This Mauritius travel guide covers an island in the southwest Indian Ocean that combines lagoons protected by a coral reef, volcanic mountains and a culture shaped by Indian, African, Chinese and European influences. It brings together the practical information you need to plan your trip: when to go, what to see and do, what budget to plan and how to get around. If this blend of influences appeals to you, our Nosy Be travel guide covers another Indian Ocean island, with beaches and islets.
To locate towns, regions, terrain, national parks and airports, see our map of Mauritius.
Mauritius at a glance
CapitalPort Louis
LanguageEnglishOfficial language of government; French and Mauritian Creole are spoken everywhere in daily life
Mauritius can be visited all year round, but the most pleasant period runs from May to December, during the dry season, with the best conditions from September to mid-December. The southern winter (May to October) is dry and temperate, with stronger trade winds on the east coast; the southern summer (November to April) is hot and humid. According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), the tropical cyclone season usually runs from November to May. Climate table, advice by coast and month by month: see our article best time to visit Mauritius. As December marks the start of the southern summer, Mauritius weather in December details the risk of showers and humidity coast by coast.
Chamarel waterfall in southwest Mauritius
What to see and do in Mauritius: the highlights
Port Louis
The capital, on the northwest coast, can be explored in a day. The central market, Chinatown, the Caudan Waterfront and Aapravasi Ghat, a former immigration depot listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, tell the story of how the island was settled. The Pamplemousses botanical garden, with its giant water lilies, is about twenty minutes to the north.
Grand Baie and the north
Grand Baie is the island’s liveliest resort, with restaurants, shops and nightlife. The nearby beaches of Trou aux Biches, Mont Choisy and Pereybère are lined with calm lagoons. At Cap Malheureux, the red-roofed church faces Coin de Mire, and catamaran trips head out to the northern islets.
Le Morne and the west coast
Le Morne Brabant, a mountain listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its connection with the history of escaped slaves (marronage), overlooks one of the island’s finest beaches and a lagoon popular with kitesurfers. Further north, Tamarin and Flic en Flac have sheltered beaches, fine sunsets and boat trips to see dolphins.
Chamarel and Black River Gorges National Park
In the southwest, Chamarel is known for its Seven Coloured Earth, dunes of volcanic soil in varied shades, and for its waterfall. Black River Gorges National Park protects the island’s last native forest: several marked trails let you spot endemic species such as the pink pigeon and the Mauritius kestrel.
Grand Bassin and the central plateau
Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao) is a crater lake sacred to Mauritian Hindus, surrounded by temples and overlooked by large statues of Shiva and Durga. On the way, Trou aux Cerfs crater in Curepipe offers a view over the whole island. The climate here is cooler and wetter than on the coast.
Île aux Cerfs and the east coast
Opposite Trou d’Eau Douce, Île aux Cerfs is a few minutes away by boat. Its beaches and lagoon draw big crowds in high season: go early in the morning. The east coast, from Belle Mare to Poste de Flacq, has long white-sand beaches that are windy during the southern winter.
Mahébourg, Blue Bay and the south
Mahébourg, a former colonial port close to the airport, has a lively market and a naval history museum. Blue Bay Marine Park is one of the island’s best snorkeling spots. Further west, the south coast (Gris-Gris, Le Souffleur, Bel Ombre) is wilder, with cliffs pounded by the waves.
Île aux Aigrettes
Off Mahébourg, this small coral islet is a nature reserve managed by the Mauritian Wildlife Foundation. Visits are guided only and present the restored coastal dry forest, giant tortoises and several rare birds saved from extinction, such as the pink pigeon. A useful outing to understand the island’s natural history; book ahead.
Rodrigues
About 1 h 30 by plane from Mauritius, Rodrigues island is smaller, rural and much less touristy. People come for coastal hiking, its vast lagoon, the François Leguat giant tortoise reserve and a very quiet atmosphere. Allow at least three or four days. The Rodrigues lagoon is well suited to snorkeling and kitesurfing, and the coastal trails in the east link small, isolated beaches. Three or four days, snorkeling and coastal trails: to plan a trip to Rodrigues, our guide details these walks.
Itinerary ideas for Mauritius
7 to 10 days:
Days 1-4: base yourself on the west coast (Flic en Flac or Le Morne), beach, boat trip from Tamarin
Day 5: Chamarel, the Seven Coloured Earth and Black River Gorges
Day 6: Grand Bassin, Trou aux Cerfs, the south coast (Gris-Gris)
Days 7-9: move to the north (Grand Baie), visit Port Louis and the Pamplemousses garden
Day 10: trip to the northern islets, then departure
2 weeks:
Days 1-5: west coast, Le Morne, hiking in Black River Gorges
Days 6-7: the south and central plateau (Chamarel, Grand Bassin, Bel Ombre)
Days 8-10: east coast (Belle Mare or Trou d’Eau Douce), Île aux Cerfs, Mahébourg and Blue Bay
Days 11-14: the north (Grand Baie, Port Louis, Pamplemousses), or 4 days in Rodrigues by plane from Mauritius
Budget for a trip to Mauritius
Mauritius has a reputation as an expensive destination, which is true of the large beach hotels. But there are plenty of apartments, guesthouses and small restaurants at moderate prices. Estimates per person per day, excluding flights (converted from our euro estimates at the ECB rate of 23 October 2026, €1 = US$1.12):
Item
Budget
Comfort
Accommodation (based on a shared double room)
roughly US$30–55
roughly US$110–280
Meals
roughly US$11–22 (street food, snacks)
roughly US$45–80 (restaurants)
Transport
roughly US$3–9 (bus)
roughly US$35–55 (car rental or taxi)
Activities
roughly US$11–28
roughly US$45–110 (catamaran, diving)
Total per day
roughly US$65–110
roughly US$170–335
Indicative ranges that vary widely by season: prices rise sharply during school holidays and the festive season.
To cut costs, travel outside the busiest holiday periods (May-June, September and November are often quieter), compare half-board packages, often good value in isolated hotels, and book catamaran trips directly with local operators. Conversely, the end-of-year holidays and August push up the price of accommodation and flights considerably. Prices climb above all with the festive season: visiting Mauritius in November often lets you enjoy very good weather before this rise.
Getting around Mauritius
Traffic drives on the left. Renting a car is the most practical way to explore the island at your own pace: distances are short (about 1 h 30 from north to south), but secondary roads are narrow and traffic is heavy around Port Louis at rush hour. According to the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025), a valid U.S. driver’s license is required, seat belts are compulsory for all occupants, using a phone while driving is illegal and a zero-tolerance drink-driving law has applied since 2018; night driving is hazardous on poorly lit country roads. According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), you can drive with a UK photocard licence, but rental companies often have stricter requirements, such as a year of driving experience, a higher minimum age or an International Driving Permit: check with your rental company.
The bus network is extensive and very cheap, but slow; according to the U.S. Department of State, buses run between the main towns from 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and until 6:00 p.m. in remote areas. The Metro Express links Port Louis and Curepipe via Rose-Hill and Quatre Bornes. Taxis are plentiful: agree on the fare before setting off and book in advance at night; Uber is not available in Mauritius (travel.state.gov). Daily flights to Rodrigues leave from the international airport.
Mauritius airport transfer: official taxi, bus and private transfer
Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam (SSR) International Airport is in the southeast of the island, near Mahébourg. Many beach hotels are on the north, west or east coasts, so the transfer is a step to plan, especially if your hotel does not include it.
Official airport taxi
The terminal operator (ATOL) lists an « Airport Taxi Service » counter on Level 0, in the tour operators’ hall, opposite the customs exit, and publishes an official fare list in force since January 2026. Examples from this list (amounts shown without a currency symbol, in local currency): Mahébourg 1,000, Blue Bay 1,000, Curepipe 1,500, Port Louis 2,500, Flic en Flac 3,000, Grand Baie 3,500, Belle Mare 3,500, Le Morne 3,500. The list states that a 10 to 20% surcharge may apply at night (11 p.m.-5 a.m.), that the first 10 minutes of waiting are free and that normal luggage is included. It gives indicative journey times of about 1 h to 1 h 30 to the north, 1 h to 1 h 15 to the west and 1 h to 1 h 30 to the east, depending on traffic.
Public buses
According to ATOL, three routes serve the airport, with a stop in the car park: route 9 (Mahébourg-Curepipe, every 10 minutes, about 70 minutes), route 10 (Mahébourg-Rivière des Galets, every 20 minutes, about 105 minutes) and route 198 (Port Louis Victoria Square-Mahébourg, every 15 minutes, about 85 minutes). A cheap option, but not well suited to suitcases or to hotels on the north and west coasts.
Car rental
About a dozen rental companies (including Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, Avis, Budget and local firms) have a counter on Level 0 of the airport, according to ATOL. Mauritius drives on the left.
Option
Where to find it
Official fare
Source
Official taxi
Level 0 counter, tour operators’ hall
2026 fare list: e.g. Port Louis 2,500, Grand Baie 3,500
mauritius-airport.atol.aero
Buses 9, 10, 198
Stop in the car park
Not published by the airport
mauritius-airport.atol.aero
Car rental
Level 0 counters
Depends on the company
mauritius-airport.atol.aero
Booking your transfer in Mauritius
A private transfer booked in advance (a driver waiting on arrival, price fixed when booking) makes most sense for a late arrival, bulky luggage, a family with young children or a group sharing the cost. Many hotels offer their own transfer: compare with the official taxi fare list. Before booking, check what the price includes (tolls, luggage, waiting if your flight is delayed), the exact meeting point in the terminal, the cancellation terms and the name of the company that actually provides the ride.
Sources: Airport Terminal Operations Ltd (ATOL), « Airport Taxi », « Public Bus », « Hire a car » and 2026 « Official airport taxi fare list » pages (mauritius-airport.atol.aero), checked on 24 October 2026.
Where to stay in Mauritius
West coast (Flic en Flac, Tamarin, Le Morne): the driest, with a good choice of apartments and hotels in every category. Ideal from May to November.
North (Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Pereybère): the liveliest and the most practical without a car, with plenty of restaurants and mid-range accommodation.
East coast (Belle Mare, Trou d’Eau Douce): large beach hotels and longer beaches, but windier in the southern winter.
Southeast (Mahébourg, Blue Bay): close to the airport, a more local atmosphere and a good base for snorkeling.
Types of accommodation: resort hotels, villas with pools, apartments, guesthouses and homestays (very common on Rodrigues). According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), only rent accommodation registered with the Mauritius Tourism Authority.
Entry requirements for Mauritius
US citizens
According to the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025), no visa is required: your passport is stamped on arrival for a 60-day stay. You need a valid passport with at least one blank page, evidence of onward or return travel and proof of sufficient funds. The Passport and Immigration Office of Mauritius recommends filling in the online « Mauritius All-in-One Travel Digital Form » at most 72 hours before travel. Yellow fever vaccination is required if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever.
UK citizens
According to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK foreign travel advice, updated 19 October 2026), you can visit Mauritius without a visa for up to 60 days; a border official stamps your passport with the end date of your permitted stay. Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and have one blank page, and you must be able to show proof of onward or return travel. You must fill in the Mauritius All in One travel form online before you arrive and print a copy with its QR code to show at the airport; otherwise you will be asked to fill in a disembarkation card. If you arrive from a country where malaria is common, officials may ask for a blood sample. Entry requirements checked on 24 October 2026; check them again before you travel.
Health and safety
Health: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), check vaccine recommendations at least 8 weeks before you travel; health risks include dengue, schistosomiasis and chikungunya. Stonefish stings are rare but can be fatal: get urgent medical attention. The U.S. Department of State lists hepatitis A and typhoid as prevalent and advises being up to date on CDC-recommended vaccinations. Protect yourself from the sun and mosquitoes.
Medication: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), you can bring common medicines for your own use with a copy of the prescription; tranquillisers, hypnotics, narcotics and strong painkillers need prior authorisation (check with the Mauritius Ministry of Health and Wellness). The U.S. Department of State advises carrying prescription medication in its original packaging.
Medical costs: good private healthcare is available but can be expensive, and complex cases may require evacuation to Réunion or South Africa (UK FCDO, GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026). Care providers expect payment in Mauritian rupees and U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas (U.S. Department of State). Take insurance covering medical costs and evacuation.
Safety: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), most crime is non-violent, such as burglaries from tourist villas or theft of unattended bags; petty crime is common in tourist areas such as Port Louis, Grand Baie and Flic en Flac. Demonstrations and unrest followed a police shooting on 9 October 2026, with temporary night curfews from 12 to 18 October: avoid gatherings and follow the local authorities’ advice. Respect the swimming flags: some areas, notably in the south, have dangerous currents.
Cyclones: the season usually runs from November to May; follow Mauritius Meteorological Services warnings and the government’s instructions. During a cyclone you are not allowed to leave your accommodation, and car insurance policies often become invalid (UK FCDO, GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026).
Local laws: it is illegal to possess or import cigarette papers, and drug offences carry long prison sentences (UK FCDO, GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026). Bringing in spear fishing equipment, plants and fruit or pepper spray is prohibited (U.S. Department of State, travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025).
Customs: declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to duty (GOV.UK). For your return, check your home country’s customs allowances (e.g. CBP in the US, HMRC in the UK).
Emergencies: according to the UK FCDO (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026), dial 999 or 114 for an ambulance, 999 or 115 for the fire service and 999 or 112 for the police and tourist police.
Practical tips for Mauritius
Money: according to the U.S. Department of State (travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025), the Mauritian rupee (MUR) is the official currency; US dollars and euros are accepted at major tourist hotels and shops. ATMs at the international airport, in the main tourist areas and in malls dispense only rupees, and Visa and MasterCard are accepted in all resorts and generally in urban and tourist areas. Use our currency converter to estimate your spending in rupees.
Internet: Wi-Fi is common in accommodation. Mobile phones are widely used, with coverage gaps in some remote areas, and local SIM cards are available for compatible phones (travel.state.gov). A local SIM or an eSIM lets you use GPS and stay reachable at lower cost.
Etiquette: dress modestly to visit temples, mosques and churches (shoulders and knees covered, shoes removed in Hindu temples). According to the U.S. Department of State, nudism is not permitted; topless sunbathing is acceptable only on certain beaches.
Tipping: not compulsory; a service charge is sometimes included on the bill. A small tip is still appreciated for good service.
Food: Mauritian cuisine blends Indian, Creole, Chinese and French influences. Try dholl puri and farata sold in the street, rougaille, curries, mine frit (fried noodles) and gateaux piments (chili fritters). Street food is the cheapest way to eat well.
Water: many travelers prefer bottled or filtered water, especially after heavy rain.
Environment: don’t walk on coral and choose a reef-friendly sunscreen. For water sports, the UK FCDO advises checking that the operator holds a valid Ministry of Tourism permit and that the boat carries enough life jackets.
Who is Mauritius for?
Our verdict, profile by profile, based on the information in this guide:
Profile
Our verdict
Couples, honeymoon
Ideal: lagoons, large beach hotels on the east coast and sunsets on the west coast.
Families
Yes: calm lagoons, Île aux Aigrettes and its giant tortoises, the Pamplemousses garden.
Snorkeling and diving
Yes: Blue Bay Marine Park, boat trips from Tamarin and Flic en Flac.
Hikers
Yes: marked trails in Black River Gorges National Park, Rodrigues and its coastal paths.
Kitesurfing
Yes: the Le Morne lagoon, and Rodrigues.
Budget travelers
Possible: roughly US$65–110 a day with apartments, guesthouses, buses and street food.
Not for a short stay if you are a US or British citizen: your passport is stamped on arrival for up to 60 days (travel.state.gov; GOV.UK). You need a passport with one blank page, proof of onward or return travel and the online Mauritius All in One travel form; US citizens may also be asked for proof of sufficient funds. Checked on 24 October 2026; check the latest rules before you leave.
How long do you need to visit Mauritius?
Allow at least 10 days to enjoy the beaches and see the main sights, and two weeks if you want to add Rodrigues or switch coasts during your stay.
Is Mauritius expensive?
The large beach hotels are expensive, but you can travel for roughly US$65–110 per person per day by staying in apartments or guesthouses and eating in small local restaurants.
What language is spoken in Mauritius?
English is the official language of government, while French and Mauritian Creole are used everywhere in daily life. English speakers get by easily, especially in hotels and tourist areas.
What is the best time to visit Mauritius?
From May to December, during the dry season, with the best conditions from September to mid-December. Details in our dedicated article on the best time to visit Mauritius.
What is there to do in Mauritius?
Enjoy the lagoons of the north and west (Grand Baie, Trou aux Biches, Flic en Flac, Le Morne), visit Port Louis and the Pamplemousses garden, explore the southwest (Chamarel, Black River Gorges), the sacred lake of Grand Bassin, Île aux Cerfs and the south around Mahébourg and Blue Bay. Rodrigues is a short flight away for a few extra days.
Entry, health, safety, driving and money information read on 24 October 2026: U.S. Department of State, Mauritius country information (travel.state.gov, last updated December 8, 2025), and UK FCDO, foreign travel advice for Mauritius (GOV.UK, updated 19 October 2026)
Airport Terminal Operations Ltd (ATOL), mauritius-airport.atol.aero: airport taxi, bus and car rental pages and 2026 official taxi fare list, checked on 24 October 2026
European Central Bank: euro reference exchange rate of 23 October 2026 (budget conversion)
Mauritius Meteorological Services and World Meteorological Organization: climate data
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