origin or residence, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The currency of Mauritius is the Mauritian rupee (MUR), which is divided into 100 cents. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and larger hotels. ATMs are widely available in most big towns and some hotels, and major restaurants and large retailers accept major credit cards.
- Electricity:
- The electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs and round two-pin plugs are commonly used.
Overview
Most visitors to Mauritius have been lured by the beautiful stretches of coastline, the warm ocean, plentiful sunshine, numerous watersports, and high-quality resorts. However, things to see and do in the destination extend far beyond its white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters.
Visitors can see a replica of the legendary Dodo at Port Louis’ Natural History Museum, and explore the Central Market, a bustling hub of culture, colour, and bargains. They can also enjoy the impressive and historic manor houses in Moka and take in Chamarel’s rainbow of coloured sands, the ‘Seven Coloured Earth’.
Black River Gorges National Park is great for picnics, hiking and scenic drives and is home to wonderful waterfalls and wildlife, while La Vanille Reserve des Mascareigne has thousands of crocodiles and giant tortoises.
It is well worth taking excursions inland to learn about the island’s interesting history and culture, and to see how local Mauritians live outside of the fancy beach resorts. Learning the local Sega dance is a delight for visitors, and it is particularly special to seek out night spots frequented by locals rather than just sticking to the resort entertainment. Its lovely weather makes Mauritius a perfect year-round holiday destination.
Climate in Mauritius
Mauritius has only two seasons, with minimal differences between them, making it a perfect year-round destination. Summer runs from November to April, with temperatures reaching as high as 93F (34C) on the coast.
Humidity is highest from December to April but is never unbearable, particularly on the coast where there is an almost constant sea breeze. The northeast (around Grand Baie) is more protected from the southeast trade winds.
Cyclones, with strong winds and heavy rain, can occur between January and March, and Mauritius will normally experience about three or four of these a year during this period. Each cyclone usually lasts a couple of days, and flooding can result.
During winter, the temperature drops a few degrees; however, there is still plenty of sunshine and it is a very pleasant time of year to visit. Sea temperatures vary between 75F (24C) in the winter and 82F (28C) in the summer.
The peak holiday season runs from October to April, with hotel prices dropping over the winter months. If travellers plan to visit during peak season, they should be sure to book accommodation far in advance to avoid disappointment. To avoid the rainy season, they should visit anytime between April and December.
Health Notes when travelling to Mauritius
No vaccination certificates are required for entry into Mauritius, though vaccinations are usually recommended for hepatitis A and hepatitis B. It’s also a good idea to pack shoes that can be worn in the sea to protect against sharp coral, sea urchins and stonefish. Stonefish stings are uncommon but can in some cases be fatal. Visitors should seek urgent medical attention if stung; many hotels stock anti-venom serum.
Visitors should take precautions against mosquito bites as there have been several cases of the Chikungunya virus; malaria medication may also be necessary for those visiting rural areas. Travellers should stick to bottled water. Medical facilities are good and free in public hospitals, but private clinics are expensive and medical insurance is recommended.
Medications are usually easily available but, for peace of mind, it is better that travellers bring any prescription medication with them, in its original packaging, with a signed and dated note from their doctor detailing what it is and why they need it. Visitors can bring common medicines for personal use into the country but must carry a copy of the prescription and proof that the drugs have been obtained legally. Other drugs such as tranquillisers, hypnotics, narcotics, and other strong painkillers will require prior authorisation.
Safety Notes when travelling to Mauritius
Mauritus is generally regarded as a safe country but visitors should take regular precautions against petty crime. They should avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night and keep valuables out of sight at all times. Visitors should be aware of pick pocketing in the central market in Port Louis. Care should be taken of bags and valuables when visiting popular tourist areas such as Pereybere, Grand Baie, Flic en Flac, and Tamarin.
Customs in Mauritius
Homosexuality is not technically illegal in Mauritius, but sodomy is and it is best to exercise discretion, as the locals are sometimes conservative. Penalties for drug trafficking and use are severe, and any personal medicinal drugs should be covered by a prescription. By law, scheduled drugs such as tranquillisers, morphine, and other strong painkillers require authorisation before import.
Duty Free in Mauritius
Travellers to Mauritius over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 250g tobacco; 1 litre spirits and 2 litres of wine, ale or beer; perfume and eau de toilette for personal use. Prohibited items include sugarcane and fresh fruit from parts of Asia.
Doing Business in Mauritius
Port Louis is the main business hub of Mauritius. Standard business practice applies to the island: punctuality and politeness are important, handshakes and the exchanging of business cards take place at meetings, and business attire is worn.
It is, however, possible to be somewhat more casual in terms of dress and visitors can take the cue from their hosts. Lightweight materials are recommended due to the tropical climate. Business hours vary, but most businesses are open at least from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday, with some businesses open for a half-day on Saturdays.
Communication in Mauritius
The international access code for Mauritius is +230. International roaming and local SIM cards are available; WiFi connections are widespread in hotels, resorts and guesthouses.
Tipping in Mauritius
Tipping in Mauritius is discretionary, though some extra money paid for services, such as a taxi ride, waitering or cleaning, is appreciated. In the hotels travellers can add around five percent of their incidental expenses when paying the bill on departure if service has been good. Government tax is added to all hotel and restaurant bills and this is included in the basic price. However, all incidental hotel expenses will incur tax, which is generally included in the price quoted.
Passport/Visa Note
All foreign passengers to Mauritius must hold a confirmed booking for accommodation in Mauritius, return or onward tickets to their country of origin or residence, and the necessary travel documentation for their next destination. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African citizens must have a passport that is valid for the period of intended stay in Mauritius. On arrival, passports will be stamped allowing entry to the country for 60 days.
Tourist Offices
Mauritius Tourism Website: http://www.tourism-mauritius.mu
Mauritius Embassies
- In the United States:
Mauritius Embassy, Washington DC, United States: +1 202 244 1491.
- In Canada:
Mauritius Honorary Consulate, Ottawa, Canada: +1 416 754 2747.
- In the United Kingdom:
Mauritius Embassy, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7581 0294.
- In Australia:
High Commission for the Republic of Mauritius, Melbourne, Australia: +(613) 9484 4242.
- In South Africa:
Mauritius High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 (0)12 342 1283.
Foreign Embassies in Mauritius
- American Embassy
United States Embassy, Port Louis: +230 202 4400.
- Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Mauritius): +27 (0)12 422 3000.
- British Embassy
British High Commission, Port Louis: +230 202 9400.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Port Louis: +230 202 0160.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand Consulate, Pretoria, South Africa (also responsible for Mauritius): +27 12 435 9000.
- South African Embassy
South African High Commission, Port Louis: +230 212 6925.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
