Know Before You Go

Most nationalities (EU, US, Commonwealth, etc.) receive free entry for 60 days on arrival. Passport must be valid for 6 months. A return ticket is technically required but rarely checked. Extensions available through immigration.

ATMs (MOTI, MCB, SBM) are abundant and accept international cards. Exchange rates are fair. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Amex) accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops. Rupees can be exchanged at banks. No black market needed.

Emtel, Mauritius Telecom, and Chili Mobile are major carriers. Buy SIM at airport or shops. 4G/LTE is island-wide and fast (10-15 Mbps typical). Data is affordable. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and cafes.

Good road network covers the island. Car hire is easy and affordable. Buses (public and minibus) connect all towns. Taxis are metered in Port Louis, negotiate elsewhere. Domestic flights are unnecessary; the island is small enough to drive in hours. Motorcycle hire is cheap and popular.

Malaria is absent. Health infrastructure is good; private clinics offer excellent care. Hospitals are well-equipped. Tap water is safe to drink. No required vaccinations beyond standard global recommendations (hepatitis A and B, typhoid). Pharmacies are well-stocked.

English is widely spoken and official language. French will be appreciated. Mauritian Creole is the everyday language. Dress is casual on beaches, smart-casual in restaurants. Tipping is not obligatory but 10% is common for service. Remove shoes at temple entrances.

Best time is May to November (cool, dry season). December to April is hot, humid, and cyclone risk peaks January to March. Temperatures 20-30C. Sea is warmest November to April. Rainfall is spread throughout year.

Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport (MRU) is the main gateway, served by Air Mauritius, Air France, British Airways, and carriers from the Gulf and Asia. Regional flights connect to Reunion and Seychelles. Some travelers arrive by cargo ferry from Madagascar, though passenger service is irregular.