Plan
your perfect trip with this complete Mauritius travel guide. Discover
key facts, visa info, costs, culture, and insider tips to help you
explore the island’s beaches, nature, and unique Creole heritage
with confidence.
Country: Mauritius
Continent / Region: Africa / Indian Ocean
Capital City: Port Louis
Government Type: Parliamentary Republic
Population: Approx. 1.27 million
Official Language(s): English (official), French & Mauritian Creole widely spoken
Percentage of Population Who Speak English: High (especially in tourist areas)
Currency: Mauritian Rupee (MUR)
Time Zone (GMT): GMT+4
Driving Side: Left
Electric Plug Type / Voltage: Type C/G – 230V
Adapter Needed: UK travellers may not need one (Type G common)
Emergency Numbers: 112 (general), 999 (Police), 114 (Fire), 118 (Ambulance)
Travel Time from the UK (London): 11–12 hours (direct)
Best Time/Months to Travel: May–December (cooler & drier)
Main International Airport:
- Visa Requirements: Varies by nationality
- Visa Needed for UK Citizens: Not required
- Visa Duration / Cost: 60 days; free entry
- Vaccinations Needed: Routine vaccines; Hepatitis A recommended
Embassy Information (UK Embassy in Mauritius):
Average Daily Costs: £30 / £60 / £150+
Tipping Culture: 5–10% appreciated
Public Transport Options: Buses, taxis, light rail (Port Louis), hotel transfers
Approx. Cost of Single Fare: MUR 20–40 (bus)
Internet / SIM Availability: Good 4G/5G; Emtel, My.T (Mauritius Telecom), MTML
Main Climate Type: Tropical
Average Temperature: 22–30°C year-round
Major Areas: Port Louis, Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Le Morne, Belle Mare
Natural Attractions: Lagoons, coral reefs, mountains, waterfalls, forests
Popular Destinations: Grand Baie, Le Morne, Chamarel, Black River Gorges, Île aux Cerfs, Belle Mare
Main Religions: Hinduism (majority), Christianity, Islam, Buddhism
Cultural Etiquette / Customs:
Cuisine Highlights: Dholl puri, curries, seafood, biryani, rougaille, tropical fruit
Local Festivals:
Famous Landmarks: Le Morne Brabant, Chamarel Seven Coloured Earth, Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, Fort Adelaide
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe for tourists
Common Scams: Overpriced taxi fares, beach vendors
Health Risks: Strong sun, occasional mosquito activity
Recommended Clinics: Excellent private clinics in main areas
Insurance Recommendation: Recommended — especially for water activities
Internet Speed: Very good 4G/5G; strong hotel Wi-Fi
Useful Phrases:
Must-See Attractions: Le Morne, Chamarel waterfalls, Île aux Cerfs, Black River Gorges, Grand Baie beaches
Unique Experiences: Catamaran cruises, dolphin watching, rum distillery tours, kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing
Hidden Gems: Gris Gris cliffs, Rochester Falls, Rodrigues Island, Blue Bay Marine Park
Popular Areas to Stay: Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac, Le Morne, Belle Mare, Trou aux Biches
Average Hotel Prices: £40 / £90 / £180+
Book A Hotel: You can book your accommodation right here.
Nightlife Areas: Grand Baie, Flic-en-Flac beach bars, Port Louis waterfront
Local Drinks: Rum cocktails, Phoenix beer, tropical juices
Entertainment: Sega music shows, beach lounges, casino bars
Car Rental: Available; driving straightforward
Buses: Cheap but slow
Taxis: Widely available; negotiate rates
Ride Apps: Yugo, Taxi Mauritius
Best Markets: Port Louis Central Market, Grand Baie Bazaar, Curepipe shops
Popular Souvenirs: Rum, vanilla tea, model ships, spices, dodo memorabilia
Local SIM Card Providers: Emtel, My.T
Typical Business Hours: 9 a.m.–5 p.m. (Mon–Sat)
Tap Water Safety: Generally safe in hotels; bottled water preferred
Local Apps to Download:
Did You Know?
Mauritius was once home to the dodo bird, which became extinct in the 17th century — now a national symbol.